Public Relations Manual For Churches

This book examines the complex relationship between religion and business in twentieth-century America. It is the story of how Christianity’s most basic institution, the local church, wrestled with the challenges and compromises of competing in the modern marketplace through adopting the advertising, public relations, and marketing methods of business. It follows these sacred promoters, and their critics, as they navigated between divinely inspired and consumer demanded. Amid an animated and contentious battleground for principles, practices and parishioners, John C. Hardin explores the landscape of selling religion in America and its evolution over the twentieth century.

Are you a promotions Ninja, a Butterfly or a Philistine? Do you execute PR plans efficiently, do you flitter between ideas, or do you beat things into submission? Public relations can either make or break an organization, but for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and churches public relations may seem like a luxury they can't afford.Author David A. Shadinger begs to differ, as he shares in his new book, Promotions in a PR Wilderness: A Guide for Small Businesses, Entrepreneurs, and Church Leaders, ways that public relations can be achieved, especially when you are not a Fortune 500 company.With an extensive background in public relations and small business management, as well as experience as a part-time pastor, David presents readers with a guide that explains the ins and outs of public relations. From how to handle relationships with the news media, to writing a press release, setting up events and conducting useful evaluations, David shows business and church leaders that while public relations requires attention to detail, it is possible for anyone to accomplish.David also includes several teachable moments he experienced in his own career, with what worked, what didn't, and how he was able to use the learning experience to improve his handling of promotional details for the next time.The COVID-19 recovery and recession will impact small businesses, entrepreneurs, and church congregations, which makes this a must-have guide. You can use it to promote your organization and invite the public to join, whether it is through direct customer contact on social media, word-of-mouth, yard signs, or building new relationships in the community.Public relations may feel like a business area you could skip, yet you will quickly find it's critical to the survival of your business or church in this rapidly changing world. David Shadinger spent nearly 20 years working full-time in public relations, marketing, advertising, and fundraising positions. His business career included working in entrepreneurial startups, retail, service companies, not-for-profits and charities, corporate marketing departments, and advertising agencies. During that same time he also taught part-time college classes in undergraduate public relations and business communication, along with graduate marketing courses. Dave currently teaches public relations and speech communication at Northwest Missouri State University.

A comprehensive guide to the nature and work of the church, including pastor, staff members, and planning the total church program.