Leslie Scanlon and the good folks over at the (independent) Presbyterian Outlook have a not-too-encouraging story about the possible fate of Presbyterian News Service, the quasi-independent news outlet of the Presbyterian Church (USA).

Money quote: “One of the issues on the table will be how a news service which has exercised a degree of editorial independence fits into the broader public relations plan of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and the desire by some leaders for the denomination to have a consistent and coordinated message, particularly on controversial issues.”

Under the steady hand of Jerry Van Marter, PNS has consistently offered balanced across-the-board coverage of all things Presbyterian, and hasn’t shied away from giving room to controversy … which could be why they’re headed for a trip to the principal’s office. Stay tuned.