The following is a press release from UMCOM:

United Methodist Communications
Office of Public Information
umcpresscenter.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 23, 2016

Nashville, Tennessee: The United Methodist Church launched a four-part advertising series across the U.S. this week, offering an invitation for seekers to connect with local churches. The ads are present on television, billboards, digital platforms and mobile devices.

The first set of ads, running now through mid-October, highlights the church’s role in disaster response and the importance of staying involved in recovery efforts until they are complete. The next two series of ads will focus on the denomination’s work in education and hunger relief.

“This campaign is an opportunity to tell the story of the good work that is happening throughout The United Methodist Church,” said Jennifer Rodia, chief communications officer at United Methodist Communications. “We hope that people will see these ads and gain a sense of how United Methodist churches offer opportunities to connect with their community and grow in their faith.”

In December, the campaign will shift to the Advent theme of finding the true meaning of Christmas: lending a hand to a neighbor in need, encouraging joy in the lives of others, and giving the gifts of time and care.

Local churches can take part in the campaign during the Advent season by utilizing customizable outreach tools, available in English and Spanish, which carry the national advertising message.

Resources available at UMCom.org/advent include:

• Up to 10,000 direct mail postcards for which churches only pay the mailing and postage costs
• Free door hangers and invitation cards
• Indoor and outdoor welcome banners and signs
• A free downloadable resource package, which includes videos, worship and social media graphics, and a printable bulletin cover, door hanger, postcard and invitation card

The national campaign is part of the Rethink Church ministry of The United Methodist Church, a movement to encourage local church congregations to look outside of their four walls, identifying needs in the community and then rising to meet them.

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About United Methodist Communications
As the communications agency for The United Methodist Church, United Methodist Communications seeks to increase awareness and visibility of the denomination in communities and nations around the globe. The Rethink Church initiative highlights the many opportunities available within United Methodist churches to engage with the world – from literacy programs to feeding the poor. At RethinkChurch.org, visitors may interact, learn more about the church, and search for involvement opportunities.

Media Contact:
Laura Buchanan
lbuchanan@umcom.org
615.742.5413