We write here to all who have been a part of the Covenant Presbyterian Church and Howell Branch Fellowship communities over the past 25 years.
We are grieved to learn that a man who was youth director at Howell Branch Fellowship from late fall, 1992, through December, 1994, Paul Warren, has been accused of the sexual abuse of young men and women under his care since the 1970s—an accusation he has not denied. An investigation conducted by Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment (GRACE), at the request of another church within our denomination, found the allegations to be credible and his presbytery has deposed Mr. Warren from the ministry.
As Mr. Warren’s employment at Howell Branch was after the events covered in the GRACE investigation, our hearts are broken to acknowledge the possibility of his continued sexual abuse during his tenure among us.
We currently have no knowledge that any staff members or church officers of Howell Branch Fellowship knew of any allegations made against Mr. Warren. That said we hold space for any who might have been a victim but has not before felt safe to speak about it. We are committed to addressing these scenarios with the rigor they deserve.
We urge any person who experienced anything inappropriate at the hand of Mr. Warren or any other perpetrator to come to us with that information (please email any of the elders below). We assure you that you will find a safe, loving and confidential place to share your story.
Given the length of time that has passed, we do not have contact info for all those who were present at the church in those years. Please forward this message to any whom you think might need to be aware.
It is our deepest commitment to glorify God as we seek first his kingdom and his righteousness. As such, our primary focus is the care of any survivors of abuse within our reach. Before the face of God and according to his word, sexual abuse in any form is unacceptable. To all victims of all sexual abuse, our hearts break with and for you. May our attempts to shine a light in this present darkness contribute to your healing.
