TV networks Reject Church Ad

American television networks ABC, CBS and NBC have refused to broadcast an ad calling for the inclusion of gays and lesbians in church. The 30 second spot is sponsored by the United Church of Christ, a Protestant denomination with more than 1.3 million members. The ad features two bouncers standing outside a church, choosing who may enter the doors. Among those kept out are two males who appear to be a couple. Part of the text that follows says: "Jesus didn't turn people away. Neither do we."

The church's director of communications, Robert Chase told "Good Morning America" the church ad reflects the church's two-year effort to open the doors to their church to whoever wants to be there. "There are countless persons who feel alienated, rejected or excluded from the church. What we are trying to say is, you are welcome here," said Chase.

An ABC spokesman told CNN the network does not accept "advertising that espouses a particular religious doctrine." CBS's statement was that it is "against our policy of accepting advocacy advertising." NBC claims the ad conflicts with its policy of "accepting ads that deal with issues of public controversy."

The church said that other networks, including ABC Family, BET Discovery, Fox, Hallmark, TBS and TNT have all accepted the ad.