JVC VIDEO ASSISTS CHURCH IN REACHING SHUT-INS When all the members of the congregation can't get to the church, then the church has to get to the congregation. So it goes in Flint, Michigan, where the Court Street United Methodist Church uses video creatively. Most recently, the congregation's video "task force" purchased a JVC briefcase video system. Now, when a hospitalized or elderly member of the congregation can't make it to the Sunday sermon, the pastor can bring them a videotape of the worship service. With program, recorder and monitor all-in-one, they need nothing more to enjoy the service. Original Idea ------------- According to Lee Mills of Shand Electronics, who sold the system, "I know that there is cable access for churches who can supply the station with 30 to 60 minutes of programming. That's one way of reaching those who can't attend church. But taking the service right to them is even better. So I suggested the TBR-160 video-in-a-briefcase to the Court Street congregation." The Court Street United Methodist Church will be using video programming for worship, educational and outreach purposes. Sandy Gosse, a member of the church's video committee, says that video has been a great asset to the congregation, and they are expanding the facility. "Right now," she says, "we are waiting for special audio gear to complete our system. But we have already had success in taping special events such as our Halloween party and showing it to those who couldn't attend." Vital To The Church ------------------- The cold winters in Flint, Michigan make it especially difficult for many people to get around so pastors Dr. Ralph Janka and Dr. Donald Hall will be relying more and more on portable video. Already, video has become a staple in the church community. Pam Haynan, Director of Christian Education for the church has been using video capabilities in Sunday school classes and youth groups. The TBR-160 briefcase system is only a part of the church's video expansion. Adds Gosse: "We recognize the usefulness and effectiveness of video. Our committee is well-organized with rules to regulate our video programming. We plan to make the most of what video can offer the congregation." With the full support of the church officials and congregation, they've only just begun.