Christian book publishers play a vital role in bringing faith-based, spiritual, and educational content to a growing audience. For Christian authors, finding the right publisher is a significant step in sharing the written word with the world.
This post will guide you through understanding Christian publishers, their unique contributions, notable companies, the publishing process, and how to choose the best path for your writing career.
Whether your passion lies in authoring contemporary Christian fiction, nonfiction Christian books, or children’s literature with Christian themes, this post will prepare you to make an informed decision as you pursue your publishing dreams.
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The Role of Christian Publishers
Christian publishers occupy a unique and essential niche in the literary world. Their mission extends beyond printing pages—it’s grounded in spreading an explicitly Christian message, upholding faith-based values, and supporting authors who align with these principles.
Promoting Faith-Based Content
Christian publishing companies ensure a platform for books that reflect Christian beliefs, morals, and themes. For example, Thomas Nelson and Moody Publishers are known for publishing high-quality books that resonate deeply with faith-oriented readers.
Supporting Authors With a Shared Vision
Christian book publishers understand the unique challenges faced by faith-based authors. They provide invaluable support in refining manuscripts, navigating the publishing process, and connecting authors with a like-minded audience.
Fostering a Sense of Community
Christian publishers often facilitate a sense of community among authors and readers who share the same faith. Through events, online forums, and collaborative projects, they create opportunities for meaningful connections.
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Notable Christian Publishing Companies
If you’re seeking inspiration or direction, here are some of the best Christian publishers paving the way for faith-based literature:
Bethany House (Part of Baker Publishing Group)
Specializes in bestselling Christian fiction, inspiring nonfiction, and bible resources.
Moody Publishers
Focuses on books with explicitly Christian messages, including Christian living, both fiction and nonfiction.
Thomas Nelson (Part of HarperCollins)
Thomas Nelson is a longstanding name in the Christian publishing landscape with a robust catalog of high-quality titles.
Harvest House Publishers
Harvest House Publishers is a leader in publishing books on Christian values, children’s books, and bible-study resources.
Westminster John Knox Press
Westminster John Knox Press focuses on theology and academic Christian books, deeply connected to Presbyterian doctrine.
Concordia Publishing House
The Concordia Publishing House is the official publishing arm of the Lutheran Church, offering resources for pastors and laypeople alike.
Kharis Publishing
Kharis Publishing is known for empowering next-generation authors, the Kharis Publishing team focuses on Christian books that inspire and transform. They are committed to promoting diversity and giving a voice to emerging authors with meaningful messages.
RGM International
A publisher dedicated to providing a voice for Christian authors globally. RGM International nurtures spiritually enriching content that spans genres, offering resources for personal growth and community development.
They aim to amplify messages that inspire and fortify faith while catering to diverse readerships who seek knowledge and transformation through Christian teachings.
Penguin Random House
Although not exclusively a Christian publisher, Penguin Random House has a broad and diverse catalog that includes numerous Christian and inspirational titles. As one of the largest publishing companies globally, they provide a wide-reaching platform for authors looking to share faith-based narratives with a broad audience.
Their extensive resources and distribution networks make them a valuable partner for authors seeking to bring Christian literature to the mainstream market.
Hachette Book Group
While not solely focused on Christian literature, Hachette Book Group publishes a wide array of books, including faith-based and inspirational titles, through its various imprints.
Their extensive reach and resources provide Christian authors with the opportunity to share their messages with a vast audience. By offering diverse narratives that align with faith-driven values, they contribute to the dynamic landscape of Christian publishing.
The United Methodist Publishing House
As the oldest and largest publishing company of its kind, The United Methodist Publishing House provides a wealth of resources tailored to the United Methodist Church.
It publishes a range of faith-centered materials, including books, educational resources, and hymnals, aimed at fostering spiritual growth and supporting the church’s mission. Within its collection, authors find opportunities to engage deeply with a heritage of Wesleyan theology and practice while reaching congregations and individuals pursuing faith-rich content.
Lighthouse Christian Publishing
Lighthouse Christian Publishing is known for its dedication to nurturing emerging voices in Christian fiction and non-fiction, Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas offers a variety of imprints catering to different facets of Christian storytelling.
They provide opportunities for new and established authors alike to explore themes of faith, hope, and redemption. With a focus on community and collaboration, this publisher supports its authors through robust editorial guidance and marketing efforts, ensuring that stories illuminating Christian principles reach readers eager for spiritually enriching content.
These publishers represent just a glimpse of the dynamic Christian publishing world.
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The Publishing Process
Collaborating with a Christian book publisher involves several key stages. Here’s what Christian authors can expect:
Manuscript Submission
Most Christian publishing companies accept unsolicited manuscripts, though some prefer submissions through a literary agent. It’s essential to check each publisher’s guidelines—Bethany House and Crossroad Publishing Company, for example, outline specific requirements for fiction submissions.
Evaluation Period
After submitting your manuscript, it typically takes six to eight weeks for the review process. During this period, publishers assess whether your book resonates with their mission and audience.
Editing
Once accepted, your manuscript undergoes developmental editing to refine its structure, style, and message. Publishers like Lifeway Christian Resources and Herald Press ensure alignment with Christian themes.
Design and Production
Publishers focus on cover design, format, and layout to make your book visually appealing and market-ready.
Marketing and Distribution
Christian publishers leverage their networks to promote and distribute your work through bookstores, online platforms, and community events.
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Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Christian Publishing
When it comes to publishing a Christian book, authors face two primary options—traditional publishing or self-publishing. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
Traditional Christian Publishing
Pros:
- Access to experienced editors, designers, and marketers.
- Distribution through established channels, including popular Christian bookstores.
- Credibility and prestige associated with traditional publishers like Baker Books or CKN Christian Publishing.
Cons:
- Highly competitive; not all manuscripts are accepted.
- Less control over the publishing process.
Self-Publishing
Pros:
- Full creative control over your manuscript, cover design, and marketing.
- Faster publication timeline.
- Platforms like Kharis Publishing offer self-publishing packages catered to Christian authors.
Cons:
- Requires more effort in marketing and distribution.
- Upfront costs can be high.
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The Future of Christian Publishing
The advent of digital platforms and evolving reader preferences are shaping the landscape of Christian publishing. Some key trends include:
Digital and Audiobook Growth
More readers are consuming Christian books on e-readers and listening to them on platforms like Audible.
Modern Formats
Publishers now emphasize sleek, contemporary designs that appeal to younger readers of Christian living and contemporary Christian fiction.
Global Reach
Technology allows Christian values to reach international audiences, expanding the reach of publishers like InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and Baylor University Press.
Collaborative Networks
Communities like those formed by Dove Christian Publishers foster collaborations between authors, publishers, and readers.
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Why RGM International Should Be Your First Choice For Your Christian Publisher
If you seek a publishing house that understands your calling and shares your mission to spread the gospel, consider RGM International. With decades of experience and a commitment to producing high-quality books, RGM International stands out as one of the best Christian publishers.
Faith-Driven Excellence
RGM International is deeply rooted in Christian values, ensuring that every project aligns with biblical principles.
Comprehensive Support
From manuscript editing to marketing, our team guides authors through every step of the publishing process.
Global Platform
As a publisher passionate about the written word, RGM International ensures your message reaches readers worldwide.
Begin your publishing journey with RGM International today and see your vision become a reality.
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Publish Your Passion—Share Your Faith
Christian book publishers are more than just businesses; they are stewards of faith, helping authors magnify Jesus Christ through the power of stories and teachings.
Are you ready to publish your book? Start by exploring Christian publishing companies that accept submissions or contact RGMI International to learn how we can help.