Complaints commission is failing Christians

WITH Christmas approaching, it is good to consider what it signifies, and its relevance in the current setting of our country.

This is usually the time when it is most obvious that the majority of South Africans are followers of the Christian faith.

The Christmas carols, pictures, cards and posters all indicate that Christians believe Jesus is their Saviour and Lord.

Why is it then that the name of Jesus Christ is being used as a curse (swear) word on South African public television?

The screening of such content by the public broadcaster and other television stations, has been happening for more than 20 years.

The letter “P” – which is an abbreviation for prejudice – appearing alongside the programme or film classification rating before a screening is supposed to forewarn viewers of such utterances and other prejudicial content.

The broadcasting of Christian religious content by these television stations is indeed acknowledged and appreciated; as it shows people worshipping, preaching and praying in the holy name of Jesus Christ.

Can it, however, be expected of Christians to be accepting of the screenings of such cursing, when a key element of their faith is then being contravened?

Besides objections raised to the actual broadcasters, over the years the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa has also received thousands of complaints in this regard.

Given the millions of Christians in South Africa, how effective and fair are they in their handling of these complaints that programmes and films with such content are not only offensive, but it is, in actual fact, blasphemy?

Unfortunately, close observation reveals the failure of the commission, in particular, to deliver on its mandate when dealing with this issue.

What is required for the broadcasters to refrain from screening such content, or for them to be compelled to withdraw programmes containing cursing of the name of Jesus Christ?