Dear Editor,

The recent disclosure by a pastor in our community shocked us all as it was revealed that he used his position to abuse and take advantage of a 16-year-old girl. This sin was kept under wraps for 27 years but revealed on Sunday, May 22 at the church and then went viral on the internet, stunning all who have watched around the world. 

Anyone using their position in a church setting to abuse or take advantage of others should be dealt with swift discipline when discovered by congregational leadership and reported to legal authorities. 

I have grieved what has happened because this woman (a victim) has carried this pain. She bravely stood before this man and church with her husband telling how she had been wronged. My heart breaks for how many people are affected by acts unbecoming of Christian leaders, staff or congregants.

In sleepless nights I have spent time asking God for wisdom and words. Micah 6:8 says, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” 

Justice must be served for what has happened. A resignation has been tenured but the process of church discipline and civil law must act on her behalf. But there also needs to be mercy. Many around this pastor are innocent and did not know this was happening including family, friends and church members. 

This woman’s family has watched her struggle, even admitting wanting to take her life. May we show mercy and love. And last to walk humbly with your God. We are all sinners. We all have feet of clay. Many have picked up stones on the internet and in conversation hurling their accusations. Be careful, your sin may be boldly lettered on those stones.

This event, an embarrassment to Warsaw and the Body of Christ, should move us all to take an inventory of our lives. One day, we will stand before the Creator of the Universe to make an accounting. Let us humble ourselves in the presence of His justice and holiness and plead mercy through His Son, Jesus Christ. May we walk humbly with God in repentance, seeking restoration for all in this fallen world.

Please note: In the State of Indiana any individual who has reason to believe that a child (a person under the age of 18) is a victim of child abuse or neglect must make a report by calling the Indiana Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-800-800-5556. You can make the report anonymously. Do not wait for someone else to make the call. Any abuse (including adults) should be reported to church/agency leadership and civil authorities.

Ken Locke
President of Greater Warsaw Ministerial Association