Posting Policy

This blog may be unique with regard to its degree of transparency about urban ministry. Many people have written to me to say how they cherish the help they have received through this. However, this means that special attention needs to be given to confidentiality in particular. I use the following guidelines for posting on this blog:

1. I apply the following questions to posts: Are they posted in good faith? Are they balanced? Are they compassionate? Are they informative about ministry? Do they help one better understand a problem or issue?
2. I consider a post to be unproblematic if a person's identity is unknowable, if the facts are public knowledge, or if a change of particulars (name, place, date, and so on) will truly protect someone's privacy. 

3. If I consider that anyone who was not involved in an incident would recognise those who were, I do not post. If a post could compromise the safety of those I blog about, then I make a post safe, or I do not post.

I believe that these measures should enable me to continue to be "open" about urban ministry while not compromising privacy. At the same time, some posts may be public knowledge, or in the public interest. In such cases, I seek advice, and use my best discretion.

In 2013, 90% of the posts on this blog were removed, in keeping with a demand I received. I then put the question of the freedom of my blog to the South African Human Rights Commission. The position is this: if a post is legal, it is legal, and one is free to publish. All of those posts could be restored. 

Having said this, if any post should cause discomfort, it will be removed from this blog. One does need to contact me for that, best through an e-mail or a blog comment, and I prefer to see a name on it. The post will stay up only if there would seem to be compelling reason for it. I intend to address any discomfort compassionately, efficiently, and satisfactorily.