From editorial director of news Kate Shellnutt: A few weeks ago, theology editor Stefani McDade and I met with some prospective writers in Atlanta to talk about what makes a CT story. I thought this might be something loyal readers would be interested in as well. 

First, every article must have both “Christianity” (something related to Christians, the church, our faith lives) and “Today” (an element of relevancy or recency). The best CT pieces fall right at the intersection of the two, in a way where we’re uniquely positioned to tell the story. 

Next, we want to see an element of struggle, nuance, or transformation. The book Out on the Wire, one of our favorite storytelling manuals, says that good stories always have a source of conflict or tension—it makes a topic interesting and helps move audiences along. 

And, finally, we want articles that elevate the conversation. Our readers are smart, savvy, and well-read. Rather than reiterate what they may already know, CT articles should offer deeper reporting, stronger arguments, or unique and counterintuitive ways of thinking to expand their understanding of a topic. 

If you follow CT, I hope you recognize these characteristics and feel that they ring true as you read articles on our site and in our magazine!