In 40 Hours, Family Theater Productions’ newest faith-based family film, the characters find out about the importance of prayer is when faced with difficult circumstances.

Rev. David Guffey, C.S.C., national director of Family Theater, wrote and directed the movie based on his experiences at André House, a soup kitchen and homeless center in Phoenix founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province of Priests and Brothers. “The drama is based on various experiences that occurred when I managed André House,”: Fr. Guffey said. “These powerful moments continually showed us the power of prayer and God’s love. I knew my experiences  would make a great story someday.”

40 Hours follows the continuing story of Cristina, a 16-year-old high school student who was first featured in Family Dinner, released by Family Theater Productions last year. In the most recent film, she must volunteer for 40 hours at a charitable organization for one of her classes.

Cristina hopes to just put in her time, but becomes close to people she would normally never meet. She quickly makes friends with other volunteers and homeless guests, especially, Kat, a girl about her age.  When Kat relapses into old and dangerous habits, Cristina tries to help her, but she resists and Cristina soon learns that sometimes the only thing you can do is to pray and let God do the rest.

“Prayer helps us have hope in the ways God's grace works so that we can see the resurrection moments in our lives every day,” Fr. Guffey said.

This powerful drama relates to scripture and the First Glorious Mystery of the Rosary, The ResurrectionThe film is ideal for families looking to deepen their faith while exploring the spiritual side of topical issues and how they relate to the life of Christ. It is part of a DVD series for teens and families and can be used in faith formation programs.

To find out more about the film and to watch the trailer, check out www.FamilyTheater.org/40Hours. For more on Andre House, visit www.andrehouse.org.

Holy Cross Family Ministries, the parent of Family Theater, and Ave Maria Press are apostolates of the U.S. Province.