These days, people get their news from many sources. Much of what we read and hear is biased opinions, conjecture, or hearsay. It may be difficult to get to the truth of a matter.
When it comes to news about the Catholic Church and its teachings, Catholics also need sources that they can trust. That’s why the Catholic press is more important than ever today.
Effective adult education
Traditionally, February has been observed as Catholic Press Month, a time to recognize the role that Catholic newspapers, magazines, newsletters, books, and blogs play as the most effective adult education tools to reach Catholics, according to Greg Erlandson, former president of the Catholic Press Association, in a message for Catholic Press Month.
He noted that the Catholic press educates people “more efficiently than any other communication means outside the Sunday homily.”
He called the Catholic press a “great blessing,” saying, “It is critical that Catholics not only have access to sound news coverage and commentary, but that they hear directly from their leaders on the issues of the day and have the resources to see their world through the eyes of faith.
“Only the Catholic press gives Catholic leaders a voice with which to be heard by their people — unmuted, uncensored, and independent of the preconceptions and prejudices of too many secular media outlets.”
Many changes
As editor of the Catholic Herald of the Diocese of Madison since 1986, I’ve seen many changes in the way we share the news. Our print newspaper production has evolved from hot metal to paste-up to computer layout. We’ve added a website, Facebook, and Twitter for fast-breaking news and interaction with our readers.
Although some Catholic newspapers have switched to less frequent magazine formats, I still believe that a weekly Catholic newspaper is still vital today. A weekly paper keeps people abreast of the latest news and features. It goes right into people’s homes and is there for every person to pick up and read at their leisure.
Although we are looking into publishing an online version of the Catholic Herald, I am not convinced that the print paper should be abandoned. I admit that I receive some online publications myself, and I rarely read them. I still like to read print newspapers and magazines.
Tool of evangelization
Above all, the Catholic Herald is a tool of evangelization. It is a way that we help share the Good News of Jesus Christ through the written word with the people in the 11 counties of the Diocese of Madison and indeed the whole world.
In the past year, we focused on issues related to family life in light of the Synod on the Family. We explored Religious Life during the Year of Consecrated Life.
Now we’re involved in the Year of Mercy proclaimed by Pope Francis. The Catholic Herald will be reporting on “Mercy in Motion,” giving our readers suggestions on how to live out the Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy in their lives.
How you can help
How can you help? First of all, read the Catholic Herald cover to cover each week. I’m always pleased to hear people tell me they enjoy reading the entire paper. Share it with your family and friends.
Bishop Robert C. Morlino has asked that all parish members in the diocese receive the paper, and costs may be taken from parish funds. But you can help by contributing to your parish subscription.
If you don’t receive the paper and want your own subscription, please contact your parish to be put on the list. You can also email our office at [email protected] or call 608-821-3070.
Thank you for your support and your prayers as we continue the increasingly important work of the Catholic press.