"Getting faith representation right during times of tragedy seems especially important."
That's what Patheos' Content Community Manager Alan Crandall said as he was compiling media articles chronicling the heartbreaks and heroics from the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area this January.
Crandall is right. As politicians point fingers, family members grieve, and firefighters gallantly battle, faith remains an important component during a horrific event and the recovery from it.
There is a lot of media outlets getting it right now with this coverage. Tragedy seems to be when the media is most willing to examine faith and the place it has in people's lives.
We are choosing to highlight the Associated Press article titled "LA wildfires destroy numerous houses of worship. Clergy and congregants vow to persevere" which reports on the destruction of multiple houses of worship, including the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center, a mosque, a Catholic parish, and several Protestant churches.
Despite the destruction, according to the article, clergy and congregants are determined to rebuild and continue their spiritual practices, demonstrating resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
This article does a great job of telling comparbale stories from different faith communities which illustrates the similarities they share. At Patheos we are fond of saying encounters and stories of differing faiths should "breed tolerance, compassion and growth." That's why we are highlighting the AP article.
Explicit mention of faith in a positive context: The article highlights the unwavering faith of various religious communities as they confront the loss of their sacred spaces, emphasizing their commitment to persevere and rebuild.
Promotion of understanding, unity, or cooperation between different faith communities: The shared experience of loss and the collective resolve to recover foster a sense of unity among diverse faith groups, illustrating interfaith solidarity during challenging times.
Highlighting positive personal or societal impact derived from faith: The narrative showcases how faith inspires individuals and communities to come together, support one another, and find hope amidst devastation, reinforcing the positive societal role of religious belief.
Free of offensive language, religious discrimination, or negative stereotypes about any faith group: The reporting is respectful and sensitive, focusing on the human aspects of the tragedy without resorting to stereotypes or discriminatory language.
Provides a balanced view of faith without promoting exclusivity or superiority of one religion over others: By covering the experiences of multiple religious communities equally, the article maintains a balanced perspective, honoring the diversity of faith expressions without bias.
Contributes to societal good or offers solutions to challenges through faith-based perspectives: The piece highlights the role of faith in fostering resilience and communal support, demonstrating how religious communities can contribute positively to societal recovery efforts.
Relatively recent content (within the last 12-18 months): Published on January 10, 2025, the article provides timely coverage of current events.
Sparking positive engagement or comments from readers, viewers, or listeners: While specific engagement metrics are not provided, the focus on communal resilience and interfaith solidarity is likely to resonate positively with a broad audience, encouraging empathy and support.
We believe the article effectively aligns with the criteria for positive faith representation by illustrating the strength, unity, and perseverance of diverse religious communities in the aftermath of a natural disaster.
Other content we think has covered the faith angle well:
VIDEO: SoCal churches unite to bring peace and healing to wildfire victims: 'We've grown as a community'
Religious institutions hit hard by L.A. fires look to rebuild. Here’s how you can help
Southern California wildfires destroy or damage many houses of worship
United Methodists see loss, offer relief as wildfires rage
*Palisades Plya Vista Photo Credit: FireEditorHomiee, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons By FireEditorHomiee
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