Mayb2day

A bold new backlash against discrimination means radio adverts for church services could become part of daily life.

In a swift response to Ann Widdecombe’s call last week for Christians to “fight back” against prejudice – uncovered in a BBC survey – national charity the Churches’ Advertising Network has launched a counter-attack.

It takes the form of a slickly-produced, 10-minute audio CD called ‘Fighting Back’ which shamelessly encourages Britain’s congregations to buy airtime on local commercial radio stations, and even produces the adverts to help them do it.

“If Christians face discrimination in the media, that may be because they have failed to make use of it,” says CAN chairman Francis Goodwin.  “Too many churches have stayed quiet about their message for too long.  Others have tried and failed because they don’t have the skills to put good advertisements together.  Our website offers professionally produced, enjoyable, thought-provoking ads which churches can download and use on their local stations – not to force the message upon people, but simply to let it be better known.”

The CD – free to any church wanting to know more – plays examples of generic Christmas ads used in previous years and explains how much they could cost and how churches can set about buying airtime.

Past poster campaigns from CAN have become huge talking-points over Easter and Christmas, including the “Che Guavara” image of Jesus with the slogan “Meek. Mild. As If” and the latest eye-catching campaign with the face of Jesus in beer glass and a page on the internet blogging site Myspace. 

“Of course some churches may not like the idea of advertising,” says CAN chairman Francis Goodwin, “but last week’s survey proves that discrimination against Christians is a fact.  You could say it’s ‘religionist’!  Radio advertising is one of the best ways to get a message across – and we simply want to make use of it to right this wrong.”

FURTHER INFO:

 ·         For more information contact Rachel Farmer phone: 01636 817218 or 07712196381 or Francis Goodwin phone: 07733001781

 ·         CAN, the Churches Advertising Network, is an independent ecumenical group of Christian communicators providing high quality Christian advertising campaigns linked to major festivals. Chairman, Francis Goodwin

 ·         Last year’s Christmas radio campaign which included a webpage for Jesus on the personal blogging site myspace attracted more than 60,000 visitors in the first three months. The news that Jesus has his own myspace was greeted with great interest across the globe and myspace pages continue to be active with Jesus acquiring an average of 12 new friends per day.

 ·         Some 62,313 unique views were recorded on isthisjesus between September and January, with 2,235 friends of isthisjesus signed up.

Please spread the word about an important petition – see below (message from Rebecca Foulton of Public Voice re. the Digital Dividend Review):

Dear all,

Public Voice has petitioned the Prime Minister to ensure that spectrum freed for use following digital switchover is available for citizen and community uses, by rejecting the notion that all of it is sold off to the highest bidder.  This is a once in a generation opportunity for supporters of citizen, community and social action broadcasting and communications to have their say on the future of this valuable UK resource.  So please sign our petition at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/CitizensSpectrum, and cascade the link to any and all interested parties.  The deadline for signing is March 19th 2007.

Many thanks,
Rebecca.

Rebecca Fulton
Project Manager, Digital Dividend Review, Public Voice
C/o CSV, 237 Pentonville Road , LONDON , N1 9NJ
M: 07866 801906 F: 020 7833 0149  E: rfulton@csv.org.uk

How does the digital dividend review affect you?

Find out more at http://www.public-voice.org.uk/

Tony Miles (Media Chaplain)

CHURCHES SHOULDN’T PANIC ABOUT RADIO MICROPHONES, BUT BE CONCERNED ABOUT THE HANDOVER OF A SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC ASSET TO THE MARKETPLACE.

The digital switchover is going to change the way that TV is broadcast and, eventually, radio too. The aim is to enable all around the UK to benefit from digital technology. Rev. Tony Miles, Media Chaplain based at Methodist Central Hall, Westminster, and presenter for Premier Christian Radio said, “Technological advances are rapidly changing the world and even those in the radio industry can’t predict where we will be in ten years time. The digital switchover is going to be as momentous as the change from black and white to colour TV, or even as radical as a change of currency.” Ofcom estimates that in the UK the uses of spectrum like mobile communications and broadcasting account for about 3% of the economy – more than the electricity and water industries combined. Mr Miles said, “There are serious issues relating to switchover that need to be addressed to ensure that best interests of society are protected.”

