The History of The Church Of Good In Christ Publishing House
COGIC Publishing House Headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee
The Church Of God In Christ (COGIC) Publishing House has been pivotal in disseminating spiritual and educational resources within the COGIC denomination and beyond. As the official publishing arm of the Church of God in Christ, the Publishing House has supported the church’s mission of evangelism, education, and spiritual growth through the power of the printed word.
Founding and Early Years
The COGIC Publishing House was established in 1926 in Memphis, Tennessee, under the leadership of Bishop Charles Harrison Mason, the founder of the Church Of God In Christ. Recognizing the need for a dedicated resource to provide Sunday School materials, Bible studies, and other educational tools, Bishop Mason envisioned the Publishing House as a means to unify and strengthen the rapidly growing denomination.
During its early years, the Publishing House focused on producing Sunday School materials, hymnals, and other liturgical resources tailored to the unique worship style and doctrinal beliefs of COGIC. These materials were essential in standardizing teachings across the many COGIC congregations, which were expanding rapidly across the United States and internationally.
Expansion and Development
Throughout the 20th century, the COGIC Publishing House continued to expand its offerings to meet the evolving needs of the church. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Publishing House began producing a broader range of materials, including children’s books, devotional guides, and leadership manuals. This period also marked the introduction of the YPWW (Young People Willing Workers) literature, which focused on youth engagement and spiritual development.
The Publishing House moved into a modern facility in 1973, which allowed for greater production capacity and the ability to distribute materials more efficiently. This era saw the introduction of new technologies in printing and distribution, which helped COGIC Publishing House reach a wider audience within the denomination and beyond.
Modernization and Digital Transformation
As technology advanced, the COGIC Publishing House adapted to the digital age. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Publishing House began offering digital versions of its resources, including e-books, downloadable study guides, and online subscriptions. This digital transformation was pivotal in making the materials more accessible to a global audience and meeting the needs of a tech-savvy congregation.
Today, the COGIC Publishing House offers a wide range of digital resources, including apps and online platforms that allow churches and individuals to access Sunday School lessons, Bible study guides, and other resources from anywhere in the world.
Commitment to the Mission
Despite the changes in technology and the evolution of the church's needs, the core mission of the COGIC Publishing House has remained steadfast: to provide high-quality, doctrinally sound materials that support the spiritual growth and education of the COGIC community. This commitment is reflected in their diverse range of offerings, which include books, periodicals, curriculum guides, and multimedia resources.
The Publishing House continues to be a vital resource for COGIC churches worldwide, helping to preserve the rich heritage and traditions of the Church Of God In Christ while embracing new methods and technologies to spread the Gospel.
Looking Forward
As the COGIC Publishing House approaches its centennial, it remains dedicated to expanding its reach and impact. With a focus on innovation and responsiveness to the needs of a diverse and dynamic global church, the Publishing House is poised to continue its legacy of faith, education, and service for many years to come.
