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Simplicity
– Simplicity in publishing strives to strike a balance between
providing adequate information while streamlining the publication
itself.
Clarity
– An order of worship should provide instructions that are easy for
guests to understand. Information in newsletters should follow some
kind of pattern or standard order.
Aesthetic
Appeal – Church publications should be visually pleasing and well-balanced.
Avoid fonts and layout that appear busy and don’t be afraid of
“white space.” The eye needs a place to rest on occasion.
Communication
of Identity – Some would
suggest this is not as important today as it was in the past.
However, readers should get a sense of the church’s mission and core
values from your publications. You may also wish to identify your
church as a Congregational church affiliated with the National
Association of Congregational Christian Churches.
Contact Information – The name of the church, its location, and contact information
(telephone number, email address, website) should be included in all
bulletins and newsletters.
Creativity
– An effective bulletin or newsletter should be distinctive in some
way in order to attract interest while leaving a good impression
with the reader. Also, a church that considers itself more
traditional should produce traditional-looking publications while a
church with a more contemporary identity should produce
contemporary-looking materials.
Seasonal
Appropriateness – Include
elements that reflect the liturgical calendar.
Relational/Personal
Connections – Include
items that are relational in nature. This might include a section
for joys and concerns or thank-you notes.
Calendar
– Worship bulletins and church newsletters should contain a list of
upcoming activities.
Information
– Church publications should be informative. Worship bulletins
should include sermon titles, page numbers, participants’ names,
etc. Offering user-friendly bulletins to guests in our churches is
essential. Remember, your worship bulletin is critical when it
comes to making a good “first impression.” Newsletters are
effective in communicating and promoting your church’s vision and
should contain information that supports its ongoing ministry.
Entries
must be received by
April
15, 2008
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