The American Spectator

Reader Mail

p> THE CHURCH STRIKES BACK br> Re: David Holman's Madison Avenue Methodism : /p>

I take exception to David Holman's allegation that the United Methodist Church lacks a strong message or conviction.

The United Methodist Church is the second largest Protestant denomination, appealing to 8.3 million members in the United States and over 11 million globally. We are pleased that our message of inclusiveness is reaching people in a time when many Christian groups and religious organizations are viewed as being exclusive. The United Methodist Church works to be faithful to Jesus by encouraging its members and friends to demonstrate a spirit of welcome.

The goal of the UMC advertising campaign is to reach youths and adults who are not currently exposed to church but are open to attending, whether or not they choose to become members. Our ads educate these Americans about the core attributes and beliefs of the UMC. Since the UMC launched its advertising campaign in 2001, first-time attendance is up 19 percent at the 164 churches surveyed while overall worship attendance has increased by 9 percent.

The UMC chose to relaunch the campaign because of its success in opening our doors to the unchurched. Over 72 percent of UMC pastors surveyed recommended that the UMC allocate funds to continue the initiative; 67 percent believe their congregation has become more welcoming since the campaigns aired; and 66 percent said congregants are now more active in inviting unchurched to attend.

p>The United Methodist Church's advertising campaign speaks to many different people on a variety of levels based upon their current church experience, or lack thereof. Our advertising messages utilize real people in real-life situations to make the point that no matter where one might be along the path toward faith in Christ, they need not make the journey alone. br> -- The Rev. Larry Hollon br> General Secretary, United Methodist Communications /p>

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