Church Issues Statement About Youth Minister’s Arrest
ActionNews5 reported that Goodman Oaks Church of Christ in Southaven, Mississippi, posted a statement on its website—although that statement appears to have been removed.
After acknowledging the arrest of a youth ministry team member, the church stated, “We want to be clear that our youth minister is not accused of abusing any child or failing to report any other adult abusing any child.”
“The allegations relate to the reporting of conduct between minors,” said the church, “and we are deeply concerned for every child and family affected.”
Church leaders are cooperating with law enforcement, they said, and “will continue to support their efforts to understand what occurred.” They declined to provide details “out of respect for the privacy of the minors involved and in compliance with legal guidelines.”
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Goodman Oaks said it prioritizes “the safety and well-being of the young people entrusted to our care” and that it has “taken immediate steps to ensure a safe environment.” The church is offering counseling resources for families, and it requested prayers for everyone involved.
“We take this matter seriously and remain committed to our staff, our church members, and our community,” the statement concluded.
Jonathan Colvin had also been listed as an adjunct professor at Crowley’s Ridge College, but his online bio was recently removed. A spokesperson said Colvin hadn’t taught at the Arkansas college since 2023.
A former neighbor of Colvin’s called the youth minister “a God-fearing man” who “loves his church,” adding, “I cannot believe in my heart of hearts that he did anything with ill intentions.”
ChurchLeaders requested comment from Colvin and from Goodman Oaks elders and will update this article with any replies.
