Ideally, we try to have articles for CT assigned eight to nine months before the cover date. The reason is obvious: this gives the author time to develop a quality article and the editors time for whatever word-smithing remains. Periodically, however, there are exceptions to the “lead-time” rule. Take this issue, for example.
Actually, the idea for doing a major treatment on the Catholic church surfaced more than a year ago. Over a bland breakfast of hot coffee and oatmeal, we decided to address a multiplicity of questions relating to the Catholic church in a series of articles. A month later, we presented the idea of a special section to our senior editors, received their wise counsel, and began the project in earnest.
Editorially, time was on our side. We were able to secure authors who were both expert in the questions under discussion and willing to give us no-nonsense answers. This combination was nowhere more critical than in the article on theology. Associate editor Rodney Clapp made early contact with noted Catholic theologian Avery Dulles and began an “interview” process (which included one face-to-face visit in Iowa, multiple interactions with the senior editors, and numerous phone calls and long-distance interviews) to ascertain clearly what has and has not changed in the church’s understanding of the relationship between faith and works, the person of Mary, and the role of the church.
This article, along with the other three developed over the past year and the editorial by Kenneth Kantzer, lays a critically conscientious foundation for better understanding a church in transition and our relationship to it. The section also sets a standard we hope to reach time and again as CT evaluates movements, trends, and events crucial to the body of Christ.
Managing Editor
