From successful nightclub owner and DJ in Brussels, Chris Cole made a radical decision to forsake worldly success and give up everything to pursue a life dedicated entirely to Christ. This transformative moment set him on an extraordinary journey that would see him become a leading voice in British Christian media, using broadcasting to share the Gospel with millions around the globe. Today, as a trustee of the Christian Broadcasting Council UK, Chris continues to champion media as a vital tool for evangelism, mentoring and Kingdom impact.
Central to this journey is Chris’ wife Kerry, whose unwavering partnership and shared faith have been instrumental in shaping their ministry. Their powerful story is told in her book, Gotta Die To Live, a candid account of transformation, obedience and the call to serve. Together, they have become a voice of encouragement using every platform, from local initiatives to international broadcasting, to bring the hope of the Gospel to a far reaching audience.
Chris’s journey into Christian media began unexpectedly. In the thriving European city of Brussels during the 1970s, Chris enjoyed success as a prominent DJ and entrepreneur, partnering with renowned brands such as Heineken Breweries. It was amidst this high-energy lifestyle, seemingly worlds away from the Gospel, that Chris encountered the life-changing message of Christ through the testimony of three Christians who came to share their faith at the radio station where he worked.
This encounter led to a profound personal transformation. On 6 December 1981, Chris was dramatically converted at a Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship gathering, where he felt a deep conviction of sin and the overwhelming grace of God. Soon after, a prophetic word would set the trajectory of his life and ministry: “You will reach thousands, no, millions, for Christ through media.”
Chris embraced this call wholeheartedly. He walked away from his prosperous life in Brussels, relinquishing his shares in thriving businesses without hesitation, driven by a newfound faith and purpose. His early obedience set the stage for decades of influential ministry in Christian media.
Shortly after returning to the UK, Chris Cole began his journey in Christian radio with a 30‑minute weekly show called ‘The Solid Rock of Jesus Christ’ on Plymouth Sound FM in 1983. He also founded Cornerstone House in Plymouth as a tent-making initiative which is now known as Cornerstone Vision. Today the company is a significant media enterprise which publishes various titles including The Plymouth Chronicle reaching 92,000 homes and Lifelines, a Christian testimony publication.
Chris’ vision soon expanded far beyond local reach, leading to the establishment of Cross Rhythms Media Ministry which now includes more than 50 radio stations worldwide, broadcasting music and Christian content across continents. As Chris’s influence grew, so did his dedication to supporting other Christian media ministries including UCB. He currently holds strategic board positions with globally recognised organisations such as GOD TV. Chris also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of faith-based broadcasting through his work at CBC and via Alive In The Spirit, a media charity he set up which raises funds for broadcast platforms.
“God is going to use the media very powerfully in these days” – CBC Trustee, Chris Cole invites you to be part of what we are doing to promote Christian media in all its forms.
Throughout his ministry, Chris has continually emphasised the unique role media plays in fulfilling the Great Commission. Recognising broadcasting as a powerful means of evangelism, he has tirelessly advocated for Christian involvement in television, radio and digital platforms. His own work demonstrates the potential of media to reach diverse audiences, crossing barriers of culture, language and geography to proclaim the Gospel.
Yet, Chris’s journey has not been without challenges. In recent years, he faced significant personal trials, including a diagnosis of incurable blood cancer, myeloma, in 2023. Despite enduring profound suffering, including multiple hospitalisations and serious health setbacks, Chris continued ministering through media, sharing powerful messages of hope and perseverance. These experiences further deepened his understanding of God’s presence in suffering, inspiring a series of impactful broadcasts, which he and Kerry recorded with GOD TV entitled, “Where is God in the Suffering?”
In all of his trials, Chris has consistently pointed believers back to scripture, often referencing Romans 8:28, reminding them that “all things work together for good to those who love God.” His authentic approach resonates deeply within the Christian media community, encouraging fellow practitioners to share their stories transparently, demonstrating the transformative power of God through media.
As a trustee of CBC UK, Chris is committed to the charity’s core mission: promoting the knowledge of the Christian faith through broadcasting and media. His role involves mentoring and supporting media practitioners across the UK, actively championing initiatives designed to enhance the quality and reach of Christian broadcasting. His leadership ensures CBC UK remains at the forefront of advocating supportive legislation and fostering strong relationships with policymakers.
Chris also believes strongly in the importance of collaboration and unity within the Christian media community. He frequently encourages broadcasters, producers and writers to embrace an ethos of genuine koinonia, authentic Christian fellowship, moving beyond mere organisational structures toward deeper relational connections. This vision aligns closely with CBC’s values, which place significant importance on unity within diversity, emphasising the collective mission of reaching the world for Christ through media.
Reflecting on his decades of service, Chris expresses optimism for the future of Christian media. Inspired by prophetic visions of revival, he believes the UK is entering a season where media ministries will play an increasingly pivotal role in spiritual renewal. His advocacy for authenticity and integrity in broadcasting challenges Christian media professionals to create content that genuinely connects with people’s hearts and lives, addressing their struggles, hopes and spiritual needs.
In this way, Chris Cole exemplifies a life dedicated not merely to media, but to using media as a profound tool for Gospel proclamation. His global perspective, strategic influence and unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired a generation of Christian broadcasters, filmmakers, journalists and digital communicators.
At its heart, Chris’s story is one of profound obedience, unwavering faith, and consistent reliance on God’s strength even through the most testing of circumstances. Through his significant national and international profile, Chris continues to fulfill that early prophetic call, reaching millions for Christ and encouraging countless others to use their gifts in media for God’s glory.
His message remains clear and compelling: the testimony of Christ’s transforming power is our greatest tool. Quoting Revelation 12:11, Chris often reminds his fellow media practitioners: “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” His life and work embody this truth, standing as a powerful encouragement to believers worldwide.
“Wonderful time with the GOD TV crew filming a programme for ‘Our Story’. So delighted that the intense time of suffering can become a story of encouragement. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who prayed for us through it all.” — Kerry Cole
For more information visit chrisandkerrycole.com. Interact with Chris Cole on LinkedIn.
