This is Why Pastor Chris Reed Resigned!

possibly the downfall of another huge Ministry another Ministry Scandal Prophet Chris Reed abruptly resigned from Morning Star Ministries today Chris Reed a name familiar to many of you stepped into the leadership of Morning Star Ministries in 2021 with a passion for preaching and a heart for the people he took on the roles of CEO president and senior pastor at Morning Star Fellowship Church in Fort Mill South Carolina but just this week Chris announced something that stunned the congregation and followers around the world he's resigning from all his leadership roles you might be wondering why would he step down from such a significant role Chris's resignation isn't just about leaving a job it's about responding to a profound and painful situation it's about the heartbreaking Revelation abuse ofers by a former Church volunteer Ericson Douglas breaking update a former Cornelius Police Officer is behind bars accused of sex with minors in a church youth group that he was supervising Erikson once a respected member of the community now stands accused of heinous crimes that have left a deep scar on the church and its congregation these Revelations have prompted Reed to reassess his role and ultimately step down a move that has shocked many but perhaps is a necessary step toward healing and accountability the allegations against Ericson Douglas Lee are grave Lee 25 was arrested in May 2023 after turning himself in he faces charges including the dis of obscene material to a minor assault and criminal sexual conduct between December 2020 and June 2022 Lee allegedly abused a victim under the age of 16 multiple times report reports indicate he also abused three more victims under 18 at his home Morning Star Ministries confirmed Lee's association with the church stating they were not initially suspicious due to his background in the military and law enforcement Reed made it clear that he had never met Lee but stands firmly with the victims and their families in response to the crisis Reed has taken measures to prevent future incidents he hired an external group to to train Morning Star staff on abuse awareness and safeguarding miners despite the heartbreaking circumstances Reed remains committed to his spiritual Mission even as he steps away from Morning Star Ministries so why is this happening part of the problem I believe lies in how some Churches have become more like corporations than communities of faith when churches prioritize growth influence or reputation over inte integrity and accountability they create environments where power can be abused in such settings the needs of the vulnerable like children and young members can be overlooked or Worse exploited we also have to consider the culture of secrecy that can develop in some religious institutions there's often a fear of Scandal a fear that admitting wrongdoing could harm the ministry's reputation or drive people away but trying to to protect the church by covering up these issues only leads to Greater harm it erodes trust and leaves victims feeling isolated and betrayed the Bible talks about Shepherds who are supposed to take care of their flock yet here we are seeing Shepherds who fail to protect the most vulnerable Among Us Jesus taught us to care for the least of these to protect the innocent and to lead with humility and love When leaders fail to do this it not only damages the church's reputation but it also causes deep spiritual wounds that can last a lifetime as a community of Believers we need to demand more we need churches that are transparent allegation seriously and that prioritize the safety and well-being of their members Above All Else [Music]