The convention-approved SBC logo with its globe, Bible and cross remains the official and “classic logo” for the convention, but a new modern alternative has been released and features the same elements in a format more suited to today’s digital environment.
“We are so excited about the result of our rebranding project,” said Jonathan Howe, vice president for communications at the SBC Executive Committee. “The new logos and visual elements are true to who the SBC is as well as to what the original designers desired when they launched the classic logo in 1978.
“Notes from that 1978 convention action requested the logo be simple and uncluttered, easily recognizable, and flexible. When they approved the classic logo, the Executive Committee also requested that it lend itself to updating. We truly believe they’d be pleased with the modern version of what Southern Baptists have come to recognize as a symbol of theological steadfastness and Great Commission endeavor.”
Useful Group, which works primarily with churches and ministries, aided in the rebranding effort that includes new looks for the Cooperative Program, Baptist Press and SBC Life. All the branding guidelines and files can be found and downloaded at branding.SBC.net.
“It was an honor to get to help the SBC create its new branding,” said Nick Rynerson, chief creative officer at Useful Group. “We wanted to create something that got to the core of the SBC’s vision in a way that is innovative and engaging. As a member of an SBC church I felt the weight of crafting something that would be faithful and accessible; accurately communicating the DNA of the SBC winsomely and disarmingly.
“I’m super thankful and humbled that the SBC entrusted us to help develop that public brand. It’s been one of the highlights of my career, and I hope it can be used to encourage Christians, create meaningful conversations, and ultimately help bring Good News to the whole world.”
This new branding has a new online home thanks to Mere Agency, an Iowa-based web design group focused on church and ministry websites. The SBC main website has been broken down into a number of microsites to better serve Southern Baptists.
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to be part of this effort,” said Matt Heerema, founder of Mere Agency. “Our mission is to help the church use the web to impact the world with the Gospel. Our prayer is that these new sites serve churches and enhance cooperation and unity to take the Good News to the whole world.”
In addition to redesigned websites at SBC.net and BaptistPress.com, a jobs-specific site (SBCJobs.net), a church search site (churches.sbc.net), and a site specific to the Baptist Faith and Message 2000 (bfm.sbc.net) are all new to the SBC web offerings. An updated site for the SBC Annual Meeting will launch later in the summer.
