
Authors /
Debra Bendis
The Century contributing editor worked at the magazine from 1994 to 2017. She has degrees from North Central College and Northwestern University.
A northerner explores Christianity in the American South
James Hudnut-Beumler profiles churches, ministries, and movements with long-held traditions and potential for change.
March 15, 2019
Monastic wisdom for a non-cloistered world
After 60 years at Gethsemani Abbey, Paul Quenon wrote a memoir.
February 8, 2019
Which new books deserve a spot under the Christmas tree?
We asked our contributing editors to each pick two.
November 26, 2018
What happens after you survive an apocalypse?
The lively dystopian worlds of Louise Erdrich and Kaethe Schwehn
February 20, 2018
The sparkle of James McBride's stories
Five-Carat Soul is filled with hilarious storytelling, unusual characters, and stark realities.
January 3, 2018
Why Williams student Zachary Wood brings conservative speakers to campus
“College is arguably the best time and place for us to push our intellectual limits.”
July 5, 2017
The Till family’s agony
Carolyn Bryant changed her story. Does this change the meaning of Emmett Till’s death?
May 30, 2017
And who is my enemy?
Essays by our readers reminded me of the call to forgive “70 times seven,” especially in relationships with people we can’t eject from our lives.
February 24, 2017
Vigilance without anxiety
My friend in Germany called the night after the election. He was upset.
November 16, 2016
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From theological reflections to breaking religion news to the latest books, the Christian Century's newsletters have you covered.

Poverty and blame in Appalachia
More jobs would help, says J. D. Vance. So would a stronger work ethic.
September 13, 2016
Celebrating a ban on fracking
Several years ago the Century interviewed Sandra Steingraber and reviewed her...
December 18, 2014

A person’s touch
What do we think of when we think of touch? Of hugging a loved one, of caressing a child’s cheek, or of intimacy with a partner?...
May 8, 2014
Getting ready to age out
It’s one of the most discouraging realities in our society: foster kids who “age out” or leave the foster system and have to fend for themselves....
April 25, 2014