Religious broadcasting
Religious broadcasting is broadcasting of television and radio by religious organizations, usually with a religious message. In the United States, Christian organizations are by far the most widespread compared with other religions, with upwards of 1,600 stations across the country (not necessarily counting broadcast translators, though because many outlets have low power and repeat national telecasts, the difference is often hard to define).
Christian radio is very common, and can be funded either commercially or through some sort of public broadcasting-style arrangement (churches are generally recognized as non-profit organizations).
Christian television outlets usually broadcast in the UHF band in the U.S. For many, these stations may be among the first deleted from channel line-ups when a new television is purchased and configured, along with channels such as the Home Shopping Network. Religious organizations large and small also often have a presence on cable television systems, either with their own channels (such as the 3ABN service) or by transmissions on public access (common for local congregations) or leased access channels. Sunday mornings often see religious broadcasts on regular commercial broadcasting outlets.
Christian broadcasters in the U.S. are organized through the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) organization. Some Christian broadcasters in the U.S. include:
- Three Angels Broadcasting Network (3ABN)
- Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN)
- Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN)
- Salem Communications
- Calvary Chapel