SCAPPOOSE, Ore.  Gospel Spots plans to distribute 1,500 billboards with the message "Repent and Believe" across the country this year, according to Christian News Northwest.
The billboards worth more than $1 million, will be erected for just the printing cost of $67,000, money raised in part through a fundraiser on the Air 1 Radio Network, a nationwide Christian radio network begun several years ago by Gospel Spots President Bob Anthony Fogal. Listeners pledged more than $71,000.
The Gospel Spots' message is direct, something staff members intended to reach an over-saturated advertising environment, they said. And Fogal said that the message may reach a public now more aware of the Gospel since the movie, "The Passion of the Christ."
Gospel Spots began in 1998 in response to the realization that the majority of Americans are not exposed to the Gospel in their daily routines. Its mission is to "Evangelize America Through Media" by taking God's Word out into the mainstream, using the same media people watch and listen to everyday: TV, radio, billboards, and even the local movie theater.
According to the Christian News report, a standard billboard on a main city street is viewed by nearly 500,000 people monthly. Fogal said he sees that as a great opportunity to spread the truth of God's Word.
"After a 30-plus year career in broadcasting, I know the incredible power of media to deliver a message," he said. "As Christians, I believe we should make use of powerful tools such as television, radio, and billboards to spread the Gospel. Isaiah 55:11 says that His Word will not return void, and that it will accomplish what God intended.
"This is an exciting promise as we sow and water the seeds of God's Word across the land!"
Fogal, who lives in Columbia County, is also the founder of the K-LOVE Christian music radio network, heard in more than 160 cities across America.
