The EC’s February motion calling for an increased allocation for the investigation was expected to cover those projections. If not, the recommendation allowed for additional direct expenses to be covered without further approval.
“I don’t know about you but I think we’d all agree – we want this to be done the right way,” Mason said at the February meeting. “Reach the right conclusion. Deal with what we gotta deal with. Turn over the rocks. Let’s get it right.”
SBC President Ed Litton appointed the Task Force to oversee an independent, third-party review, per the motion brought forward and approved by messengers.
“When Southern Baptists voted overwhelmingly in Nashville to authorize this investigation, their will was unmistakable,” said Litton, pastor of Redemption Church in Saraland, Ala. “Our convention sent one loud and clear message: sexual abuse is something we cannot afford to get wrong.
“This process has been difficult and costly, but these obstacles do not compare to the devastation and pain wrought by sexual abuse. I am grateful that in recent months our Executive Committee staff and trustees have acted decisively to support this investigation. I would ask all Southern Baptists to continue to pray not only for this process but for the recommendations and reforms it will yield.”
This article originally appeared on BaptistPress.com.
