[Billy] Graham gave the editors four pieces of advice that still ring true, even in today’s embattled journalism marketplace.<\/p>\n
1. Increase local, national and global religion news coverage — period. Look for “street-level” religion and don’t be afraid to put these stories on page one.<\/p>\n
2. Dig deeper than the “bare facts,” probing the ethical and moral angles of issues in medicine, science, business, academia and law.<\/p>\n
3. “Build bridges” to religious leaders through face-to-face contacts, just like media leaders do with business people and politicians. Also, help religious leaders understand the realities of the news business.<\/p>\n
4. There’s no way around it: Hire experienced religion reporters who have demonstrated excellence on that beat. Isn’t that, Graham said, the way you hire sports reporters?<\/p>\n
…one truth cannot be denied.<\/p>\n
“Religion often sways whole societies,” Graham said, “and can even change the course of history.”<\/p>\n