NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Media Warehouse, a new and economical online service, offers local churches economical and step-by-step instructions on how to launch a welcoming media campaign.

According to the United Methodist News Service (UMNS), the United Methodist Church (UMC), launched the site www.mediawarehouse.ignitingministry.org in mid-January, and dubbed it Igniting Ministry, in mid-January.

This service "puts at the fingertips of the local church all the necessary components to launch a media campaign and to be a part of Igniting Ministry," said the Rev. Steve Horswill-Johnston, an executive with the welcoming and advertising ministry of the UMC. "Media Warehouse offers every local church the opportunity to be a part of Igniting Ministry."

Via a free instructional download, churches can browse a menu to locate and preview a full complement of Igniting Ministry resources, including all TV ads, graphics and ads for local church and vendor use, MP3-format radio spot ads, and dozens of newspaper ads in six standard sizes. Included are downloadable informational files that provide users guidance on placing and working with the advertising files.

"Its shopping-cart format and user-friendly nature simplify the process of getting the most up-to-date Igniting Ministry evangelism tools," Horswill-Johnston said.

Customers with less than optimal computers, or those who want sizable resources, such as outdoor advertising, can order a CD or a VHS for any single theme at a nominal charge.

Igniting Ministry, highlighted by a series of television commercials, also includes a matching-grants program, regional training and an Internet presence. The effort is designed to support and encourage local churches to become active partners in reaching out to "unchurched" people and creating renewed enthusiasm among members.