Christmas cards to bring smiles

Thinking of a Christmas card to send to a family member or friend?

Look out for the Catholic Media Services Ltd’s (Camsel) Christmas cards portraying a Nativity scene with a modern touch sure to bring a smile.

Camsel General Manager Kathryn Tardieu said the initiative was sparked by Catholic News’ 2020 Christmas cover which received “great feedback”. The image moved many.

“Images are such powerful communicators! Since then, the idea of turning the image into Christmas cards was conceptualised. A card is a beautiful, thoughtful gift and we hope that these cards would be another way to spread the Christmas message beyond our traditional newspaper and online audience.”

Tardieu explained Camsel’s role is to find creative ways to communicate the gospel message; the cards are an extension of its communications ministry.

She added, “Our dream, if all goes well with these Christmas cards, [is] to expand the line to include others – Engagements, Baptisms, Birthdays, Sympathy etc. Integrating faith into our life journey along every step of the way is part of what we are all called to. Cards are a lovely way to do this and also to share our faith with others.”

Sales & Marketing Manager, Nicole Austin explained the concept for the cards used two “slightly different” creative treatments for Camsel’s entry into the greeting card market.

“The images seen on the cards are real photography, filmed and shot by one of our very talented, local photographers, using real and local models. This adds to the appeal and the impact of our cards.” Traditionally, she went on, the Christmas cards available locally offer limited variations on the same concept using internet stock photography.

“Our cards were made with love, using specially chosen greetings and scripture verses for each of the two versions.”