The Digital Dividend Review (DDR) is Ofcom’s public consultation about the use of radio spectrum that will be freed up by the Digital Switchover. There have been concerns recently that this will disadvantage churches and community groups when the switchover takes place from analogue frequencies to digital.

Ofcom tell us that the UK’s analogue television signals will be switched off, region by region, between 2008 and 2012. There is no date set for a switchover to digital radio. In principle, this means that all 368MHz might be available for new uses, but it was previously decided that 256MHz and 368Mhz should be used for Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) from digital switchover. This digital broadcasting will be provided for by six multiplexes, each of which will carry a number of television channels and some other services. This decision will allow digital terrestrial television to expand its coverage. At the same time, digital switchover will allow the remaining spectrum – 112Mhz – to be released for new uses. It is this 112Mhz that forms the core of the ‘digital dividend’. There are actually three types of spectrum in total that will released and covered by the DDR: 112Mhz (I’ve just mentioned); two other blocks of spectrum known as channel 36 (principally airport radar) and 69 (principally wireless microphones); and ‘interleaved spectrum’ which is the capacity within spectrum to carry the six DDT multiplexes.

Public Voice has been commissioned to assist with the civil society element of this review. They say, “What’s at stake for civil society is a possible land grab for valuable broadcasting territory, pitting the corporate might of the telecoms and TV industries against the smaller, sometimes disparate voices calling for the pursuit of new forms of public service communications to extend access to quality, tailored content for communities.” As such, Public Voice is urging “… representatives from the voluntary and community sector to add their voices to the consultation responses that are already flooding in from corporate and civil society stakeholders alike.”

Mr Miles, a member of the Churches Media Council, said, “There has been some scare-mongering over the way that digital switchover will affect the use of radio microphones in churches. This is not the case and there is no need to panic. Ofcom have assured me that there will be sufficient affordable space on the Channel 69 radio frequency spectrum for churches and other similar organisations to use and we won’t need to buy new equipment. However, the same won’t be the case for professional users. See page 77 of Ofcom’s DDR main document.”

“In future channel 69 should continue to be available for use by wireless microphones and similar equipment. However, we believe that it should be appropriate to remove the requirement for licensing, as community users typically do not require their use of the band to be co-ordinated with other users. Indications that there is a significant level of unlicensed use in this channel also imply that coordination is typically not required. We therefore believe that it is appropriate to consider licence-exemption of channel 69, for use by PMSE services.

Licence-exemption would mean that users of the channel would no longer need to acquire, or pay for, licences. Ofcom would put in place guidelines which would state the technical parameters of equipment that could operate in the channel. Removing the need for licensing is aligned with Ofcom’s objective of light-touch regulation, and should result in fewer administrative time and cost requirements of users of the channel.”

Mr Miles said, “As I understand it, there are more serious issues to address. Whilst Ofcom won’t allow churches, schools and other similar organisations to be disadvantaged, we mustn’t bury our heads in the ground about ‘things digital’. I am very concerned about Ofcom’s market-led approach and the extent of the deregulation. We need to speak up to ensure there are social benefits and not just commercial advantages. Someone rightly said, ‘We wouldn’t sell off public land without ensuring there was adequate provision for public recreation and that the environment was being protected.’ Who will be looking after the interests of society and how is healthy citizenship going to be provided for in Ofcom’s proposals? I encourage Christians to take an active interest in issues relating to the DDR and let Ofcom know of any views or concerns about their commercial approach to digital switchover – views must be expressed by the end of March this year.”

Mr Miles said, “Unusually Ofcom has commissioned an outside body called ‘Public Voice’ to conduct the consultation for them.” Their website is http://www.public-voice.org.uk/ and their project manager, Rebecca Fulton, said: “Ofcom recognise this as one of the most important decisions they have ever had to take, and it’s vital that voluntary and civil society groups’ opinions are properly represented.” Churches and other voluntary and community groups should take an interest in the potential uses of spectrum and visit the Public Voice’s information online.

Mr Miles said, “Whilst I welcome digital advances and the tremendous opportunities they open up to us, Christians need to be sure that these developments will benefit everyone and not be allowed to cause a digital divide in society – between those who can afford to embrace the technology, and those who are not so privileged. Moreover, spectrum is a public asset and we need to ensure that there is some regulation to protect society and ensure that there is a balance of values. I am not convinced the marketplace will protect society and the interests of community groups.”

