Faith
FCC Investigates YouTube TV Over Christian Content Concerns
In a recent move that has captured the attention of faith-driven Americans, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has begun questioning YouTube TV over allegations that it may be discriminating against Christian content. At the heart of this issue is the exclusion of the Great American Family network, a channel celebrated for its family-friendly and Christian programming, from YouTube TV’s offerings.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has taken a stand, addressing a letter to Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet Inc., and Neal Mohan, CEO of Google. Carr’s letter highlights a complaint from Great American Media, which accuses YouTube TV of “deliberately marginalizing faith-based and family-friendly content.” This concern is particularly significant in an era where many feel that tech companies are increasingly silencing voices that promote traditional values.
Carr’s inquiry into YouTube TV’s decision to exclude Great American Family is timely, especially given that the network is readily available on other major platforms. Carr expressed his concerns by stating, “These allegations of faith-based discrimination come at a time when American public discourse has experienced an unprecedented surge in censorship.”
While the FCC’s authority over YouTube TV and other virtual multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) is limited, Carr emphasized the importance of understanding the nature of carriage policies in the virtual MVPD sector. This understanding could potentially inform the FCC’s broader regulatory approach.
Carr acknowledged that independent programmers often face challenges when their channels are not carried by MVPDs. However, he noted, “In the case of YouTube TV, concerns have been raised alleging that your company has a policy (secret or otherwise) that discriminates against faith-based programming.”
In response, a YouTube spokesperson offered to brief the FCC on the platform’s business decisions, stating, “We welcome the opportunity to brief the FCC on YouTube TV’s subscription service and the strategic business decisions we make based on factors like user demand, operational cost, and financial terms, and to reiterate that we do not have any policies that prohibit religious content.”
Great American Family, under the leadership of CEO Bill Abbott, has been a beacon for those seeking content that upholds traditional values. Since its launch in 2021, the network has seen impressive growth, with a 19% increase in household viewership and a 21% rise in total viewers in November alone. The network’s commitment to faith, family, and country sets it apart from mainstream platforms, which often portray these values in a dismissive manner.
Abbott, who previously led Crown Media Family Networks, has been vocal about his dedication to content that supports and encourages traditional values. He remarked, “In ‘mainstream’ entertainment, the portrayal of faith, family, and country is often dismissive, caricatured or outright derisive.”
As the FCC continues its investigation, the outcome could have significant implications for how faith-based content is treated in the digital age. For those who cherish the principles of faith, family, and freedom, this issue underscores the ongoing need to defend these values in the face of modern challenges.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- Seven Texas school districts are ending or changing contracts with Lifetouch Photography over parental concerns.
- A former executive of Apollo Global Management, which owns Lifetouch, was named in recently released Epstein files.
- Lifetouch asserted it is not implicated in any wrongdoing, and no student images were accessed by Apollo leadership.
Several Texas school districts are listening to parents and taking action regarding their student photo vendor, demonstrating responsible stewardship and concern for student wellbeing. Leaders are prioritizing family trust by finding new ways to conduct student photography and reviewing vendors through a faith-centered lens.
Reports connected Leon Black, former CEO of Apollo Global Management, to allegations in Epstein case documents, raising understandable questions among families.
“We decided to keep all of our pictures in-house for the time being,” said a Malakoff ISD spokeswoman, responding directly to feedback from concerned parents.
Districts like Athens ISD are carefully seeking new options, exemplifying transparent leadership and protecting nearly 3,000 students.
Lifetouch CEO Ken Murphy clarified, “The company is not named in the Epstein files and no past or present Apollo board member or investor has ever accessed student images for any purpose.” Murphy emphasized the company’s commitment to privacy and its long-standing service to schools.
Christian families are encouraged to remain vigilant and engaged in decisions impacting their children, upholding the values of faith, integrity, and community protection. Let us pray for discernment for our local leaders and strength for our families as they stand for what is right.
Faith Facts
- Bethel Church has placed Ben Armstrong, Prophetic Ministry director, on administrative leave following new public allegations of clergy sexual abuse.
- The church is engaging independent experts for a thorough investigation and reaffirmed its commitment to safety and integrity within the ministry.
- The leadership is reviewing past responses to allegations to strengthen future pastoral care and ensure proper support for all involved.
Bethel Church has taken decisive action after serious accusations surfaced, upholding biblical values of accountability and compassion. Church leaders emphasized this step is necessary to seek truth and ensure the well-being of their congregation.
They have expressed a renewed dedication to spiritual and emotional safety, seeking wisdom and transparency in accordance with Scripture.
In times of trial, God’s Word calls us to pursue righteousness, offer care to the vulnerable, and build trust within His Church. Let us pray for just outcomes rooted in mercy and truth, for all affected, and for the continued pursuit of integrity in Christian leadership.
Faith Facts
- The Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts launched a new Digital Manuscript Collection interface, giving greater public access to ancient biblical texts.
- The upgraded platform now includes manuscripts in Greek, Coptic, Syriac, Arabic, and Latin, as well as early printed editions and significant archival materials.
- This initiative reflects decades of dedication to preserving Scripture and supporting biblical scholarship for generations to come.
Preserving the Word of God remains critical for strengthening faith and understanding God’s truth. The Digital Manuscript Collection allows believers and researchers alike to explore the history and accuracy of Scripture more deeply.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
This faithful work ensures that treasures of the Christian heritage are never lost or hidden. By advancing technology in service of the Gospel, Christian scholars are helping equip the Church for teaching and defending the faith.
Learn more about this advancement in biblical preservation and access.
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