Christophers, The
CHRISTOPHERS, THE
Founded in 1945 by James Keller, MM (1900–1977), is the name of a movement that attempts to stimulate people in all walks of life to recognize their abilities and use them to raise the standards in all aspects of daily living through print and electronic media. There are no membership lists, meetings, or dues. The movement is supported by voluntary donations. Persons are reached through the weekly television series, Christopher Closeup, which promotes a universal message of hope and inspiration; through Christopher News Notes, sent free upon request to more than a million individuals worldwide ten times a year; through radio and television programs scheduled by radio and television stations worldwide; through the many Christopher books and videos; and through a syndicated column entitled "Light One Candle." The Christopher motto, "Better to light one candle than to curse the darkness," reflects St. Paul's admonition: "Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Rom 12.21).
Past and present directors of the Christophers include James Keller (1945–1969), Richard Armstrong (1969–1978), John Catoir (1978–1995), Thomas J. Mc-Sweeney (1995–2000), and James P. Lisante (2000–).
[j. keller/eds.]