Members of the media, including the Anglican Journal, will be present at General Synod 2025. They will be observing the proceedings and publishing coverage in various formats, including digital, social and print.
As a member of the General Synod, you may get approached by the media before, during or after the event, either in person or via email or phone. They may ask general questions about issues facing the church or they may be curious about specific resolutions that are being deliberated by General Synod. The following guidelines will help you navigate interactions with the media:
- You are not obligated to speak to the media and have the right to decline requests for interviews or comment. Feel free instead to refer media inquiries to the Communications Director, Henrieta Paukov, and/or the General Secretary, Alan Perry, both of whom will be present at General Synod. Their contact information is below.
- If you choose to speak with a reporter, limit your comments to factual matters that are on the record and in the public domain (not subject to confidentiality) and your own personal views, not those of others or the church as a whole. The Anglican Church of Canada has designated spokespeople.
- I don’t know,” and “I don’t care to answer that,” are perfectly acceptable answers. It’s best not to speculate.
- When speaking with a reporter or when addressing General Synod, ask yourself: Would I want my words published for everyone to see? Am I expressing myself in a way that reflects Christ’s example?
- Assume everything you say to a reporter is “on the record,” including informal chats.
- Reporters/journalists do not allow interview subjects to read and approve their stories before publication.
If you need assistance with a media matter at General Synod, contact Director of Communications Henrieta Paukov ([email protected]) and/or General Secretary Alan T. Perry ([email protected]).