A well-intentioned, if naive, British cleric is eager to educate a West African village about the benevolent power of God. But as slavers encroach, he begins to question his purpose as well as his humanity.

A Catholic priest's typical mundane routine is interrupted by a sick woman who requests his presence in fear of her own death. However, what Father Macdowell soon understands is that the woman's wishes conflict greatly with her protective lover, who sees no importance in religious practices.