In this feature we seek out answers to questions of broad interest, drawing on experts in congregations, the UUA, and elsewhere. If you would like to submit a question, please write to InterConnections at 25 Beacon Street, Boston, MA, 02108, or e-mail dskinner@uua.org.

Q We are interested in doing more public relations for our congregation. Is there a place where we can connect with other UUs who are doing public relations or communications activities?

A Try the PR-L e-mail list that can be found at www.uua.org/lists. Topics that may be discussed include evangelism, advertising, street signs, events, and other ways of spreading the word about Unitarian Universalism. You can receive the list in digest form to reduce the number of individual e-mails you receive.

Q Where could we get information on the UUA’s new study/action issue, global warming?

A A study guide to help congregations with the global warming issue was mailed to churches in October from the Washington Office for Advocacy. Congregations are encouraged to address the topic in study circles, social action projects, and sermons. The guide is available on-line at www.uua.org/uuawo.

Q Our church administrator has trouble getting work done because of frequent interruptions from people who ask questions they should know the answers to. What can we do?

A The UU Church of Bloomington, Ind., created a three-page document that answers many of the questions that are commonly asked of administrators. It includes the following headings:
• Newsletter (deadlines, publication dates, etc.);
• Copying (who can use the church copier, when to use an outside firm);
• Typing and mailing (do your own committee’s typing. The office will provide, with adequate notice, post-age, paper, labels, etc.);
• Consulting (please make an ap-pointment if you want to meet with the administrator);
• Facilities use (reserve rooms with the administrator, return keys);
• Keys (can be borrowed by chairs for access to the building);
• Check requests (complete a voucher form one week in advance);
• Church office hours (days and hours the office is open);
• Communication (how to reach the administrator by phone, e-mail, and fax).

Q We would like to put up a better sign in front of our church but aren’t sure how to go about it.

A Joyce Dowling, public relations chair at Davies Memorial UU Church, Camp Springs, Md., which ordered a sign last spring, recommends searching out a company with experience, one that listens to what you want and can show you samples of its work.
Also, check first with the city or county permit office to make sure the sign you want is permitted. And ask about warranties from the sign company. “The company we are using provides a lifetime warranty on the structure and a 20-year vandalism warranty on the face of the sign,” says Dowling. “Some offered a one-year warranty.” A 4 x 8-foot sign cost her congregation about $6,000, she said. Since the church’s building can’t be seen from the street, a large, attractive sign is important. The sign can be viewed on the congregation’s Web site at www.dmuuc.org/location.html.