In an era of remote work, Laura Ieraci, a veteran Catholic journalist, emphasizes the unique value of in-person newsroom experience for aspiring reporters. This summer, the Canadian Catholic News program, “God in the City: Catholic Journalism Summer Seminar,” running from August 9 to 15 in Toronto, provides exactly that hands-on opportunity. Participants learn collaboratively, building on each other’s ideas and creativity to produce compelling stories about the Church in an urban setting.
The intensive one-week seminar, which launched in 2025, grew out of online classes that began in 2023. A serendipitous conversation at a bar, where a student wished for in-person classes, sparked the idea. Ieraci, the founding coordinator, noted that most students are not local to Toronto, and some feel nervous about navigating a foreign city. Facilitators help them find sources, adjust story angles, and overcome obstacles.
Participants come from diverse backgrounds; some are new to journalism, while others seek to refine their skills after transitioning from other disciplines. The program focuses on the basics: writing news stories, conducting interviews, and understanding journalistic ethics, all from a Catholic perspective. Daily Mass and prayer are integrated, though explicit faith formation is not part of the curriculum.
For participant Charlotte Taillon, a communications professional from Edmonton, the seminar was a transformative experience. Initially hesitant due to her pregnancy, she found the support from instructors and peers invaluable, enabling her to report on the streets of Toronto even at 34 weeks pregnant. She described it as a confidence-building step toward her long-held dream of journalism.
The program does not guarantee job placement, but it helps students explore career opportunities. One student humorously noted it helped them realize journalism wasn’t for them, while another credited it with securing a job. Ieraci stresses the importance of reporting from a Catholic viewpoint, asking questions that reflect a faith-based perspective. The application deadline for this year is July 10; more information is available at the Canadian Catholic News website.
