“I Didn’t Know This Service Existed…” Breaking Down Misconceptions About Media Chaplaincy

We get a lot of questions about Media Chaplaincy.

For many people, it’s not something they’ve come across before - and even if they have, the name alone can raise a few eyebrows. Over time, we’ve noticed the same questions popping up again and again.

So we thought we’d pull together some of the ones we hear most often … and answer them. If we’ve missed anything, you are always welcome to get in touch with your questions.

“Isn’t this a religious thing? I’m not sure I’d feel comfortable.”

This is one of the first reactions we hear — and it’s completely valid.

While our service is grounded in a Christian worldview, in practice that simply means we value every person as having inherent worth and dignity regardless of what they believe (or don’t believe). 

Our role is to listen, support, and create space for you to process whatever’s going on. There’s no agenda, no pressure, and no expectation around spirituality. That side of things only comes up if you choose to bring it up. Most of the people we support don’t identify as religious, but they still find it helpful to have someone impartial, confidential, and genuinely there to listen.

“How is this different from talking to a counsellor?”

Another really important question.

Confidentiality matters a lot, especially in a small industry and when you’re working with sensitive stories. Media chaplains operate with strict confidentiality. They don’t report back to employers or news organisations, and conversations aren’t shared. Our role is to provide an independent, safe space to process the weight of a situation without going into specifics that could breach trust or policy.

That said, we completely respect that some people prefer to speak with a registered counsellor, and that’s important too. We have MCNZ-endorsed counsellors available if people prefer someone who is up to speed with the industry. Our goal is simply to make sure people in the media community know there is support available, whatever feels right for them.

“I live somewhere remote — is this even accessible to me?”

We have more than a dozen chaplains across the country (including the South Island), and our lead chaplains regularly travel to different regions throughout the year. So don’t hesitate to reach out, and we can see what might be possible.

We’re also connected with a broader network of pastoral carers who may be closer to you locally. And you’re right, online is always an option too, which opens up the opportunity to connect with a wider range of chaplains, wherever you are.

“Is it risky for my reputation to ask for support?”

This one comes up often — even if it’s not always said out loud.

There can be a real pressure in the media industry to appear “tough” and handle whatever comes your way. Reaching out for support can feel like it might reflect poorly on you.

That’s exactly why Media Chaplaincy exists.

Support is confidential, discreet, and completely separate from your workplace or professional reputation. No one should have to carry the weight of this work alone.

“Is this only for full-time journalists?”

Media Chaplaincy isn’t just for full-time newsroom staff. Freelancers, contractors, students, and people moving in and out of the industry are absolutely part of the media community too. And support doesn’t have to be only about work stress, as life outside of work affects all of us as well. Our chaplains are simply here as a safe, confidential person to talk with, no matter what’s going on. You don’t have to be a full-time employee for it to matter.