Complaints against clergy

Complaints against clergy

The United Methodist Church's practice is to respond to any charges of sex abuse or child abuse swiftly and with compassion for all affected parties. A clergyperson charged with such actions is afforded all the rights of fair process. Based on the nature of the allegations, the accused clergyperson is often relieved of his or her duties while the matter is resolved and always when there is a question of safety. Under no circumstances would a pastor under this kind of complaint be transferred, nor would the church cover up such actions.

"Ordination and membership in an annual conference in the United Methodist Church is a sacred trust," the 2000 Book of Discipline states in a section on complaint procedures. "The qualifications and duties of [clergy] ... are set forth in the Discipline, and we believe they flow from the gospel as taught by Jesus the Christ and proclaimed by his apostles. Whenever a [clergy]person ... is accused of violating this trust, the membership of his or her ministerial office shall be subject to review."

Such reviews are primarily held to resolve any violations of the sacred trust and to further God's work of justice, reconciliation and healing. Complaints about sex abuse are treated seriously and may lead to a church trial if charges are brought after investigation. In addition, church officials are committed to cooperating with law enforcement authorities in cases where the crime of sex abuse may have been committed.