The search is on for Britain’s best church magazine. Entries are now invited for the annual competition run by the Association for Church Editors (ACE), which is an Ecumenical, not for profit Christian organisation.
“In a world of uncertainty, church magazines can bring Christian hope and love to the community and be an uplifting read” says Sally Churchus, Chair of the national organisation, “so we are keen to encourage church magazine editors everywhere”.
For the 2026 competition, awards will be made for any size of magazine using colour printing, even if it is just on the cover. The Gold Award winner will receive the John King Trophy – a silver baptismal shell to be held for one year – while Silver and Bronze Award winners will receive an inscribed trophy to keep, together with a Certificate of Excellence for display.
A panel of judges assesses each magazine, giving points for various aspects including clarity of the Christian message, cover design, headlines, overall layout and structure, use of graphics and appeal to intended readership. The prize-giving will take place at our annual meeting on 26th September in London. This is open to everyone and includes talks about how to improve church magazines.
The close date for entries is Thursday 2nd April, 2026. Please submit your entry form with two copies each of two different editions produced in the last 12 months.
Photo of ACE Awards Winner 2025 – Robin Stevens from Chelmsford with Sally Churchus, Chair of ACE. www.churchmag.uk Rev Biddy Wigley, Swansea
