Bishop appoints new editor of The Catholic Free Press

Bishop McManus appointed Maria LeDoux as the new editor of The Catholic Free Press, effective April 1. The appointment comes after the retirement of longtime executive editor, Margaret M. Russell.

Bishop McManus said, “As associate editor for the past year, Maria has brought a keen sense of how to engage our readers with pertinent news and human-interest stories that are important to local Catholics. I am grateful that she has accepted this position and for her commitment to the mission of the paper. Communications Ministry is so critical to our ability to evangelize in Central Massachusetts.”

Ms. LeDoux has been the associate editor of the newspaper since July 2023. Before that, she was a part-time reporter since February 2022. She also worked for the diocesan Communications Ministry as a producer from July 2021 to July 2023 and for Emmanuel Radio Network from January through December 2021 (before its closure and sale to The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio Network).

“I am humbled by Bishop McManus’ confidence in me to be the editor of The Catholic Free Press. I believe that local Catholic journalism is imperative to the mission of the Church and in sharing with others what is true and good and beautiful. As our motto states, ‘... the truth shall make you free,’” said Ms. LeDoux.

“I am especially grateful for the many local people who contribute to the newspaper, to my colleagues at The CFP and for the mentorship of retired executive editor, Margaret Russell. I look forward to further developing the digital presence of the newspaper to reach as many readers as possible.”

Before working full-time for The Catholic Free Press, Ms. LeDoux worked in public relations for Assumption University.

Ms. LeDoux, a Worcester native, is a product of Worcester Catholic schools. She attended St. Stephen Elementary School, Notre Dame Academy and Assumption University.

She received her bachelor’s degree in both theology and communication and media. She was an Assumption University Augustine Scholar and recipient of their Crown and Shield award and theology department award.