Did you see all those church and diocesan banners processing in during the opening of the Eucharist at the 150th Diocesan Convention? They were beautiful, and so many different types and colors, often telling us a bit about the people of the parish they represented, or the ministry in the diocese. These banners are also very expensive to have made, costing thousands of dollars… until now.
Perhaps you saw these two banners – the Diocese of Newark Anti-Sexism Task Force and the banner for Christ Church in Bloomfield & Glen Ridge. These were created for less than $100 each! Using e-Signs, an online sign company, the designs were created using standard banner measurements of 33” width x 53” height. Just select a fabric banner with 3” pole pockets on top and bottom (the bottom one allows for inserting a small rod to give the banner weight), upload whatever image you want to use, add your own text, and that’s it. The cost of the banner itself was $52.95, and the shipping was approximately $30. The only thing you may have to do is approve the proof, if they send you a note about it.
For those who can afford the traditional commissioning of a handmade banner from one of the premier church suppliers, there are several excellent companies to choose from, and they do beautiful work, but for everyone else, this is a quick and easy way to have a processional banner made that won’t break the parish budget.
You can also use e-Signs or similar companies to create inexpensive vinyl outdoor banners to advertise events, special services, or statements on inclusion. Outside of Christ Church there are four always on display, with changing themes or messages throughout the year. The cost for these is also about the same as for the processional fabric banner.
So, if your congregation is in need of a church banner, don’t let your budget keep you from letting the world see you as well as hear your voice in the community and at the next diocesan event.
