Editorial Note: This article was first published by the North American Division Ministerial Department of Seventh-day Adventists. NAD Ministerial’s focus is “supporting and equipping the ministry and role of the local pastor in the congregational setting.” Spectrum appreciates the opportunity to republish this article for a wider audience.
There is a long list of men who have in one form or another hurt or abused women. Clearly that is wrong , and both the public and employers have shown their disapproval . Within the SDA church , we have been more forgiving of the indiscretions of older pastors than younger pastors .Possibly because of pensions , wives , children , and long service . Go figure . But how long must we wait before we begin to hear of women of power behaving badly against others under their authority ?