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The recent arrest of a youth pastor at Evergreen Community Church has prompted an official response from church leadership, addressing the situation and the community’s concerns. In a video statement released late Monday, Senior Pastor Mark Collins expressed the church’s commitment to transparency and healing in light of the incident.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of the arrest of our youth pastor, Jamie Turner,” Pastor Collins stated. “While we are still gathering information about the circumstances surrounding the situation, we want to reassure our congregation and the public that we take these matters very seriously.” The church has not disclosed the specific charges against Turner, emphasizing the importance of respecting the legal process.
In the video, Collins extended his thoughts and prayers to those affected, particularly the youth who were under Turner’s care. “Their safety and well-being have always been our top priority,” he added. In light of recent events, the church plans to implement additional training and support for its staff to ensure a safe environment for all members.
The church has urged its community to remain united and support one another during this difficult time. “We encourage open dialogue and offer counseling services for anyone in need of support,” Collins mentioned. As the situation develops, the church remains resolute in its mission and commitment to the youth, stating that they will continue to serve and uplift the community through faith and resilience.
This incident has raised questions about church governance and oversight, with many community members calling for a thorough review of the church’s youth programs. Evergreen Community Church is expected to hold further discussions in the coming weeks as it navigates this challenging period.
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