Deacon Pushes For Pastor’s Resignation Amid Investigation

Pastor Steven Smith of Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock is facing calls for resignation after disclosing that a former church leader, Patrick Stephen Miller, was accused of child abuse. A member of the deacon board expressed concerns about Smith’s integrity, leading to calls for his departure. Smith had informed the congregation a month ago about Miller, who served as the assistant director of children’s ministry until January 2016, and the accusations of child abuse.

In response to the situation, Smith assured the congregation in a YouTube sermon that a thorough investigation is underway. The deacon board is leading the investigation, with a focus on understanding the past events and improving the church’s response to such incidents. Smith emphasized the importance of patience during this investigative process and expressed a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Miller, now 37, faced allegations of abusing a child in 2015, but legal actions were delayed until his arrest in December 2018. He was charged with second-degree sexual assault, eventually pleading guilty to misdemeanor harassment in January 2022. Despite Miller resigning a year before Smith became pastor, church leaders were informed of the allegations in March 2016. The situation has prompted reflection on the church’s handling of abuse cases, with Smith acknowledging the need for self-scrutiny and a comprehensive assessment to rebuild trust within the congregation.

While some have called for moving on from the situation, Pastor Smith emphasized that a thorough investigation and assessment are critical for the healing process and the restoration of trust. He thanked the congregation for their patience as the church addresses the issue with diligence and transparency. The situation underscores the challenges faced by the church in responding to allegations of abuse and the importance of accountability in rebuilding community trust.

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