Whereas, "TV Tune-In" USA is a project of Church Women United in Ohio, adopted by the Chambersburg District UMW and Council on Ministries;
Whereas, continued awareness of the impact of television on ideas and actions of individuals, especially children, is necessary from our Christian perspective; and
Whereas, on-going action by increasing numbers of individuals and churches is needed in order to influence program and commercial content;
Therefore, be it resolved, that The United Methodist Church:
1. Observe Television Awareness Week, preferably beginning with the second Sunday in October, or as local church calendars dictate.
2. Encourage pastors and church members to think about the impact of television on our Christian social principles and those of our children, through sermons, group discussions, and study.
3. Use "TV Tune-In" USA materials, if appropriate, to develop awareness and action and encourage television viewers to send opinions (positive/negative) to advertisers, stations, and networks responsible for programming and commercials on both broadcast and cable television.
4. Suggest implementation of the resolution through several methods:
a. The United Methodist Women's Units: TV awareness and action are logically part of the "Campaign for Children" and can be used for Christian social involvement and supportive community focus, through programs, announcements, and the use of "TV-Tune-In" USA materials.
b. At the local level: Action can be encouraged through prayer, through the work areas of Church and Society, Religion and Race, Mission, Council on Ministries, and Communications, as well as through children and youth ministries and parenting groups.
c. At the Community level: Civic organizations can be encouraged to highlight Television Awareness Week. These groups include Lions, Lionesses, Rotary, Kiwanis, Christian women's clubs, civic clubs, PTA, PTO, and other groups that share our concerns. A request can also be made to the mayor and/or the city council in the community for a proclamation to highlight the second week in October.
d. At the national level: Explore the possibility of supporting Mastermedia, an organization headed by Dr. Larry Poland with the purpose of "working directly with the leaders of film and television in Hollywood and New York in an effort to share the message of Jesus Christ and biblical values and to build up media professionals in their faith for positive impact."
e. Information/Speakers and "TV Tune-In" materials are available by contacting Christ United Methodist Church, 6 West Second Street, Waynesboro, PA 17268.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22903-GM-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference