Interpreter Magazine Gets a Makeover

NASHVILLE: United Methodist Communications is giving Interpreter magazine a fresh look and a whole new focus.

The January/February 2007 issue of The United Methodist Church's official ministry magazine features a new, more visually appealing format. The new contemporary nameplate and design, created by The Journey Group of Charlottesville, Va., make the content easier to read and to navigate.

The publication is intentionally refocused as a magazine for both lay church leaders and clergy and potential church leaders. Interpreter will provide Sunday school teachers, volunteers in mission, church officers and other people in congregations with a “leadership connection” to creative ideas, practical ministry suggestions, guidance from other leaders and other information to nurture leadership skills.

“We will strive to provide you with content that inspires and encourages as you continue to grow in Christian faith and as a leader in the church,” said the Rev. Larry Hollon, chief executive of United Methodist Communications. “We will combine ‘quick reads’ with in-depth articles on important concerns that affect us all, such as church revitalization.”

Interpreter will continue to provide inspirational stories and spiritual guidance, while adding new departments, such as “Leadership Link,” which offers leadership resources, and “Lighter Fare,” which includes fun articles and healthy recipes.

The magazine’s revitalization follows more than a year of focus group and telephone research conducted by the Martec Corporation. Readers and potential readers were asked what they were looking for and how the magazine could better meet their needs.

The mission of Interpreter magazine is to inform United Methodist laity and clergy about the wide-ranging ministries of the general church and to promote active involvement in them.

Some churches purchase subscriptions, in addition to the seven they receive through the World Service Fund, for officers, committee members and others who provide leadership in a variety of ways. Interpreter magazine publishes six issues a year and has 180,000 subscribers. A one-year individual subscription costs $12.

For more information, visit Interpretermagazine.org or call (888) 346-3862.