BTGMI Offers Flagship Program in New Formats

While dozens of radio stations have been airing Back to God Ministries International’s flagship program The Back to God Hour at no cost, more than 100 stations required payment for airtime.

That is now changing.

“There is a growing opportunity to have our programming, including The Back to God Hour, carried at no cost on stations that appreciate and see value in the quality programming and content,” explains Rev. Steven Koster, director of ReFrame Media, the English language ministry of BTGMI.

“In 2009 alone, 30 stations agreed to begin airing the radio program as a public service. This strategy is in line with other ReFrame programming, which airs without airtime fees on a combined 1,000-plus radio stations.”

The economic downturn has led to a budget shortfall at many non-profit organizations. Recently, BTGMI has had to make challenging, strategic decisions to create a climate of economic stability with ministry growth potential.

“The budget reductions certainly pushed the issue, but this is also about bringing The Back to God Hour in line with our other programs, none of which pay for airtime,” notes Koster.

“Each station with a paid agreement was notified of ReFrame’s plan to end airtime spending. They were all given the opportunity to continue airing The Back to God Hour free, or to air some of our other programs that may fit their audiences better. Many stations continue to air Back to God Hour, though some chose to discontinue the program almost immediately.”

ReFrame will continue efforts toward getting The Back to God Hour aired at no cost on stations across North America. “Radio stations often react more positively to listeners than to agencies, so we encourage listeners to contact their local stations to request the free airing of The Back to God Hour,” says Koster.

The ReFrame team will also continue to produce new episodes and offer several ways for listeners to access the program. Anyone around the world can read the transcripts or listen to The Back to God Hour on demand at www.BackToGodRadio.com. (Click on the title of the current message or past messages, then find the "listen now" box). Others may choose to download the messages through the iTunes podcast directory.

For those unable to access the Internet, BTGMI is also beginning a direct-to-home CD delivery of the program. Signing up for CD delivery is free by calling 1.800-879-6555 in the U.S. or 1-800-263-4251 in Canada.

“We encourage listeners to listen to the program whenever it is most convenient for them,” adds Koster. “The use of Internet radio has grown by 220 percent in just the last 4 years, and using the Internet to broadcast high-quality programming is an opportunity to reach more people than ever before.”

At age 75, Jean Goeman of Bradenton, Florida, has purchased her first computer, proving it’s never too late to embrace new technology. Jean can now hear The Back to God Hour on her laptop computer whenever it’s convenient for her.

“I like that I can hear The Back to God Hour whenever I want,” said Jean. “I took my laptop and listened while I was making dinner. Sometimes I just sit in my chair and my husband listens with me.”

For questions regarding The Back to God Hour or other ReFrame Media programs, contact David Trout at (800) 879-6555, or [email protected].

-- BTGMI Communications