What’s in a name? (or a logo)
Every single one of us has a story about how we found Faith (and faith); we all have a story about how this community helped us, saved us, supported us, and taught us. Do you remember how you felt when you realized that you had found a church that joyfully affirms God’s love for all of God’s creation, regardless of sexual preference, gender identity or political persuasion?
Together, we have created a safe environment for everyone. Along with those 75 people who chartered this congregation 76 years ago, and with all of their kids, and grandkids, and the visitors who’ve become members over the years, and the visitors who maybe never did become members, but made this their home, we have created an environment of safety and welcome for the kids that we once were.
We have created a space where we could have gone when our communities and our society told us we were not welcome. If it wasn’t for those who came before us with open arms, hearts, homes and wallets, we may not be where we currently are in our own faith; we may not have been available to offer the same to the generations coming after us, and those who may need that welcome right now, but don’t even know we’re here for them. And yet, here we are, with open arms, hearts, homes, and wallets.
So let’s go tell everyone where to find this safe space! We have the opportunity to show up at arguably the biggest party of the year - The Pride Festival - and shout at the top of our lungs “YOU (yes you!) ARE A BELOVED CHILD OF GOD.” It’s time to be the Christ in the world, rather than look around for someone else to do it. Or as some of us might recall, it’s time to stop looking for orange cars, and start being them.
And where does that start? I’d reckon you know where I’m going with this: the brand. Strong brands often start with a name, website, and logo on giveaway gifts that are not just for strangers (who are just friends we haven’t met yet), but also for YOU! I want to send you out of here on Sunday mornings with the message of Faith written on your hearts and souls and might, but also your cars, your shirts, your purses, your keychains, your pens and pencils and -- shoot -- maybe even your mugs. When you wear your Faith apparel, you are showing your neighbor that you are a resource for welcome; you know a place where they can turn.
If you’re anything like me, when it comes to this point in pledge week on NPR, you’re saying “I know we need resources for this, but I’ve got so many to share that I don’t even know where to start!” Great news: I know just the place. We need more money! This, I’m sure, comes as no surprise to you. After all, together we approved a budget with a $30k deficit.
If you need ideas for how to use your financial resources at Faith, here are a few:
Logo Completion: $250 (includes full package of sizes, colors and file types)
Logo design work: $250
SWAG (pencils, bookmarks, sunglasses, drawstring bags): $1000
Booth supplies (tables & chairs, water, additional wristbands for entry): $200
Choose your favorite thing to sponsor, and write that as the special designation on your offering this Sunday. These price tags can be shared amongst us, so feel free to contribute any amount that feels appropriate to you.
You guys! Let’s shout from the rooftops: “YOU ARE A BELOVED CHILD OF GOD. YOU ARE WELCOME HERE.”