Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Description

2026 marks the 160th anniversary of The Banner, the official magazine of the Christian Reformed Church. The award-winning magazine shows how the Christian faith in its Reformed expression makes sense for today's world. Readers find our articles—from news to features to reviews—lively, informative, inspiring, and challenging.

Do you love and consider yourself in touch with members of the Christian Reformed Church? Are you a discerning and effective communicator interested in highlighting the many good things happening in our denomination but also willing to help readers find their way through the challenging issues? Then please consider joining our staff of professional journalists by applying for the interim editor-in-chief of The Banner!

It is expected this position will be for a term of 12 months or less as we look to fill it with a long-term editor. The application process requires an editorial-length sample of your writing that would resonate with The Banner's audience.

PURPOSE

The interim editor-in-chief will be responsible for the content of The Banner, particularly for theological review, denominational relevance, and reader service to fulfill the magazine’s mandate.

This is an interim position that will be for one year or less and will be expected to work at least 18 hours a week.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

1. Ensure that The Banner, in print and online, achieves its stated purposes as described in the Synodical mandate (current, adopted by Synod 2025).
2. Lead staff in planning content for The Banner.
3. Write editorials and other appropriate columns.
4. Make final decisions on accepting all submitted manuscripts.
5. Approve the final copy and layout of each issue.
6. Ensure that all Banner correspondence is answered appropriately.
7. Maintain an adequate readership level for both the print and online editions.
8. Periodically consult with The Banner advisory committee to review published content and plans.
9. Effectively interact with constituents to promote The Banner.
10. Participate as needed with the Ministry Support Services director and the Director of Partnership Administration on all aspects of The Banner operations to ensure the continuing financial stability.
11. Manage The Banner’s online presence to foster effective engagement.
12. Maintain sensitivity to the diversity of views within the CRC while maintaining theological integrity.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Professing membership in a Christian Reformed congregation, or of a church in communion with the CRCNA, and agreement with the doctrine of the church signified by signing a covenant statement.
2. In-depth knowledge of the Scriptures and insight into Reformed teachings.
3. Deep familiarity with CRC theology and polity, given the denominational focus of The Banner.
4. Proven ability to write lively editorials and assess theological content, and make sensible editorial decisions.
5. Strong interpersonal and communication skills in writing to a diverse reading audience.
6. Proven ability to work efficiently with senior management and an advisory committee.
7. Demonstrated ability to respond constructively to a range of opinions and criticisms.
8. Basic knowledge of administrative functions such as finance, planning, etc.
9. Familiarity with digital publishing platforms, web content management, and online reader engagement strategies.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

1. Bachelor’s degree required, in one of the following fields: Theology, Religious Studies, Journalism, Communications, or Media Studies. Master’s degree in Theology or Divinity preferred.
2. Significant experience in writing, editing, publishing, or journalism, preferably in a Christian or denominational context, is required. 
3. Significant experience working in the Christian Reformed Church (CRC) ministry is preferred.
4. Previous leadership or senior editorial roles are preferred. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

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