Following Masiewicz’s arrest, elders of the Sovereign Grace Fellowship sent a message to congregants. The message said in part, “This is a grievous sin and something [Masiewicz] hid thoroughly.”
RELATED: Robert Morris Released From Oklahoma Jail, To Serve Remaining 9.5-Year Probation Sentence in Texas
“Please be in prayer for the Masiewicz family. They were also caught completely unaware by the secret sin that was taking place in Matt’s heart and actions,” the message added.
Sam Vanderwall, one of six elders of the church, told Idaho Statesman, “We are actively looking into any possible and all people who may have been affected. And if anyone has any knowledge they need to share, please reach out to our church office or the elders at Sovereign Grace.”
As part of a sentencing arrangement, Maciewicz pleaded guilty to three counts of distributing CSAM and one count of possessing it. All other charges were dismissed.
During his sentencing hearing, Maciewicz said, “I was a coward.”
“I should have confessed this to my wife, I should have confessed this to my elder who’s sitting over there,” he added. “I’ve lost my church community. I have been excommunicated.”
RELATED: SBC Pastor Clarifies Comments After Teacher’s Arrest, Says Reporting Abuse Is Not Gossip
Maciewicz has been credited with 192 days of time served toward his sentence for the time he spent in custody during his plea and sentencing proceedings.
