Christianity Today, the nonprofit media ministry that publishes Church Finance Today, recently unveiled its new cause: Beautiful Orthodoxy. The vision: In a world in desperate need of truth, goodness, and beauty, Christianity Today leads the church by richly communicating the breadth of the true, good, and beautiful gospel.
Matthew Branaugh, Editor of Church Finance Today, recently explained how this cause relates to the publication.
How does Church Finance Today reflect Beautiful Orthodoxy?
We know most churches wrestle with money matters. The vast majority of church leaders truly desire to lead their finances with excellence and integrity. But we know such leadership is challenging because there are a lot of competing ministry priorities, a lot of rules and regulations that need to be followed, and a lot of liabilities to address. Also, in rare instances, some individuals take advantage of weaknesses with a church’s finances, and when that fraud is discovered, it can find its way into local—and sometimes even national—media coverage.
We consistently strive to help churches do better, all with the goal of making churches better witnesses to a watching world. Richard Hammar, our senior editor, as well as our distinguished Editorial Advisory Board, share in this commitment to educate and equip church leaders. Our team’s mission to help churches stay financially sound is clearly connected to the vision of Beautiful Orthodoxy.
How does Beautiful Orthodoxy help distinguish Church Finance Today from other publications and resources?
Practical help on financial matters is so essential for leaders to keep their churches financially sound. This guidance helps them to lead well, prevent problems, and respond effectively when problems do arise. This approach differs from some organizations that may use alarmist language or veiled threats to panic churches into buying resources or attending conferences. While we will never sugarcoat the truth about the serious nature of the topics we cover, we consistently strive to offer coverage that provides constructive solutions.
It’s our prayer that as others around us paint a very negative picture of what church leaders face on financial matters, we offer a positive-but-honest view that encourages leaders and empowers them to act.
How might this direction further help readers in unique ways?
The publishing landscape of the 21st century is no longer about just print content, or just digital content, but about full engagement with readers: timely news and updates, two-way conversations with readers, and in-depth resources. Church leaders who are trained well on financial subjects and passionate about them help their churches operate without blemish. We believe that is a powerful testimony to the world.
