Pathway experiences ‘colorful’ landmark
By Staff
March 7, 2006
JEFFERSON CITY – Readers of the print edition of The Pathway noticed something colorfully new on the pages of the March 14 edition.
The official newsjournal of the Missouri Baptist Convention (MBC) for the first time began publishing in full color with the most recent issue; the 81st of its three-year history. Readers saw color photographs and graphics throughout its pages thanks to a new printing press purchased by The Pathway’s printer, the News-Tribune of Jefferson City. Previously such color has been limited to the front and back pages, plus two center pages.
“This is another historic moment in the life of The Pathway and is yet another of the many blessings God has bestowed on this publication since its much-needed creation by the MBC Executive Board, first as a Web site publication in June 2002 and then as a full-fledged newspaper in January 2003. We are indebted to our friends and partners at the News-Tribune for their significant contributions to The Pathway through the years and particularly for their hard work in making this yet another memorable moment in the life of the MBC’s newsjournal,” said Don Hinkle, who has served as editor since the publication’s birth.
Since its creation, The Pathway’s estimated readership has steadily climbed to the 45,000 mark while subscription and advertising rates have held steady. Hinkle said color advertising rates remain unchanged with the new full-color format. An annual subscription remains $10, while the special church group rate stays unchanged at just $6.
“The Pathway is a Cooperative Program (CP) ministry. These affordable rates are made possible through the generous support of the CP by Southern Baptists throughout Missouri,” Hinkle said.
Known for its passion for covering evangelism, missions and church planting, The Pathway also has gained notoriety for its bold news coverage and biting conservative opinions. Hinkle’s “Thoughts & Adventures” columns are now featured along side the state’s top opinion writers on the popular political Web site, johncombest.com. His commentaries have also been adapted for radio and are heard twice daily on all Bott Radio Network stations throughout Missouri.
In January, The Pathway Web site experienced the largest number of visitors for one month in its history.