In two years, more than 20,000 people have become fans of Unapologetically Episcopalian on Facebook. The group's founder, the Rev. Ron Pogue says, "I wanted to create a space for people to express their gratitude for the Episcopal Church and what God is doing in our churches." As Pogue puts it, “It was time to change the conversation from one of fear to one of hope, from rancor to gratitude.”
To celebrate two years of life, Pogue is encouraging fans of Unapologetically Episcopalian – and anyone who loves the Episcopal Church – to make a thank-offering donation to Forward Movement. “I love what Forward Movement is doing to make our church stronger and more vibrant,” Pogue said.
Gunn and Pogue have created a list of projects that could be funded by the Unapologetically Episcopalian Campaign. With sufficient funds, these projects could all be funded and each one could be launched within weeks.
The executive director of Forward Movement, the Rev. Scott Gunn said, “For more than 75 years, Forward Movement has worked to reinvigorate the life of the church. I am thrilled that the virtual community of Facebook would rally around strengthening the Episcopal Church and the ministries of Forward Movement.”
“Every dollar that comes in through the Unapologetically Episcopalian Campaign will go to fund one or more of these projects,” Gunn said. Pogue added, “I hope we can band together and make a generous gift that will create a spark which might ignite the Spirit in thousands and thousands of lives.”
Donations may be made using a credit card via Paypal. Donors may also call 800-543-1813 or send checks marked “UE Campaign” to Forward Movement, 412 Sycamore Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Subject to IRS regulations, donations may be tax deductible.
At the top of the project list, Forward Movement hopes to launch The Episcopal Church smartphone app, which we expect to cost around $25,000 to develop.
- Where is the nearest church?
- What is the latest news?
- What are bloggers saying?
- Show me some videos! I want to know a bit more about the basics of our faith.
Get all this and more in your pocket. This app will be free of charge.
Beyond the app, additional funds could be used for other projects to strengthen the Episcopal Church and its witness, especially online. We have talked about a full-time missioner for social media, podcasts for young adults, and even discipleship conferences.
Forward Movement is a ministry of the Episcopal Church. Since 1935, Forward Movement has worked to strengthen the church and make disciples. In addition to the flagship publication, Forward Day by Day, Forward Movement offers a wide range of resources, available at www.forwardmovement.org. With offices located in Cincinnati, Ohio, Forward Movement is a self-sustaining, non-profit agency of The Episcopal Church.