The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is presenting a new “branding” of faith promoting videos, television ads, and social networking information. Previous campaign ads featured such programs as Bounce Back, Together forever, Faith in Christ, and other such advertisements where individuals can call in and receive a free DVD, King James Version Bible, and even a Book of Mormon. Utilizing today’s internet driven interest, social networking, and multimedia presentations, the Church is now focusing on members to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ to their friends, family, and neighbors. This campaign is called the I’m a Mormon and will be coming to the Seattle and greater Pacific Northwest region.
This new “branding” started back in 2010 and New York City was inundated with “I’m a Mormon” ads. Featuring members of the Church, the message is simple and clear – dispelling the myth’s and misconstrued doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the members themselves talk about what it is like to be a Latter-day Saint Christian, sharing their understanding.
Laura Riparbelli reported on June 21, 2011 the following:
Although the Times Square ads come at a time when the Mormon religion is in the news, the campaign itself began in 2010, testing television ads in nine markets: Rochester, N.Y., Oklahoma City, Okla., Colorado Springs, Colo., Tucson, Ariz., Baton Rouge, La., Jacksonville, Fla., St. Louis, Pittsburgh and Minneapolis-St. Paul. The church said it hopes to expand into 10 to 20 markets across the country throughout the coming year.
Riparbelli quotes Michael Purdy, spokesperson for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
"There's undoubtedly a national conversation going on currently about the church and its members, and we want to be part of that conversation. …”
One of the official websites of the Church is Mormon.org and it has basic information about the LDS Church, the core beliefs, and the ability to browse individual member profiles of the Church. The website also allows an individual to chat with online missionaries to request additional information.
Why would the LDS Church do such a “branding” in the Seattle and Northwest Market area? For one, to dispel the myths, misinformation, and misunderstanding of some of the doctrines of the LDS Church that is presented online and in other media formats. Secondly, It provides a way for individuals who are not members of the Church to speak with their friends and family about the basic teachings of the Church.
The wonderful aspect of these ads and commercials that will come about in October 2011 will highlight some famous and ordinary individuals. NFL Football player Rob Morris to Paris from Tuskagee, Alabama, who was homeless prior to becoming a member of the LDS Church, and even a 9/11 Survivor Victor Guzman share their faith, their personal struggles in life, and how their faith carried them through.
The difference between previous ad campaigns and this one, people who are interested in learning more about the Mormon Religion have an opportunity to explore and see how Latter-day Saint Christians live out their faith. How they serve their communities, work in their communities, and believe in Christ and an eternal Heavenly Father. It breaks down the misconceptions and allows the members to speak simply and succinctly about the Gospel without sounding pushy, strange, or defensive.
What would it hurt to find out about the correct information from one who truly understands and knows his or her faith better than anyone else knows?
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