Youth pastors in trouble

Andrew Belant was a youth pastor at Eureka First Presbyterian Church in Eureka, California. He is on trail for molesting four boys ages of 9 to 13.

tn each case, the alleged abuse began with numerous instances of inappropriate touching -- in some cases the abuse reportedly took place on school, church and camp grounds.

At least one child knew Belant very well. Honsal said Belant met the child through a school program, and eventually formed a close relationship with his family.

Repeat after me. Never trust a youth pastor with your children.

Carl Thomas was a youth pastor at the First Baptist Church of Ardmore, Ardmore, Alabama. He stands accused of two counts of solicitation of a minor for sending sexually suggestive text messages. His church acted promptly after the Pastor of the church learned of the situation.

Massey said that Lincoln County authorities were alerted to a possible problem by Ardmore First Baptist pastor, the Rev. Chris Barnett.

First Baptist Church of Ardmore posted this statement on its Web site:

“The circumstances surrounding a past youth director of First Baptist is being dealt with in a timely manner. The youth director has resigned effective August 1, 2008. First Baptist Church of Ardmore, Alabama, would like to report that we are in full cooperation with the authorities that are investigating the behavior of the past youth director.” The posting went on to advise readers to call Massey at the Fayetteville Police for more information.

I do not often see a church respond in a way that protects its children and promotes transparency. It is refreshing. But still - repeat after me. Never trust a youth pastor with your children.

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