A new device that could spawn a generation of mobile evangelists will be unveiled at the Heart of England Christian Resources Exhibition when it takes place in Telford from 21 to 23 February.
The tiny Gabriel Communicator from Leicester-based Txttouch, which can be placed in a backpack or handbag, uses Bluetooth technology to beam text messages to mobile phones within a 100-metre radius - at shopping centres, pubs and clubs, for example.
"Bible verses or even digital gospel tracts can be sent to local mobile phones from this device," explains Txttouch managing director Nicholas Maguire, who has been involved in church leadership for nearly 15 years. "This is a culturally relevant way to contact people regardless of their age."
The Gabriel Communicator can also be used inside churches - to transmit notices, song sheets, sermon notes, rotas, bible readings and home group details to members of the congregation, free of charge.
Introducing churches to technological innovations is one aim of the Heart of England Christian Resources Exhibition, often dubbed 'the ideal church show', which takes place at the International Centre, Telford.
More than 5000 people, representing most mainstream Christian denominations, are expected to attend the event which will feature up to 150 organisations, from book publishers to youth work specialists, relief agencies to chair manufacturers.
Under the title ‘Your Church’ more than 30 seminars and workshops will target issues like multi-media worship, debt counselling, child protection and gang culture. Expert advice will be at hand from people engaged at the leading edge of local church ministry.
