Fr. Kennedy's Press Application plus

Name: Matt Kennedy
Title: Rector
Organization: Stand Firm in Faith
Email Address: XXXXXX@flash.net
Cell Phone: 607-773-XXXX
Address: XXXXXXXX, Binghamton NY, 13903
Fax Number:
Online: Yes
Blog: Yes
Directory Info: Here is the link to the Stand Firm in Faith website: http://www.standfirminfaith.com
Onsite: Yes
Attend: Yes
Attend What Days:
Reason for Request: Stand Firm is both an online publication with feature articles and news reports and a "blog" offering readers the opportunity to give feedback and comment on stories. Stand Firm, judging by registered commenters, is varied from theologically liberal Episcopalians to theologically conservative members of the ACNA. The majority are conservative because the opinions expressed by the editors of Stand Firm are decidedly conservative. Stand Firm has covered the major events in the Episcopal Church since 2004. Reporters and opinion writers regularly attend and report on most major events in the Anglican Communion. Our readers have great interest in both knowing what happens at GC09 and the opinions we offer.
Previously Applied: No
When Previously Applied: The House of Bishops Meeting in New Orleans, 2007
Technical Requirements: Power outlets and wireless routers.

Matt,

Upon review of your application, the credentialling committee has declined your request for credentials.

Neva Rae Fox

Hi Neva,

I have as yet received no explanation regarding the grounds upon which the committee decided to deny my press credentials. Are there any grounds or are you simply refusing to be transparent?

Matt

Matt,

A credentialing committee reviewed your credential application. We took into consideration the following:

- In November, on your blog, the following was stated: "We're advocates...we're first and foremost an advocacy site."

- On March 30, 2009, you refer to yourself as the "meanest, most cruelest, most divisive blogger in the Entire Blogosphere, Ever."

The media guidelines -- posted since March 2009 and included in correspondence -- clearly state:

* The GC09 newsroom is designed to be a place for credentialed members of the working media. Recipients of media credentials agree to refrain from advocacy-oriented activities in this area. Personal endorsements and/or promotional efforts will not be tolerated; media credentials will be revoked.

* General Convention Media Operations reserves the right to refuse media credentials and to revoke media credentials.

There are other members of the credentialing committee who are willing to also address your question.

Hi Neva,

I am confused by your response and maybe you might help me understand.

First, you have attributed a quote to me that is inaccurate. I have never referred to myself as: " "meanest, most cruelest, most divisive blogger in the Entire Blogosphere, Ever." That was, I believe, most likely taken from something written by Sarah Hey who frequently refers to herself in that way, referring in a rather ironic way to the way many conservatives are mis-characterized by those who self identify as progressive.

In any case, I have never referred to myself in that way even in jest.

Second, do you consider Integrity an "advocacy" organization? What about David Virtue..would you consider Virtue online the "voice of traditional Anglicanism" an advocacy organization?

Third, I certainly recognize your right to admit or deny anyone access to the press room. I do think this particular denial tends to undercut your claims to "transparency" and/or inclusion.

Matt