motive Magazine (always spelled with a lowercase 'm') was the official magazine for the Methodist Student Movement and, for a time, the University Christian Movement (UCM). Much celebrated at time of publication for its avant garde editorial and artistic vision, in 1966 Time Magazine said it stood out among church publications like a "miniskirt at a church social." It was the single winner up to Life as Magazine of the Year in 1965. Ultimately, its strong stands on civil rights, Vietnam, and emerging gender issues became more than Methodist Church officials could take. They withdrew funding and it ceased publication in 1972. An entire generation of religious activists were shaped by its vision.
This project was borne from a partnership between the BU School of Theology Library, Center for Global Christianity and Mission, and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (who owns the copyright for motive Magazine).