| When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. – Matthew 9:36 Dear Church of the Redeemer, The allegations of abuse at the former diocesan church, Christ our Light Anglican Church in Big Rock, IL, are appalling, grieve us, and grieve the Holy Spirit. The survivors of this abuse suffered the experience of being like sheep without a shepherd through the sins of their abuser and then through subsequent hurt and isolation in their local church. God alone knows the pain and grief which they have endured. Bishop Stewart has decided to temporarily step away from his position of leadership through a leave of absence and submit to Archbishop Foley Beach and ACNA leadership. First, the intervention of provincial leadership in the investigation of abuse and leadership failures is a critical opportunity for the survivors of abuse to receive the compassion of Jesus where it was missed or lacking. Pray that these survivors of abuse may know the compassion of Jesus Christ through his people, particularly our provincial leadership and others whom they involve in the investigation and pastoral care. Second, the opportunity for outside appraisal of Bishop Stewart’s leadership and the accountability structures of our diocese has great potential to build up both his effectiveness as a leader and the long term mission of our diocese. We are confident in the integrity of Archbishop Foley Beach and the leadership of ACNA in their oversight of this process. On a local level at Church of the Redeemer, Deacon Liz has performed a full review of our child and youth safety policies and we are initiating a broad refresh of Ministry Safe training and background checks for vestry, volunteers, staff, and clergy. Within a climate of life-giving Christian fellowship, these practices and policies are designed to promote accountability in care for all children, youth and adults. We are earnest in our desire to fulfill the commitments that we make in the baptismal liturgy to do all in our power to support one another in our life in Christ. Please familiarize yourself with our practices and policies by reading this linked document. In the coming week, we will announce a time to gather later this month to intercede for victims of abuse and for our diocese. We grieve the reality of abuse in this world and especially within the Church. This video testimony by abuse survivor, Rachael Denhollander, is a moving description of both the impact of abuse and the sufficiency of the Gospel to satisfy the need for justice. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” The Lord is our good and faithful shepherd. Come, Lord Jesus! The deacons and I will be available to answer questions one-on-one following this coming Sunday’s service. blessings in Christ, Fr. Paul with Deacon Liz Stewart, Deacon Dawn Lundgren, and Rev. Dr. Edward Combe |
“He had compassion for them.”