In 2001 The Baptist General Conference passed this resolution:
Protect our children - Adopted 2001
We call on the churches of the Baptist General Conference to establish
and implement policies to protect our children. We further call on our
churches to exercise appropriate discipline over anyone in a ministerial
position, including revocation of ministry credentials upon sufficient
evidence of involvement or substantiation of allegations of sexual misconduct
with a minor. source http://216.177.136.28/content/view/1593/64/
The Clergy Child Sexual Abuser continues in the Baptist General Conference leadership. They now promote "We are delighted to provide you with an efficient and effective way to screen your church’s volunteers and potential employees through Clear Investigative Advantage...CIA Super Search is an instant database screening that searches for nationwide criminal records (felony and misdemeanor charges) as well as the nationwide sex offender registry."
The Clergy Child Sexual Abuser's name will not show in the "sex offender registry" since their sexual abuse was not adjucated criminally nor civilly and not witnessed/reported to the authorities by their church nor denominational leaders nor by the abuser. (note: Upon Biblical verification of the facts, PMI reported this case to the local police for investigation but have not received any report.)
2007: The Catholic Church as paid billions of dollars to the Clergy Sexually Abused, and in California July 2007 averaging 1.6 million dollars per victim.
Romans 13:1-5 Romans 13:1 Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 2 Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. 3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same; 4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath upon the one who practices evil. 5 Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience ' sake.
The Baptis General Conference appears to have avoided this level of
justice, publicty and costs in the following case. Where are their "works
worthy of of repentance? Acts 26:20 God did not intend HIS Church
to evade criminal nor civil responsibilities.
9. Warning: You Got Mail:
PeaceMakers sent out an general-non-specific email of "telling it to the church" to a specific group of churches, leaders, and missionaries, and their HQ seeking counsel how to deal with as one person called it "a parable" of a case of Criminal Sexaul Child Abuse in their midst....that was handled like those above in Confession Saul or David, here's a copy:
">A youth pastor sexually abused at least two young girls for
over a 2-3 year period. One victim surfaces about 15 years later >and the
Youth Pastor goes to counseling admiting to his first offense but lies
about any other victims or child sexual abuse. A
<second victim surfaces one year later and the Youth Pastor admits
the second offense and repeats the "counseling" again and >all's
well says his home church and (denomination's name removed)
> There was nothing close to Biblical repentance, confession,
reconciliation, restoration, restitution. It was covered-up the
> congregation knows nothing of the specific nature and facts of the
Youth Pastor's criminal child sexual abuse.
>
> Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence
and possible sexual abuse victim-without your
> knowledge?
>
> Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities?
>
> Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might
pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes?
>
> Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate?
>
> Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual
crimes in their midst?
>
> What would you do (if you knew this information) as an individual
who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do?
>
> Please let me know your Biblical principles and practices...
here's some represenatives of their responses...
(pmi:edited some emails to protect emailer)
****************
Instead of peacemakers.net your web address should be muchrakers.net.
What right do you have to raise these issues? Are you one of the
offended? Are you in leadership in the church where the offense took
place? As far as I am concerned, you're doing Satan's job.
Only he is known as the accuser of the brethern. If you are going
to write this kind of slander, you might at least sign your name. (pmi:
a link to this page containing the material is clearly identified)
****************
ALERT!!!
You may have recently received an e-mail which began as follows:
"Do you remember this email eleven months ago...
"A Baptist General Conference youth pastor sexually abused...."
The e-mail is from a person named Bill Fields and bears the subject title "Catholics and the Baptist General Conference?"
The situation Mr. Fields refers to was anything but a cover-up. Approximately eight years ago, an associate pastor had two offenses uncovered from an earlier ministry. He repented publicly (pmi: see transcript of the confession from the church meeting that Rev. Massey identifies at http://www.peacemakers.net/clergysexualabuse/theconfession.htm) before two congregations, the congregation where the offenses were uncovered and the congregation where they were committed. He was removed from ministry and he surrendered his ordination. He went through an extensive process of counseling and accountability to a restoration team. Over a six-year period he was gradually restored to a pastoral role and was reordained. This was all done openly and publicly. Two District Executive Ministers were fully aware of the details of this situation and we would be willing to forward any questions you might have to them.
Mr. Fields refers to "presidential candidate: Dr. Jerry Sheveland" in a way that could imply that Dr. Sheveland was the offender. That is not the case.
Dr. Sheveland has never committed or been accused of such an offense.
It might be helpful to know that Ken Sande's organization, Peacemaker Ministries, disavows any association with Bill Fields. Mr. Fields is well known for making e-mail charges against reputable organizations such as Focus on the Family and Willow Creek Church.
This is the second unauthorized use of our BGC e-mail list by Mr. Fields. When this was first sent (11 months ago) we responded publicly and this evidently did not satisfy Mr. Fields.
Please give me a call if you need further clarification. My BGC phone number is 800-323-4215. If I am not in the office, please leave a message and I will return your call. Thanks.
On behalf of the Baptist General Conference,
Dr. Rich Massey, Director of Pastoral Care
****************
"In talking with the (denomination's name omitted) leadership,
I discover that this situation has been carefully and Biblically handled
(pmi
note: this was said about a case that was handled like those above).
I am bothered that you would obtain e-mail addresses without permission
and carry out a slanderous campaign."
****************
You are being very careful not to disclose any more information regarding
the case that was sighted. I am encouraged by that to continue. (pmi: Rest
of email deleted because respondent was concerned how others would read
his comments.)