If you would like to respond to Ofcom about issues relating to the Dividend Review, please email paula.guest@ofcom.org.uk attaching your response in Microsoft Word format, or you can write to Paul Guest at Riverside House, 2A Southwark Bridge Road, London. SE1 9HA.

All responses should be accompanied with a consultation coversheet – available online: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/ddr/

Tony Miles – Media Chaplain
6th February 2007

I was only told about Rob Bell recently – somehow news of his work passed me by.  He is the presenter of the Nooma short films and the founding pastor founding pastor of the mega Mars Hill Bible Church, located in Grandville, Michigan.  Rob is also a featured speaker in the series of short spiritual films called ‘NOOMA’. 

Zondervan Publishing published Bell’s first book in August 2005 and it was called, Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith.  This book is for people who are, ’fascinated with Jesus, but can’t do the standard Christian package.’  

Premier TV have a featured interview with Rob Bell which can be watched using this link:

Today is, apparently, ‘national cross wearing day’ – Christians are being encouraged to wear a cross. 

Fiona Bruce caused a stir recently by … wait for it … wearing a cross when presenting the Ten O’Clock News.  For heaven’s sake, this PC business has gone too far.  The BBC hasn’t banned the wearing of crosses (or veils, crosses, hijabs, scarves, skull caps, turbans or burkhas, for that matter) but, according to editor Peter Horrocks, there has been discussion what is appropriate for newsreaders to wear, ‘especially at a time of heightened religious tension’.  Apparently, Fiona has worn a cross for some years, but only now has it become an issue and considered a ‘potential mistake’ to give the impression of her having a religious affiliation.

Peter has said ‘The BBC is a supporter of freedom of expression.  Equally we want our newsreaders to be seen as entirely impartial.  Any religious clothing or insignia they wear could make some viewers question their impartiality.’
 
So, does this mean that it is okay for people to have a religious conviction as long as they cover it up?  Isn’t it better for people to be open about the matter – transparent and open to judgement about any bias?  Personally, I wouldn’t have a problem with a person of another religion reading the news.  I would respect them, despite any differences of opinion.  Surely, openness is better than deceit!  Perhaps ‘deceit’ is a bit strong, so let’s say ‘hidden truth’.  Alternatively, I can see the PC brigade arguing that no-one of religious conviction can read the news which is utter prejudice.
    
I think it is about time Christians started being more confident and secure in our faith.  Without being deliberately awkward, provocative, or insensitive, we should wear our crosses and live out our faith without shame, or fear.  We should be prepared to ‘give a reason for the faith that is in us’, but carry out our work professionally and with integrity.  

The latest Churches Advertising Network campaign has caused a storm in a beer glass.  Okay, I confess, I am a member of the independent and ecumenical group known as CAN.  We have launched a series of radio adverts and poster for Christmas that asks, ‘Where do you find God, or Jesus, today?’  The intention is to start a debate about people’s spiritual encounters and to encourage thinking about Jesus’ presence in this broken, fragile, and seemingly hopeless world.  There is much that’s good in Christmas celebrations but there is also a lot of emptiness.  For some the ‘season to be jolly’ is very sad underneath the surface.

I have been more involved with the radio ads, but the image that has caused controversy is an ironic poster.  It depicts an empty beer glass on which is an image of Jesus (or is it Santa?).  It picks up on the current and obscure preoccupation for finding images of Jesus in everything from egg yolks to currant buns.  The adverts seek to get the attention of young people and stimulate thought with the words, ‘Where will you find him?’  It then directs people to a web site www.myspace.com/isthisjesus – a global internet club that claims 108 million members!  We hope that people will share their thoughts on this website this Christmas.  I believe the Church has to engage with the world as it is, and that means reaching out to people with familiar symbols.  Sadly, many find more interest in dubious faces of Jesus in bizarre objects than they do the Bible, and more people will immediately recognise an empty beer glass than a chalice.  The Church needs to be with people wherever they are found and encourage them to think about the substance and good news of the Christian faith.  The Salvation Army has been doing this for years, and as teetotalers!

