Media Relations

The Communications Office assists Bishop Vásquez in the aspects of his ministry that involve effective and transparent communication throughout the diocese. This includes assisting the other diocesan offices as well as supporting parish staff. Our mission is to tell the lived Catholic story from the Diocese of Austin: as formed and empowered disciples, we are making the good news of Jesus Christ known along our earthly pilgrimage to our heavenly home. Our hope is to create encounters with Jesus Christ in every story and these encounters will foster the education and formation of Catholics for deeper knowledge and more prayerful living of their Catholic faith.

All media inquiries should be directed to:

Shelley Metcalf
Office of Communications
6225 E US 290 HWY SVRD EB, Austin, TX 78723
shelley-metcalf@austindiocese.org
Phone: (512) 949-2443
 

• Reporters requesting an interview with Bishop Vásquez are advised to contact the Communications Office with enough notice to accommodate their requests, due to Bishop’s traveling schedule.

• The diocesan grounds, including St. Mary Cathedral, churches and schools, are private property. Please review these Location Request Guidelines prior to contacting the Communications Office. The diocese welcomes media coverage of our special Masses and press events. Reporters are advised to contact the Communications Office to help facilitate photography or camera set-up in designated areas that will not interrupt the Mass. Interviews should be conducted outside of the Cathedral or churches so as not to disturb those who are worshipping.

• Reporters must seek the consent of an informed parent or adult guardian before interviewing, videotaping or photographing a child.

• The Communications Office welcomes internet links to  print, radio and video stories/features about the diocese from media outlets to share with our followers via the diocesan social media pages/profiles.

• The Communications Office welcomes news story ideas, photos, video and events from schools, parishes, organizations, ministries and individuals affiliated with the diocese for possible publication or use on our social media pages/profiles.