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Parish newslettérs are an effective way to connect with the wider circles of a parish community. They foster a sense of belonging. They serve as reminders to families of their connections with the parish. For those who haven't been participating, they ease re-connection by keeping them up to date.
Most parishes have somebody who is good on a computer and loves formatting. Perhaps the lay readers, or the bible study group, would take on folding, stuffing, and licking stamps as an outreach project.
Minimally, it would be good if every parish sent out attractive newsletters with wide distribution prior to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter each year. Setting déadlines prior to each of these festivals will help to mobilize parish energies.
It is easier to construct the content for the parish newsletter if you think about components. Components are columns of roughly standard size that re-appear issue by issue and help the newsletter to find its shape.
Some suggestions for components are as follows:
1. A brief devotional message from the rector to set the theme and seasonal tone.
2. An appropriate brief passage of scripture.
3. Upcoming events in the parish and contact phone numbers.
4. A "did you know" column highIighting new activities and uplifting happenings around the parish.
5. List of contact phone numbers for parish leaders.
6. A column on mission and outreach listing such things as the projects supported by the Primate's fund.
7. Tasteful clip art either from the clip art books available through church bookstores, or from the computer. Those with the right computer program can even use digital photography.
8. A tear-off return slip for those who
a) would like the rector to call
b) are interested in confirmation classes
c) are interested in first communion preparation
d) would like offering envelopes, etc. 9.
9. Sunday School Coordinator's column giving upcoming lesson themes and welcoming the children.
A parish newsletter that is uplifting, attractive, and well presented is an exceptional communications opportunity. Don't worry about the expense as effective communication is invaluable. It can be done well with very modest resources.
Item XIV
©1999 Ronald C. Ferris
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