This short guide explains the requirements for would-be authors considering writing for the magazine and answers some questions. For further information please refer to the Technical Guide for Writers (here) or contact the Editor (editor@thechristadelphian.com).

MUST I WAIT FOR AN INVITATION TO WRITE?

No. Most articles are unsolicited, and anyone may submit material for consideration. Some writers are approached for articles of a specific nature, or to maintain a section for which material does not normally arrive, but the magazine is compiled predominantly from submitted but unrequested material.

HOW LONG SHOULD AN ARTICLE BE?

In its current format one magazine page contains around 600 words. We seldom publish articles more than four pages long, and find shorter articles are popular.

WHAT IF I HAVE A LOT OF MATERIAL?

We may consider publishing a series, part of which is printed each month. In the past some series have run for a long time, years even, but our preference is to keep the series length to no more than twelve articles. If the series is longer it may be decided to break the series at a convenient point, and then resume later. With a longer series, it is helpful to know the general content of the articles ahead of time, since this offers opportunities for promotion and helps avoid subject overlap in particular issues.

ARE THERE ANY TYPES OF ARTICLES PREFERRED?

Regular readers will be aware of the different sections used in the magazine (Sunday Morning, exposition, practical, archaeology, history, current events, Faith Alive! (aimed at younger brothers and sisters), our community and the epilogues.) Material is welcomed for all these sections.

WHICH VERSION OF THE BIBLE SHOULD I USE?

There is no requirement. Readers and writers are aware of the strengths and weaknesses of different versions and should use their discretion. As a publisher we still use the KJV frequently, and of the modern translations the NKJV and ESV are used regularly, but others are acceptable to help the author make his or her point. It helps us to know which version is being quoted.

HOW SHOULD I SUBMIT MY ARTICLE?

Electronic submissions are preferred (for example in Microsoft Word or similar) for ease of production. Hard copy submissions will be considered equally if electronic submission is not possible.

IS THERE A DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS?

Unlike news items (required by 10th of each month) there is no deadline for articles, unless it is scheduled for a particular issue, in which case the 10th is the absolute deadline.

WILL MY ARTICLE BE ACKNOWLEDGED?

Usually, yes. The Office undertakes to respond to each submission wherever possible, whether the article is published or not.

WHEN WILL I KNOW MY ARTICLE IS TO BE PUBLISHED OR NOT?

This is hard to say. If an article is not considered suitable for The Christadelphian writers can expect to be advised relatively quickly. If an article is to be used it may be many months before it is printed, as it is always useful to have a stock of articles to select from to produce a balanced magazine. This means articles can lay in the ‘to be published’ pile for a considerable time in some cases. Efforts are made to advise authors before their article appears. If the article is written with a particular date, deadline or anniversary in mind, please bear this in mind when submitting: it will help us to make best use of your work.

A good writing style is helpful, but good scripture-based ideas are even better. We would rather receive an article that required editorial attention and a modicum of ‘ghost-writing’ than for a potential author to feel their writing skills were not up to a perceived standard. We do not guarantee to publish any article, but we do want you to feel encouraged to write for us.

WHO DECIDES WHETHER AN ARTICLE IS INCLUDED?

The Editor in conjunction with the Assistant Editor and if necessary the Chairman and wider committee.

HOW MUCH EDITING IS DONE?

This depends. Proof reading will always identify any necessary corrections, and editing occurs to ensure a consistency of style. Sometimes articles are edited for length. If this is the case every effort is made to reflect the sentiments of the author and if major changes are required the author is consulted or shown the final article ahead of publication.

IS THERE A PARTICULAR HOUSE STYLE I SHOULD ADOPT?

There is a house style and details can be found in the separate Technical Guide for Writers.

CAN SISTERS WRITE FOR THE CHRISTADELPHIAN?

Yes.

CAN THOSE OF OTHER CHRISTADELPHIAN FELLOWSHIPS WRITE FOR THE CHRISTADELPHIAN?

As this is a magazine for the Central community, authors for the magazine are members of ecclesias belonging to Central. Views expressed will reflect the doctrines outlined in the BASF.

ARE THERE ANY SUBJECTS TO BE AVOIDED?

Articles published usually reflect mainstream understanding and opinions of the Central community. The aim of the magazine is to bring honour to the Almighty whilst encouraging readers in their discipleship and defending scriptural truth. Minority views are considered, and sometimes published, but the magazine is not a place for controversy or for airing extreme views.