THE CATHOLIC TELEGRAPH WINS SEVEN CATHOLIC MEDIA AWARDS

BY JESSICA RINAUDO

The Catholic Telegraph has many reasons to celebrate—seven reasons, to be exact. This year the official magazine of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati brought home seven Catholic Media awards, including the distinguished title of Diocesan Magazine of the Year for North America.

Each issue of the magazine is the result of many collaborative efforts. The combined work and creative genius from our host of writers pairs with the artful talents of our graphic designer and photographers to produce every magazine and digital offering. I am both proud and grateful to have the honor of leading The Catholic Telegraph team and bringing together the talent and faith of our contributors. Below is a list of our winning offerings, as well as the judges’ comments.

1) Diocesan Magazine of the Year 1st Place By Jessica Rinaudo, Emma Cassani, Margaret Swensen + The Catholic Telegraph Team and Writers Judges’ comments: Beautifully and elegantly designed, with honest, authentic and comprehensive coverage on spiritual matters. The gold standard for magazines of faith.

2) Best Freestanding Presentation of Online Video - Explainer, 2nd Place Bicentennial Marian Pilgrimage by Margaret Swensen Judges’ comments: This video includes professional camera work and inspiring visuals. The topic explanation is thorough and the call to action is clear. There are smooth transitions and visually appealing graphics.

3) Best Reporting on the Celebration of a Sacrament, 2nd Place “A Sense of Belonging - Addressing the Concerns of those with Special Needs in Church” by Patricia McGeever

Judges’ comments: An article about how important it is for the Church to address the concerns of those with special needs. Finely focused on one such person. Good photos. Careful, simple, straight-forward writing keeps it a positive picture throughout. Good anecdote brings the story to life. 4) Best Freestanding Presentation of Online Video - Feature, 3rd Place Priest Ordination by Margaret Swensen Judges’ comments: Priest ordination is a theme which has been done a lot. But this effort is different. It is very high art and built around an array of beautiful aesthetic effects. There is a ton of chiaroscuro light and creative angles. Close-ups, overhead, profiles, anon. Great use of black and white throughout. Sharpness and clarity in the sound and good multi-layered audio techniques. The narrator gets better the longer you listen. Very effective storytelling that is also beautiful visually.

5) Best Multimedia Package - Seasonal Issue, Honorable Mention The Ultimate Guide to Lent by Dominick Albano, Emma Cassani, and contributors

6) Best Guest Column - Honorable Mention “If We Lose Beauty, We Lose Our Spiritual Sight” By Dr. Mary Catherine Levri

7) Best Regular Column - General Commentary, Honorable Mention A Closer Look by Dr. Kenneth Craycraft