The Atlantic Satellite Network has refused to air an evangelical television programme on the abortion issue. Abortion: is it murder? which features excerpts from The Silent Scream was turned down for viewing in the Atlantic region but will be seen on cable on November 17 across much of Ontario. The show is part of a three-part series on abortion produced by Food For Life. Father Bob McDougall, host of the show, is disappointed with the decision; it’s the first time since he started the programme in the summer of 1983 that one of his shows has been considered “too controversial” to broadcast.
Food For Life, a ministry of the Metanoia Outreach Association, focuses on living the Christian life from a Biblical perspective. Interviews and testimonies include people from diverse backgrounds (homemakers, professional athletes, lawyers, doctors, etc.) are interspersed with good gospel music; basic terminologies are explained and Father Bob shares inspiring Bible teaching. From time to time, there are reports on the happenings in the Lord’s work. Before the close of each programme, viewers are given the opportunity to prayerfully consider a deeper commitment of their lives to Christ.
Food For Life is seen in Southern Ontario on CKVR-TV in Barrie and CHCH-TV in Hamilton. It is carried on the Mid Canada Network which covers Sudbury, Timmins, North Bay and Ottawa. With the exception of the November 17 show, Atlantic Satellite Network carries the show in the Maritimes. In the U.S., the show is seen in Boston, Chicago, Clarksburg, Pittsburgh and San Diego.
Father Bob MacDougall, the show’s host, is well-known throughout North America and beyond. He has frequently co-hosted and sometimes hosted the popular television programme, 100 Huntley Street. Co-host, Father Pat Byrne has also appeared on 100 Huntley Street and Nite Lite. He is currently involved in pastoral wok as an Associate Pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Church and as a chaplain at the Wellesley Hospital in Toronto. The third member of the team is Dean Barreca, a musician and composer. Dean worked as a Youth Minister at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Calexico, California, and is now ministering full-time with Food For Life as a lay evangelist.
