World News Group Mourns The Loss Of Visionary Founder
Joel Belz, a respected figure within the Presbyterian Church in America and the founder of World News Group, passed away at the age of 82 after battling complications from Parkinson’s disease, as announced by World in a press release on Sunday. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carol Esther, and leaves behind a legacy cherished by five daughters, 16 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
John Weiss, chairman of the WNG board, paid tribute to Belz, portraying him as a multifaceted leader, publisher, and visionary who faithfully served his Lord. He noted Belz’s gift of encouragement and expressed confidence that he had found peace and eternal reward.
Hailing from Marshalltown, Iowa, Belz pursued his education at Cono Christian School, Covenant College, and the University of Iowa. His professional journey began in Asheville, North Carolina, where he made his mark at The Presbyterian Journal, eventually assuming the role of interim editor.
During the 1980s, Belz ventured into publishing God’s World News, a publication aimed at enlightening middle school students. The endeavor earned commendation for its impact on young Christians, garnering praise from influential voices like Chuck Colson. Encouraged by its success, Belz expanded his reach by launching World magazine in March 1986, catering to adult readers.
Remaining an active participant in the Presbyterian Church in America, Belz contributed significantly, attending annual meetings and even serving as moderator during the denomination’s General Assembly in 2003. Despite stepping down as CEO of World in 2005, Belz continued to wield his pen, crafting around 1,000 columns on diverse topics, including politics and societal issues.
One of Belz’s notable columns, “When politics is cover for coveting,” resonated with readers as it tackled the perils of envy and materialism in society. Through his words, Belz cautioned against the pitfalls of wealth obsession, advocating for a more balanced approach to life’s pursuits, one rooted in deeper values beyond mere financial gain.