Literary Journal

Relief: A Journal of Art & Faith

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About the magazine

Relief: A Journal of Art & Faith was founded in 2007 by a group of writers and artists seeking to explore the intersection of Christian faith and contemporary art. The journal emerged from a desire to move beyond the often-polarized debates between secular and religious art worlds, fostering instead a space for nuanced, critically engaged work that takes both artistic craft and spiritual inquiry seriously. Over the years, Relief has published a diverse range of poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and visual art, earning a reputation for its thoughtful curation and commitment to excellence. Its mission is to provide a platform for artists and writers who grapple with questions of faith, doubt, and transcendence in ways that resonate within and beyond religious communities.

Editorial focus

For over a decade, Relief has helped shape the landscapes of faith and imagination for readers around the world. The journal features fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, graphic narrative, and reviews by some of today’s finest literary practitioners, alongside emerging voices. Relief eschews tidy “inspirational” writing that represses the troublesome and complex dimensions of our lives. Instead, it is dedicated to human flourishing through literature.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslation

Submitting your work

Reading periodSep 1 to Feb 1

Reading feeYes

PaymentContributor copies only

Response time3 to 6 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Before submitting, read several issues to understand the journal's tone and range. Relief seeks work that engages faith thoughtfully, avoiding both propaganda and mere irony. They welcome diverse perspectives, including doubt and critique. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter stating your connection to the journal's mission. Response times vary; expect 2-4 months. They charge no submission fees for most categories, but consider a voluntary donation to support the journal.

Above all, we want to be surprised, even thrilled, by work of artistic excellence—writing that shows the highest embodiment of craft while exploring something of deep importance.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

1 listed

OpenDeadline · 2027-02-01