What does the “flame” mean to you?

As your Senior Pastor and congregational leader, I decided we should begin a “branding” campaign. Like secular organizations, many churches have “branding” campaigns to define their core personality, their beliefs and brand their image for others. As I began this process, I discovered that we had a “brand” already. A brand I really like. So, instead of beginning an expensive “branding” process, like we are a new church, I want us to rediscover who we are as a congregation. Within a few weeks, I started to see the flame in more and more places, it has been catching on. I discovered it on the kiosks, the office doors, room reservation sheets, worship bulletin, Sunday times, the staff email signatures, our website and even decorating a cake at the Wednesday night dinner.

So, what does the “flame” mean to you? I have been calling it the “swoosh”, like Nike's “swoosh”. To me, it says we, the people of First Rowlett . . .

We are traditional and honor the past. The flame is modeled after the united Methodist cross and flame, which has been the emblem of Methodism for a very long time. We celebrate the traditions of the past and claim our heritage as Wesleyans and United Methodists.

We are contemporary and approach faith in a new way. The flame has a new look for a new generation. We are not afraid to try new things and step out boldly into the future to spread the good news and touch people for Jesus Christ.

We are alive, moving, full of energy, vibrant and filled with the life of Jesus Christ and indwelling presence of God's Holy Spirit.

We believe in Jesus Christ. The flame has a cross inside of it. The cross is the heart of what we believe in -- the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

Send me an email and let me know what the flame means to you. Jan.davis@fumc-rowlett.org . Then, go out into the community, shine the light of Jesus Christ to the world and spread “the flame” to others. See you in church.

Rev. Jan