New Organization for Industry Professionals Building Early Momentum
NEWS PROVIDED BY
Faith in Entertainment Guild
May 16, 2024
NASHVILLE, May 16, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- The newly organized Faith in Entertainment Guild gathered for its first formal meeting at Lifeway Films in Brentwood, Tennessee on May 7-8 with more than 100 members in attendance.
"This is a dream a long time in the making," said Barry Landis, a Guild co-founder. "It was wonderful being with so many people in the industry who were able connect, learn, and dream together."
The Faith in Entertainment Guild officially began accepting members earlier this year. The professional organization was born out of the Faith in Film Breakfast Clubs that started in Nashville in 2008 and expanded to several cities across the country, meeting regularly until the pandemic in 2020.
"This was the natural next step," said Bob Elder, another Guild co-founder. "The Guild was born as Barry, Rich (Peluso, the third co-founder), and I discussed what we could do to best serve the needs of professionals who focus on faith entertainment."
Highlights of this first Guild Gathering included an update from Bob Elder on faith films and their impact at the box office; a Q&A about financing projects with Ben Howard, Senior Advisor of Impact Foundation; an interview with actor and producer Jesse Hutch; and the keynote speech by Lori McCreary, CEO of Revelations Entertainment.
"This was an event that felt like you're grabbing coffee with a friend," Jesse Hutch said. "It was highly informative, relevant, and culturally directional. I'm thankful to have been invited. The diverse attendees and panelists allowed for lively and timely discussions. I'll definitely be going again."
In addition to the speakers, the Guild members enjoyed an early screening of the upcoming Kendrick Brothers' movie, THE FORGE, which releases in theaters August 23. A highlight of many members was the "speed networking" time where people could connect with other members.
"The Guild is a hub where Christian media professionals can now unite, grow, collaborate, and thrive," said Marion MacKenzie Pyle, TV host, writer, and producer.
"It's a desert out there," added Jim Walchle President at Films4flyovers. "Faith in Entertainment Guild is a 'watering hole.'"
Faith in Entertainment Guild founders Rich Peluso, Bob Elder, Barry Landis with keynote speaker Lori McCreary
The next gathering of the Faith in Entertainment Guild is set for September 30 and October 1, in conjunction with the Gospel Music Association Dove Awards Week activities in Nashville. The Guild will stay connected with members throughout the year as it continues in its mission of advocacy, education, and networking opportunities for members.
About The FAITH IN ENTERTAINMENT GUILD (FIEG)
The Faith in Entertainment Guild, LLC is an organization comprised of professionals dedicated to preserving and promoting Biblical values in entertainment through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities. The Guild is directed by industry veterans Rich Peluso, EVP / Head of AFFIRM Films, Television and Originals for Sony Pictures Entertainment; Barry Landis, President of Pivot Music; and Bob Elder, Chief Impact Officer of Collide Media Group. Membership benefits include free access to semi-annual Gatherings. The Guild was born from the Faith in Film Breakfast Club, which originated in Nashville in 2008 and grew to more than 4,000 members meeting in five states. For membership information, visit www.faithinentertainmentguild.com or email info@faithinentertainmentguild.com.
SOURCE Faith in Entertainment Guild
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