Mark Prater Is the Best Choice to Restore Trust and Unity

There were 30 churches in 1995.  Twenty-seven in the United States, two in Mexico and one in the Philippines.  The apostolic team was comprised of C.J., myself, Larry Tomczak, Steve Shank, Paul Palmer and Dave Harvey.  Life was all good.  

Then Larry, Paul and Brent left, Dave “resigned” and C.J. “transitioned.”  Last I heard Steve was a “bishop” (i.e., a regional overseer).  Joshua Harris was supposed to take over SGM this September when C.J. turns 60.  He’s gone.  So too 80 plus leaders who were some of the most gifted and honorable men in the former movement.  More leaders plan to leave.  

Who is left to assume the leadership of SGM?  We now have our answer, Mark Prater.  According to the Executive Committee (a.k.a. Board of Directors), he is the best possible leader in all of SGM.  Mark will serve a four year term as Executive Director.  I quote them. 

Click to read more ...

Louisville-based Sovereign Grace Ministries wants lawsuit ended, says it's shielded from abuse claims

The Louisville-based Sovereign Grace Ministries is arguing that constitutional protections of freedom of religion should shield the denomination from an expanding lawsuit alleging that its demands for unquestioning obedience led to the shielding of sexual predators . 

The plaintiffs in the case are disputing the church’s claims and have filed notice they plan to expand it with additional charges — including one alleging abuse by a Maryland pastor who recently had been chairman of the Sovereign Grace board. 

The lawsuit was originally filed in October 2012 in Montgomery County, Md., the longtime base for the church. 

The lawsuit alleges that the church fostered a climate of fear and unquestioning obedience and that it pressured young victims and families involved with Sovereign Grace churches in Maryland and Virginia to forgive abusive members who had professed repentance and not to report them to police. 

The lawsuit was expanded in January with new allegations. In all, eight plaintiffs are suing, all using pseudonyms. 

Click to read more ...