Bells & Icons
A Gathering of Catholic Filmmakers
December 4-5, 2026, Sheen Center, NYC
December 4-5, 2026, Sheen Center, NYC
Space is limited. Register now.
We envision a grace-filled gathering where filmmakers, mentors, producers, and supporters encounter the deep well of Catholic artistic tradition together, strengthen one another in their vocations, and forge relationships that will sustain the renewal of film culture. Here we reclaim filmmaking as a vocation and a gift—a way of building community and offering the fruits of our art to a world in need of mercy and truth.
The inaugural gathering is free of charge in thanks to Boston College’s Center for Psychological Humanites and Ethics.
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The gathering takes its name and mission from the final scene of Tarkovsky’s masterpiece Andrei Rublev. In one of the greatest scenes in cinema, the young bell maker Boriska miraculously succeeds in casting a new bell despite having lied about his skill. Exhausted, he collapses in the mud and weeps. The aged monk Andrei Rublev, in a profound act of fatherly compassion, kneels to comfort the boy, breaking his vow of silence to declare: “We will go to the Trinity Monastery, and you will cast bells and I will paint icons.” In doing so, he too returns to his own vocation as an artist of faith.
In the world of filmmaking, there are many Boriskas — men and women of principle who have sacrificed much in pursuit of the inner call to reveal the truths of life on the motion picture screen. Our gathering addresses three pressing needs among Catholic filmmakers who wish to integrate their faith and identity with their artistic practice.
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To accompany and remind one another that we are not alone. We honor those who have completed films and bless those entering production.
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To articulate what it means to be a filmmaker nourished and guided by Catholic faith and tradition. What are our responsibilities as artists of faith? How do we share Christ’s mercy through our work?
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To reclaim filmmaking as an essentially personal act—a singular vision offered to others. We empower participants to embrace their unique voice and discern their particular mission as artists.
Join us for two days of prayer, conversation, encouragement, and inspiration as we support one another in our shared vocation.
When — December 4-5, 2026
Where — The Sheen Center for Thought and Culture, New York, NY
Cost — Free to attend, only a few spots remain.
Email peace@bellsandicons.com with questions or register here.
