Speech by Titus Brandsma on 22 September 1936 for the Catholic Radio Broadcasting Service

In this nationally broadcast talk, Titus Brandsma emphasizes the importance of having a separate Catholic press to make the Church’s opinion heard, for the Catholic perspective to be heard in the chorus of voices, assuring the Church a place in Dutch society. He encouraged all to take advantage of the great freedoms in the Netherlands. Journalism is not only about telling the news, information, and giving education. But a newspaper must give its opinion— honestly and consistently. Different voices show the contradictions in society. This is of great value, as it protects against dilution and elevates politics above opportunism. Catholics are committed to the consistent application of the Catholic faith, including in the social and political realms. He says that Catholics have long been undervalued in the Netherlands; they were often not taken seriously. With a separate Catholic press, the Church can make its opinions heard. But it is not good to cover only Catholic topics. In all other areas, such as sport, economy, and culture, the reporting must also be of a high standard. The reader wants to be broadly informed. This entails great costs, but it is very important to have a good Catholic press in all areas of the country.

Listen to the audio (in Dutch) here