PowerMedia

The United Church of Christ recently released a controversial commercial concerning the people that are permitted membership into the church. To many the commercial appears to be endearing and heartfelt by portraying and welcoming home at the end of the commercial that allows all people regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, etc. The commercial centers around two bouncers outside of the church denying people entry because of varying characteristics that may place them in a minority group, or present some characteristic in which a church or other organization may discriminate.

At first glance the commercial appears to be one with a simple and inspirational message. However, underlying issues surrounding gay marriage as a current hot topic in the United States has forced larger networks such as NBC and CBS to ban the commercial. The networks defend their position by explaining that the commercial draws reference to such a sensitive topic at such a vulnerable time for our nation. The networks do not want to associate themselves with a given position on the topic and therefore has declined to air the commercial regardless of he positive “open-arm” message that it may have.

However, UCC is no stranger to controversy. The Church has consistently made decisions that are not common to many churches and religious organizations. In 1833 UCC played part in providing higher education. They were also the first to ordain an African American to the ministry.

The United Church of Christ has without a doubt grabbed the attention of other television networks. Networks such as ABC, TNT, TNN, and TBS have all decided to air the message believing that the message that it provides is positive and inspirational in a time when people should learn to be more open-minded and welcoming. The UCC has message that is more universal than controversial. Regardless of how controversial the UCC may appear, their overall message should be deemed as something that is moving toward the norm of many churches and organizations. They are just paving the way for others to make bigger strides in eliminating close-minded viewpoints and creating a place of welcome and appreciation for other people’s differences.

-LizH

http://www.stillspeaking.com/default.htm