Church signs are stepping up everywhere to fight against what they deem "wrong" and "evil." Technically, they have the right to place judgment and to post their ideas (freedom of speech, folks.) But, frankly, it’s getting to be a bit much. A Church sign in Ohio popped onto the news this week and is causing some major controversy. Its statement: "I kissed a girl and I liked it, then I went to Hell," was the brainstorm of Pastor David Allison, who took a personal quest for revenge against Katy Perry and her hot song, "I Kissed a Girl," after seeing the video which he found to be racy and disturbing.
"If anyone has seen the video and understands how lewd and suggestive the video is for this song, that is not something that young people should go toward." Allison told NBC. But many locals are offended at the church’s behavior, and the newly-infamous sign has been termed the "worst church sign ever."
Here’s a look at the disturbing church sign along with some others that cause a second-look. I leave Pastor David Allison with just one important question: "What would Jesus Do?"
Oh, and the video, for your assessment pleasure.
Controversial Church Signs
I Kissed a Girl, and I Liked it, Then I Went to Hell
Trend Themes
1. Controversial Church Signs - The trend for churches to post controversial messages on their signs creates an opportunity for companies that create customizable signage for churches to develop targeted messages that will resonate with younger church-goers
2. Censorship in Religious Messaging - The trend for churches to use censorship in their messaging creates an opportunity for content creators to develop new channels of religious expression that can be used to engage younger audiences without being overtly censored.
3. Religion and Popular Culture - The trend of condemning pop culture trends from the pulpit by pastors and other religious leaders represents an opportunity for brands to partner with these churches and religious leaders to create content that delivers religious messages in a contemporary and relatable form.
Industry Implications
1. Signage - Companies that create customizable signage for churches and other religious organizations have an opportunity to target younger audiences with messages that resonate with their values and beliefs
2. Social Media - Companies that create new channels of message delivery, such as religious message apps, have an opportunity to engage younger religious audiences without the constraints of censorship
3. Marketing and Branding - Religious leaders who are willing to partner with modern brands to deliver their religious messages in a more modern and contemporary way have the opportunity to engage younger, more secular audiences with their message.