***************
please do not stop asking the questions and seeking to do right. I
have seen the result of a young man being fondled in a (name removed) church
and the board and pastor in attempting to do the right thing--drove away
the young man and hardened his heart. I remained in the church but have
had a frustration at the "churches attempts at returning the erring deacon"
and loosing generations of a family. I also know that this young man probably
was not the only perosn that it happened to... please do not stop trying
to establish the "right" thing to do. stopping a sin and restoring the
victim should be highest priority.
***************
Upon hearing of a Clergy Child Sexual abuse case
he writes..."I have some concerns about the process as you describe
it which has been carried out. If the person in question has just
bluffed his way through a repentance and restoration process he needs to
be hung up by you know what. He needs to be totally out of the ministry.
We must not hide our dirty laundry but must do some of our housekeeping
in public. But....
I also think that the public square has dictated the terms of that which is today considered sexual abuse and sexual harassment and that which must be done to and for such persons. Political correctness has almost eliminated sanctified common sense in some of these areas.
After taking to the leaders he now writes..."I believe I have heard an adequate explination of the situation from HQ. Unfortunately it appears that you have twisted and misrepresented the facts in this case. (pmi note: this was said about a case that was handled like those above)
****************
I don't know the intent of your e-mail. It may be a self-serving means of making your name and organization known broadly in the (denomination's name removed) so you can help deal with these matters correctly in the future. It may be a research project to see how (denomination's name removed) pastors and leaders with e-mail would handle such a situation. It may be another of the ememies mechanisms for causing division and distrust of (denomination's name removed) leadership. Obviously, you are not seeking council from every person in the (denomination's name removed) as to how you should help this church, this perpetrator, and his victims ... you are the professional according to yourweb sites.
So, what are your goals, intentions, and purposes for broadly mailing this kind of accusatory letter?
****************
I was going to respond to #1. But then decided not to, thinking you would get some responses, drop the emails and proceed with life. Then came emails 2 and 3.
So I now must respond. Sending #1 was inappropriate enough, but with others following, it seems you can't let go of something. And that disturbs me. I am not even clear what in the world you are looking for, but you are keeping alive something that one normally finds in the tabloids. I find it most likely to imagine that somewhere in your electronic chain someone already has put two and two together and the identity of the perpetrator is known now, but was not before. Whether that is good of bad, I cannot judge.
You seem to be asking for feedback and comment on what is a very complex matter. Resolving it (if that is even what you believe needs to be done) is not as simple as applying some text of scripture, honorable as that sounds. That is simplistic.
Some highly respected persons have addressed sexual misconduct by individuals in positions of trust and power. There is a body of valuable contemporary literature to help us understand the nature, scope and responsible resolutions to these situations.
I found it highly inappropriate to use the internet to engage in an electronic discussion of a matter I deem very sensitive and potentially destructive. To me it seems you have used the email world as a substitute for what should be a circumspect, albeit legal or ecclesiastical process. In some sense I view you wide spread distribution to a host of unknown addressees as electronic rumor spreading.
Situation such as you describe usually require professional intervention or legal intervention, depending on the facts.
If you are not familiar with the following, I recommend them for your edification.
a. Sex in the Parish by Karen Lebacqz and Ronald G. Barton
b. Betrayal of Trust, Sexual Misconduct in the Pastorate by Stanley
J Grenz and Roy D Bell
c. Is Nothing Sacred by Marie M Fortune
d. Sex in the Forbidden Zone, When Men in Power - Therapists,
Doctors, Clergy, Teachers, and Others - Betray Women's Trust by Peter
Rutter, M.D.
You may respond to me personally, if you want. But please do not send me any more chapters in this sad saga. In fact, I hope you put it to bed and cease spreading further details and analysis.
***********************
WHY ARE YOU BUTTING INTO THIS AT THIS LATE DATE? FOR THAT MATTER,
WHY ARE YOU BUTTING INTO THIS AT ALL? From what you said in your
first letter, the matter is more than 16 years old. It was dealt
with, apparently not to your satisfaction, but that is a matter of judgment
and none of your business. You are merely stirring up trouble for
a man who had a serious offense but apparently it was dealt with.
I do not see it is really your business. (pmi:
the criminal sexual child abuse, 1. As you may know the time of the
abuse, and the abuse coming to light, and the appropriate vs. inappropriate
disposition of the case can have quite different dates...calling the case
XX years old can not accurately represent
any such case. 2. If the criminal sexual
child abuses has not been Biblically repented then the case is still current/open.)
***********************
I am a (denomination's name removed) pastor and I know there is no
easy way through this one. The only caution with going to authorities is
that the media would get a hold of it and put their twist on it. The goal
is to help the perpetrator and more so
to help any past victims. I would contact tha pastors in his previous
ministries so that they could be aware as well as churches where he is
looking at serving in the future. God forgives and so do we BUT when there
is a real question of repentance we need to be wise.
***********************
Thanks for asking ...
Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence
and possible sexual abuse victim-without your knowledge? ABSOLUTELY NOT
Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities? It would take
me about 10 seconds to call the authorities ...
the amount of time to look up their phone number ...Is there a potential
of lawsuit ... YES ....
Would I do it anyway? YES
Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might
pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes?
YES ... BUT you need legal counsel as to HOW to do this ... it is tricky
in our society
Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate? NO! YES ... BUT you need legal counsel as to HOW to do this ... it is tricky in our society
Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual crimes in their midst? YES ... it would be ideal if there were a PUBLIC document ... like a newspaper article ... or court document that you could issue without comment.
