In the vast tapestry of American history, few organizations have stood the test of time, evolving and adapting to the changing landscapes of society, technology, and faith. The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is one such organization. As it celebrates its 95th anniversary, we delve into its rich history, its present leadership, and the vision it holds for the future.
A Brief History
Founded in 1928, the RCC has been at the forefront of religious communication in the United States. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the evolution of technology from radio to the internet, and the ever-shifting dynamics of religious beliefs and practices.
Throughout these changes, the RCC has remained steadfast in its mission: to promote excellence in the communication of religious faith and values in the public arena and to encourage understanding among religious and faith groups.
The Pillars of RCC: The Board of Governors
The RCC's success and longevity can be attributed to its dedicated leadership. The Board of Governors, a diverse group of individuals from various faith traditions, exemplifies the organization's commitment to interfaith dialogue and collaboration.
Teresa Faust, the newly appointed president, is a testament to the RCC's commitment to research and metrics in religious communication. With her background in the United Methodist Communications and her involvement in global Christian media research, Faust brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to the role. Her journey from attending "Building Bridge Over Bagels" meetings to becoming the President of the RCC in just a few years is a testament to her dedication and the organization's ability to recognize and nurture talent.
Ryan Koch, the vice-president, brings a wealth of experience from his role as the director of the New York Office of Public and International Affairs for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His insights into international religious affairs are invaluable to the RCC's global outreach.
Dr. Addie L. Hudson Lisby, the secretary, with her association with All Media Communications, brings a fresh perspective on media's role in religious communication.
Rev. Brian Fesler, the treasurer, as the Senior Pastor and Director of Special Affairs for the Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre, offers a unique viewpoint from a faith that has often been in the media spotlight.
Rev. Donna Frischknecht Jackson, the past-president, with her dual roles in the United Church of Christ and as the founder of Old Stone Well Farm Media & Ministry, bridges traditional religious communication with innovative media strategies.
The 95th Anniversary Convention: A Celebration of Legacy and Vision
The upcoming "Harnessing Our Collective Power" convention in Louisville promises to be a landmark event. Not only will it celebrate the RCC's 95-year legacy, but it will also set the tone for the future. With the theme emphasizing collective power, the convention is expected to be a melting pot of ideas, strategies, and visions for the future of religious communication.
Teresa Faust's Vision for the Future
Under the leadership of Teresa Faust, the RCC is poised to embark on a new chapter. Her emphasis on interfaith perspectives and interreligious dialogue is timely, especially in a world that is increasingly polarized. Faust's vision is to harness the power of religious traditions for the benefit of society, echoing Pope Francis's sentiments during his visit to Mongolia.
In her words, "Religious traditions, for all their distinctiveness and diversity, have impressive potential for the benefit of society as a whole." This statement encapsulates the essence of the RCC's mission and the direction it aims to take in the coming years.
Conclusion
As the RCC celebrates 95 years, it stands as a beacon of hope, understanding, and collaboration in the realm of religious communication. With a dynamic leadership team at the helm and a clear vision for the future, the RCC is set to continue its legacy of promoting understanding and excellence in religious communication for many more years to come.
