Episode 352: From Hallmark to Great American Family: A Catholic Couple Goes Viral Reviewing Christmas Movies with Mary and Jerry Lenaburg

Father Edward sits down with Mary and Jerry Lenaburg, the Catholic couple behind some of the most popular Christmas movie reviews on social media this year. Since 2018, the Lenaburgs have been watching, reacting to, and reviewing Christmas movies from Hallmark, Great American, and Netflix — always with an eye toward family-friendly storytelling and Catholic values.

In this conversation, Mary and Jerry share how their annual tradition unexpectedly gained major traction this year, including a surge of over 10,000 new Instagram followers, increased sharing and reposting, and engagement from actors, producers, and well-known figures like Candace Cameron Bure. They explain their simple but effective “Christmas tree” rating system, how they decide which movies to review, and why they avoid films that don’t align with their values.

The discussion also explores favorite classic Christmas films, the familiar formula of modern holiday movies, and what makes a story truly feel like Christmas. Father Edward offers a theological perspective on how Christmas movies often echo deeper themes of salvation history, even when unintentionally.

Whether you love Hallmark movies, are looking for wholesome holiday viewing, or are curious how Catholic content can thrive on social media, this episode offers insight, humor, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

Follow them on Instagram:
Mary Lenaburg- https://www.instagram.com/marylenaburg?igsh=MXJweHNxcXllbDdvbw==

Jerry Lenaburg- https://www.instagram.com/grouchy_historian?igsh=MWl0bGxoaDV4bmhzYg==