UM ads take stand on Gulf Coast recovery

United Methodist News Service
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—In Oct. 21 ads published in seven daily newspapers, The United Methodist Church urged that local people be at the planning table for rebuilding the Gulf Coast.
The quarter-page “advertorials,” prepared by the General Commission on Communication, urged commitment to a fair and inclusive process in the recovery from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita that would create better places for people to live.
The paid commentaries appeared in The Washington Post, New Orleans Times-Picayune, Baton Rouge Advocate, Mobile (Ala.) Register, Biloxi-Gulfport (Miss.) Sun-Herald, Jackson (Miss.) Clarion-Ledger and Hattiesburg (Miss.) American.
“These commentaries are an important part of the church’s mission,” said the Rev. Larry Hollon, chief executive of the communications agency. “As Christians, we stand at the intersection of the concerns of the world and the concerns of the church for the world.
“The rebuilding efforts pose tremendous challenges but also remarkable opportunities. It’s important to stand with those who are poor and vulnerable and too often forgotten by society.”
The communications agency developed the ads in consultation with bishops of areas affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the officers of the Council of Bishops, United Methodist agency heads, and the United Methodist Committee on Relief.
“Involving people from all walks of life in the reconstruction of areas devastated by the hurricanes will provide the insight and creativity to create communities that are stronger and more vital than ever before,” said Jim Winkler, general secretary of the General Board of Church and Society. “Functional cities and neighborhoods will emerge if residents are given a voice in planning and rebuilding.”
The issue ads, which cost about $30,000 to run, are intended to create discussion, Hollon said. They add a specific perspective to the conversation and reflect the United Methodist concern for displaced persons, who are often poor and marginalized.
The church has a responsibility to make its position public, Hollon said. The church has a stake in the rebuilding proeces. United Methodists from around the globe are donating millions of dollars toward disaster relief and rebuilding. The church should have a relevant voice in that process.
Funding for the ad buys comes from the national Igniting Ministry hospitality and image campaign budget, Hollon said.