To UCC Pastors in New Jersey:

            You've received Stephanie Weiner’s invitation to participate in the March 20 event “Tell 'Em Who You Are.”   Here’s some additional information for you:

1. What will happen?

            Without spoiling the several surprises for you and others who attend, I can say there will be…

… What John Thomas calls an “extravagant welcome”

… Great music

… Ron Buford’s presentations—but no other long speeches

… Time for reunion and communion at the Family Table

… A fat packet full of helpful communications ideas

… Sharing by good communicators from across our Association

… Historic contributions of the UCC and our unique character

… How our Association is reaching out—and can reach further

… Lots of reasons to “Tell 'Em Who You Are”

… An occasion for self-assessment by every congregation…and good reasons for your church to bring a car full

     

2.  Who should come?

            This event will focus on communication opportunities in the local church.  Therefore, every pastor is encouraged to bring:

… Newsletter editors (or church secretaries who “do” the newsletters)

… Decision makers who can make communication more effective

… Public relations and marketing people—by whatever name—who get the news in the local papers and on television

… Folk who work on bulletin boards and signs

… Those who work on websites and email contacts

… Evangelism team members

… Those who advocate for the UCC in the local church: including those who represent the congregation at Association and Conference events.

… People who plan and design advertising

3.  What should we bring?

The meeting will be very participatory—your meeting.  There will be time for conversations around the Family Table with leaders from other churches.  Each person should bring an example of how your church is “Telling 'Em Who You Are.”       For example,

… a photo of your church sign

… a copy of your Newsletter

… a news item that appeared in your local paper

… an advertisement in that has appeared

… pictures of your bulletin board(s)

… outline of your website

… direct mail to your neighbors

… well—you get the idea…

4.  What will it cost?

            We’re promoting groups coming together from congregations, discussing the “self assessment questions” in the car on the way to Montclair.  The cost will be $6 each for individuals, $5 each when 5 or more register together.  Each church will receive a helpful communications guide book.

            Early registration [March 10] is important so we can get nametags, packets, etc. all prepared.  Let Beth Pugh know at the Association office: 973-783.5675 or .

            Please be in touch with any one of us if you have any questions.                          

Your Communication Assessment and Strategy Committee:

Martin Bailey, Union Church, Montclair: 973.324.9684 or

Joan Brannick, Hasbrook Heights Community Church,

George Drumbor, Toms River UCC,

Marge Royle, Verona UCC (consultant),

Dalton Smith, Haworth UCC,

Doug Stivison, Union Church, Montclair, 

Paul Tukey, Christ Church, Summit,

Join us March 20, gathering at 8:30 with coffee, at First Church Montclair, 40 South Fullerton (just South of Bloomfield Ave), Montclair, NJ.