Great churches put it in writing

I’m blessed to be a part of a great organization made up of people that work for churches (specifically Southern Baptist Churches, but don’t let that turn you off) that have progressive media and communications outlets.  Most of these churches broadcast their services either by television or web streaming. Some even have national broadcast coverage.  Being a part of the Metro Media Ministers Association has afforded me a ton of resources, not to mention a wonderful, lifelong connection with guys who do what I do and understand what it’s like.

Recently I’ve seen a shift, or at the very least an increase, in the tasking of our members towards the true area of “Communications”.  While the group was founded 25 years ago by folks doing mainly “Broadcast Ministry,” today the group discussions are broad and cover all areas communications.

This morning one of the members asked the association, via it’s Google Group, to talk about Branding Guidelines.  I love the give and take of these online discussions, as many end up chasing rabbits of all kinds.  Today though, 3 files were shared that show just how serious churches are when it comes to protecting the brand. See the .pdf files here:

Champion Forest
Belleuve
Touching Lives

As detailed as these are, church people (be it staff, volunteers and even lay leaders)  will do whatever they want when given access to brand components. Putting concepts, structure and guidelines in writing makes it MUCH easier to protect the identity and, more importantly shows just how important the brand is to an organization.  I’d love to see your style guides, handbooks and general brand policies! I know I will borrow a ton of ideas from these 3 to use in ours.