Every October, Cumberland Presbyterians celebrate Church Paper Month, an observance originally established to promote The Cumberland Presbyterian when it was still published as a newspaper. Over the years, the celebration has evolved to recognize the broader work of denominational publishing, including the magazines, books, curriculum and other resources that inform, educate and connect Cumberland Presbyterians around the world.
This year, we are highlighting another important chapter in our publishing history. In 1930, the Women’s Board of Missions began publishing the Jubilee Journal, a periodical devoted to sharing news of missionary work and encouraging participation in the denomination’s expanding mission efforts. After approximately a year and a half, the publication was renamed the Missionary Messenger. Nearly a century later, the Missionary Messenger continues to be published quarterly, carrying forward a remarkable legacy of telling the stories of Cumberland Presbyterian missions and the people who make them possible.
The cover of our October/November issue pays tribute to that history with artwork inspired by the very first issue of the Jubilee Journal. The original cover is reproduced inside this issue, offering readers a glimpse of the publication from which today’s Missionary Messenger developed.
Church Paper Month is more than an opportunity to celebrate our publishing heritage. It is also a reminder that denominational publications remain essential to the life of the church. Our magazines preserve our history as it happens, report the work of congregations and judicatories, recognize the accomplishments of our people and provide a connection among Cumberland Presbyterians separated by geography but united by faith and tradition. They also create a permanent record of our shared denominational life for generations yet to come.
That work deserves your support. In particular, The Cumberland Presbyterian, which has served the denomination since 1829, depends upon the continued loyalty of its readers. Publishing a denominational magazine is an increasingly expensive undertaking, and subscriptions are an important part of sustaining this ministry. Subscriptions start at just $18 a year, a modest investment in keeping Cumberland Presbyterians informed, connected and engaged.
During Church Paper Month, we encourage you to renew your subscription, introduce the magazine to someone who does not receive it, or consider purchasing a subscription for a friend, family member or church member. Congregations can also help by encouraging their members to become regular readers of our denominational publications.
Our magazines belong to the whole church. They tell our stories, celebrate our ministries, document our challenges and achievements, and preserve the record of who we are. Their continued vitality depends upon the support of the people they serve.
This October, celebrate Church Paper Month by supporting Cumberland Presbyterian publishing. Help us ensure that our stories continue to be told.
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