Who is Monsignor Ryan in the film, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

Monsignor Ryan is a priest and close friend of the family. Ryan is a buffer in this film and acts as Matt's confidant and advisor. Ryan is a kind man who sees the best in everyone. He is willing to support Joanna not only because he knows that she is right, but also because she was raised to believe exactly the way she does. Ryan tries to help Matt see the light while realizing that no one can change another person.