The SBC Executive Committee recently became aware that the Department of Justice has initiated an investigation into the Southern Baptist Convention, and that the investigation will include multiple SBC entities.
Individually and collectively each SBC entity is resolved to fully and completely cooperate with the investigation. While we continue to grieve and lament past mistakes related to sexual abuse, current leaders across the SBC have demonstrated a firm conviction to address those issues of the past and are implementing measures to ensure they are never repeated in the future. The fact that the SBC Executive Committee recently completed a fully transparent investigation is evidence of this commitment.
We recognize our reform efforts are not finished. In fact, those efforts are continuing this very moment as the recently announced Abuse Reform Implementation Task Force begins its work and as each entity has strengthened its efforts to protect against abuse. Our commitment to cooperate with the Department of Justice is born from our demonstrated commitment to transparently address the scourge of sexual abuse.
While so many things in the world are uncertain, we can be certain that we serve a mighty God. Nothing, including this investigation, takes Him by surprise. We take comfort in that and humbly ask you be in prayer in the days and weeks ahead. Specifically, we ask God to grant wisdom and discernment to each person dealing with the investigation.
Daniel L. Akin, President, SEBTS
Jason K. Allen, President, MBTS
Bart Barber, President, SBC
Paul Chitwood, President, IMB
James K. Dew, President, NOBTS
D. Hance Dilbeck Jr., President, Guidestone
Kevin Ezell, President, NAMB
Adam W. Greenway, President, SWBTS
Jeff Iorg, President, Gateway Seminary
Brent Leatherwood, Acting President, ERLC
Ben Mandrell, President Lifeway
Willie D. McLaurin, Interim President, SBC EC
R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, SBTS
Sandra Wisdom-Martin, Exec. Director, WMU