The Catholic Press Association recently recognized NC Catholics magazine for its personality profile column, “When Shulman Showed Up,” at the 2021 Catholic Media Awards. The awards are given annually by the Catholic Media Association to acknowledge the outstanding work of its publisher and communication members as they strive to further the mission of the Church.
The column offered a first-person, behind-the scenes look at how the Diocese of Raleigh, via a delightful meeting with one, Howard Shulman, came upon a treasure trove of original, historical photos and artifacts. The unique firsthand look into Papal history was featured in NC Catholics, in an accompanying video, “The Coronation of Pope Pius XII – Through the Lens of a Rabbi’s Son” and garnered national attention in a Religion News Service article.
The telling of the story was the favorite of one Catholic Press Association judge who commented, “This was a delight to read, and my only disappointment was that it was not longer. I wanted more! This was a fun, personal approach. What an adventure. Thank you for taking me along for the ride!”
The story was also a team favorite for the NC Catholics staff. It was published on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic and North Carolina shutdown in March of 2020 and became a reminder of the unique power of newfound friends, sharing and storytelling – things that were lacking for much of that year.
“Having the opportunity to meet and write about Howard Shulman, then 92, and learn about his family’s connection to the installation of Pope Pius XII was fascinating," wrote editor Kate Turgeon. "It was part love story (of Howard and Barbara), part selfless gift (of “pictorial records”) and part giant surprise. After all, he just showed up.”