Bob Welch, columnist for the Register Guard newspaper in Eugene, Ore., and judge for the newspaper contests, said the MCC “dares to be something more than a shill” for Christianity.

“The MCC is inspiring as a Christ-based newspaper that seems secure enough in its faith to paint outside the lines, asks the tough questions and wrestles with this thing called faith. Bravo!” Welch wrote in his assessment of the paper.

In addition to top honors in both contests, the paper was awarded second place in the EPA Higher Goals category of General Article (long) for a story written by freelance writer Nicole McKay.

“I am proud of our talented staff that puts the Minnesota Christian Chronicle together each month,” MCC Publisher Lamar Keener said. “In just a few short years out of college, Bryan Malley has already established himself as a highly-respected writer and editor throughout the Christian publishing industry.”

The MCC also took first place in the FCN categories of Best Editorial, Best General Article (short) and Best General Article (long). Other MCC awards included: second place in the Best Column category, second place in Best Interview Article category, third place in Best Cartoon category, and fifth place in the categories of Best Reporting and Best Publication Design.

“The Minnesota Christian Chronicle has had a long history of receiving awards for its excellence. As new owners since January 2006, we are proud to see that tradition continued,” Keener said.

The MCC has been honored in the Awards of Excellence competition four other times since 1993.

The EPA is made up of more than 300 Christian periodicals in North America. The FCN is made up of about 40 regional Christian newspapers and operates under the umbrella of the EPA.

Keener currently serves as president of the EPA and is a member of the FCN board. Former MCC editor Doug Trouten is the executive director of the EPA. His wife Lis, also a former MCC employee, is also on the EPA staff.