“The church and academy are fully cooperating with law enforcement and Child Protective Services and are committed to supporting a thorough and transparent investigative process,” the statement said.
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“The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority. We take this matter with the utmost seriousness and are committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and supportive environment for every child entrusted to our care,” the statement added. “We are also working to provide appropriate care and support for students, families, and staff affected by this situation.”
On Sunday, Ryan Gilbert, lead pastor of First Baptist Church, addressed the congregation regarding Strawn’s arrest.
“This is deeply troubling news. There’s no doubt about that,” said Gilbert. “I know many of you were shocked to hear it.” Gilbert first asked the congregation “to pray earnestly and continually for anyone who has been affected.”
“I know the culture thinks prayer, for us, is like a cop out or a crutch,” Gilbert continued. “We know it is the power of God. God hears us when we pray.”
Gilbert expressed that he wanted “to affirm the courage of anyone who came forward.”
“I think that’s a very important thing for you to hear from me as your lead pastor,” he said. “Speaking up is an essential part of protecting others, and I’m deeply grateful for that kind of bravery—whether student, parent, volunteer, whoever.”
“Second, I want us to remember that in the weeks ahead, this is a time to care for those involved,” Gilbert went on to say. “While many of us feel shock, we can only imagine the weight of what they’re experiencing.”
“I just want to remind us of the seriousness of our words and remind us that gossip is a sin, okay?” Gilbert added. “So let’s just be very careful not to spread speculation or to share things that are not ours to share—especially when it comes to those who may be victims or those who reported this.”
“I don’t know if you know this or not, but even true information can be harmful when not shared rightly. Gossip can include sharing true information that you have no business sharing,” said Gilbert. “So let’s commit to speaking with wisdom and restraint.”
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Following Strawn’s arrest, Strawn was released on bond. Police are urging anyone else who might have been victimized to come forward.
