Christianity Today Names Erik Petrik as New Editor in Chief After 70 Years of Leadership Transitions

Christianity Today named Erik Petrik as its new chief content officer and editor in chief on October 2, 2026, marking a significant leadership shift at one of the most widely read Christian publications in the world.

Petrik has served as the ministry's chief creative officer since 2020 and founded CT Media, the organization's multimedia division. Under the new structure, he will oversee journalism, audio, video, and creative departments under one unified editorial vision.

The announcement came as Christianity Today celebrated its 70th anniversary, a milestone the ministry has marked with a special September/October 2026 commemorative issue and a "Week of Giving" fundraising campaign running October 5 through 9.

Marvin Olasky, who returned to the editor in chief role 18 months ago, is retiring from the position. Olasky previously served as editor for many years before stepping back, and his second stint helped guide the publication through a period of significant change in Christian media.

Christianity Today was founded by Billy Graham in 1956 with the goal of helping Christians think carefully about faith and engage with a changing world. The ministry has since grown into a multimedia organization with a magazine, podcast network, and digital platforms reaching millions of readers.

The 70th anniversary issue features archival excerpts, reader testimonies, and reporting on challenges facing the church in the years ahead, including the rise of artificial intelligence in ministry, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, and the future of the pro-life movement.

Petrik said the new integrated leadership structure is designed to bring the ministry's various content arms into closer alignment. Christianity Today has not announced a specific timeline for the full editorial transition.