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Media Guidelines
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For Communicators and Parish StaffBelow are some media guidelines for parishes as we have received several calls recently from news outlets and parish staff regarding coverage of Ash Wednesday services.
These guidelines are written to minimize disruptions during our sacred liturgies and protect those whom we are responsible to protect. Parish staff should make every effort to be on-site with the news outlet to ensure compliance with our guidelines.
An additional consideration: As we prepare for some media interest, for Ash Wednesday, it may be prudent to determine when ashes are being distributed (at the beginning of mass or after communion) to set that expectation with the reporter. -
Background and purposeThe Diocese of Austin welcomes the traditional news media at events. However, in keeping with the solemnity of our liturgies, including masses, and other liturgical services, we provide these guidelines to ensure a respectful environment is maintained as we strive to:
- Educate and form the People of God to experience a deeper knowledge and love for the Catholic faith.
- Promote the cultural diversity and universal identity of the Catholic Church.
- Proclaim and build a Culture of Life.
If you receive a call from the media, please take a message and advise the reporter that someone from the Diocese of Austin will be in contact. Then, please call or text Camille Garcia, director of communications at 512-713-4262.
The Diocese of Austin tracks media appearances and stories to assess coverage of the story and for archival purposes. Photos taken by diocesan or parish staff may be used on Diocese of Austin channels.
Media InstructionsIf the diocese and parish have agreed to allow media to take photos/video at a location, the following guidelines are required:- Media may capture b-roll (general footage, whether video or photographs) inside the church building when there is no liturgy scheduled or at least 30 minutes prior to the start of a scheduled liturgy.
- Cameras may be set up in designated areas that do not interrupt the Mass. This means on side or back aisles only.
- If the photographer/videographer is carrying their equipment, movement must be kept to a minimum. No crossing aisles in the mid or front section of the church.
- Interviews should be conducted outside of the church so as not to disturb those who are worshipping.
- Reporters must seek the consent of an informed parent or adult guardian before interviewing, videotaping or photographing a child.
- Photos of the priests, deacons may be taken.
- Photos of the congregation may be taken from the back or obstructed side view only.