Get Religion just posted that Beliefnet has been acquired by Fox Entertainment.

From Beliefnet’s about us page

For us, the formula is pretty simple: editorial decisions must not be dictated by advertisers. Our first responsibility is to our readers and we make our editorial decisions based on what we think users will want.

That is very good to hear. It seems that the best case scenario is that Beliefnet will improve as a resource for those seeking answers.

“FEG’s vast resources will enable Beliefnet to expand our audience, enhance our offerings and more effectively carry out our mission to help people find and walk a spiritual path that brings comfort, hope, clarity, strength, and happiness,” said Steven Waldman, Beliefnet’s CEO, Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder.

This quotation from the press release is concerning though:

The Faith and Spirituality market is strong and continues to grow. According to the Pew Internet Project, over 82 million Americans and 64% of all Internet users utilize the Web for faith-related matters. In addition, a division of Marketresearch.com put the demand for religious and spiritually-oriented materials like books, DVDs, software, etc. at well beyond $8 billion.

Religion and money rarely mix well, history is rather clear on that account. So, to take the discussion outside of the Beliefnet and Fox realm: is it possible for unbiased religious commentary (of all kinds, not just Christian) to happen when the bills are being paid by someone else? I’m really wondering what you have to think, I haven’t made up my mind. In a way, we’re all part of the larger economic world so even those of us doing “ministry” are on the payola somewhere down the line.

Anyway, your thoughts?