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The Christophers

The Christophers is a Catholic-inspired nonprofit organization founded by Father James Keller in 1945.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Christophers is a Catholic-inspired nonprofit organization founded by Father James Keller in 1945. It promotes positive action, religious tolerance, and the use of personal talents to improve society through media, educational materials, and awards programs. The name comes from the Greek word christophoros, meaning 'Christ-bearer.'

History

The Christophers was founded in 1945 by Father James Keller, M.M., a Maryknoll priest, after the Second World War. Keller described it as a movement to encourage people to bring Christian principles into everyday life without requiring formal membership or dues.

Mission and philosophy

The organization’s mission is to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to use their talents for good. It promotes a message of hope, personal responsibility, and religious tolerance, summed up by its motto about lighting one candle rather than cursing the darkness.

Programs and publications

The Christophers publishes the Christopher News Notes and has produced radio, web, print, and leadership materials. It also operates the Christopher Awards, which recognize books and visual media that reflect human values and inspiration.

Public role

The Christophers has long presented itself as a faith-based but broadly ecumenical organization. Its materials and activities are aimed at encouraging constructive action in public and private life.

Key facts

  • Founded in 1945 by Father James Keller, a Maryknoll priest.
  • Name means 'Christ-bearer' in Greek.
  • Open to people of all faiths despite Catholic roots.
  • Best known for Christopher News Notes and Christopher Awards.
  • Based in New York City.
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Canadian context

The Christophers has no strong specifically Canadian identity, but its religious publishing and inspirational media have broader relevance for Canadian Catholic and interfaith audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Christophers?
The Christophers is a Catholic-inspired nonprofit organization that promotes faith-based encouragement, public service, and positive action through media and awards.
Who founded The Christophers?
It was founded by Father James Keller, M.M., a Maryknoll priest.
When was The Christophers founded?
It was founded in 1945.
What does the name mean?
The name comes from the Greek word christophoros, meaning 'Christ-bearer.'
What is The Christophers best known for?
It is best known for Christopher News Notes and the Christopher Awards.
Is The Christophers only for Catholics?
No. Although it has Catholic roots, it presents its message as relevant to people of all faiths and emphasizes religious tolerance.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Christophers
    Supports: Founding date, founder, name origin, mission, and general description
  2. The Christophers — https://www.christophers.org/
    Supports: Organization identity as a Catholic nonprofit and current base in New York City
  3. The Christophers Blog — https://thechristophersblog.org/about-the-christophers/
    Supports: Mission statement, founding date, and motto
  4. University of Dayton Archives — https://archivescatalog.udayton.edu/repositories/2/resources/315
    Supports: Founding date, mission, publications, radio show, leadership courses, and Christopher Awards
  5. GuideStar — https://www.guidestar.org/profile/13-1809274
    Supports: Mission summary, media and awards programs, and organizational details