We shared our film with several thousand people at the 2024 Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. To be at an event that places such a spotlight on the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist while showcasing our film was beyond incredible. The New Manna is more than a story—it’s a testimony to the wonders God continues to work in our world, and sharing that story at this event felt like Divine Providence.
The response to our film was overwhelmingly positive. People were excited not only because the film centered on Eucharistic miracles, but also because it wasn’t going to be a documentary. Over and over again, we heard the same phrase: “So it’s going to be a movie movie?!” That was the breakthrough we were hoping for. We are truly doing something no one has ever done before and Catholics are not only hungry for media that speaks to the heart but that also steps into the cultural arena and makes an impact but also provides entertainment value while doing so. We know that feature films have the power to reach where words, sermons, and perhaps even documentaries might not, and hearing this confirmed over the days confirmed that we are on the right path. One surprise was that only 5% of those who stopped by the booth knew about the movie even though we had done numerous large podcasts, EWTN interviews, and more. Please spread the word to raise awareness.
The team was comprised of a 4-person team people generously volunteered their time. Robert Renzi, who plays Jesus in the film, Thomas Plunkett, who plays Peter in the film, Karolina Clarey, an Indianapolis local who graciously took on the role of an extra during our crucifixion scene, and Ray Grijalba, producer. Together, we spent six hours a day in our booth, tirelessly working and talking to hundreds of people each day. The conversations were rich and varied, but what united them all was a shared joy in the Eucharist. We told countless stories from the set, moments of grace and humor that shaped the making of The New Manna, and in return, we heard personal stories of faith, of how the Eucharist has touched the lives of so many.
After five days of conversation, prayer, and Eucharistic Adoration, we left the congress with a deep sense of rejuvenation. God’s hand was evident throughout the event, and we trust that He has blessed our film. The journey to complete it not over yet, but we are committed to doing everything we can to bring it to fruition. We still need to raise funds to finish filming the modern-day protagonist portion of our film, while we continue the editing process. Films have the power to cast a large net, and as Catholics, it’s time we start casting them wide.
Join our incredible raffle from the Eucharistic Congress at this link https://go.rallyup.com/495fdd!! Enter today and help support the funding of our film.
The painting of Jesus is from Danny Galieote, a Catholic Fine Artist Painter who began his career at the Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, CA. Over his 12 year animation career, he created many key cinematic moments for Disney classic films such as, Lion King, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Hercules, Tarzan, Atlantis, Treasure Planet, Princess and the Frog and Tangled. has had many exhibitions, commissions, illustrations and publications in many Countries. He studied classical figurative art extensively in Florence, Italy and was an instructor of Figure Drawing at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA for over 7 years. His work is in many prestigious collections around the US, including the Hilbert Museum of California Art. In the past decade, Danny has done several commissioned paintings for Hollywood film stars, such as Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively. His artwork was featured on Hollywood Extra TV and People Magazine. Danny is also currently designing coins for the US Government in conjunction with the Philadelphia Mint. His artwork can be seen on many Napa Valley Wine Labels as well.
The all-inclusive vacation to Cancun is a 5 days and 4 nights’ all-inclusive stay at Sunset Royal or Sunset Marina, which each have over 3,000 review, and is valid for 2 adults and 2 children under 12.
The Dynamis Alliance Package is from Dom Raso, former Navy Seal who has been featured on the Chris Stefanick Show, the Shawn Ryan Show, and many others, has donated a hat, shirt, tactical Rosary, and Revere blade.
Attending the 2024 Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis was nothing short of transformative. This year was not only special because it was the first congress we had attended, but it also marked the culmination of a three-year-long Eucharistic revival, heightening the sense of anticipation and sacredness. The streets of downtown, usually humming with the city’s everyday hustle, were alive with Catholics. Everywhere we looked, pilgrims filled the sidewalks, hotel lobbies, and cafes, all united by their love for the Eucharist.
One particularly amusing sight was watching 20 Carmelite nuns crossing a busy street. Their brown and beige habits cut a striking figure against the gray cityscape, moving in perfect unity, their serenity untouched by the honking cars and bemused onlookers. We couldn’t help but smile at the passerby’s expressions—puzzled, curious, and maybe a little awe-struck—as they tried to make sense of the spectacle before them. It was a beautiful sign of the Church’s presence in the world.
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