Evangelical Press Association holds annual convention in Branson

The Evangelical Press Association, a professional and networking association for Christian media, held their annual convention May 4-6 at the Branson Convention Center. Attendees included representatives and content creators from member publications, both digital/online and print; support service providers; and freelance associate members including writers, artists, graphic artists, videographers and other creatives. The convention brings these communicators together around the common goal of sharing the gospel message through media to a seeking world. 

In a statement in the convention program, Board President Sandra Glahn reiterated the purposes of the EPA to promote fellowship and networking among content provider; to provide a united voice on industry-related matters; and to offer training that raises journalistic standards among communicators who hold a high view of Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. 

Starting Sunday evening, May 4, attendees were touched and challenged by keynote presentations including Mary DeMuth, author of more than 50 faith-based books; researcher John Plake of the American Bible Society; Sam George, professor of migration and diaspora missiology in seminaries across Asia, Africa and North America; Dallas Theological Seminary President Mark Yarbrough; and Nicole Massie Martin, founder of Soulfire Ministries and CEO of Christianity Today. 

Break-out sessions offered training and connection in practical, technological and spiritual aspects of Christian publication. Local professionals were well-represented among the speakers: Erin Hayes, professor of journalism at College of the Ozarks, shared her expertise as an award-winning former national correspondent for ABC World News Tonight in “The Art of Interviewing 101” and “Art of Interviewing, Advanced.” Kalah Kemp, who teaches social media courses at C of O, presented “Spreading the Word: Promoting Christian Publications through Social Media.” Both Hayes and Kemp incorporated participation by C of O students into their presentations, with many favorable comments from attendees. 

Common themes emerged during keynotes, classes and breakout discussions. Some involved the increasing risks and responsibilities that come with increased use of technology, including the need to make sure AI has plenty of strong faith-based content to draw from. Several speakers also spoke to the needs of Gen Z, as the most recent State of the Bible report, presented by Dr. Plake, indicates that young people are seeking spiritual truth and Bible sales—including print copies—rose significantly last year. 

Many conference attendees stayed over for a bonus “Story of Scripture” presentation with Dr. Yarbrough, focused on ways to engage the “movable middle,” which includes many young people. In polling, that segment comprises people who do not regularly engage with the Bible or church, but are open the possibility of such engagement to meet their spiritual needs. 

Overall, attendees experienced renewed commitment to finding effective methods and tools to reach those who need to hear the Gospel message. Many came to Branson early or stayed over an extra day to enjoy area attractions, and Wednesday’s “bonus day” included a backstage tour and the afternoon performance of “David” at the Sight & Sound Theater. Some were familiar with the theater in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and were eager to experience the Branson facility and a new show. 

The Shepherd of the Hills also surfaced in conversations, as EPA members familiar with Harold Bell Wright discussed the impact of his stories in reinforcing Christian values over 100 years ago—the goal the members still have today. 

A look at the list of convention sponsors shows the variety of members working toward those goals. In addition to title sponsor Turning Point with Dr. David Jeremiah, sponsors and exhibitors included—

●      Modern Litho (commercial and digital printing and marketing) 

●      Gloo (values-aligned AI and tech platforms) 

●      International Fellowship of Christians and Jews 

●      Israel Ministry of Tourism 

●      Sight & Sound Theatres 

●      Story of Scripture (innovative approaches to Bible study) 

●      IDEX Pro (engagement with website visitors) 

●      Communio (healthy relationships) 

●      The Herzog Foundation (accelerating quality K-12 Christian education)

●      Answers in Genesis (apologetics ministry) 

●      Medi-Share (healthcare cost-sharing and prayer network) 

●      World Journalism Institute 

●      Powered By Text 

Faith-based content creators and aspiring creators are encouraged to check out these organizations, all of which have a strong social media and online presence, as well as membership in the Evangelical Press Association for a great source of valuable networking and practical tools.