Journalism – A New Learning towards New Evangelization

“As a writer, you must put yourself on the shoes of the reader”, Mr. John Frances Fuentes of Davao Catholic Herald said during the Archdiocese of Davao Catholic Charismatic Renewal community News-writing Seminar at the Christ the King, Bago Aplaya, Toril, Davao City last December 20, 2014.

There were 12 ASC-CCRS members who joined and it was facilitated by Fuentes, reporter of Davao Catholic Herald. It was initiated by the elders of ASC-CCRD for its members who want to learn the fundamentals on how to write for the print media.

ASC-CCRS members were taught how to write news and some factors that they must apply as a writer–Think before you write: impulsiveness is a no-no because once published you cannot anymore delete it!; Go straight to the point, straight to the details; Use familiar words: a grade-schooler must understand the context; Shorten your sentences: a space in a newsletter is expensive; Use specific words; Write as if you are talking to the readers, among other things.

He also taught them the basic Inverted Triangle method on how to write, from major details down to minor details which is very useful for a journalist. From their first session, Fuentes gave them a shot to give some samples of “Leads” — punch lead, quotation lead, summary lead, and question lead.
The seminar lasted only for two and half hours. It was short but very informative. The participants were satisfied, filled with learning and with the challenge to be a good writer someday.

A writer has a big role in our society since they will be the one who will give updates on the current events that everyone must know. One thing they have as essential was to “Write to express, not to Impress.” As a writer, let the “NEWS BE THE STAR, NOT YOU.” (Faith Angela and Charles Vincent Balaman – ASC-CCRS member)