What would you do (if you knew this information) as an individual
who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do? I would
... and I HAVE ... confronted this kind of information in the past ...
i.e. An club boy's leader on a campout ... reported ... dismissed
... court ordered restraining order to stay away from the church in (city
removed) in the 1980s
*****************
In regards to 1 Tim. 5:19-20, check the original language and the tenses
of the verbs in particular. This is where several well intending
individuals misinterpret 1 Tim. 5:19-20.
"Them that sin" (tous hamartanontas): this is a present active
participle meaning those who continue in a pattern of sinful behavior.
Behavior in the distant past that has been repented of is not included
in 1 Tim. 5:19-20. The NASB properly translates it: (1 Tim
5:19-20 NASB) "Do not receive an accusation against an elder except
on the basis of two or three witnesses. {20} Those who continue in sin,
rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also may be fearful of
sinning."
I take discipline seriously and practice it carefully in our congregation.
There are 3 major mistakes believers make: 1) not taking discipline
seriously and following the Scripture; 2) over-reacting beyond what the
Scripture says; and 3) attempting to judge something that is out of their
realm of responsibility and where they are unable to properly get the full
story.
****************
I believe you have started a much needed discussion within our denomination.
What should discipline of our brother in Christ look like? In the case
you sighted there may be bits of information that have some bearing that
would make it difficult to judge inside the church (I Cor. 5:12-13), but
as a topic there is enough for us to discuss and hopefully a conclusion
will come
out for our denomination. Are we righteous in our dealings with sin
and the brother in sin?
If the perpetrator has admitted and there is no reason to believe that his confession was in any way coerced, then certainly the question should then focus on his repentance and spiritual restitution. As indicated, this phase of the process was not sufficient. We have to trust this for our discussion.
However, I believe I Cor. 5 makes it clear that as a body of believers
who have in our midst the spirit and power of our Lord Jesus, we need to
be swift to take action, whether to hand him over to Satan or simply to
cast him out of our midst. Paul did not tell us to discuss the situation,
mull over it, let it digest and then act. He certainly calls us to pray
and to discern the will of God in all things, but I believe he is calling
us to be swift which would indicate that we have a plan or policy if you
will. We
should know how to deal with sin of this nature and not shy away from
dealing with it. We (this particular church and the denomination) risk
our testimony and the spiritual health of the church body if we do not
rebuke our brother who sins in some public fashion. We also sin against
our brother. It is better that the sinful nature be purged in a radical,
and yes, sometimes very painful way than to let the nature fester and perhaps
take others with it.
In chapter 2 and verse 6 of II Corinthians, Paul says "The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient for him." This to me points to either a policy which has been adopted by the body at large, or a public knowledge of the sin displayed before the body. In this case it does not seem to be the case. The statements "all's well says his home church and the (denomination's name removed)." and "It was covered-up the congregation knows nothing of the specific nature and facts of the Youth Pastor's criminal child sexual abuse." lead me to believe there was no decision by the majority and thus no sufficient punishment inflicted by them. I am not sure in what form this punishment would have been back then, but I think today it would be close to if not handing the case over to the public authorities.
The other element of this that we gloss over, or do not put into practice is love. Just because someone sins and repents, there are still consequences that must be dealt with. Just as our children need to learn that if guilty of stealing candy, there are certain actions that must follow. An apology must come and that is followed by a spanking or revoked privilege, such as no candy for a week. We still love the child throughout the process! But the child's view and possibly someone outside the realm of responsibility for that child may not always understand the bond of love that remains. Because of this, the parent or church in this case is wary of opening itself up to public scrutiny. It is easier to melt the sin away and not radically purge it. I believe scripture calls us to surgery. The church's plan or policy must however include the healing and administering of our love.
I do not overlook the element of forgiveness, however, in our forgiving we must not lose sight of the devils schemes. Let us not open up ourselves, our churches, or denominations to the demons that prey on our weaknesses. "Keep yourself pure." I Tim 5:22b.
*****************
Have you ever sat on a Restoration Team or been involved in a Restoration Process? I have. To my surprise, the candidates seldom are penitent, contrite or honest in their dealings regarding these sins. I have discoverd that these pastors have repeated their sins at each new ministry assignment until they have been caught. Often new boldness comes with each affair and of course the sinner has a rationalization to explain why he did this.
Congregations often excuse their sins and want them to stay. Some in the membership understand the gravity of the sin and abuses and want the person to either come clean in repentance or to leave. It becomes divisive and painful.
I don't remember when I have been more disturbed doing ministry than when I have served on a Restoration process. I literally went home in the eveing ill, unable to eat and or sleep. Never did I ever feel that all the cards were out on the table. This was publicly replayed in the life of Bill Clinton.
Yes, these have been (denomination's name removed) pastors. No, these are not stories or parables.
Thank you for raising the issue.
**********************
Keep speaking the truth in love. When Jesus or the Apostles spoke the truth it esxcalated the conflict. To them the truth was the most important thing. Truth is a difficult thing accept in our post modern world of tolerance. Unfortunately this speculation is alive in churches too.
**********************
Since receiving your e-mail on sexual abuse, I've had discussions with my wife and one other minister. Here's a summary of my experience over the years with this matter.
In talking with the Minister of Education from this church he recounted a few occasions when sexual abuse occurred in the churches he served. Usually, the perpetrator immediately resigned his position in the church. I am aware off no further action against these ministers.
You have asked a difficult questions because
of the many variables that would present themselves when a minister on
staff commits any form of sexual abuse. There is a school of thought
that believes that a perpetrator of child sexual abuse cannot be cured.
