World News Group is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Joel Belz, the organization’s founder and a celebrated leader in the field of Christian journalism. With a heavy heart, the board of directors and leadership of World News Group shared the news of Joel Belz’s passing at the age of 82. His vision for a Christian news organization wholly committed to reporting on world events through the lens of the Psalm 24 was nothing short of inspirational.
John Weiss, chairman of the WNG board, reflected on Joel’s incredible impact by saying, “In the 1980s, Joel envisioned a Christian news organization that reported on world events through the lens of Psalm 24—that the earth and all who dwell therein are the Lord’s. A leader, a publisher, a visionary, a faithful servant of his Lord, and a friend and mentor to all of us at World. His ever-ready words of encouragement to all will be sorely missed. But we know the One in whom Joel placed his faith has now called him home to his glorious reward. For Joel, the battle is over and the victory won.”
Nick Eicher, a longtime editorial leader at WNG, also honored Joel by saying, “In the thirty-three years I’ve been part of this project that Joel started, I never met anyone who so consistently applied his theology to his work and life. The fact that he was wrestling every day with the news amplified his utter reliance on God. I never saw his trust in his good Father waver, even when he could no longer be in the office doing what he loved.”
Born in Marshalltown, Iowa in 1941 to Max and Jean Belz, Joel Belz was the second of eight children. He graduated from Cono Christian School, Covenant College, and the University of Iowa. He was Covenant College’s Alumnus of the Year in 1977 and the moderator of the Presbyterian Church in America’s General Assembly in 2003. Joel Belz leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, and is survived by his wife Carol Esther, their five daughters, 16 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
For those who wish to pay tribute to Joel Belz, World News Group has set up a special tribute page at wng.org/joel. The page contains a full obituary, a photo gallery, access to Joel’s more than 1,000 WORLD Magazine columns, and a place for friends to post reminiscences and condolences.
Joel Belz’s lasting impact will continue to inspire and influence the field of Christian journalism for years to come. All who had the honor of knowing and working with him will forever cherish his memory and carry on his legacy.
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