Early in 1994, I had a burden to create a platform which those in my local Church Body could use to have their interests, viewpoints, and creative works shared. Shortly thereafter, the first issue of The Edifier came out in Spring 1994 at The Middlebury Chapel in Akron, Ohio.

Intentions were to have The Edifier be a quarterly release (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter), and it was well received upon its release. However, after the first two issues, input dwindled almost completely. After much prayer and discussion, I decided to stop the newsletter. I still had a burden for the newsletter, but I felt that it was to be put on the back burner for the time being.

Two years later I got 'online', and I began to meet Christians from all over the world. The burden to create a platform for Christians to share their interests, viewpoints, and creative works came back to me. The difference from the similar burden I had two years ago was that I realized the Internet could reach Christians not only in my local Church, but those around the world. I again thought about The Edifier. Once I figured out how to create a webpage I decided to give The Edifier a rebirth online. I altered the name of The Edifier to that of The Edifier Online, and it was put online in HTML format. That issue was the Fall 1996, which followed the progression started with the first two issues two years prior (Spring, Summer).

It was fun to work with and hear from many Christians in the Church Body from around the world! However, the HTML format didn't seem to fulfill my intentions or the burden I had for The Edifier Online. I couldn't really put my finger on what was wrong. For the first two online issues I had pages with links, backgrounds, sound files, and graphics (my HTML skills were still pretty basic). I liked these online versions of The Edifier, but I felt that an HTML presentation wasn't what God wanted. I felt that a non-glitz, simplistic presentation was the way to go with The Edifier Online, and after deliberating about it for some time, the descision was made. After the Winter 1997 issue, I decided that the HTML format would be replaced by an email version, and that a webpage for The Edifier Online would still continue with the current and past issues available there as TXT files only.

Coupled with the decision to change the format of The Edifier Online, I also decided to change the quarterly release to a more manageable biannual release. Starting with Volume 2 - Issue 5, The Edifier Online has been released twice a year in October and April. After the format and release changes were made, the vision I had for The Edifier really began to take shape.

In 1998, The Edifier Online registered and received an International Standard Serial Number (ISSN). This number is: 1521-9178, and was simply done to symbolize my dedication to the publication inspite of its simple presentation.

After Issue 5, two and a half years went by before the next major change occured concerning The Edifier Online. As in late 1994, while I was preparing Volume 4 - Issue 10 I felt that another break for The Edifier was due. Thus, Volume 4 - Issue 10 carries the label of Final Issue, 2000. Creating the final issue was very sad for me, but I believe it is what God wanted me to do. Perhaps the break will be a permanent one, or perhaps not? I do not know. But until further leading by God, Issue 10 will be the final issue.

I am very thankful that I can make available 10 issues full of edifying work created and submitted by Christians. They will be online for anybody who stumbles across them as long as I can find space on the Internet to store them.

I still stand by the vision and intent for The Edifier Online which is simply The Edifer Online is meant to be for you and me; The Bride of Christ and any nonbeliever who cares to read it. While it is not any longer available to be an outlet where one can express themselves, it is still meant to inspire, edify, and bring glory to Jesus Christ.

The plain, simple format of The Edifier Online may seem archaic and outdated in presention in light of todays technology, but I have been so thankful to have been able to express what I had a burden for. I hope too that those who read it and have shared their work in The Edifier will experience the same blessing that I have.

If you would like to contact me, I'd love to hear from you. Simply send me and email at dragonraid@yahoo.com. May God bless you and keep you!

David Staley