Best practices

Download all chapters of "Reporting on Religion" (PDF)

Finding the right tools

To produce great religion stories, journalists need a good toolbox. Most tools are the same as for any other beat. Religion, however, requires some special skills. When journalists encounter religion in a story, they often end up reporting on a powerful, unseen authority that many people say they believe in. Unfortunately, God doesn’t grant interviews.

Stories that include spirituality, faith and ethics aren’t just for religious people; they’re for everyone. Writing and producing religious stories in ways that resonate with ardent believers, well-read worshippers, spiritual dabblers and unconcerned agnostics requires skill. Read on for some of our best advice.