If you are searching for the top Christian publishers accepting unsolicited manuscripts in 2026, you are not alone, and you are in the right place.
Every year, thousands of Christian authors search for answers to questions like:
- Which Christian publishers are accepting unsolicited manuscripts in 2026?
- Can I publish without a literary agent?
- Which publishers are legitimate — not vanity presses?
- Which Christian publishers truly support authors, not just profits?
This 2026 guide to Christian publishers accepting unsolicited manuscripts was created to bring clarity, accuracy, and confidence to authors who want to publish faith-based, Christian, and inspirational books with integrity. Updated specifically for 2026, this article highlights reputable Christian publishers that are open to direct submissions, explains what each publisher is looking for, and helps you determine where your manuscript truly belongs.
In 2023, a similar guide published by Kharis Publishing generated over 11,000 organic views, helped thousands of authors make informed publishing decisions, and earned strong backlinks across the Christian publishing ecosystem. This 2026 edition is fully updated, expanded, and optimized for Global Christian authors seeking US-based publishers
As a mission-driven Christian publisher, Kharis Publishing believes that authors deserve honest information, not pressure, hidden fees, or false promises. That is why this list includes not only our own submission opportunities, but also other trusted Christian publishers who share a commitment to quality, faith, and ethical publishing standards.
Whether you are a first-time author, a pastor or ministry leader, or an experienced writer seeking a new publishing home, this guide is designed to help you make informed decisions, submit with confidence, and move one step closer to seeing your message published and shared with the world.
Why Would a Publisher Publish This List?
An editor once asked us:
“Why would a publisher direct authors to other publishers instead of funneling everyone to their own site?”
The answer hasn’t changed.
At Kharis Publishing, we believe:
- Authors deserve clarity, not confusion
- Christian publishing should be mission-driven, not exploitative
- The right publisher matters more than any publisher
Not every manuscript belongs with us, and that’s okay. A discerning author with an important message should seek out publishers who align with their message, audience, theology, and calling.
That philosophy is exactly why this list exists.
What This Guide Covers (2026 Edition)
- Christian publishers currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts
- US-based publishers (with global reach where applicable)
- Nonfiction, fiction, academic, ministry, and Christian living categories
- Clear distinctions between traditional, agent-required, and open submission models
- Updated submission notes (no outdated info)
- Author-helpful insights — not marketing fluff
⚠️ Note: Publishing policies can change. Always confirm submission guidelines directly on each publisher’s website.
2026 Top Christian Publishers Accepting Unsolicited Manuscripts
1. Kharis Publishing
Best for: Christian nonfiction, memoirs, inspirational, faith-based leadership
Kharis Publishing is an independent, mission-driven Christian publisher with a rapidly growing reputation for author advocacy, editorial excellence, and global impact.
Unlike many publishers that operate behind vague promises, Kharis has distinguished itself by:
- Prioritizing author education and transparency
- Publishing books that blend faith, life application, and cultural relevance
- Reinvesting in literacy initiatives and global impact projects
Genres Accepted (2026):
- Christian nonfiction
- Christian Fiction
- Memoirs & testimonies
- Inspirational & devotional works
- Christian leadership
- Faith, health, and wellness, etc.
Submission Model:
✔ Accepts unsolicited manuscripts
✔ No literary agent required
Why Authors Choose Kharis Publishing:
- Clear submission guidelines
- Author-centered communication
- Strategic marketing support
- Strong ethical stance against exploitative publishing models
Kharis Publishing Submission Guidelines
2. Zondervan (HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
Best for: Academic, ministry resources, theology
Zondervan remains one of the most respected names in Christian publishing globally. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, it has deep distribution and academic credibility.
Genres Accepted Without an Agent (Selective):
- Academic theology
- Seminary and college textbooks
- Ministry and pastoral resources
Submission Notes:
- Fiction generally requires an agent
- Proposals must meet strict academic or ministry criteria
Ideal for authors with strong credentials and institutional audiences.
Zondervan Submission page
3. Crossway Books
Best for: Evangelical nonfiction, theology, Christian living
Crossway is known for doctrinal clarity and theological depth. Its catalog includes influential Christian thinkers and pastors.
Genres Accepted:
- Christian nonfiction
- Theology and biblical studies
- Christian living
Submission Model:
✔ Accepts unsolicited proposals
⚠️ Prefers initial queries before full submissions
4. Baker Publishing Group (Multiple Imprints)
Best for: Wide range — fiction, nonfiction, academic
Baker Publishing Group operates several respected imprints, each with distinct editorial focuses:
- Baker Books: Christian living, nonfiction
- Revell: Mainstream fiction with faith elements
- Bethany House: Strongly faith-based fiction
- Chosen: Charismatic / Spirit-empowered content
- Baker Academic: Scholarly works (credentialed authors only)
Submission Notes:
- Many imprints accept proposals through online portals
- Some imprints prefer agented submissions
5. Abingdon Press
Best for: Christian living, leadership, curriculum
Based in Nashville and affiliated with the United Methodist Publishing House, Abingdon has a long history of producing thoughtful Christian resources.