If this is true, then immediate removal of the minister from his position
would be indicated. Counseling should be strongly advised with the
possibility of him never being alone with a child in ministry again.
I would encourage the child's family to take any legal action necessary.
Depending upon the circumstances, I may or may not inform the congregation.
If the minister plans on seeking employment in another church as a youth
pastor without a period of counseling, I would
inform the HQ.
I believe God can change anybody's behavior, even sexual predators. In this case, in addition to counseling, there indeed should be repentance, reconciliation, restoration and even restitution. My view has always been that the reconciliation should take place with those who are aware of the situation. If the congregation is unaware of this minister's sin, I don't necessarily feel that they have to be brought into this. The whole idea is to restore this man to fellowship not to humiliate him. The important thing is that he really wants to make things right, beginning with repentance.
********************
Obviously, I do not know all that is involved. However, here is some input which can be compared to others and influence those who do have responsibility.
One wise counselor is all that is needed (1 Cor 6:5). He may well have already done some of the things your readers will suggest.
The goal ought to be for the good of the body of Christ (2 Cor. 7:12).Therefore the counselor responsible has to look beyond the perpetrator and victim.
A clearly defined and confessed sin by an elder requires openness (1 Tim.5:20). It should be a deterrent to onlookers. Therefore, I believe the church(es) should know what happened as specifically as known to anyone without titillation or drama. This would be the churches wherever the man is attending or will attend.
We do know lay men who have sinned. We as a group (deacons and
elders) discussed it with them and prayed with them. There is forgiveness
and opportunity for service. But, there are rules. There are
places and things they may not go or do (involving children). Forgiveness
does not mean pardon, accountability is helpful. When they refused
accountability and
move on, we call the pastor of the church they are attending and fill
them in. I believe your example should be a layman from now on.
You seem to suggest victim hood. That I believe is the responsibility of the counselor to follow up not the church body.
The authorities should be contacted, they do not seem to be able to do much, however. It is mandated where we live.
Last week a Christian school administrator took an 11 year old to Las Vegas. It was a case of no accountability. The father in law was formerly the pastor of this Independent (non accountable) Church. He had a problem, but it was not dealt with, and in their opinion led directly to the national scandal of last week. Quietly, papering over a problem engenders more problems.
I know that you will get very similar inputs, and I know I am not an expert counselor. I hope these ideas in a group consensus will help the church body of the (denomination's name removed).
****************
Take care not to get defensive or overwhelmed by the rush of answers
that obviously would come to you resulting from a widely circulated letter
on a sore-spot subject in the (denomination's name removed). Look
for the Biblical truths brought up
that - in my case - I laid out for you to consider, not to assume was
either a compliment or rebuke. Just assume that most of us had that
in mind.
Maybe this particular situation in itself is not a pivot-causing decision. But it brings to the mind of all of us the underlying problems that go way back to what Paul wrote the Corinthians, introduced in I Cor 5, and then just naturally followed up on in chs 6 & 7.
Hopefully all of us can look a little at all of this, ending with what
James had to say at the end of James 3 where he talked about 2 types of
wisdom ---and I know you either know these texts or will do as the Bereans
did (Acts 17) after Paul offered a teaching reflecting several existing
Scriptures. They digested those teachings until they felt they knew whether
Paul was on
target or not.
To me that is what the (denomination's name removed) "influence-specialists" must do as to the degree to which we are carried along by society's standards. James summarizes this problem this way in 3:17-18 - a statement that ends ---"Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness."
I believe you are in a position to guide some very productive thinking that could lead to this end product.
**************
Here are my views. In all of this I am asuming that the abused person is now an adult and that the fact the abuse can be verified adequately.
1. The victim of the abuse must be willing to seek resolution of the matter even if it is difficult. No one can take her place. If she is not willing to proceed until satisfactory resolution is found then it should not be started.
2. Someone competent in these matters should determine if the abused person's complaint is valid. You said that the church and (denomination's name removed) took some steps. There was counseling. Did the abused person initially agree with the steps taken and later felt they were not adequate? If the complaints are valid the abused person should be encouraged to proceed.
3. The abused person should inform the church and the (denomination's name removed) of the nature of her complaints and her desire for its resolution. She should inform the (denomination's name removed) and the church of the specific actions that are desired. I would hope that she is willing to submit the matter to a Chrisitain arbitration group to ajudicate the proposals.
4. If there is no statue of limitations on child abuse in the state in which it occured, and if there is a legal obligation to report all such matters (as there is in my state), there is a Biblical and moral responsibility to report the crime. The church should encourage the abuser to seek legal counsel and act in accordance with the law. If this is refused the abused woman should report the crime. If she is not willing to report it or testify concerning the abuse I would not proceed.
5. While I do not believe that the congregation has the right to know
every detail of the past lives of its leaders, some facts about a person's
past are germaine to the performance of their duties as a pastor. Child
abuse would be such an item. Our employment forms at the church ask specific
questions concerning abuse, physical and sexual. Also, the abuse occured
during the time of employment at the church. Public leadership carries
a higher standard of accoutability. A discipline process which keeps the
abuse secret from the congregation is inadequate. In all likelihood the
revelation of this kind of abuse would end any pastoral career. It still
would need to be done.
6. A church places itself in a doubly bad position by allowing an abuser to continue in ministry without a public process of discipline and restoration. First, it tells the victim that the church is not serious about protecting her or other children. Second, it sets the church up for serious legal and financial penalties if the abuse becomes known and there is litigation.
