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In 1967 a small group of Christians around Saskatoon became burdened for the need to put up public signs or billboards, with Scripture verses on them. This would reach those seeking God, who might not normally know or meet up with any Christian. A Christian sign painter offered his services and they formed Sign Evangelism Fellowship.
If we get into the advertising world we discover that people are truly affected by signs they see over and over. We may think we do not notice them any more, but they begin to have a sub-conscious effect.
Sign Evangelism put up many billboards 8 feet wide and 4 feet high, some in English, some German, and some in French, and in many parts of Canada. Anyone could request a sign for a place where they had permission of the property owner, and the mission would get it painted and volunteers would put it up.
Their supporters met monthly for prayer and music in a small church, and had an annual summer picnic, and a winter banquet.
As their members aged and some died, they knew it must be turned over to someone else. In spring of 1998 it became Scripture Signs, a department of Western Tract Mission, Inc.
In recent years we have run into a problem with the highways department NOT wanting Scripture on roadside signs any more. We still provide them, but those requesting them must use private property or the sides of their buildings. There seems to be less call for them now.
The value of professionally produced Scripture Signs is still there, and we all know the impact a good ad in any media. But we are wondering if we should move into the 21st century, and start offering them in electronic forms or as posters for inside walls – perhaps even suitable for framing.
Some people have new computer skills in producing beautiful powerpoint pictures or screensavers and backgrounds, with lovely scenery and Scriptures super-imposed pleasingly over them. If we had volunteers to prepare such for Western Tract Mission, we could offer them from our web site to anyone who would wish to download and print them for use in their own home or office, or in churches.
Good Scripture verses can go into many new places that billboards on the highway cannot. More seekers might find the Lord. Please pray for good volunteers and wise decisions on the Board.
- Ruth Marlene Friesen
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