FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cathedrals of Connection by Matthew G. Mattson Recognized by Illumination Book Awards
A timely message of sacred human connection honored among the year’s most impactful Christian books
Littleton, CO — April, 25, 2026 — Cathedrals of Connection: Your Invitation to Everyday Sacredness by Matthew G. Mattson has been named a 2026 medalist in the Illumination Christian Book Awards, a global initiative dedicated to recognizing books that inspire, uplift, and deepen readers’ faith.
Each year, the Illumination Book Awards receive hundreds of submissions from authors and publishers around the world. The awards highlight a wide range of voices contributing to the evolving conversation of faith—spanning theology, spiritual reflection, storytelling, and practical guidance for modern life.
Since 2013, the Illumination Awards have honored exemplary Christian literature across more than 25 categories, selecting a small group of medalists in each. Entries are evaluated by a panel of educators, clergy, and publishing professionals, who assess each work for its content, creativity, and ability to meaningfully impact readers’ spiritual lives.
Mattson’s Cathedrals of Connection stands out as a fresh and deeply human exploration of faith—not as something confined to institutions or doctrines, but as something alive in everyday relationships.
“This book is an invitation,” said Mattson. “An invitation to rediscover the sacred not in special places reserved only for a select few, but in the space between each of us—in our conversations, our curiosity, and our shared humanity.”
At a time when many feel disconnected from traditional religious structures yet still long for meaning, Cathedrals of Connection offers a compelling vision: that the simplest and most accessible expression of faith is found in authentic human connection. Through reflection, storytelling, and spiritual insight, the book invites readers to see their daily interactions as sacred ground.
The recognition from the Illumination Book Awards affirms the growing hunger for this kind of faith—one that is inclusive, relational, and rooted in presence rather than certainty.
Mattson is the founder of BETWEEN, a global, highly inclusive faith community centered on sacred human connection. His work continues to reach readers, listeners, and participants around the world through writing, speaking, and community-building efforts that emphasize curiosity, compassion, and meaningful conversation.
About
Cathedrals of Connection
Cathedrals of Connection: Your Invitation to Everyday Sacredness invites readers to explore faith through the lens of human connection. Blending spiritual reflection with real-life experience, the book offers a vision of God encountered not in isolation, but in relationship—with others, with ourselves, and with the present moment. Learn more here.
About the Illumination Book Awards
The Illumination Christian Book Awards recognize and honor the best in faith-based publishing. With entries from around the globe, the awards celebrate books that guide, inspire, and deepen readers’ spiritual journeys. Since 2013, the program has highlighted impactful works across a wide range of genres, from devotionals to theology to contemporary spiritual writing.
Learn more: https://illuminationawards.com/blog/2026-medalists
Congratulations on the award! It is well deserved.
Congrats, friend!!! Sit with that good goodness!