Minneapolis pastor spreads light, joy through witty church sign

Rev. Doug Donley spreads light through witty signs outside University Baptist Church. Image: University Baptist Church Facebook page

The phrases on the humorous church signs outside University Baptist Church in Minneapolis are meant to resonate with onlookers. Rev. Doug Donley strives to make people smile and spread goodwill, yes. Still, he also tries to explain to passersby the liberal viewpoints of his church and offer his opinion on issues and current affairs.

Donley has only used the symbol to announce the subject of his Sunday lecture. But he chose to use it to reach more people, according to the Star Tribune post.

Spreading Positive Vibes

Until the mood hits again, Reverend Donley will leave a message. He has used his analog message board for decades to convey his ministry. He claimed that carrying a church sign sheds some light on the good news.

He is aware that many people have the misconception that all Baptists hold conservative ideas. In response, he claimed, his sign may attract new parishioners who identify with its messages.

About several social issues, he was able to post placards outside the church that attracted the attention of many people. When a Colorado baker declined to make a wedding cake for a gay couple, he posted a message. Moreover, Donley's sign frequently reflects his musical interests and a Minnesotan fascination with the weather.

While Donley's church in Dinkytown has earned the nickname because of its church signs, it has become more popular locally and nationally over the past few decades.

The church inspired some coffee-table photo books; it also gained popularity on social media. Posts aimed at sharing the funniest sermons or denouncing the obscene were popular.

About University Baptist Church in Minneapolis

The First Baptist Church of St. Anthony was the name under which the congregation was established in 1850 when Minnesota was still a territory. The church's name was changed thrice to Olivet Baptist Church and University Baptist Church.

The congregation has been defined by progressive theology and a sincere dedication to peace and justice problems throughout its 150-year history.

The church's current structure houses a sanctuary with seating for 250 people, a Dobson tracker pipe organ, a gym, and several offices and schools. The building has almost all its rooms handicapped-friendly.

The search committee selected Doug Donley as a candidate for the pastor position at University Baptist Church.

With every member of the search committee present, he delivered a sermon at another Baptist church in the neighborhood. They were moved by Doug's performance and unanimously decided to recommend him as our next pastor at UBC.

The church is also active on Facebook, making updates and announcements. The church mentioned a fruitful discussion about Nicaragua and its shifting dynamics on Sunday throughout the service and the forum in a post from Feb. 14.

The Council will address other inquiries from its sister church. For example, one of the major issues facing this relationship is a recent U.S. law that made it simpler for Nicaraguans to move to the U.S. and went into effect in January.