How not to evangelize
Following up on this post and this post, I want to call attention to a video about “Hosting a Windows 7 Launch Party”. If you want to know exactly how NOT to evangelize, watch how Microsoft does it (if you can – I do not believe it is possible for a rational, sane person to watch this entire video all the way through):
Too often we think evangelization just involves events and programs. But the best evangelization should not be forced; it is one person naturally sharing with another the joy that is in his heart. I’m not saying we don’t hold evangelization-related activities (after all, I organize my parish’s door-to-door effort twice a year), but even those activities should be focused on individuals personally sharing with others the hope that is within him. That is the best soil in which the Holy Spirit can work.
Okay, time for a contest: the first person who can watch this entire video all the way through – with the sound on and eyes on the screen the whole time – receives the first “Divine Life Voluntary Mortification Award”. With that you get a free subscription to the Divine Life blog – what a deal!
You were right. I only made it for 18 seconds.
“In a lot of ways you’re just throwing a party with Windows 7 as an honored guest”
Assuming this isn’t an elaborate hoax, I confess I am astonished to think that some group of decision-makers at Microsoft, who putatively know what they’re doing, watched this and thought it was a good idea to release it. Even just the laughter of the four “partiers” at the various “jokes” makes me want to cringe.
In a way, this is very encouraging. It clearly shows that the idea of omnicompetent sinister corporations running the world is perhaps a little less credible than one might think.
And no, I didn’t make it through it all.
Ok, I win.
I must be somehow disturbed, I could spend an hour just laughing at how awful this is.
So, gimme my free subscription =P
Stephen,
Our official contest judges will soon confirm your victory. If, however, they find your claim legitimate, they will also have you committed.
UNCLE!
Okay, I give. I lasted two minutes with the sound off.
I’m not sure I can even bring myself to click play. Just one thought from the picture alone – in what universe would these four people ever even be in the same kitchen?
I made it to marker 1:23. Lord, have mercy.
I used to be an evangelical minister in a Willow Creek styled church and baby, it was really like this. I’m so glad I’m Catholic. I’ve been largely out of work for the past four years but all in all it’s worth it.
Ok…I watched the whole thing but I don’t need the prize because I’m going to go hang myself now. Thanks anyway.
That was awful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I too watched the whole thing, but not without a certain level of queasiness throughout. I for one have never seen windows7 and was really lost when they started telling me how to implement apps and tools that I know nothing about, queer. My favorite part was somewhere near the middle when the older lady says – “This is OUR (*correction) Your party. Sigh.
Anyways, I am all of a sudden reminded of St. Francis’ maxim:”announce the Gospel and if necessary use words.” Our faith is not mechanical, it shouldn’t be presented mechanically. Thanks Microsoft, I wont talk anyone’s head off anymore;)
Okay, time for a contest: the first person who can watch this entire video all the way through – with the sound on and eyes on the screen the whole time – receives the first “Divine Life Voluntary Mortification Award”. With that you get a free subscription to the Divine Life blog – what a deal!
Never underestimate the Grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ.