Catholic Voices is an organization that tells the Church’s story and helps other people to do the same.

In a document called, “Ten principles of Civil Communication” many excellent points are made that are very useful for pro-life activists who want to communicate a message in the secular media.

The reality is it is extremely difficult to get a pro-life message from many secular media sources. In the United States, many media sources struggle to cover serious pro-life points during news stories.

However, it is still possible to get a pro-life message across, even from hostile, secular media sources. The following 10 points are extremely helpful for communicating calmly and collectively, especially when the pressure is on.

Don’t get mad. Reframe.

Reframing a story tells a different story from the narrative. See the hidden issues behind the questions asked of you. Prepare well to look for the value behind the questions you are asked and to refute false arguments.

2. Shed light, not heat

Stay calm if you are on the media and communicate with calm conviction to bring clarity to others. We want other people to understand and can illuminate others by our witness.

3. Think in threes

Think of three points you want to get across in the interview. Your first point can touch a critic’s points, and the next two can get the points that you want to make across.

4. People don’t remember what you said as much as how you made them feel.

We can communicate with empathy, clarity, and in a civil manner. We don’t necessarily need to win an argument and lose the opportunity to communicate well. The best communication is when people feel comfortable and can understand and share. The truth does not need to defend itself.

5. Show, don’t tell

Stories and examples from personal experience communicate better that abstract arguments. Before an interview think what your story is and how best you can tell it in a way that hits the mark.

6. Remember to say “Yes”

Many people think the Church and Christians are against something, but this is because the Church is for so much more. The Church says no to say yes. Remember to say what we say “yes” to. Try to be an angel pointing to a better light than a grim reaper.

7. Compassion counts

The Church is often a scapegoat for anger. Being compassionate about understanding the anger and hurt can be the most valuable witness we can offer.

8. Numbers aren’t everything

Statistics can be abstract and inhumane, only use them for your main point.

9. It’s about witnessing not winning

Be what you represent. Every engagement for us is an opportunity to witness. We don’t necessarily need to win, but stand firm in love.

10. It’s not about you

Our ego can often get in the way. Ask the Holy Spirit to be with you and to speak through you. Whatever happens, give thanks to God.