Reporter changes
Congratulations on the successful design makeover for Reporter in the June and July issues. Here is what I consider to be improvements:
- Font change for text. I like the new fonts. I think they are easier to read; and now that they are common in print, people don’t think they are just for show.
- Variety in headline fonts, including the varied use of color.
- More color in general. The judicious use of additional color makes it more attractive, thus a more compelling read.
- Centerspread infographics. In particular, I’m referring to the “Volunteer Opportunities” spread in the July “LCMS service opportunities” insert. Those are great graphics — just perfect for the bulletin board. I have already been using the infographics spreads from Lutherans Engage the World for this purpose.
- Improvement in photos. If you print a compelling photo, it will lead the reader into the text. This has been a big improvement. Your staff photographer is a real pro.
Finally, regarding editorial content, I think the decision to discontinue “Pressure Points” was a good one. Dr. Hartung did an excellent job in a difficult task. I think that too often — and this is no criticism of him or his work — “Pressure Points” featured church workers complaining about their congregations, schools or calls; or laymen complaining about their church workers. I always sympathized with those who had problems, but also thought that the circuit visitor was the one who could effectively handle the problem. For me, the complaints often gave the impression that everyone was unhappy, and left a “sour note” at the end of each Reporter.
Thanks for all your labors on behalf of our church. I certainly appreciate them.
Rev. Dr. Martin R. Noland, Evansville, Ind.
How disappointing it was to read in the July Reporter that “Pressure Points” was being discontinued. It was perhaps one of the most valued dimensions of your paper, for both lay congregants and pastors.
“Pressure Points” offered provoking questions followed by answers and analysis that are needed in our shrinking congregations. It provided a safe environment to expose and discuss interpersonal issues between lay members and pastors and other church workers, including expectations from both sides.
Please reconsider publishing this feature.
Rev. Craig Gabriel, Seguin, Texas
The Reporter staff appreciates these and other comments it has received about changes being made and considered for the publication.
The fact that “Pressure Points” has been discontinued for now does not mean that it (or something like it) is out of the question for the future. That is one of the many content options that the staff is seriously considering for the publication as the “makeover” continues. Be assured that reader preferences and suggestions in regard to these changes to Reporter will be taken seriously.
And as LCMS Communications Executive Director David Strand pointed out in the June Reporter, “This is not a sudden, end-all facelift; rather, it’s a work in progress.” — Ed.
Send letters via email to reporter@lcms.org or by mail to Reporter Letters, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, MO 63122-7295. Please include your name, postal address and phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
Posted Aug. 13, 2014
Print page
