Christian Radio Ad Pushing Universal Healthcare Harnesses Local Faith-Based Influence

By Dan Gilgoff, God & Country

A coalition of liberal faith groups is up with a new Christian radio ad today promoting universal healthcare coverage. Faith-based ads promoting progressive programs have become relatively commonplace, but this one, called "Abundant Life," employs a novel tactic. In each state where it's airing, a local pastor reads the script, attempting to harness local spheres of faith-based influence as President Obama begins his push for healthcare reform.

The spot is airing through Memorial Day in swing congressional districts and purple states: Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, and Nebraska.

The ad's sponsors will unveil the spot later today, but I've got an early look. Here's the ad that will be running in Arkansas:

Pastor: This is Rev. Don Morrow from Bentonville. It seems like almost every day someone else in my community is worried they won't be able to keep paying for their family's health care.

Arkansans are working harder than ever, but health care is becoming less and less affordable.

It's just not right. Every person, created in the image of God, is of limitless value.

Female Voice: All Americans should be able to get the care they need for their families, when they need it. God desires abundant life for all people.

It's time we step up, and ask our politicians to move the debate forward, so we can get the reform we desperately need.

Contact your Members of Congress and encourage them to work together to make quality health care choices affordable for all families. Please add your voice, and learn more at www.coverallfamilies.org. Paid for by Faithful America.

The ad's sponsors are: PICO National Network, Faith in Public Life, Faithful America, Sojourners, Gamaliel Foundation, and Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good.

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