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The Catholic Media Association represents more than 330 Catholic diocesan, national and religious order publications and nearly 900 Catholic journalists in North America and beyond.
An independent panel of judges reviewed work done in the 2023 calendar year. Use the links to review the winning entries.
All-Member Division
Multimedia Professional of the Year
Honorable Mention
Peter Finney Jr.
► Column: Deacon Beckendorf’s scarred, sacred sidewalk, https://clarionherald.org/news/deacon-beckendorfs-scarred-sacred-sidewalk
► Video and photo: Way of the Cross sawdust “carpets” on Good Friday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmBJ486am9M
► Video: Aug. 18: St. Augustine High School opening Mass for 2023: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbEnptVRB4c
► Column: Sept. 30: A mother’s heart is resting in peace with Jesus, https://clarionherald.org/news/a-mothers-heart-is-resting-in-peace-with-jesus
Videographer/Video Producer of the Year (Diocesan and National News Organizations)
Honorable Mention
Peter Finney Jr.
► Way of the Cross sawdust “carpets’ on Good Friday,” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmBJ486am9M
► St. Augustine High School opening Mass for 2023: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbEnptVRB4c
► Priesthood Ordination: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auui3044tOY
► St. Augustine High School opening day with alumni cheerleading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU8Cf3nmO7Q
Newspaper Division
Best Reporting on the Celebration of a Sacrament
First Place
Beth Donze, “10 St. Joan of Arc, LaPlace, students set to enter church, ” bit.ly/3L2kvJg
The judges wrote: “The story excels on multiple fronts: It not only showcases how to uncover the deeper narrative behind a sacramental event but also serves as a valuable resource for readers seeking inspiration for their own parish involvement. By spotlighting the remarkable work of the religious education coordinator and incorporating diverse voices, including those of children, the article demonstrates extra effort and skill. Overall, a job well done in delivering a compelling and instructive piece.”
Best Regular Print Special Supplement
First Place
Mommy & Me, https://clarionherald.org/mommy-me
The judges wrote: “I enjoyed the variety of voices and messages in this colorful entry. Quite a few topics were touched. Something for every reader.”Second Place
Peter Finney Jr., “How Will Schools React to Artificial Intelligence?” https://clarionherald.org/news/how-will-schools-react-to-artificial-intelligence
The judges wrote: “Bright idea – not enough is being written about this subject, and this is very smart in its approach. Good job taking a national issue and looking at it from a local perspective. This will make readers in any community wonder what their schools are doing.”
Best Reporting on a Special Age-Group (Children and Teens Younger than 18)
Second Place
Beth Donze, Kids’ Clarion (February 2023, October 2023 and December 2023)
The judges wrote: “The graphic design, use of color and special font make this entry very appealing to anyone under 18. The story variety was also very commendable.”
Best Reporting on the Celebration of a Sacrament
Second Place
Christine Bordelon, “Many Liturgical Rites, but All One Catholic Church,” https://clarionherald.org/news/many-liturgical-rites-but-all-one-catholic-church
The judges wrote: “What a fascinating exploration of the Maronite Catholic Liturgy. Great detail; wonderful context and background. This is a great learning experience for readers.”
Second Place
Cheryl Dejoie-Methe, Red Mass
The judges wrote: “This design stands out for its unique and creative approach. The message flows down the page seamlessly, drawing the reader in. The use of red throughout the layout, including the faded pink in the background, effectively conveys the theme of the Red Mass.”
Best Photograph (Spot News)
Third Place
Peter Finney Jr., Good Friday Via Dolorosa at Blessed Seelos Parish
The judges wrote: “Very nice photo – great colors and perspective. This photo draws the reader into the story and also tells a story. The use of depth to draw focus onto the Christ figure is stunning. A compelling photo. Beautifully done!”
Best Regular Column (Family Life)
Third Place
Dr. Heather Bozant Witcher, “Mommy dates with toddlers are remarkably rich,” bit.ly/4cf8tbB; “My clever child can bend time with his bare hands,” bit.ly/4bnG69I; “What kind of world are we living in?” bit.ly/3VXc6xa.
The judges wrote: “Interesting writing on a diverse set of topics breathing life and fresh perspective into important issues.”
Honorable Mention
NOLA Catholic Parenting authors Phillip Garside, Stacy LaMorte and Vivian Gonzalez Marino
Best Feature Writing
Honorable Mention
Mark Lombard, “The Gift of Presence When Life's Path is Diverted,” https://clarionherald.org/news/the-gift-of-presence-when-lifes-path-is-diverted
Best Promotional House Ad
Honorable Mention
Cheryl Dejoie-Methe, Good Business Matters
Book Division
Catholic Directory
Second Place
Jonelle Foltz, Cheryl Dejoie-Methe, MJ Cahill: Archdiocese of New Orleans Catholic Directory 2023-24
The judges wrote: “The New Orleans directory features a well-organized table of contents and useful tabs, though laminating them would prevent wear. The master index tab at the end makes references easy to locate.