Interfaith Broadcasting Commission

Overview

The Interfaith Broadcasting Commission (IBC) is a U.S. nonprofit organization that serves as a cooperative venture among America's diverse faith communities, including Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Baha'i organizations. It partners with major television networks to produce and distribute quality religious content.

History

The IBC was established in 1986, building on a history of collaboration between faith groups and television networks dating back to the early 1950s. IBC members have worked with networks such as NBC since 1951, CBS since 1952, and ABC since 1960. This long-standing partnership has led to the development of numerous programs that highlight the positive role of religious faith in American life.

Mission and Programs

The IBC's mission is to provide documentaries and liturgical programs that inspire personal reflection about faith while promoting social justice issues. It aims to heighten awareness and appreciation for faith's contributions to society, fostering a more informed and compassionate community. Programs are typically broadcast several times a year on major networks like ABC and NBC.

Partnerships

The IBC collaborates closely with ABC, CBS, and NBC, and their affiliated stations across the United States. For ABC and NBC, the IBC's faith groups produce the programs, which are then distributed by the networks. With CBS, the IBC contributes ideas and content to various series, including For Our Times and Religion & Culture. This partnership ensures that a diverse range of religious perspectives is represented in mainstream media.

Notable Programs and Initiatives

In recent years, the IBC has focused on producing documentaries that address pressing social issues, such as caregiving for disabled individuals and exploring themes related to faith and mortality. These programs are designed to spark meaningful conversations and promote empathy and understanding among viewers.

Leadership

The IBC is led by a diverse board of directors who represent various faith traditions. This leadership structure reflects the organization's commitment to interfaith dialogue and collaboration.

Operations

As a charitable organization, the IBC operates to provide high-quality content that respects the integrity and perspectives of different faith communities, enriching the broader media landscape with thoughtful and engaging programming.