June 4, 2026

The Summer America Turned 200

It’s the summer of 1976. Americans crowd along train tracks to wave as a white train emblazoned with bright red and blue stripes rolls across the United States. Hundreds flock each stop for the chance to climb aboard the Freedom Train in honor of America’s bicentennial year. 

Stepping through the entry car, citizens find themselves carried along a moving pathway through United States history. More than 20 train cars each exhibit documents and artifacts highlighting a unique element of the American story, from wartime trials and triumphs to inventions, art, and sports. In some cars, recorded audio narrates the scenes. In others, mechanical replicas of historical figures captivate audiences with stories of patriotism. 

At the bicentennial, America celebrated the nation’s 200th anniversary against the backdrop of Saigon, Watergate, and a broader crisis of confidence in public institutions. Fifty years later, the country is preparing to mark another historic milestone. The commemorations of 1976 offer a glimpse into how the anniversary encouraged the spirit of American freedom to animate the nation during a time of political and social tension. 

The Gospel Still Travels Through Books

“Norma needs a case of books, immediately.” 

Norma McCorvey, known to most as Jane Roe of Roe v. Wade, was trying to convince a young girl not to have an abortion. She wanted to give the girl her autobiography and conversion testimony, “Won by Love,” but she had run out of copies.  

So, she reached out to her publisher: HarperCollins Christian Publishing. 

The staff at HarperCollins immediately set to work overnighting a box of books to their author. HarperCollins’ immediate response to McCorvey’s plight is characteristic of the company’s heartfelt passion for sharing the Gospel. 

NRB Convention Recognized Among Fastest-Growing Trade Shows

NRB was honored to receive three recognitions in Trade Show Executive's 2026 Fastest 50 Awards, reflecting the continued growth and engagement of the NRB International Christian Media Convention — the premier gathering of Christian communicators.

Each year, Trade Show Executive recognizes the 50 fastest-growing trade shows in North America based on percentage growth in exhibit space, exhibitors, and attendance. The NRB Convention ranked fourth in net square footage growth, sixth in exhibitor growth, and twenty-first in attendance growth, underscoring the expanding participation of Christian media professionals, ministry leaders, and industry partners.

We are grateful for the members, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors, and attendees whose involvement continues to strengthen and grow the NRB Convention each year.

Image: Carlton Capps, NRB Senior Event Sales Manager (Courtesy of Oscar & Associates)

Member News

Alliance Defending Freedom is representing Virginia college students appealing the denial of state tuition grants, arguing they were excluded from aid because they chose religious degree programs.

More than 210 volunteers from Amazing Facts International and Granite Bay Hilltop Church served communities across Belize, providing medical care, construction assistance, evangelism training, and outreach ministry.

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association is marking 15 years of its Search for Jesus evangelism ministry, which has used online outreach, volunteers, and discipleship resources to share the Gospel with millions worldwide.

Compassion International and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) have partnered to serve children in vulnerable communities, combining sports, play, and faith-based programs to support healing, growth, and discipleship.

Dave Raley has introduced the Sustainable Giving Partner Certification, a new program designed to help organizations build stronger, long-term fundraising strategies.

ExploreGod has become the new name of Global Media Outreach, marking a new chapter for the digital evangelism ministry as it expands its focus on connecting online seekers with personal discipleship and mentorship.

FrontGate Media has announced new streaming TV advertising partnerships aimed at helping faith-based and family-focused organizations connect with targeted audiences across digital television networks.

GodcasterU has opened enrollment for its first five radio stations, providing training and digital tools designed to help broadcasters expand beyond traditional radio into streaming, podcasting, and audience engagement.

IMD Interactive recently appeared on "The 700 Club" to discuss its mission of creating Bible-based video games and using interactive media to engage new audiences with Scripture.

A Washington Times interview with Iran Alive Ministries founder Hormoz Shariat explores the growth of Iran’s underground church, highlighting how many Iranians are turning to Christianity despite government restrictions and persecution.

Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) President Brad Dacus has released a video challenging the Southern Poverty Law Center's designation of PJI as a "hate group" and inviting SPLC President Brian Fair to an on-camera discussion of the claims.

Salem Media has launched “Your Nightly Scripture,” a new audio feature delivering Bible passages and brief reflections each evening, expanding its portfolio of faith-based digital content and programming.

TWR’s ministry in Cuba continues sharing Bible teaching through radio and WhatsApp despite severe power outages, fuel shortages, and economic hardships affecting communities across Cuba.

Wonders Center & Science Museum, in association with the Institute for Christian Research (ICR), is hosting leading creation researchers and speakers at The Wonders of Creation Conference June 10–12. Receive 50% off registration with promo code WOC50.