FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2025
GARNER, NC — In a move that has already been described by at least three staff members as “revolutionary” and “definitely not a Geocities page,” the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church unveiled a redesigned logo and its updated website homepage today.
The new logo, which features the cross and flame motif beloved by United Methodists everywhere, now comes in full color. Yes, that’s right—full color. “We’ve moved beyond the black-and-white copier,” said Derek Leek, Director of Communications. “This logo might even look good on a t-shirt. Or a mouse pad.”
However, the real star of the show is the new homepage, which can be accessed using an Internet Browser at www.nccumc.org. Built with the latest HTML wizardry and a generous dose of patience, the homepage includes a welcome message, various links to ministries, and a Guestbook. The new page loads fast, too—clocking in at approximately 45 seconds on dial-up.
“No one’s ever done this before, so we wanted to create a digital space where United Methodists across Eastern North Carolina could find connection, inspiration, and maybe even have some fun,” said Leek. “Also, we heard this internet thing might be more than just a fad.”
The homepage reportedly includes advanced features like the Guestbook, where you can share your comments about the new page, a tiled background featuring the new logo, and a page view counter at the bottom of the page. Future updates may include MIDI hymns, blinking scripture verses, and a Bible trivia quiz (JavaScript permitting).
When asked about the future of communications in the Conference, Leek responded: “We see this website as a bold first step. Someday, people might even use the Internet to do things like order pizza or meet their spouses. But for now, we’re just thrilled if someone can find our phone number without crashing Netscape.”
All Kidding Aside
We are grateful for the forward-thinking leadership of previous Director of Communications Bill Norton and committee members Jerome Smith, George Speake, Charles Smith, Buck Norton, and Todd Krueger, who published this site back in the 1990s. They pushed the NC Conference to be the first United Methodist Conference with a website. We continue in their footsteps today, striving to innovate in our understanding and use of technology as we work to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
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Media Contact:
Derek Leek
Director of Communications
Email: communications@nccumc.org
Fax: Please Don’t