A WEEKLY eNEWSLETTER AND OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN DELAWARE | |
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A message from
Bishop Kevin S. Brown
Diocesan Communications
"ECD won a crystal!"
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The last few years at the conclusion of the annual Episcopal Communicators Banquet and Polly Bond awards, I have received a text from our Director of Communications, Cynde Bimbi, to let me know that the Episcopal Church in Delaware (ECD) has been recognized with several awards. This year was no different, except the enthusiasm was through the roof! ECD won a “crystal”: the coveted General Excellence award for the Best Digital Magazine for a diocese or organization — our amazing Delaware Communion Magazine. Additionally, one of our Instagram video posts received recognition, further highlighting the breadth of our communication achievements. You can view the magazine and Instagram video below. | |
The judges commended our magazine's transition to a web-based format, praising its diverse content and genuine sense of community. They noted,
“This magazine was a standout in its shift to a web-based format, visually engaging appeal, and a delightful mix of standout features, while showcasing a commitment to diverse and captivating content. The new format, along with optimization for mobile devices, is truly commendable. The inclusion of a printer icon atop each article demonstrates thoughtful design, enhancing user convenience. The addition of an Español button is a wonderful touch, enhancing inclusivity. This publication highlights adaptation to communication needs today. Well, done.”
I am also proud to mention that this web-based format was designed and built in-house by our director of communications, reflecting both innovation and cost-effectiveness (we did not have to purchase expensive software), while making it unique. Lola Michael Russell assisted with content editing, Marie Smith is the copy editor for the magazine, with the entire communications team collaborating on content and topics.
These recent awards build upon our previous successes in various communication disciplines, including magazine production, videography, campaign execution, eNewsletters, graphic design, visual arts, writing, and photography. These accomplishments not only reflect dedication and expertise, but they affirm that our voice is resonating and that we are effectively sharing our evangelism efforts in a professional and innovative manner.
In conversations with Cynde, she emphasizes, "I do not do this alone," and explains that these accomplishments are not achieved in isolation but are the result of many efforts supported by the bishop, the Mission Support Staff, the diocesan communications team, and colleagues across The Episcopal Church.
It's good to see our work recognized on a broader stage, especially when competing against entries from organizations such as the Episcopal News Service, The Living Church, and seminaries, among others, as well as dioceses. It is also worth noting that we handle all our communications in-house and do not outsource.
As members of our diocese, I encourage you to take pride in these awards and recognitions, as they are a testament to the collective efforts of our one church in Delaware.
Blessings,
+Bishop Brown
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Delaware Communion Magazine
Summer, Fall, Winter 2023
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Instagram
Video Post:
Love, Welcome, Everyone
[sound on]
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Parish Communications Conference
May 16, 9:00 a.m. | Christ Church, Dover
Discover the pivotal role communications play in
strengthening our churches' presence in the community.
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A Hands-on Conference
Join us for a day of collaboration, insight, and hands-on work. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in three distinct workshops tailored to enhance and simplify their work and communication strategies. Don’t miss this chance to equip your parish with and resources.
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Introduction to InDesign:
Are you ready to dive into the world of print design?
Join Cynde Bimbi for an introductory workshop on InDesign, a versatile and robust tool for creating captivating print documents. In this session, we’ll explore the potential of InDesign for crafting a variety of print materials, including worship bulletins, flyers, brochures, and more. Discover the ease of installing InDesign on your computer and learn how to navigate its interface.This will be a hands-on workshop. Together, we’ll explore the fundamentals of InDesign and uncover tips for using it effectively in print media projects. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and learn some exciting design ventures! Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your print design skills and be creative. See you there!
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Mastering Canva:
Are you looking to enhance the visual appeal of your church communications?
Join Samantha Parfitt-Simpson for an engaging workshop on Canva, a user-friendly platform for creating eye-catching graphics. Discover the simplicity and power of Canva as you explore its features for design. The best part? Canva is entirely free for churches, making it an invaluable resource for your outreach efforts, and we’ll guide you through the process of installing Canva on your computer. Learn how to leverage Canva’s intuitive interface and vast library of templates and images to create professional-quality graphics with ease. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your communications to the next level, and unlock the possibilities of visual storytelling for your parish!
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Unlocking Photoshop:
Ready to take control of your church’s visual assets?
Join Herb Quick for an introductory workshop on Photoshop, the ultimate tool for managing photos for your website and other media platforms. In this session, we’ll explore the essential techniques for photo management, focusing on cropping, sizing, and optimizing images for websites and various digital channels. Whether you’re updating your church’s website or creating content for social media, mastering these skills will enhance the impact of your visual storytelling. Additionally, we’ll guide you through the process of installing Photoshop on your computer. Don’t miss this opportunity to streamline your photo workflow and elevate the visual appeal of your church’s digital presence.
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Family Church Sunday
St. Thomas's Church
"Sparking friendships and mentorships
between adults and children!"
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At St Thomas's, the last Sunday of each month is "Family Church Sunday". Instead of going to Sunday school, the children and youth join the congregation for worship, and are encouraged to participate. They read lessons, make flower arrangements, help in the kitchen for fellowship hour, sing in the family church choir, or whatever other tasks they want to try. It helps them to feel more a part of the larger faith family, and has sparked friendships and mentorships between generations.
In April, two young ladies stepped up to volunteer as ushers for the first time. Their warm welcome extended to everyone, including Bishop Brown, and they graciously assisted with collecting offerings during the service.
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Ringing of the Bells, May 18, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Immanuel Church, New Castle
Visiting ringers from Philadelphia and Washington
to ring 'changes' or permutations on the
set of six tower bells.
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The bells of Immanuel Church, New Castle will ring for A Day in Old New Castle. Local ringers will join forces with visiting ringers from Philadelphia and Washington to ring “changes” or permutations on the set of 6 tower bells. The first ringing session will be from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 18th
These bells are distinctive -- they are one of only 60 sets of change ringing bells throughout North America and the only set in Delaware.
The original ring of six change-ringing bells was cast in 1972 and 1973, but they were badly damaged during the fire in 1980. After the fire, the metal was shipped back to England to be recast; they were rehung in 1982. Like many change-ringing bells, those at Immanuel have names:
- Peace, weighing 175 pounds
- Mercy, weighing 210 pounds
- Justice, weighing 245 pounds
- Faith, weighing 280 pounds
- Hope, weighing 335 pounds
- Love, weighing 420 pounds
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Changing ringing bells are hung in frames that allow them to swing through 360 degrees. The time it takes for the bells to rotate through a full circle prevents traditional tunes and requires a different kind of music. All the bells ring in sequence. By the time the last bell has rung, the first one is ready to go again. To make things interesting (and challenging), the bells change position in the sequence slightly every time they ring. Those changes require tremendous teamwork among the ringers.
If you're intrigued by the idea of change ringing, please feel free to contact the office at Immanuel, New Castle. There is always room for more ringers at Immanuel. To read more about change ringing at Immanuel, click here.
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Canon Judi Gregory retirement party
Friday, May 17, 1 – 4:00 p.m.
Christ Church, Dover
Join us in celebrating Judi's retirement after nearly 30 years of dedicated service to the Episcopal Church in Delaware. Let's honor her commitment, hard work, and infectious smile at this celebration. Come share memories and well-wishes as we bid farewell to a cherished colleague and friend.
'Come and Go' reception with light snacks — feel free to drop by anytime between 1 and 4:00 p.m.
Please RSVP to kmoore@delaware.church
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