The Archdiocese of Chicago is set to premiere three short documentaries created by emerging directors from The Gabriel Fellowship. This program, funded by philanthropist Jessica Sarowitz, aims to tell stories of faith and social justice through film. The inaugural films focus on Catholic ministries addressing issues like incarceration, immigration, and rural service.

Vince Gerasole, director of multimedia content at the Archdiocese of Chicago, explained the fellowship's mission: “The Gabriel Fellowship aims to nurture filmmakers committed to telling stories of the Catholic faith that illuminate issues of justice, human dignity and service to the marginalized and those in remote locations.” He noted that the program provides mentorship, funding, and production resources for filmmakers.

The chosen directors are recent college graduates with a background in film. They received financial support and access to Catholic ministries for their projects. The fellowship also allowed them to gain experience by covering local events at Archdiocese parishes.

Jessica Sarowitz, who funds The Gabriel Fellowship, is a managing partner at 4SBay Partners and founder of Miraflores Films. She has produced several documentaries highlighting marginalized voices. Sarowitz will lead a panel discussion following the screening event.

The featured films include "Kolbe House" by Trevor Tosto from Marquette University; "Agentes De Su Propio Desarrollo (Agents Of Their Own Development)" by Henry Van Zytveld from Loyola Marymount University; and "Ministry at the Edge of Alaska" by Malina Baer from DePaul University.

Further information about The Gabriel Fellowship can be found on their website.