I know for a fact that there are many wonderful AME pastors. But the one that pastors my friends church sexually harassed her. What is her recourse as a member, and victim.

-- Anonymous, December 25, 2002

Answers

This person should take this matter to to local authorities (Police Departmaent; District Attorny, Etc.) and file appropriate charges. Sexual harrassment is illegal and must be stopped.

BE Blessed, Pastor Paris

-- Anonymous, December 25, 2002

There is a handbook which has been developed to give guidance upon this procedure. Each Episcopal District to my knowledge has spent time and money towards seminars and workshops to deal with this topic. If there are any signs or hints that something of this nature has occurred, it must be reported to the appropriate authorities ( both church and state). This handbook is published by the AME Church and may be obtained via your request.

-- Anonymous, December 25, 2002

I hope your friend turns this over to the police as soon as possible, If you turn it over to the AME church the pastor will get a pat on the hand and then he will get an underserved promotion to a larger church or even to Presiding Elder. I am sorry to say that is the AME way of punishment. Yes there is a great handbook available for this type of behavor, but it's not used. There is also a Discipline for church use and procedures available, but the AME church now dances around it. I pray to God your turn this sick person over to the LAW. I pray in the upcoming new year the AME Church steps up to the bat and start using the Discipline to punish these pastors, who are hiding behind the pulpit.

-- Anonymous, December 26, 2002