The Journalist and Faith

Religion is a sticky subject in journalism. Because of the private and deep nature of religious topics, it is hard to cover a story with complete journalistic integrity. Here are some recommendations to consider when covering faith-based subjects:

• Context is key
• Separate the group from the action
• Consider a religious section (religion section in the newspaper ... or on a webpage)
• Keep it close to home - far-off stories can sometimes seem irrelevant
• Keep it balanced - don't show just one side of the story, it either antagonizes or builds up the religion unfairly
• Should reflect the region or country of the audience - cover relevant topics. If there are absolutely no Muslims in a region, a story about Muslims may not be of much interest.
• Obtain advice and expertise - don't rely on your own knowledge of a religion to cover the story - make sure you get the facts right.

Beyond these recommendations, it's also important to realize that sometimes people don't want to talk about religion in the news. Journalists often like to tell only stories that they can prove right or wrong. Religion is one of those topics that can have no actual proof - but is made up of mostly beliefs or opinion. That is, unless the story is one like THIS about some scandal of a clergyman, but then the story is mostly about the legal implications rather than his/her beliefs. As Jim Roverson said, "Journalism and religion is a tough mix. Religion depends on faith, and journalism depends on proof."

Another reason religion is sparse in the news is that it is a hard story to sell. I love the quote from the handout by Gal Beckerman, "The journalist glances at religious communities as if staring through the glass of an ant farm, remarking on what the strange creatures are doing, but mising the motivations behind the action."

Of course, as in other topics of journalism, it is important to maintain objectivity and balance when covering religion. It is therefore of great value to reconsider the SPJ Code of Ethics - to Seek the truth and report it, to minimize harm, to act independently, and to be accountable. As a journalist, it is a good idea not to aim too high or too low at a story. As David Waters said, "Our personal faith deeply affects who we are and what we believe, but it doesn't always have to affect what we do."