Safe Church Update from the Bishop

September 12, 2022

Dear Friends in Christ,

As followers of Jesus Christ, bound together through the sacrament of Holy Baptism, we strive to do justly, love unconditionally, and act mercifully out our covenant call to "respect the dignity of every human being" as we serve Christ in the world. Our commitment and covenant means that individually and collectively we must be accountable one to another as we love our neighbors as ourselves.

At this time I share with you that my office has completed the investigative review of the SafeChurch policy violations at the 2022 session of Camp Phoenix. We have found the verbal misconduct allegation to be true and I have taken appropriate steps to address the findings, as we continue to offer follow-up pastoral care for those affected by the situation.

The safety and well-being of all those in our care is our highest priority, most especially children, youth, and young adults.The responsibility to provide a safe environment for faith formation for all participants in the diocesan children's, youth, and young adult ministry is a sacred trust. We will continue to take any and all actions necessary to ensure that safe environment in all aspects of ministry.

May God's peace be ours today and always.

Yours in Christ,

The Rt. Rev. Deon K. Johnson
Eleventh Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Missouri

Download the Bishop's letter.