Winners in 76 categories — representing 67 organizations and 821 entries — highlighted the best of faith-based journalism produced in 2023.
Every year, the ACP recognizes excellence in religious communication, including newspapers, magazines, newsletters, and websites from multiple denominations across North America. The theme for the year’s convention was “Covering Conflict in a Polarized World,” and the organization awarded communicators for excellence in categories ranging from local reporting to denominational meeting coverage to website design.
The Herald, along with several other Adventist publications, including the Canadian Adventist Messenger, NAD NewsPoints, Ministry magazine, and Spectrum: Journal of the Association of Adventist Forums earned multiple awards. A full list of winners are available here.
The Herald took home awards in the following categories:
FIRST PLACE
- Biographical profile: “ I Choose to Teach ” by Beverly Matiko and Emily Gibbs
Judge’s comment: “Excellent use of images and storytelling.”
- Scholarly article: “ Blessed are the Wholemakers ” by Ante Jerončić
Judge’s comment: “Engaging and energetic writing powers the reader through some very esoteric concepts.”
SECOND PLACE
- Awareness/Advocacy Campaign (social media): “ Safeguarding Our Children ” by Stanton Witherspoon
THIRD PLACE
- Magazine Cover: “ Safeguarding Our Children ” by Elennie Ramirez
- Event, Marketing or Brand Awareness ( social media ): “ Happy Sabbath ” by Katie Fellows
Overall excellence/ best in class
- Social Media Presence by Stanton Witherspoon, Katie Fellows and Felicia Tonga
- Video Production by Felicia Tonga, Stanton Witherspoon and Andrews University Dept. of Visual Art, Communication and Design
Editor Debbie Michel said, “We don’t do what we do to win awards, but it’s always nice to be recognized. The ACP honor inspires us to remain focused on producing quality journalism in a Christian setting, and by the grace of God we will keep on doing that.”
The Associated Church Press, which began as the Editorial Council of the Religious Press in 1916, is a North American professional organization brought together by a common commitment to excellence in journalism as a means to describe, reflect, and support the life of faith and the Christian community.
Lake Union Communication