Emma Bennett—Staff Writer

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the online journal In All Things has struggled to retain its readership. 

According to Andreas Center Director Channon Visscher, the majority of Dordt University’s student body remains unaware of  its existence and connections to the university and the Christian Reformed Church (CRC). 

In All Things, operating as a website and podcast, publishes essays, book reviews, poetry, and devotions for the purpose of “exploring the concrete implications of Christ’s presence in all facets of life.” 

Though its main readership bases itself in North America, it receives 18,000 new readers each month from around the world. Also, the writers for the CRC publication range from academics and  authors to theologians and students.

In All Things finds representation within Dordt’s faculty and staff. In addition to Visscher, Ruth Clark, Andreas Center Program Coordinator, works as a managing editor and senior Josie De Jong works as copy editor. 

“I enjoy the job because it’s like a checklist, going down the line and making sure everything’s correct,” said De Jong, who was recommended to the position by Professor of English Howard Schaap.

De Jong also interacts with First Mondays speakers, given their connections to the Andreas Center: “Sometimes they ask if you want to drive them from the airport, so there’s that chance to make connections.”

While In All Things approaches writing from a Christian perspective, it includes a variety of different worldviews. 

“When you see that this is a publication from Dordt, you’re going to have some preconceived notions.” De Jong said. “But you’ll find articles from any side of any spectrum, so it connects this greater community of thinkers.” 

In All Things operates with an editorial board of four Dordt faculty members and four others from outside the university community. 

 “We certainly don’t address all aspects of life, but we do provide content that addresses various issues in thoughtful and reflective postures,” said Clark, who invites writers to comment on areas of study, books, and more.

Still, the publication depends on the willingness of their writers.

“We are limited by asking individuals who have many commitments on their time to do another thing.” Clark said. “However, over the years, we have built up a large amount of content that provides many opportunities for readers and writers.” 

In addition to their typical publications, the organization writes a newsletter and maintains social media presences on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

If interested, students are encouraged to send ideas and submissions to Andreas.Center@dordt.edu.