Joel Belz, founder of World News Group, dies at 82
Joel Belz, the founder of World News Group, a prominent Evangelical news organization, has passed away at the age of 82. Belz, a former moderator of the Presbyterian Church in America, died due to complications from Parkinson’s disease.
In a press release issued by World, it was announced that Belz leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Carol Esther, along with five daughters, 16 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Chairman of the WNG board, John Weiss, expressed his admiration for Belz, stating, He was a leader, a publisher, a visionary, a faithful servant of his Lord, and a friend and mentor to all of us. Weiss further emphasized that Belz’s words of encouragement will be greatly missed, but his faith in God has brought him to his ultimate reward.
Born in Marshalltown, Iowa, in 1941, Belz was the second of eight children. He completed his education at Cono Christian School, Covenant College, and the University of Iowa.
Belz began his career in Asheville, North Carolina, in 1977, working for the theologically conservative news publication The Presbyterian Journal. He eventually became the interim editor of the publication. In the 1980s, he founded a middle school news publication called It’s God’s World, later renamed God’s World News. The publication was praised by Chuck Colson, a prison ministry leader, for its impact on young Christians.
Belz recognized the need for an adult version of the student newspaper, which led to the launch of World magazine in March 1986. Throughout his career, Belz remained active in the PCA, attending annual meetings and serving as moderator for the Presbyterian body’s General Assembly in 2003.
Even after stepping down as CEO of World in 2005, Belz continued to contribute through his writing, with approximately 1,000 columns to his name. One of his notable pieces from 2010 titled When politics is cover for coveting emphasized the dangers of coveting material wealth in society.
Belz’s contributions to Christian journalism have left a lasting impact, and his dedication to sharing news from an Evangelical perspective will be remembered. His legacy lives on through the World News Group and the numerous individuals he inspired and mentored throughout his life.