I do not know too what extent these convictions apply to your speciific case. I hope there will be careful evaluation of the matter before anything is done publically. I will also inform the director of pastoral care for the (denomination's name removed) that we have communicated. I hope these thought may be of help.
**************
>Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence
and possible sexual abuse victim-without your knowledge? NO
>
>Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities? BY ALL MEANS!!!
A man like this needs to face the justice of the land. It does not
pay as a church to hide this kind of sin from the public. It doesn't
work.
>
>Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might
pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes? YES
>
>Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate? NO, NO, NO.
>
>Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual
crimes in their midst? YES.
>
>What would you do (if you knew this information)as an individual who
professes being a Christian? What should your home church do? First responsibility
is to the offended parties. Counsel. Pray. If the church fails
to act decisively, the church could be open to legal action. Check
with Pastor (name removed). A pastor got involved with a teen age
girl. Because the church did not respond effectively to the parents
of the girl, a suit was filed against the church for emotional damages.
I believe the church settled out of court for $ xxx,xxx.xx. This
caused a lot of problems in the church, several families left the church.
>
>Please let me know your Biblical principles and practices... In Christ,
Coupled with the statement by Jesus, "Better that a millstone be hung around
the neck...." should be the process of forgiveness as outlined in Matt.18.
The Lord give you guidance, wisdom and courage.
**************
Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities? YES
Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes? YES, BUT THEY DO NOT NEED TO BE TOLD ALL THE DETAILS.
Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate? NO, SEXUAL OFFENDERS DO NOT "RECOVER" AND GIVEN THE NATURE OF THE MINISTRY HE WOULD BE PUT IN POSITION IN WHICH HE WOULD AGAIN BE TEMPTED AND POTENTIALLY HURT ANOTHER.
Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual crimes in their midst? PREVIOUS CHURCHES NO UNLESS THERE IS A COMPELLING REASON WHY.
What would you do (if you knew this information)as an individual who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do? TAKE ACTION BUT CONTINUE TO LOVE AND SEEK RESTORATION INTO THE CHURCH FAMILY BUT WITH COUNSELING.
***************
Your characterization of the (denomination's name removed) as
saying it's okay and joining in some kind of cover-up is bothersome.
I'd like to know the facts which led you to that damning characterization.
***************
It is very difficult to respond to your questions with the limited
amount of information that was given in the email I recieved from you.
As a pastor who has counseled with many young people and with other pastors/youth pastors I am concerned that I really don't have a complete picture of the situation and that my response could be used in a manner that I would not agree with or be comfortable with. However, I am willing to respond to your questions if you agree to keep my response entirely confidential and you make note of the fact that I feel the information you have given is very limited.
***************
Obviously, no counselor will deal with this by email, and even in person will not tackle anything but the parable teaching of it.
It goes without saying that this is one of far too many similar situations within the Christian community. And our (denomination's name removed) with its desire to relate to a contemporary society places its pastors in the line of all the temptations our society can bring up. This does not excuse any of us any more than Adam and Eve were excused for first disbelieving and then disobeying God --- So regardless what we do as American citizens who might tell one another to give unto Caesar what is due Caesar as far as punishment goes, we still have I Cor 6 that asks us if in our own circles we don't have those who can deal with such matters that as Americans we would do to the courts. . Paul neverencourages us to take anyone to court.
So, you do bring all of this before us and what we do about it will be a mix of Christian conviction, parental supervision, church reaction, and citizen responsibility. ---- and you ask us to speak as (denomination's name removed) Christian workers.
There is no question that we need to teach our people quite clearly the will of God in the matter. In I Cor 7 Paul taught the younger generation that it was better to be like him and avoid the opposite sex from a sexual standpoint, but if you can't do that, then, get married and do it right.
But Paul in all of that three chapter handling of the subject - beginning with chapter 5 - does not suggest at what point the believer turns people over to civil authorities. He did say to break fellowship - temporarily -with the offender of chapter 5. But even then there was a restoration with the fellowship that was to be administrated after a time. ------ But you concern is a 15 years old or older charge. Who can really know all the facts after 15 or more years, and as a Christian body know all who need to be put up for scrutiny from that situation? --- In that question I am not revealing what I think we should do in this case. I am asking a real question. How thorough can we be in bringing all factors together and truly becoming a representative of Christ exercising proper judgment to those who were some part of the picture? To what extent can the courts or a jury of our peers restructure a scene from a day gone by and judge it properly.
Yes, you have a rattlesnake by the tail, and the average person does
not know how to control it without killing it. I would simply say
that what we have from Scripture is I Cor 5, plus the court teaching of
chapter 6 and the sex teaching of 7 to guide our thinking. But we
have no answer from Scripture other than what Paul takes several chapters
to lay out. All other
Scripture dealing with something like this assumes the reader is aware
of other factors than what are stated. And none of it calls for fellow
Christians to be any more judgmental than what we read in ch 5 -- A separation
created by a I Cor 5 teaching does run its course and as seen in 11 Cor
2-5:11 does end and a working relationship is to be restored ---restoration
depending on repentance and all as also seen in the case of the young son
of Luke 15. -------- We as a fellowship have not really felt it is
necessary to "come out from among them and be separate"
so we really shouldn't be reactionaries here if per chance our own approach
to the society of which we are a part is a stumbling stone we place in
the pathway of our workers.
****************
Hi Bill,
Ouch. The church blew it big-time on that one, and who know what other sins have been ignored over the years?
