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Choosing a video projection screen seems like a simple task. Beyond knowing screen size and the type of mount, how much more complicated can it be? After all, it's just a bit of white reflective cloth, right?

Wrong.

A projector screen must be carefully chosen to work specifically with the projector technology that will be used, the room geometry, seating arrangements, projector placement, and level of ambient light, just to name a few of the important factors. Choose poorly, and you'll disappoint viewers with "hot spots," dim corners, or unreadable text, or you'll end up spending thousands to compensate by getting a new projector—which may only make the problems worse.

For many churches that have never had a screen in their sanctuary before, the first hurdle is overcoming objections about installing a screen in the sanctuary. Some of the concerns involve experiences at other churches where projected images on the screen were washed out, too dark, or the print was too small. Members don't want the same problems in their church. Choosing to work with a qualified lighting professional minimizes or eliminates such problems.

"Don't just go shopping for a screen—get a professional," advises Manfred Freiberger of Stewart Filmscreen. Together, you and a lighting professional will be able to overcome the objections some of your parishioners might have to a screen in the sanctuary.

Perhaps the most common objection to installing a screen in the worship center is that it hides or covers some important element of the architecture or furnishings—a cross, altar, or stained glass window. Screen makers have many innovative designs that allow a screen to be retracted and remain out of view when not in use.

Someone in your church is sure to remind you that a projector and screen isn't needed because "we've never done it that way before." Gently remind them that the people you are trying to attract never knew life without television and they prefer and expect visual images to accompany what they are hearing. Since we can't eliminate television in our world, neither can we ignore those who grew up watching it. If the system under consideration will enhance evangelism among seekers, provide innovative education for members, or improve the quality of worship, then emphasize the screen's connection with current ministries of the congregation.

David Hull of The Screen Works sees their church customers using video systems to launch new ministries or improve existing presentations. New ministries include weekday movie-nights, community-building programs, after school programs, educational videos produced by inspired teachers, and presentation of budgets and treasurer's reports.

An understanding of the church's mission and the purpose of their video system is even more important than room measurements, says Dennis LaBissioniere of Harbinger Communications in Elgin, Illinois. And he says it isn't enough for a congregation to want a screen because others have one. The best way to overcome objections of reluctant members is to emphasize the mission of audio-visual equipment.

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