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The latest trend in gaming is called Pokémon-Go, based on the games/cards/shows that millennials grew up with. I decided to download the game and give it a try after I overheard some kids getting excited over a Pokémon nearby the church...for research of course!               

Opening the app, a map of where you currently are will appear. The map shows blue markers where “Poké Balls” can be collected– mostly at landmarks, parks and public places. Then there are the Pokémon animals. If one of those appear, you have to catch it by throwing virtual balls at it, while holding your phone which will make the animal look like it’s in the real world! The trick is that you have to be within about 30 m of the item to be able to catch it.  

This game is world-wide now, and the response of some churches has made the news– they are embracing it! Most notably are the notice boards like such: “Jesus died to catch-em all!” “Pokémon outside, Jesus inside” “Looking for Pokémon or Jesus? Both found here!”   As for this area, there is a “PokéStop” here at the church, at the corner of 8th and Trimble! Several more are located in Trimble Park. So, if you have a smart phone, download it! And if not, watch out for players trying to catch-em’ all!      

Check out this article which shows all the pictures of the church notice boards: “13 'Pokémon Go' Church Signs That Now Exist” by Jesse Carey. http://www.relevantmagazine.com/god/13-pokemon-go-church-signs-now-exist-0