Christian Group Cut From 'Faith Day'

Atlanta Braves Bar Focus On The Family From Post-Game Activities

(AP) 
Bennett said the group never formally committed to the August dates and suggested that any other questions be directed to the Braves, who declined comment through spokeswoman Beth Marshall.

Third Coast Sports, which has sponsored similar events at minor league games and plans another at Turner Field on Aug. 26, also declined comment, saying it was a matter between the Braves and Focus on the Family. Dobson's group will continue to take part in future Third Coast promotions.

"We anticipate them being involved in other cities," spokesman Matt Toy said.."

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John Smoltz talks with CBS News prior to a "Faith Day" celebration.

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Five years ago, the Braves received hundreds of complaints for selling a block of about 1,700 tickets to a group leading the city's bid to land the Gay Games. In return for the large purchase, the group was recognized on the field and got to pick someone to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

The Braves said it was merely a business decision and they weren't condoning or endorsing the homosexual lifestyle. The team took the same tact with its decision to allow Third Coast Sports to hold "Faith Day."

Focus on the Family was one of eight sponsors for the first event, joining groups such as Toccoa Bible College and the Gospel Music Channel. All were allowed to set up tables where they could hand out literature and Christian-themed items to fans as they headed back into the stadium.

But the Braves may have been troubled that Focus on the Family was promoting its Web site www.troubledwith.com, in which the group gives its suggestions for dealing with myriad problems.

Under the heading "Love & Sex," homosexuality is listed along with items such as dating, miscarriage and post-abortion syndrome. The group debunks the belief that homosexuality is caused by genetics, saying that males are often influenced by incest, molestation, exposure to pornography and negative body image.

"No solid scientific evidence exists today that people are born homosexual," the Web site says. "Interestingly enough, genetic predeterminants have also been theorized for alcoholism or depression. Neither alcoholism nor depression is embraced as healthy. Rather, we try to help people who suffer from these tendencies to find relief and recovery."

Chris Reitsma, a Braves pitcher who is recovering from a season-ending injury, is scheduled to speak at the final "Faith Day." He was unaware of the controversy over Focus on the Family.

"Obviously you want it to be a positive thing, but I didn't even know about that," Reitsma said before the Braves opened their series against Milwaukee. "That's pretty much all I know about it, that we want this to be a positive thing to promote the Christian faith."