You asked for a Biblical response. I believe that any pastor is an elder, since elders are commanded to "shepherd" God's flock (Acts 20:28, 1 Pet.5:2). Elder and overseer are the same in Scripture. I will try to answer however in a broad enough manner to apply to those who would consider a youth pastor a kind of deacon.
First, his pattern of lying and only "repenting" of each case of immorality as the truth came out shows that he had not repented at all. He should be pressed for full disclosure of his previous sins by the church leadership.
Second, the Scriptures tell us that both overseers and deacons must be "one-woman men" (1 Tim. 3:2, 12) His fornication (or adultery--was he married?) disqualifies him from leadership. The church should have removed him from his position when his sins were confirmed. Incidentally, that requires more than a single witness (1 Tim. 5:19).
Third, the Scriptures command us to "restore" those who have been caught
in sin, and to do so "in a spirit of gentleness" (Gal. 6:1). The
goal is not to shame or to punish the man, but to come alongside him and
help him face and overcome his sin. The church did well to send him
to (Biblical?) counseling. There should also be man-to-man accountability
established with
a church leader to encourage him. If he responded well to confrontation,
there is no need to remove him from the church's membership (Matt.18:15-17).
But restoration to spirituality is not the same as restoration
to leadership, because...
Fourth, the Scriptures tell us that overseers must be "above reproach" (1 Tim. 3:2, Titus 1:6-7) and "have a good reputation" (1 Tim. 3:7). Deacons also must be "tested" and "beyond reproach" (1 Tim. 3:10). This indicates that leadership requires a solid history of integrity. To restore a man too quickly to leadership after fornication dishonors God's holiness. I believe that he could one day be restored to spiritual leadership, but only after a period of demonstrable integrity that should be measured in years, not days. In this particular case, his "false repentance" raises enough doubts about even his current repentance that I would never, never place him again in a ministry involving children.
Some of the questions you raised I am not sure how to answer. Should he be reported to the authorities? He has committed a crime. I think the responsibility of the church leadership would be to urge the injured party to report it to the authorities, and if/when he repents, to tell him it is his duty to turn himself in. Realistically, neither the victim nor the sinner will want to do so. If the victim is reporting an sin that is presently continuing, then the leadership is certainly responsible to contact the authorities, and pronto.
The questions about notifying the church and other churches about past offenses are also more difficult. Since they should have removed him from office, they would have to name the sin before the church, be it adultery, fornication, etc. The specifics are less important, and especially the name of the victims should not be disclosed. Certainly if he attempts to pastor another church in the future, that church's leadership or search committee should be notified that he was disciplined, removed from office, and again the sin (without specifics) should be named. At the same time, the church leadership should be careful not to gossip or slander the man by speaking too broadly outside of the church member or by going into details. I do not see much benefit in notifying churches where he previously pastored, unless he tries to return there.
That's my position, as best I understand God's revealed requirements.
As I contemplate the situation, two things scare me. First, it's
too easy just to let it slide, even when you know what the Word says.
But we will one day be called to account by the Living God, and the fear
of God must guide our decisions. We pastors need to lead our leadership
teams to practice Matthew 18 in small sins, so we will be prepared for
the tragedies. Second, that man's sin--or something just as
serious--could be mine one day. I am not so different from him.
May we all guard our steps, and may God rescue us from
the deceitfulness of sin.
Oh God, rescue your servants from temptations to fornication and adultery!
For Your name's sake! For Your name's sake!
************
One, we are not a denomination but a fellowship of independent churches. AS such, we must allow the individual churches to deal with their own problems no matter how serious. Two, facts are seldom exactly as they are reported and can be distorted. I do not deny what you report MAY be fully accurate but only those involved KNOW all the facts and can weigh them against rumor and innuendo. Even where there may be past court records that is still the case I would suggest you contact the current pastor of the church privately. Then, in light of that conversation possibly you might contact the district exec ALONG WITH the current pastor of the church. Do not go behind his back. That is not your place and not ethical. Then, the matter is theirs to handle, not yours.
*******************
Responding to your questions:
Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence and possible sexual abuse victim-without your knowledge? No.
Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities? Some states already have laws about this. Depending on the nature of the misconduct, this would need to be made known.
Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes? Absolutely. Even if there is public repentance and restoration some day, this will always need to be communicated whenever he changes ministries.
Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate? No, of course not. He no longer is qualified, by virtue of 1 Tim.3, for he is not "above reproach," doesn't manage his life or family well, and lacks the good report of the community.
Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual crimes in their midst? Yes! Absolutely. These crimes may have been committed elsewhere.
What would you do (if you knew this information)as an individual who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do? Remove him immediately and tell the church why. Ask people to pray for his healing. Give him a severance package...salary and health care for 2 months. Help support him by paying a percentage of his counseling for a period of time.
***************
I dealt with a many year cover-up in my church when
I became the pastor. The former pastor, and the head elder were involved
in the cover-up. The congregation was not informed of the (stated
sin) of the current staff member when he was hired years previously.
God is truth. God only works through the truth. The Father of Lies is Satan himself and he has always justified and twisted and deceived. Therefore, I asked the man to confess before the congregation as well as write a letter to all members and regular attendees of his status as a (stated sin). This created shockwaves, but thank God he was repentant and the Holy Spirit has done a major work in his life and the life of the church. The former senior pastor was less so, perhaps in time he will come to grips with the issue. Although he too asked for a time of apology before the entire congregation, he did not use proper language and inserted :if" and "but" into his request for forgiveness. The response of the people was like night and day to these two events. The head elder is senile and cannot remember his part.
