In a major leadership change, evangelist Steve Cox has stepped down as Chair of Christians in Media after nearly ten years of dedicated service. He has been succeeded by Lani Charlwood, a current trustee and former executive director of New Wine, who officially took over the role during a planned meeting of trustees on the primary day of July.
Christians in Media, previously known simply because theMediaNet, an offshoot of the Church and Media Network, has seen remarkable evolution under Cox’s leadership. He brought with him previous communication expertise from his days working at senior level with the World Evangelical Alliance and the Council of World Mission.
Over the past decade, the Christians in Media charity has navigated quite a few transformations to adapt to the ever-changing media landscape. Key initiatives during Steve Cox’s tenure include the rebranding of the charity, the establishment of a mentoring programme for young people captivated with faith and media, the introduction of online lunchtime prayer meetings, and the launch of a podcast. Additionally, the charity has resumed its conferences, with the upcoming Engage 2024 event set for October.
“To every part there may be a season, and a time for each matter under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV).
Expressing gratitude for Cox’s contributions, the charity highlighted his role in creating strong relationships, supporting the team, and guiding the organisation through various changes. “We could include more, but we’re grateful for the relationships Steve has created, his dedication and repair for our community, and the best way he has supported our team. Like with any change, we’ll miss him,” the Board noted.
The transition to recent leadership is underscored by a way of continuity and hope for the long run. Referencing Ecclesiastes 3 and Psalm 37:5, the Board expressed confidence that the charity will proceed to thrive because it stays committed to its mission.
Charlwood, the brand new Chair of Trustees, shared her vision and enthusiasm for her recent role: “I actually have spent much of my life observing the influence of Christians across all sectors of media. I actually have seen divisions, but I actually have also seen reconciliation. It is the latter which lies at the center of my desire to support Christians in Media; constructing connections, gathering together, encouraging each other, and becoming higher together than we’re apart.
“It is a joy to tackle the role of Chair for Christians in Media. Steve has competently steered the ship through a changing landscape, and I’m honoured to be receiving the reins from him. As we proceed to grow, my hope and prayer is that increasingly Christians will probably be affirmed of their calling inside this influential sector in order that together, we are able to bring a bit bit more of God’s Kingdom to earth.”
With the addition of recent trustees, Christians in Media is poised for continued development on this recent season. The charity encourages supporters to remain connected through social media, to affix 850 others of their busy Facebook group, and to communicate through their website.
As Christians in Media enters this exciting recent chapter, the community is invited to #pray4media and support the charity through prayers for its leadership and initiatives.
“Commit your technique to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do that” (Psalm 37:5, NIV).
