Terms of Service - Version Date: 7 July 2025
Terms of Service
Please read these terms of service ("terms of service", "terms") carefully before using TheGoodNewsBlog.org ("website", "service") ("TheGoodNewsBlog.org", "us", "we", "our").
Each user of any of the Media (User or you) agrees to be bound by these terms. Your use of and access to any of the Media indicates your acceptance of and agreement with these terms, as they exist at the time of use.
TheGoodNewsBlog.org will include at the top of these terms the date on which these terms were last updated.
TheGoodNewsBlog.org may amend these terms at any time by posting changed terms on the relevant Media. While TheGoodNewsBlog.org will endeavor to provide notice of material changes, it is the user's responsibility to check these Terms of Service periodically for any updates.
You agree that the Site and App require compatible devices and internet access, may require certain software, may require periodic updates; and may be affected by the performance of these factors. You agree that meeting these requirements, which may change from time to time, is your responsibility.
1. Conditions of use
By using this website, you certify that you have read and reviewed this Agreement and that you agree to comply with its terms and our privacy policy. If you do not want to be bound by the terms of this Agreement, you are advised to leave the website accordingly. TheGoodNewsBlog.org only grants use and access of this website, its products, and its services to those who have accepted its terms.
2. Privacy policy
Before you continue reading these terms, we advise you to read our privacy policy regarding our user data collection. It will help you better understand our practices.
3. Intellectual property
You agree that all materials, products, and services provided on this website are the property of TheGoodNewsBlog.org, its affiliates, directors, officers, employees, agents, suppliers, or licensors including all copyrights, trade secrets, trademarks, patents, and other intellectual property. You also agree that you will not reproduce or redistribute the TheGoodNewsBlog.org's intellectual property in any way, including electronic, digital, or new trademark registrations. All content on this website is protected by copyright law. Users may not reproduce, distribute, or modify any content without prior permission.
4. Legal Disclaimer and Professional Guidance Notice
Any information provided or made accessible to you on this website is not intended to replace or substitute for the services of trained professionals in any field, including, but not limited to, theological, psychological, medical, health, or legal matters. We do not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor do we function as a medical service provider. Any services listed on this website are provided on a referral basis only. While we have conducted due diligence to the best of our ability regarding the qualifications and level of service of each entity listed, it is essential for you to independently assess their suitability before availing their services. Accordingly, we disclaim any liability associated with your use of or reliance on the information provided on this website.
4a. Church Directory Disclaimer
TheGoodNewsBlog.org provides a directory of welcoming and affirming churches solely as a resource for individuals seeking LGBTQ+ friendly Christian communities. While we strive to keep this information current and accurate, we do not independently verify the ongoing practices, beliefs, or policies of each listed church or congregation. Inclusion in this directory does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of a fully affirming or safe experience. Users are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research, exercise personal discretion, and seek trusted advice before engaging with any new congregation. TheGoodNewsBlog.org is not responsible or liable for any experiences, outcomes, or damages—positive or negative—that may arise from interactions with churches listed in this directory. We recognize that religious trauma is real, and we urge users to prioritize their safety and well-being when exploring new faith communities.
5. Third party website links
This website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content or accuracy of any linked sites and do not endorse them. Visiting external links is at the user's own risk. This website may contain affiliate links to amazon.com.au, which means we may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase. However, this does not impact our reviews or recommendations.
6. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify TheGoodNewsBlog.org and its affiliates and hold TheGoodNewsBlog.org harmless against legal claims and demands that may arise from your use or misuse of our services.
7. Limitation of Liability and Disclaimer
TheGoodNewsBlog.org is not liable for any damages that may occur to you as a result of your misuse of our website. TheGoodNewsBlog.org provides no warranty regarding the accuracy of the Content you access through our platform. All Content is provided "as is" and "as available," and you assume full responsibility for assessing its accuracy and relying on it at your own risk. TheGoodNewsBlog.org may modify Content at its discretion without notice.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, TheGoodNewsBlog.org shall not be liable for any loss or damage you incur, including damage to your software or hardware, resulting from your use of or access to our platform, unless caused by TheGoodNewsBlog.org’s negligence, willful misconduct, or fraud.
TheGoodNewsBlog.org does not guarantee uninterrupted or error-free functionality of our platform, including hyperlinks. We do not warrant that defects will be corrected, that technical issues will not delay content delivery, or that our platform and its servers are free of viruses or bugs.
7a. Defamation Liability Regarding Our Content
TheGoodNewsBlog.org strives to ensure the accuracy and integrity of all content published on our website. Our articles are intended to provide information, commentary, and analysis on topics related to progressive Christianity and related subjects. However, despite our best efforts, errors or omissions may occur. TheGoodNewsBlog.org, its authors, and its editors shall not be held liable for any claims of defamation arising from the publication of content on this website, provided that:
- We have made reasonable efforts to verify the factual accuracy of the information presented.
- The content is published in good faith and without malice.
- Upon notification of a potential inaccuracy or defamatory statement, we will promptly investigate the matter and, if warranted, take appropriate corrective action, such as issuing a retraction or clarification.
This clause is not intended to limit or exclude liability for defamation where such liability cannot be limited or excluded by law.
8. How We Use Third Party RSS Feeds for Progressive Christianity News
This website utilizes RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds from Feedburner, Inc, to aggregate news and information related to progressive Christianity. We respect the intellectual property rights of content creators and acknowledge that the content displayed via RSS feeds may be protected by copyright. However, we believe that our use of these feeds constitutes fair use under copyright law, as it serves educational, informational, and commentary purposes related to the mission of Christianity.
We strive to use minimal content, typically consisting of headings and brief descriptive snippets, and always credit the original source with a link back to the full content on the RSS provider's website. Additionally, we respect any specific copyright notices placed on the RSS feed and will not use content that is prohibited according to those notices. It's important to clarify that we do not claim ownership of the content from the RSS feeds. Our role is to curate and provide access to this content while ensuring proper attribution to the original creators.
While we make every effort to ensure that our use of RSS feeds complies with applicable copyright laws and regulations, we acknowledge that the legal landscape surrounding copyright and fair use is complex and subject to interpretation. If you believe that our use of any content via RSS feeds infringes upon your rights as a copyright holder, please contact us, and we will promptly address your concerns.
It is our intention to provide a platform for open dialogue and exchange of ideas within the Christian community, and we welcome feedback from our audience to ensure that our practices align with our values and legal obligations.
9. Content Sourcing and Usage Policies with XML/RSS Feeds and Generative AI
This website utilizes XML RSS feeds and technology to aggregate content, news, blogs, and information on Progressive Christianity and current LGBT+ affairs related to faith, religion, health, and advocacy for educational purposes. We do not source content directly from news websites. Instead, we aggregate content using our proprietary technology, which involves obtaining data from third-party news proxy services that provide us with XML feeds.
We also utilize YouTube playlists that are in the public domain, sharing them via tagembed.com to a public playlist generated on this website. No information is duplicated or reproduced beyond what is freely available in the public domain. Sharing information from the public domain does not require a license. While we do not endorse third-party content, we confirm that each third-party site has been vetted to ensure it is a safe and knowledgeable expert source on the subject matter.
10. Use of iframes & Third party websites.
TheGoodNewsBlog.org integrates content and services from various third-party providers to enhance functionality and user experience. These include:
- Analytics and Tracking: Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager
- Content Delivery: Google Fonts, Googleusercontent, Blogspot.com
- Social Media and Media Hosting: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Omny.fm
- Content Embedding and Proxies: DailyLectio.net, corsproxy.io, api.allorigins.win, Player.Captivate.fm, Livetrafficfeed.com
- Other Services: Cloudflareinsights.com, Oremus.org, DailyPrayer.ampers.x10.mx, Chatbase.co, Schema.org, W3.org, Anglicanfocus.org.au, Stjohnscathedral.com.au, Lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu and RSS.app
11. Generative AI for Content Creation
This website may utilize advanced generative AI technologies, specifically Claude Sonnet 4, GPT-4.1 Mini, DeepAgent & Abacus.ai Large Language Model (LLM), to assist in content creation. These models may be used to generate draft text for blog posts, suggest relevant keywords and phrases for Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and collaborate with human authors by generating ideas, offering alternative phrasings, or checking for factual consistency. Drafts generated by AI are never published directly and always serve as a starting point for human authors. In all cases, a human author reviews, edits, and revises any content created with the assistance of these AI models, ensuring that the final published content reflects the author's work and decisions, and that the human author takes full responsibility for its accuracy and integrity.
We utilize popular technologies like OpenAI's DALL-E, Stability AI's Stable Diffusion, and Midjourney AI platform to generate some of the images featured on our blog. Please note that while we create and use these images, the copyright ownership of these images remains with us. These images are provided for viewing purposes on our blog and can be used by anyone in good faith where referenced. However, redistribution or use of these images elsewhere requires our explicit permission.
12. Statement regarding AI - Christianity & Digital Evangelism:
Digital evangelism uses modern tools like the internet and AI to spread the timeless message of Jesus, much like how Jesus used parables to reach people (Matthew 13:34-35). While technology enhances outreach and fosters online communities, the core remains sharing Christ's love and teachings for spiritual growth. In a similar way, Aaron supported Moses in communicating God's message to the Israelites (Exodus 4:14-16), showing that God often uses different people and methods to ensure His word reaches those who need it—whether through a brother's voice in ancient times or digital platforms today.
As an associate member of ISCAST (a network of individuals ranging from students and laypeople to academics, exploring the intersection of science, technology, and Christian faith), we acknowledge the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within our community, and our commitment to integrating technology with our Christian mission. AI serves as a tool to enrich various facets of our ministry work, from delving deeper into scripture to fostering personal spiritual growth and extending our reach through digital evangelism. However, with this innovation comes ethical considerations that we earnestly address. We pledge to use AI responsibly, guided by Christian principles of fairness, justice, and compassion. While we believe AI can harmonize with Christian beliefs when aligned with biblical values, we advocate for discernment and critical reflection on its ethical implications. AI, for us, is a supplement—not a substitute—for human guidance and connection in our Christian community. By accessing our website, you agree to engage with our AI-powered tools and resources, understanding our commitment to a thoughtful and ethical approach to technology in service of our Christian mission.
13. Data Usage Policy
You are permitted to access and/or reproduce the data on this website solely for viewing purposes on a personal electronic device (such as your phone or computer). Any other use or exploitation, including selling, distributing, adapting, editing, altering, republishing, publicly displaying or performing (for commercial purposes), publishing, or communicating the data and materials, requires our prior written agreement. We reserve all rights in the data and materials. Unauthorized disclosure, copying, or distribution is prohibited unless expressly provided in writing. Stories may be shared via the share function or a provided link; however, data may not be copied, pasted, or used for analysis without the written consent of the author.
14. Use of our RSS Feed
Our RSS feed can be freely utilized with RSS technology to share our content without requiring a license on the basis that it is used to promote accessibility and dissemination of information regarding Progressive Christianity and LGBT+ affairs related to faith, religion, health, and advocacy.
15. User Responsibilities
By accessing and utilizing our website, you agree to adhere to certain responsibilities to ensure a positive and secure experience for all users. These responsibilities include providing accurate and current information when required, complying with all applicable laws and regulations, and refraining from any actions that may disrupt or harm the functionality of the website or its users. All information on this website is copyrighted and intended solely for educational purposes. By following these practices, we aim to deliver high-quality and informative content while being transparent about the use of AI tools.
Furthermore, you are expected to respect the intellectual property rights of TheGoodNewsBlog.org and any third parties whose content is featured on the website. This includes refraining from attempting to gain unauthorized access to any part of the website or its systems. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the absence of errors or omissions. Therefore, users are encouraged to independently verify any information obtained from the website before relying on it for any significant decisions or actions. By accepting these terms, you acknowledge and accept your responsibility for your actions and usage of our website, contributing to a safe and respectful online environment for all.
16. Student Use
Please be aware that certain content on this website may have been generated, in part, with the assistance of advanced language models, including GPT-4 and its variants. Consequently, this content may exhibit similarities detectable by plagiarism detection software such as Turnitin. Students are therefore advised to exercise due diligence and ensure that all submitted work adheres strictly to the academic integrity policies of their respective institutions. It is the user's responsibility to ensure compliance with all applicable academic standards.
17. Social Media Policy
To ensure a positive and respectful online environment, we have established a comprehensive Social Media Policy. This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for the use of social media platforms in relation to our organisation and can be viewed here.
18. Termination
We reserve the right to terminate your access to and use of the Website at any time, without notice, for any reason, including, but not limited to, a violation of these Terms of Service. We may also, in our sole discretion, limit or restrict your use of the Website without notice.
19. Changes to the Terms
We reserve the right to change, modify, or update these Terms of Service at any time. TheGoodNewsBlog.org may amend these terms at any time by posting changed terms on the relevant Media. While TheGoodNewsBlog.org will endeavor to provide notice of material changes, it is the user's responsibility to check these Terms of Service periodically for any updates. Your continued use of the Website following the posting of any changes to the Terms of Service constitutes acceptance of those changes.
20. Warranties and Disclaimers
The website and all content, products, and services provided on the website are provided "As is" without any warranties of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. We do not warrant that the content, products, or services provided on the website are accurate, complete, reliable, current, or error-free.
21. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
This blog's server is based in California, United States. While our editorial team operates worldwide, including in Australia, we aim to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. To the extent permissible by law, any legal inquiries or concerns regarding the blog will be initially governed by the laws of the State of California, USA. However, if you are accessing this blog from Australia, you may have rights under Australian law that cannot be excluded. To the extent that Australian law applies and overrides the choice of California law, Australian law will govern. Any disputes arising in Australia will be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of New South Wales, Australia, or another appropriate Australian jurisdiction. We are committed to resolving any legal issues in a fair and transparent manner, taking into account the rights of all users, regardless of their location.
22. Voluntary Contributions
Our news content is provided on a voluntary contribution basis, facilitated through Google Reader Revenue Manager (RRM). Making a contribution is not required to access our news, as there is no paywall. Users may see a contribution request via RRM approximately every 48 hours, limited to one request within that period. All contributions are entirely voluntary and non-refundable. Contributing does not guarantee uninterrupted access or special features.
Your interaction with RRM is subject to Google's Terms and Google's Privacy Policy.
We are not responsible for the functionality or security of Google's RRM. We reserve the right to modify or discontinue this contribution model at any time. Data collected through RRM is subject to Google's privacy policies, and we may use anonymized contribution data to improve our content. This is not a subscription service; contributions are voluntary gifts and do not create any obligation for continued service.
23. Use of the Online Holy Communion Service
TheGoodNewsBlog.org provides an online service of Holy Communion (also known as the Lord's Supper or Eucharist) for individuals who may be unable to attend in-person services. This service is offered as a supplement to, and not a replacement for, regular participation in a local Christian community.
Disclaimer: TheGoodNewsBlog.org is not part of, affiliated with, or endorsed by the Anglican Church of Australia (ACA). This online Holy Communion service is offered independently and is not intended to represent or replace the sacraments or practices of the ACA.
Acknowledgements: Portions of this online Holy Communion service may incorporate elements derived from A Prayer Book for Australia, published under the imprint Broughton Books by E.J. Dwyer (Australia) Pty Ltd, © 1999 The Anglican Church of Australia Trust Corporation, and from Common Prayer: Resources for Gospel-Shaped Gatherings, published by Anglican Press Australia, © 2012 Archbishop of Sydney’s Liturgical Panel.
Use of these materials is made in good faith reliance on the doctrine of fair use/fair dealing for the purposes of research, study, and worship.
By participating in this online service, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
- Intention: Your participation is undertaken with a sincere and reverent intention, understanding that this is a spiritual act of worship and communion with God.
- Personal Discernment: You are responsible for discerning your own suitability to participate in this online service, considering your personal beliefs, spiritual condition, and any guidance from your own religious leaders or community.
- No Guarantee of Efficacy: While we offer this service in good faith, we make no guarantee as to its spiritual efficacy or sacramental validity. The benefits and effects of participation are a matter of individual faith and divine grace.
- Not a Substitute: This online service is not intended to replace regular attendance at, and participation in, a local church or Christian community. We encourage all users to seek out and engage with a local faith community for ongoing spiritual growth and fellowship.
- Respect for Tradition: We strive to present this online service in a manner that is respectful of Christian tradition and liturgical practice. However, variations may occur due to the nature of the online medium.
- No Liability: TheGoodNewsBlog.org, its affiliates, directors, officers, employees, agents, suppliers, or licensors shall not be liable for any spiritual, emotional, or psychological effects arising from your participation in this online service.
- Acknowledgement of Limitations: You acknowledge that the online environment presents unique limitations in terms of physical presence, community interaction, and the tangible elements of sacramental practice.
We encourage you to approach this online service with prayerful consideration and a spirit of humility, seeking God's guidance and blessing.
24. Availability and Functionality of Our Platform
TheGoodNewsBlog.org reserves the right to modify, suspend, or terminate any aspect of our platform, including its features and the content provided (referred to as "Content"), at any time. This may occur without prior notice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, TheGoodNewsBlog.org shall not be held liable to any user or third party for exercising these rights, subject to any applicable subscription terms if you have paid for access.
In certain instances, our Site or App may allow users to download specific Content to their devices. However, this Content may not always be available for future download, and TheGoodNewsBlog.org assumes no liability in such cases, in accordance with these terms.
TheGoodNewsBlog.org may require registration or subscription to access particular Content or to download any App. In such cases, the terms and conditions of your registration or subscription will govern the relationship between you and TheGoodNews.org, superseding any conflicting terms herein.
We may utilize automated tools, including artificial intelligence, to aid in the creation of Content and the operation of our platform.
25. Informational Purposes Only
The Content provided on our platform is intended for general information purposes only. It should not be considered advice and is not a substitute for personalized advice that takes into account your specific circumstances, whether related to health, finances, or other matters.
26. Acceptable Use of Our Platform and Content
Unless expressly authorized by TheGoodNewsBlog.org, you are prohibited from framing, scraping, reproducing, modifying, creating derivative works, displaying, performing, publishing, distributing, disseminating, broadcasting, or circulating any Content to third parties (including on third-party websites or platforms) without our prior written consent. You are also prohibited from accessing, collecting, or data mining Content from our platform through automated means or any method intended to bypass these restrictions (e.g., using robots, spiders, scripts, or any manual or automatic tools). Specifically, you may not use any Content for machine learning or artificial intelligence purposes, including developing, training, or utilizing Content in large language models or generative AI systems. Unauthorized access to restricted areas of our platform or attempts to circumvent usage restrictions are strictly forbidden. Your use of our platform and Content is limited to what is explicitly permitted in these terms.
28. Contact Information
For any inquiries, concerns, or feedback regarding these Terms of Service or any aspect of TheGoodNewsBlog.org, please do not hesitate to contact us through our contact form available here. We value your input and are committed to addressing your questions promptly and effectively.
