Former TV journalist takes on new role with Archdiocese

St. Louis, Mo., Jan 10, 2005 / 22:00 pm

A popular and well-respected investigative television journalist put aside his camera and mic to take on the role of chief spokesman and executive director of communications for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Jamie Allman was named to the position Dec. 21, but began only yesterday. He resigned from his job as an investigative reporter for KMOV Channel 4, which he held for 15 years, Dec. 31.

"This presents a fantastic opportunity to serve both my faith and my community, which makes it the ideal assignment," the 41-year-old told the Oakville-Mehlville Journal.

The Richmond Heights resident, who converted to Catholicism from Protestantism six years ago, told the newspaper that he is “proud to be Catholic.” His mother was a Protestant and his father was a Catholic.

Allman commented he feels the church received unfair criticism in the media with certain issues, such as the sex abuse scandal.

Allman thinks very highly of Archbishop Raymond L. Burke, calling him “a great, warm and holy man.” In his new role, he will be reporting directly to the archbishop.