Needless to say, the church must know. They elect the staff in the (denomination's name removed). The (denomination's name removed) is not authoritative in such matters and does not hire, fire, or ordain, or license. The church must deal with the issue beforethe body of Christ and determine whether the man has repented, confessed and ought to be restored. The church should determine, based on scripture, if he can continue to serve.
We have a standing policy that if a man has been found guilty of this offense, then he must not work with children or youth again. God has other ministry for him to do.
*******************
Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence
and possible sexual abuse victim-without your knowledge?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities?
ABSOLUTELY!
Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes?
ABSOLUTELY!
Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate?
NO! By the nature of his office this MUST be made public!
Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual crimes in their midst?
YES!
What would you do (if you knew this information)as an individual who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do?
Church discipline should be followed according to Matthew 18 and Galatians 6. Furthermore if the home churches refuse to do anything about this ... THEY should be removed from our fellowship as a church.
This method has to be done in a loving, but firm, manner. See Jay Adams book on Church Discipline. It is not "loving" to put the interest of one person over the interests of many people. This person should be immediately removed from the pastorate, perhaps arrested, serve jail time, receive counselling, and probably never, ever be allowed to work with youth/children again and probably never be allowed with the sacred trust of a pastorate.
At some point he could serve the Lord in other capacities as a lay person in the church but probably not for some time.
All of these answers are based on the assumption that what you have shared is true and accurate. You would have to make very, very sure that it is completely true.
I think there is an appropriate quote that goes something
like this:
"When good men do nothing, evil prevails." We as Christians and
members of the (denomination's name removed) must not do "nothing"
any longer. With these issues and others...
****************
WOW! No way to answer your request in a short letter. I believe that the issues that were listed would disqualify a man for ministry. Yes, as Christ's body we need to work toward forgiveness and reconciliation in cases like this - but forgiveness and reconciliation do not necessarily bring along with them trust. In the beginning of Matthew 18 Jesus speaks very forcefully about causing a little one to stumble.
I am hesitant to write much more than this - but I do believe that laws have been broken and again, while we need to work toward forgiveness and reconciliation that does not mean we remove all consequences for the actions. The children involved have ongoing consequences in their lives, and it is not loving for us to allow a (so-called) brother in Christ to behavior in this manner and then not realize that there should be consequences in his life as well.
This is hard for me. But I do believe that the most loving thing to do both for the perpetrator and for the victims is to offer forgiveness but also allow the law to impose consequences - and I do believe trust has been violated, so I do not believe forgiveness brings with it a totally renewed trust.
*************
no, I would not want my child under the spiritual care/influence of this pastor. In fact, I would be quite livid if I learned that my son was exposed to him and people in the church (deacons, leaders) knew about it.
If there is no sense of repentance, I think the issue becomes crystal clear -- he should be reported to authorities. Actions produce consequences. By not reporting, this increases the likelihood that this guy will have opportunity to abuse others. That's not right. I would say -- follow I Cor. 5.
Future church staffs ought to know this guy's issues, but I really don't see how he can/should remain in the pastorate. Pedophiles especially have a tremendous tendency to remain tied to this behavior.
As long as you ask it, yes -- notify previous churches. There could be hurting people in those churches because of the actions of this man. Many victims of abuse face difficulties as they begin to deal with their issues -- from being believed to working out their feelings. This is already hard enough for the victim. If it became known that this pastor has a history of abuse, it could give some victims the courage or affirmation to come forward.
Your last question is a little unclear. If I knew a youth pastor
had a history of abuse or had abused kids in the group, I would confront
him to come forward and divulge that behavior or I would. He should
immediately be suspended from his ministry while leaders investigate what
took place. If he had a history from a prior church or a background
prior to conversion, he
should still not be working with a group for which he has inappropriate
feelings. Better to have him operate in another area of the church.
**************
I knew a pastor who had molested all of his daughter's. Thank the Lord he had left the ministry. His sin or illness, whichever it may be, has caused untold misery and has reached out to a wide number of people, now to two generations.
I don't think you need any biblical grounds for taking action that will prevent this man from being in pastoral contact with young girls or women. Good sense dictates taking that action. Statistics show that the recovery rate and lasting change, even with highly motivated sexual addicts, is very poor. This man should be offered the opportunity for therapy, but, please take steps to prevent him hurting others in the future.
****************
It is imporatant to me to have this abuse documented. The statements you make are very serious and demand documentation and substantiation.
Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence and possible sexual abuse victim-without your knowledge?
Absolutely not. We have initiated a "Reducing the Risk Program" that requires everyone in our church working with children to undergo a background check to avoid the kind of situations you are describing.
Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities?
Yes, I believe that the action was criminal and cannot be handled in house.
Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes? Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate?
The churches should be alerted and this man should be prevented from further pastoral ministry. I believe he has permanently disqualified himself from pastoral ministry.
Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual crimes in their midst?
Yes. The leaders of the church must communicate to the church congregation what has taken place and take steps to address the unknown victims that might emerge.
What would you do (if you knew this information)as an individual who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do?
We would exercise church discipline and seek a process of personal restoration
to fellowship but would not allow him to pursue restoration to ministry.
This is not just theory. Years ago we dismissed and disciplined an
associate pastor for immorality. God honored the process we used
and the church recovered completely, new members were added as a result
of
following Biblical Church discipline, and the man is now going through
a process of personal restoration.
