Support the Film and Outreach
Help Bring an Extraordinary Story of Faith to the World
Of Blood and Water: The North American Martyrs and Indigenous Apostles is an ambitious three-part documentary-drama series and international outreach initiative exploring the lives, sacrifices and enduring spiritual legacy of the North American Martyrs and the Indigenous men and women who embraced and shared the Catholic faith alongside them.
Through cinematic recreations, historical investigation, Indigenous Catholic voices and a present-day pilgrimage of discovery, we are bringing this remarkable and often-overlooked chapter of our shared history to the screen.
We invite you to become part of this extraordinary journey.
Watch Our Crowdfunding Appeal
The Journey So Far
What began as a vision to rediscover the story of the North American Martyrs and Indigenous Apostles has grown into a major international film and outreach initiative.
Working in partnership with Martyrs' Shrine in Midland, Ontario; the National Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs in Auriesville, New York; and the Anishinabe Spiritual Centre in Espanola, Ontario, the production has brought together Indigenous Catholic leaders, historians, theologians and Church leaders to help tell this story with historical integrity and sensitivity.
Filming is well underway, with significant interviews and documentary footage captured across Canada and the United States, including the historic 2025 relic pilgrimage and the 2026 centennial celebrations at Martyrs' Shrine.
With much of the principal documentary investigation completed, our next major undertaking is the creation of the dramatic recreations that will bring these remarkable historical figures and events to life.
Why Your Support Matters
Producing a historical documentary-drama of this scope requires substantial resources. With a projected production and outreach budget exceeding $2 million, we are seeking the generosity of individuals, families, foundations and organizations who share our vision.
Your contribution will help support:
Historical dramatic recreations — Bringing the lives of the Martyrs and Indigenous Apostles to the screen through professional actors, authentic locations, period costumes and cinematic storytelling.
Post-production — Editing, original music, sound design, visual effects and the completion of the three-part series.
Educational and devotional outreach — Developing resources, screenings and opportunities for reflection and pilgrimage as we approach the 2030 centenary of the Martyrs' canonization.
Our goal is to complete the series for release in 2028, creating a lasting resource for the Church and future generations.
Make a Contribution
Every gift, large or small, brings us closer to completing this important work.
Canadian Donors
Canadian supporters may contribute through Martyrs' Shrine in Midland, Ontario, our principal Canadian shrine partner and receive a charitable tax receipt.
Online donations: Contributions under $1,000 may be made through the Martyrs' Shrine donation portal.
Donations by cheque: For contributions of $1,000 or more, please make cheques payable to:
Martyrs' Shrine
Please indicate on the cheque: Donation to Of Blood and Water Film
Mail to:
Father John O'Brien, SJ
Martyrs' Shrine
16163 Highway 12 West
P.O. Box 7, Stn. Main
Midland, ON L4R 4K6
Canada
American Donors
American supporters may contribute through our U.S. shrine partner, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs in Auriesville, New York at the link below or mail a donation to: 136 Shrine Rd, Fultonville, NY 12072, United States. Donors will receive a charitable tax receipt. Please indicate on the cheque: Donation to Of Blood and Water Film.
International Donors
Supporters outside Canada and the United States may contribute directly to DunnMedia & Entertainment.
Please note that contributions made directly to DunnMedia & Entertainment are not eligible for charitable tax receipts.
Major Gifts and Foundation Support
For individuals, foundations or organizations considering a significant contribution, sponsorship or partnership, we would welcome the opportunity to share our full project prospectus, production budget and international outreach vision.
A Legacy for Future Generations
As we approach the 2030 centenary of the canonization of the North American Martyrs, we have a remarkable opportunity to rediscover their witness alongside that of the Indigenous Apostles, whose faith and courage helped establish the early Church in North America.
Our hope is that Of Blood and Water will do more than recount history. We pray it will inspire renewed devotion, encourage thoughtful dialogue, contribute to the continuing journey of healing and reconciliation, and invite a new generation to encounter the transforming power of the Gospel.
Thank you for your prayers, encouragement and generous support.
May the intercession of the North American Martyrs bring you and your loved ones consolation and peace.