Canadian Mennonite executive editor Virginia A. Hostetler attended the Canadian Church Press (CCP) awards banquet, held in Quebec City on June 22, at which she received writing and layout/design certificates for work published in 2016. CCP, an association of 62 publications, exists to “encourage higher standards of religious journalism and a more positive and constructive Christian influence on contemporary civilization.” CM’s seven awards of merit are:
“A walk in the dark,” by Carol Penner (Theological Reflection, second place).
Judge’s comment: “This is a magnificently sombre Advent reflection. It illuminates both the biblical conception and birth narratives. It captivates because it deals with a range of common raw emotions which are generally overlooked or downplayed in the familiar telling of these Advent and Christmas stories.”
Young Voices, by Aaron Epp and Andrew Brown (Department, second place)
Judge’s comment: “Many good reasons as to why this works: There is a nice balance of reporting and opinion, with profiles and researched editorial writing included. . . . Most importantly, the choice of topics are socially relevant . . . theologically relevant . . . and well suited to the targeted audience.”
“The animals of MCC,” compiled by Emily Loewen (Photo Essay, second place)
Judge’s comment: “This was a wonderful submission, interesting and well done. . . . I found it inviting me to read more and to seek out more information [online]. The photographs were pleasant, warm and touching.”
“Instilling faith at home,” by Carmen Brubacher and Paul Heidebrecht (Biblical Interpretation, third place)
Judge’s comment: “The church, it’s been said, is always only ever a generation away from extinction. This article offers practical insight into ensuring that the faith of the parents lives on through the children.”
“Covenant faithfulness (Assembly 2016),” by a multitude of scribes (In-depth Treatment of a News Event-Magazine, third place)
Judge’s comment: “This is a very well-rounded in-depth report. Well written and edited articles on the opening presentation and that of the keynote speaker afforded genuine depth and insight into the state of the church right now. . . . This is what good journalism should do: reflect the facts and prevailing sentiment.”
“Becoming Aryan,” by Ben Goosen (Opinion Piece, third place)
Judge’s comment: “Very strong writing filled with detail makes a strong case, and the challenge it presents to readers is, by the time it is laid down, impossible to ignore.”
Dec. 12, 2016 issue, designed by Ross W. Muir and Dan Johnson (Edition Layout and Design-Magazine-Circulation Above 10,000, honourable mention).
Judge’s comment: “This magazine has such a well-designed typographic structure: other magazines could learn from this design. It’s truly typography as a well-woven cloth. Photos are appropriate and (wonderfully) not stock. . . . Your magazine is a lovely work of craft, and a pleasure to look at and to read.”
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