ACP values

The Associated Church Press (ACP) connects professionals in Christian media across traditions, contexts and generations. While ACP does not hold a statement of faith — recognizing the theological autonomy of our members — we gather within a shared Christian “tent,” guided by the values below.

These values shape our relationships, our programs and our shared work. They are lived out alongside ACP’s Statement of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

Faith and respect

ACP stands within the Christian tradition while honoring the dignity and validity of other faiths and belief systems. We seek to practice our faith with humility, recognizing that Christian media exists within a wider religious and cultural landscape. We actively oppose antisemitism, Islamophobia and all forms of religious hatred, and we commit to learning from neighbors whose faith expressions differ from our own.

Inclusivity, belonging and anti-racism

ACP is committed to building inclusive professional spaces where all people are genuinely welcomed and supported. We are actively anti-racist and affirming of LGBTQIA+ and Two-Spirit people. We name and lament the harm that Christian institutions — including religious media — have caused to Black, Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ communities, and we acknowledge our own complicity in that history.

We affirm the sacred worth and human dignity of every person and commit to uplifting marginalized voices, telling stories that bear witness to justice, compassion and the flourishing of all God’s people.

Journalistic excellence and integrity

Faith communities deserve excellent journalism. ACP champions responsible, rigorous and transparent reporting grounded in facts, fairness and accountability. We believe truth-telling is a moral practice and that professional journalism strengthens faith communities, public trust and democratic institutions.

We stand with journalists and advocate for freedom of the press, ethical standards and the rights of reporters to do their work with integrity and without fear or harassment or violence.

Ecumenical openness

ACP fosters a wide, ecumenical table where publications and media professionals across Christian traditions learn from one another. We value openness — listening deeply to perspectives different from our own — and we encourage collaboration that broadens understanding and elevates voices too often overlooked in religious media.

Education, mentorship and community

ACP is a learning community rooted in relationship. We invest in education, professional development and mentorship, supporting newcomers to the field while creating pathways for experienced members to share wisdom, build networks and explore new ideas. We value intergenerational dialogue and mutual support, believing that strong, connected professional communities are essential to the future of Christian media — and to the benefit of those who create it.

Adopted by the Board of Directors January 2026; presented to the membership May 2026.