**************
Are you in conversation with the leadership of the church in which this youth pastor serves now? Or, do you have any information about whether that church (or a previous church where he served when the misconduct occurred) is(are) willing to take action about the case(s)? Your first note says that "the home church declares that 'all is well.'" By "home church" do you mean that he is originally from this church, on staff at this church, or that he's out of ministry and simply a member of this "home church"? Have you talked with them directly, or is your report about "all is well" third or fourth hand info? Is the victim (or are the victims) ready and willing to press charges? Are you aware of where this man is now, and whether the (denomination's name removed) district minister is informed about this issue?
As you probably know, Bill, under congregational polity, it can be very frustrating and difficult to get a particular local church to move on many of these cases. You're fully aware that we don't have "a bishop" or other hiearchical system to force the local autonomous church's hand. So, it's often simply a matter of how persuasive one can be, or how much they're ready to listen to the reasons/need to act.
On the other hand, once a case like this gets into court (either criminal
or civil), the church's leadership is suddenly forced to act in some sense.
Alaw suit gets people's attention more powerfully than any other means,
since sizable sums of money can be involved. If the leadership of the church(es)
involved become aware of this economic danger, they are often more willing
to take some steps to investigate and ajudicate.
However, on the negative side, too often it's the case that churches poorly prepared/trained to do an investigation and ajudication that is both faith and thorough, and do it with a clear eye to due process for both sides. Too often, also, when attorneys get involved, the situation gets really dicey in terms of the church process. Attorneys often shut down all communications, sometimes with some legitimate concerns about rumor mills, etc., but also, there's difficulty helping the congregation work through its woundedness, etc. I've seen that in several cases.
One of my big concerns is that too often the victims become revictimized by the ways that churches handle these cases. Their identity and reputation gets dragged into public eyes, and they suffer over and over. Any process that is put together needs to have supreme care for injustice in this regard.
I took a quick look at your web sites, and have only that brief introduction to who you are. I can see that you have some background in being victimized yourself, so that your concerns are powerfully motivated from that standpoint. God be with you in the process of helping to guide you and give you discernment, wisdom and compassion.
****************
Bill, I was forwarded your e-mail about the youth pastor. I believe that your e-mail raises more questions for me than answers but answering these questions helps provide direction for the situation.
How does the church handle sin? (most churches don't deal with sin very well at all)
What are the consequences of sin? (unfruitfulness, and a broken relationship with God)
Does sin disqualify a pastor if he confesses it?
What is the purpose of discipline? restoration of the person to God, reconciliation of broken earthly relationships
When does the church exercise discipline? private sin? public sin?
Based on what you shared with me it sounds like this is known publicly
and needs to be dealt with openly.
If the youth pastor shows remorse, confession and repentance it would
be a wonderful testimony to restore him.
If the youth pastor does not show remorse I would think that removing him from his ministry position would be appropriate.
What are the consequences for the church if they do not discipline this pastor?
What happens to his walk with God?
What happens to his marriage if he is married?
If the church chooses to cover this up they will face God's consequences and the youth pastor continues to live a lie.
We are not called to be perfect but we are called to deal honestly with sin.
This is a huge issue for this church.
Here is a question? Who was the youth pastor accountable to? If there was not an accountability relationship that was a istake.
if there was an accountability plan those people should deal with this
issue. It is serious to me and needs to be handled prayerfully, honestly
and directly. The immediate temptation is to say that our attendance
will go down and people who weren't involved don't need to know.
You know what, when I discipline my children I don't spank them in front
of them but they sure
know when their brother or sister is being disciplined.
Here is another question. If this guy worked with the local community youth program, would he keep his job if this came out? I doubt it. Are there criminal charges pending? So can the world be more honest than the church? in some cases yes. That is unfortunate. We don't have to be afraid of sin because we know the answer. Confession, repentance, and restoration.
What is my biblical basis for this?
How about Galatians 6:1
*******************
You sent a lengthy e-mail to me asking for my opinion about many questions. A (denomination's name removed) youth pastor had abused some children in his care for a number of years, admitted the first case but denied the second. Apparently he shows no remorse or repentance. Should the family and congregation be told? Absolutely as soon as possible. If another child in his care was abused, I would hold you responsible if you knew and did not tell. I do not believe anyone with a history of child abuse should ever return to that area of ministry. That is right, never. God forgives him. There are consequences for his sin and that certainly is one. No more youth or children's ministry in this life. Secondly if he did admit the case, did he not serve time in prison. This is a serious offense. He needs to be in prison. In state where I minister, any one who serves time in jail for a sexual offense must register with the state and then their neighbors are informed. This man should register with the state. Secondly in my state, I know and probably in other states, child sexual abuse is not covered by privilege in the counseling session. The minister is legally responsible to inform the authorities. We are taught here, when one comes into counseling about this law so the client will know before he reveals it. I could go on, but this man should be removed from youth and children's ministry, all families that have children that may be under his leadership should know right away.
******************
Would you like your children/loved ones under the spiritual care/influence
and possible sexual abuse victim-without your knowledge?
No, I would not appreciate that at all!
Should we alert/report this man to the local authorities?
Yes, I would under Wisconsin state law.
Should the future church staff, church members, churches he might pastor be advised of his admitted sexual crimes?
He should be out of the ministry, but yes, definitely it would be our responsibility.
Should this man be allowed to remain in the pastorate?
Absolutely not!
Should previous churches, families etc. be alerted for possible sexual crimes in their midst?
Yes, unfortunately.
What would you do (if you knew this information)as an individual who professes being a Christian? What should your home church do?
Confront him ala Matthew 18; Dismiss him as a pastor; contact authorities; try and get him help; stand by him as a person.
Index
of articles about clergy sexual abuse
recommended
reading about clergy sexual abuse