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EDITOR'S NOTES
Giving thanks for 25 years of local Catholic journalism
A quarter-century ago, Volume 1, Number 1 of this diocesan newspaper rolled off the presses and into the homes, hearts and minds of the Catholic faithful. You read that right: The Catholic Sun turns 25 this month.
Congratulations and thanks are in order for the dedicated staff and in-the-field correspondents who have had a hand in building up the Sun into the award-winning source for Catholic news and information in the Diocese of Phoenix.
I am extremely grateful for the guidance and support from Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted, our publisher and leader, as well as Bishop Thomas J. O’Brien, who envisioned the need for a way to communicate with local Catholics and then established The Catholic Sun. Of course, without the support of our wonderful priests, this source for all things Catholic wouldn’t have ever gotten off the ground, much less make it to its 25th anniversary — so consider us eternally grateful.
As an editor for the Sun going on 10 years now (big thanks to Chris Gunty, founding editor and former associate publisher. Read his reflection on page 20), I’ve had the great privilege of covering events, taking photos, and reading and editing stories about the incredible faith life here in Arizona. Everything in this newspaper — the stories, photos, opinion pieces and letters to the editor (especially those about how to dress for Mass) — has made a lasting impression, strengthening my bond with the Catholic community that I call home. From the feedback we get after each issue, I suspect you, our faithful readers, feel the same.
Our young diocese turned 40 last December and it’s fascinating to look back to see all the changes that have occurred over the years to get us to where we are today. (If you haven’t seen the diocese’s recent history book, you’re missing out. Contact your parish for a copy.) As we celebrate and give thanks for 25 years of community journalism in The Catholic Sun, it’s important to pause at this point to take a look at where we’re going tomorrow. A lot has changed in the way people consume their news. While many still prefer to read news in print, a growing number of people are getting their news fix electronically — either at their computer, iPhone or what have you.
The Catholic Sun, which has always strived to adopt these emerging trends and popular vehicles of communication, will be making an even stronger push in the very near future. Traditionally we’ve published two issues each month with a smattering of updates to www.catholicsun.org. Moving forward into the next 25 years, the Sun is reducing its print frequency to once each month, beginning with this issue. The plan is to redirect our efforts toward providing near-constant updates to our various Web sites (catholicsun.org, blogtcs.com, facebook.com/thecatholicsun, twitter.com/thecatholicsun, etc.). Our goal is to reach those Catholics who are not accustomed to reading news in print.
Fear not, print fans! The new monthly version of the Sun promises deeper, more engaging stories, features, opinions and resources. We’re working out the details now, but look for some exciting new content soon.
Before I sign off, I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a big thanks to our trusted and supportive advertisers. Without the financial support from our diocesan agencies, parishes, schools and business community, we wouldn’t have the space we’re afforded to help spread the Good News.
But we are particularly appreciative of you, our readers, for allowing us to share your stories of faith, fun, hardship and triumph.
Most especially, let us all give thanks to God for our strong, vibrant Catholic community. May all that we say, do, write and report on give glory to His name.
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