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In This Issue:
BAPTISTS AND CLERGY
SEXUAL MISCONDUCT
You, too, perhaps read the
recent headlines that the same organization that has been calling
the Roman Catholics to task for past sexual misconduct of priests
has now targeted the Southern Baptist Convention.
The response of SBC officials
was that since the SBC is a "non-connectional" system
and local churches (alone) call their own pastors, the judicatory
cannot be held responsible. As an American Baptist judicatory
leader that would be my response as well.
It is clear, however, that
American Baptists are not immune from sexual misconduct. Our
goal must be to protect all with whom we minister. We must be
vigilant and respond as we might be aware of the potential sexual
misconduct of our colleagues in ministry and our lay leaders.
American Baptists, in this
region and around the nation, have in place a careful "Review
of Ministerial Standing" process for use if and when signed
allegations of misconduct are received. The region commission
on the ministry cannot "defrock" a pastor, cannot
remove a pastor from his/her position, but can remove the recognition
of the ordination.
"An ounce of prevention
. . ." goes a long way. This is the reason ABC/WI has consistently
encouraged pastors to attend workshops related to boundaries.
If you have not attended such a workshop in the past 3-4 years,
please participate in one. (Christos Ministries, 1-866-607-1113
offers these periodically). Soon I believe church insurance
companies will require such training for pastors. Lay leaders
may find this helpful as well.
Another "ounce of prevention"
is background screening. This is recommended to every pulpit
committee and I would strongly recommend it for local churches
for use with their workers with children and youth. While some
will question a lack of trust on the part of the church, we
must all put the lives of our children and youth at the forefront.
Most leaders will understand this as an important process for
the church as it seeks to be diligent in providing top quality
experiences for children and youth.
Arlo R. Reichter
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ABC BIENNIAL/CENTENNIAL
CELEBRATION
June 29-July 2, 2007
Washington, DC
"Arise & Shine"
Isaiah 60:1
Information is available at:
www.abc-usa.org
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BLACK C. E. CONFERENCE
April 19-21, 2007
Columbus, OH
Register NOW at: www.makingnewconnections2007.org
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APRIL
PRAYER FOCUS:
Church:
First Baptist
Hudson
Pastor:
Randy Fredrickson
Spouse: Elaine
Began 06/95
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HOW MUCH?
How much financial support is provided to Project
Focal Point and the Milwaukee Center through the 2007 region
budget?
-$12,400.00
THE AMERICA FOR CHRIST
OFFERING
SUPPORTS THESE MINISTRIES
Thank You!
American Baptist Churches
of Wisconsin
Serving Christ
since 1844
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