Genres Accepted:
- Christian living
- Leadership
- Academic theology
- Church curriculum
✔ Accepting unsolicited manuscripts
Abingdon Press Submission Page
6. Paulist Press
Best for: Catholic theology, spirituality, children’s books
Paulist Press operates under the auspices of the Paulist Fathers and is especially respected within Catholic publishing circles.
Genres Accepted:
- Academic and popular theology
- Spiritual formation
- Clergy resources
- Children’s books
✔ Accepting unsolicited manuscripts
7. The Crossroad Publishing Company
Best for: Catholic nonfiction, personal development
An independent New York–based publisher focused on Judeo-Christian values.
Genres Accepted:
- Family life
- Spiritual disciplines
- Community and leadership development
- Academic theology
✔ Accepts unsolicited proposals
The Crossroad Publishing Submission Page
8. Dove Christian Publishers
Best for: Evangelical nonfiction and fiction
Dove focuses on books that help readers live out their faith practically.
Genres Accepted:
- Christian ministry
- Evangelical nonfiction
- Faith-based fiction
✔ Accepts unsolicited submissions
Dove Christian Submission Page
9. CKN Christian Publishing (Wolfpack Publishing)
Best for: Christian genre fiction & select nonfiction
CKN publishes a wide range of Christian-themed fiction and selected nonfiction titles.
Genres Accepted:
- Christian romance
- Mystery & suspense
- Science fiction
- Young adult
- Select nonfiction
✔ Accepts unsolicited manuscripts
10. CrossLink Publishing
Best for: Church-based nonfiction & ministry resources
Part of CrossLink Ministries, with connections to thousands of churches.
Genres Accepted:
- Ministry-focused nonfiction
- Church leadership
- Christian living
✔ Accepts unsolicited submissions
Quick Comparison Table
| Publisher | Agent Required | Primary Focus | Accepts Unsolicited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kharis Publishing | No | Christian Fiction and Non-Fiction | ✅ Yes |
| Zondervan | Partial | Academic / Ministry | ✅ Selective |
| Crossway | No | Theology / Nonfiction | ✅ Yes |
| Baker Publishing | Mixed | Fiction & Nonfiction | ⚠️ Varies |
| Abingdon Press | No | Christian Living | ✅ Yes |
| Paulist Press | No | Catholic / Academic | ✅ Yes |
| Crossroad Publishing | No | Catholic Nonfiction | ✅ Yes |
| Dove Christian | No | Evangelical | ✅ Yes |
| CKN Publishing | No | Christian Fiction | ✅ Yes |
| CrossLink Publishing | No | Ministry Resources | ✅ Yes |
How to Choose the Right Christian Publisher (2026 Guidance)
Before submitting, ask yourself:
- Does this publisher align with my faith expression?
- Do they publish books like mine?
- Are they transparent about their process?
- Do they respect authors — financially and creatively?
The best publisher is not always the biggest — it’s the one that steward’s your message well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Christian publishers still accept unsolicited manuscripts in 2026?
Yes. Many reputable Christian publishers, including Kharis Publishing, continue to accept unsolicited submissions, particularly for nonfiction and ministry resources.
Can I publish a Christian book without a literary agent?
Absolutely. Several Christian publishers on this list accept manuscripts directly from authors.
How long does it take to hear back from a Christian publisher?
Response times vary from 4 to 16 weeks, depending on volume and editorial cycles.
Are all Christian publishers traditional publishers?
No. Some are hybrid or assisted models. Always review submission terms carefully.
Final Thoughts for Christian Authors in 2026
Publishing is not just about getting a book printed; it’s about stewarding a message.
Whether you submit to Kharis Publishing or another publisher on this list, we encourage you to:
- Do your research
- Pray through the process
- Choose integrity over urgency
If you’re seeking a publisher that values faith, excellence, and author empowerment, Kharis Publishing remains a strong place to begin.
6 Comments
Mayowa Ojo
Thank you so much for this. I’ve never seen any publisher that promotes other publishers on their website. This was a brilliant read. Thank you.
kharispublishing
Thank you so much for your kind words! We truly believe the Christian publishing space is stronger when we support one another. Our goal with this post was to serve writers by giving them clear, honest pathways to get their message out—no matter which publisher they eventually work with. We’re really glad it blessed you.
If you know any writers or aspiring authors who could benefit from this, please feel free to share it with them.
David John Gall
Who do I contact to get some insight on a book I am completing, with the main topic as “end of life care” with family instead of assisted living facilities. Based on my experiences, God stories, and my personal miracles. Please advise. Thank you.
David J Gall
kharispublishing
Hello David,
Kindly submit a query here: https://kharispublishing.com/kp/query/
You can reach out to us via email if you need clarification on anything: info@kharispublishing.com
Sincerely,
Barb Miller
Thank you for providing this information. I am just now beginning the process of searching out publishing companies to submit my book to. Happens that I initially have submitted to just one company so far and that company happens to be Kharis. Seeing your sincere desire to support Christian authors deepens my respect for Kharis publishing and I feel that my choice of choosing Kharis Publishing to submit to was lead by God.
Landra K Olsen
I appreciate the comparison table as a first time author. There is so much research to do and this information is a great asset!