The Evangelical Press Association each year recognizes members for achievements in journalism and publication, presenting awards at its annual convention. With the 2020 EPA convention canceled due to COVID-19, this year’s awards were presented in an online live video ceremony April 21. The presentation was hosted by EPA president Carol Pipes and contest coordinator Danny Conn.
Covering 80 categories, 1,143 entries were received for the association’s Awards of Excellence and Higher Goals Awards.
Recognition for The Banner:
The feature article The Cult of Normalcy by Sara Pot (Nov. 2019) received second place in the feature category.
Judge’s comment: “This is well thought through with both an articulation of what we call "disabled' and what is a difference in persons and their gifts. Without preaching at us, the author gives good counsel.”
The column “Still,” with representative articles Shelter by Judith Claire Hardy (Nov. 2019) and Getting Registered by Rod Hugen (Oct. 2019), received fifth place in the standing column category.
Judge’s comment: “These columns offer a strong perspective. They're so well-rendered that the "point" sneaks up on you. You can't resist the connection to faith or Scripture once it arrives.”
A Depression Story by Mary Hulst (Oct. 2019) received fourth place in the fiction category.
Judge’s comment: “It is a valuable piece...This struck me as a worthy attempt at fiction by a nonfiction writer.”
Shiao Chong’s editorial Judge Not (Sept. 2019) received fourth place in the editorial category.
Judge’s comment: “The message is timely and spot on. … Overall, a solid piece.”
Faith Matters: Enough Trouble by Syd Hielema (June 2019) received fifth place in the devotional category.
Judge’s comment: “A much-needed topic that's not often discussed among Christians. Practical assurance that anxiety affects many of us, and can be resolved.”
