
The Catholic Star Herald and Diocese of Camden’s Office of Communications have received accolades for their work in Catholic media. During the Catholic Media Association’s annual conference June 18-21 in Atlanta, the Diocese’s staff were honored with six awards in photography, design and podcasting.
N821a: Best Photo Story – Feature
First Place
Evenings of Refuge (A story highlighting the work of the CFR sisters’ winter shelter in Atlantic City)
Rich Hundley III, Catholic Star Herald / Diocese of Camden
Judges noted “the photos effectively capture the refuge story. The first conveys not only the need but the gratitude of those seeking refuge. The photos that follow reveal not only the value but the high-level commitment of those providing refuge.”
N811b: Best Multiple Picture Package – News
Second Place
Diocese Follows in Pilgrims’ Footsteps (A story recapping the 2023 diocesan pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Italy)
Mike Walsh, Catholic Star Herald / Diocese of Camden
Judges noted “The collection of photos effectively captures the essence of the experience, telling a compelling story through well-conceived and skillfully presented images. Despite being in black and white, the photos are alive with depth and detail, demonstrating the extra effort put into making them impactful. Well done on creating a visually engaging narrative!”

N847: Best Photograph – Sacramental
Third Place
Mass of the Holy Spirit at Paul VI High School (Photos showing the school year opening Mass with Bishop Dennis Sullivan)
Mike Walsh, Catholic Star Herald / Diocese of Camden
Judges noted “Wonderful use of lighting and perspective.”
N854: Best Photograph – Hot Topic Eucharistic Revival

Honorable Mention
“Now is the Time” for Revival – Sister Philomena Folse, CFR (a story spotlighting the diocesan Eucharistic Congress)
Rich Hundley III, Catholic Star Herald / Diocese of Camden
N345: Most Effective Use of Small Space
Honorable Mention
Explore Catholic Schools (An advertisement encouraging Catholic school enrollment)
Tom O’Shea, Catholic Star Herald / Diocese of Camden
C332: Best Podcast Series
Honorable Mention
Talking Saints (The monthly podcast which focuses on a different saint every episode)
Laurie Power, Peter G. Sánchez and Mike Walsh, Diocese of Camden, Communications Department
Michael Walsh, director of communications for the Diocese of Camden, who was present for the awards ceremony, expressed pride not only for the Diocese, but others as well, including the (arch)dioceses of New Jersey, the publications/websites of which earned more than 20 awards combined.
“Attending the awards presentation last week, it was evident that the quality of both Catholic journalism and Catholic communications remains at a level that rivals that of our secular counterparts,” he said. “As always, I’m overjoyed that the Diocese of Camden and Catholic Star Herald are recognized for our high level of professionalism, but I’m equally impressed by how many of our neighboring dioceses have reached truly remarkable levels of quality in their work. It is often said a rising tide raises all boats, and I’m pleased to see that our fellow workers in the vineyard are doing such exemplary work to communicate Jesus’ message to the masses!”
The annual Catholic Media Awards honor outstanding achievements in Catholic journalism, communications, and other forms of media. The awards aim to highlight and celebrate the efforts of individuals and organizations that excel in portraying Catholic teachings, values and stories in a compelling and authentic manner. The event is primarily for Catholic media professionals, publishers, broadcasters, writers, and producers across North America and beyond, as well as anyone involved in the creation and dissemination of Catholic content.