The campaign is seeking to initiate an open debate about where Jesus is really found.  What’s more, it is not trying to advocate, or encourage drinking.   Rather, the adverts raise the question: Where is Jesus in a society where the culture of binge drinking is so dominant?  We’re certainly not telling people that Jesus is to be found in drink, or that drinking is totally wrong.  However, at Christmas many will find they are in a bar, club, or at a Christmas party, and it is so easy to be swept along and over-indulge when it comes to alcohol.  There is a culture among young people that says the best way to have a good time is to go out and get legless.  For many it’s a coping mechanism and a relief from pain or stress.  But what happens when the party is over?  The searching for something deeper begins.

I’m a Methodist and my tradition of faith calls for people either to abstain from alcohol, or to drink moderately and sensibly.  I’m not teetotal, but I was very impressed by the ‘Thirst for Life’ campaign that was promoting discussion and thought on how we use alcohol as individuals and within the communities with which we involved.   ‘Thirst for Life’ was triggered by issues such as the detrimental effects arising from binge drinking and the growth of alcohol related diseases.  It challenged 1000’s of people of all ages and backgrounds to stop drinking for 40 days.  This I did and found it most helpful and encourage those who are not teetotal to model responsible drinking, or to give up alcohol as a witness.  Binge drinking is a serious problem for society and many individuals.  Yet, when the froth of short-term pleasure disappears and life is empty, it’s my experience that people often ask questions about life’s meaning and purpose.

So, where’s the hope?  In short: Christians believe it is in finding the real Jesus.  After many have downed too many pints at Christmas, or swigged dangerous quantities of alcho-pops until sick, I believe Jesus is there to help: picking people up, bringing healing and transforming lives – if only they would let him.  It’s possibly in the misery of hangovers and regrets that Jesus can meet the searching soul.  That’s what the CAN campaign is all about, encouraging people to think about Jesus at Christmas time, and to look to him for real meaning in life.

And finally:  If Jesus were walking the earth today as he did about 2,000 years ago, where would he be on his birthday?  Surely, he’d still be seeking followers in controversial places.  I believe he IS alive today, and by his Spirit he meets people in the most unexpected places … though probably not through a face in a beer glass!

Rev. Tony Miles
(Ecumenical Media Chaplain and Methodist Minister)

A supplementary quote from someone on the www.myspace.com/isthisjesus blog:
wow! i am sooo very happy to see something like this, even if it is in London and not here in the states! i’m not exactly a christian myself, but i have grown up in very christian surroundings. i’ve always been turned off by how some christians can seem so closed minded about so many things, especially when it comes to their religion. i know it’s something very precious, but if the goal is to get the message out there, connect with people, and bring them to God, then you have to be willing to do what it takes. it’s absolutely fantastic to see something so modern and so open, and i think that it will succeed. it’s a more comfortable, friendly approach. people are going to start talking about Jesus, and most likely their curiosity will lead them closer and closer to God. for that matter, even if they don’t become christians, they’ll at least have the knowledge and an experience that will help them to grow in a positive way =)

What would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our mobile phones?
 
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets …
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it …
What if we flipped through it several times a day …
What if we used it to receive messages from the text …
What if we treated it like we couldn’t live without it …
What if we gave it to kids as gifts …
What if we used it as we travelled …
What if we used it in case of an emergency …
What if we upgraded it to get the latest version …

Source unknown (received by email)

If we are to keep people listening longer in the competitive world of commercial radio, we need to ask, ‘What is my/our “unique selling point”?’  In other words, why should people listen?

I’m sure Christians involved in broadcasting realise they need to apply this principle at work.  However, have you ever considered harnessing it in your daily devotions to help sharpen up your Christian witness? 

P.S.
Remember:  In this respect your actions will speak louder than words. 

Quote from Lyndon Bowring (Executive Chair) of the Christian Chairty ‘Care’ whilst in conversation with me on Premier Radio today:

‘Nothing is secular in the sight of God – except sin!’

After talking to Lyndon I reflected on the number of times Christians use the word ‘secular’.  When talking to people about my media chaplaincy people often use the term ‘secular commercial radio’ in comparrison to the Christian Comercial broadcasters.  In the light of Lyndon’s comments, perhaps it would be better to say ‘mainstream’ commercial radio.  I believe God is interested in the radio industry and, by his grace and Holy Spirit, is present within!  Those who seek will find Him.  Moreover, we are never alone.