The denomination estimated that as many as 5,000 of its congregations remain exposed to potential lawsuits.
“Charter organizations were promised by the BSA to be covered by their insurance, but at this time, it is not clear to what extent United Methodist congregations will be covered,” the office stated.
Asked for a response by Religion News Service, the BSA said its partnerships with religious and civic organizations as chartered partners have been “critical to delivering the Scouting program to millions of youth in our country for generations,” in some cases for as many as 75 years.
“The Chartered Partners are extremely important to the BSA, and we are committed to honoring their partnership,” it said in a statement. “The Ad Hoc Committee of Local Councils continues to be a critical partner to the BSA in the mediation process and especially in resolving questions regarding Chartered Partners.”
The BSA said it would be providing more information on options, such as facilities use agreements that could continue the sponsorship of scouting units, as they become finalized.
Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, president of the United Methodist Church’s Council of Bishops, requested prayer for victims and families.
“This tragedy is a reminder for all of us to be vigilant, update Safe Sanctuary policies and continue to review those policies to ensure congregations are following the policies and keeping all young people safe from harm,” she said in a statement in the denomination’s announcement.
Some United Methodist bishops shared the announcement with members in their regions, reiterating the call to take the recommended actions.
“We understand that these suggestions are dramatic, but we think them to be the prudent course of action at this time,” said Bishop Laurie Haller of the Iowa Area in a statement with Margaret Biggs, treasurer of the Iowa Annual Conference. “We want to protect our local churches from costly litigation.”
Bishop LaTrelle Easterling said her Baltimore-Washington Conference is working with denominational leaders to take appropriate steps.
“I join my colleagues across the connection in grieving for those harmed by leaders in the Boy Scouts of America organization and praying for their families. The harm they have experienced is unfathomable,” she said. “I strongly advise congregations to heed the advice of the denomination with respect to existing BSA charter agreements.”
The BSA has had strong ties with faith groups throughout its history, including the United Methodist Church, the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Late last year, the LDS church became the subject of seven lawsuits alleging that sexual abuse among Arizona Boy Scout troops had been covered up for decades.
The LDS church, or Mormons, officially ended their chartered relationship with the BSA at the end of 2019.
This article originally appeared here.
