Your brand is the impression people have of you. It’s much more than a logo.  It’s the first thought that comes to mind when someone sees or hears your name.  What does your community think of when they hear the name of your parish?

What you communicate about your parish helps shape your brand and it’s helpful to remember that your parish is always communicating. Examples include, conversations between staff and parishioners or priests and parishioners, homilies,  pew cards, how greeters interact with visitors, posters,  events, signage and your logo are all types of communication that convey information that make an impression on people. All of this and many other verbal, non-verbal, written, and visual communication determine your brand.

As a Catholic entity, we are called to always reflect the love, peace and hope of Jesus Christ. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). By following the teachings of Jesus Christ, and communicating consistently and authentically, we develop our brand.

It’s important to create consistent imagery for your parish to help people understand what you are about and to increase recognition in the community. Click here to read eCatholic’s three tips to help parishes with branding. Here are examples of promotional materials branded for Courageously Living the Gospel:  Standing Banner, Prayer Card, E-Newsletter, Website, Booklet, Poster, Bulletin Cover, Facebook Banner.

To be true to the brand of Courageously Living the Gospel, whenever possible, integrate the priorities of Courageously Living the Gospel into your messaging. These priorities spell the word P.I.E. – Proclaim, Invite & Encounter.

Proclaim the Good News – This means knowing and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Quote Scripture, pray with Scripture and make it a prominent part of everything you do.

Invite People to a Life in Christ – Be intentional about welcoming and accompanying people as Jesus did. Look for ways to invite new people into your ministry and help them to feel welcome.

Encounter People and Jesus Christ Through Prayer, Community and Communion – This is how we grow in relationship to Jesus Christ and one another. Celebrate community, prioritize the Eucharist and the Sacraments and foster encounters that are full of meaning and joy.

This communication is like a gift we bring to the world, a gift that is always wrapped in the love of God, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life” (John 3:16).