We don’t mean to give the impression through our writings and seminars that we’re anti-text. We tend to emphasis the power of image and metaphor because of the need to pull the Church out of the dwindling, modern, textual world. But absolutely there’s a place for text on the screen, whether songs, sermon information, announcements, etc.

When it comes to advertising, the “angle” or the “hook” – the creative way you present the information – is the important thing. Not that you don’t have text, or information, to present, but how you do it. The more you teach yourself to think this way the easier it gets. For better understanding on your screen announcements, you should read “Experiential Marketing.” The book’s typology is helpful in maying out different means to convey a message.

For those of us who are trying to move in new directions in the church, could there be at least some tentative ways for words to be presented at least minimally? As an example, and in an attempt to bring along some of our long-time church members, is it okay to share just a few announcements before the service begins? I struggle with this because I agree that it is far better to share a message using graphics, but there is just not enough time to be creative with each and every announcement that needs to be shared within our congregation at the present time. I am learning, albeit slowly, that graphics and video are far more successful, but sometimes I wonder if a few words on the screen to share a simple message might be appropriate, too. Perhaps I will spend some time critically watching ads on TV to see how many words are used there, but then again, if “the advertising industry is in a panic,” maybe this won’t be helpful at all!? What do you think?