The Banner is pleased to announce the appointment of Alissa Vernon as news editor for the official magazine of the Christian Reformed Church. Vernon lives in St. Catharines, Ont., where she is a member of Jubilee Fellowship CRC.
Shiao Chong, editor in chief, said Vernon brings nearly 20 years of news and journalism experience to the role, including both print and online multimedia.
“Alissa is a journalist at heart,” he said. “Besides excellent writing, reporting, and editing skills, she has exceptional organizational abilities. We believe these gifts equip her perfectly for this role to serve our readers in finding the best news stories.”
Chong noted that the news editor role acts as a bridge for news to travel from the local churches, ministries, classes and denominational agencies to the readers. “The role is vital in fulfilling our mandate to inform our readers of what is happening in the CRC.”
Vernon sees her new role as one of facilitating the church in telling its stories: of struggle, of grace, of wonder, of perseverance, of discovery. “Where God is leading us, his people, to do ministry matters,” she said. “To us and to the wider world. I will humbly take what I have and know . . . as I read, write, and distribute our stories through The Banner.”
Judy Hardy, The Banner’s associate editor and part of the hiring team, said that Vernon brings a deep love for the church to her new role. “We’re excited about the opportunity to work with her!”
Vernon will work alongside current news editor, Gayla Postma, who will now concentrate on denominational news reporting including synod, classis meetings, and meetings of the new Council of Delegates.
