There is a saying relating to newspapers that news is what is printed on the back of advertisements. Newspapers exist to sell advertising space (that is, after all, how they make money). To do that, they need to create something - news stories - that will bring in an audience for them to sell to their advertisers. It doesn't matter who thinks a story is important, if there isn't space, it doesn't get in.

The purpose of a congregation's newsletter is similar, though there aren't usually ads and we don't talk about it in terms of money. You are still "selling" your congregation and its ministries to your members, keeping them informed in a positive way so that they can see the good work that is being done through your church.

Start thinking of your newsletter with a business mindset. What information needs to be there to inform your readers? This usually includes upcoming events, special collections, etc. Include short blurbs on exciting things that happened recently so people know what good work has already been done. Most pastors write a column for the newsletter, and that is ok. This can demonstrate/remind readers that their pastor has good things to say. Don't let your pastor get so long-winded that you run out of space for other important stuff or that your readers think it can substitute for a weekly sermon, though. If you are the newsletter editor, that is your job and you should have the authority to limit pastors (and other people in the congregation) to a set amount of words or space. Having trouble with that? Put it in a written policy and make sure to include a line about your editorial power!

Need more help with writing a communication policy? Come to the Jan. 18 Communicators' meeting at Little Cedar Lutheran Church, Adams, MN! (RSVP by the end of the day Fri., Jan. 12)