The Backstory to “The Sex-Abuse Scandal That Devasted a Suburban Megachurch” by Washingtonian Magazine
Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 6:54PM I posted my first article related to the sexual abuse of children in Sovereign Grace Ministries in October 2012. Two and half years later, I was contacted by Tiffany Stanley, who was just beginning to work on an article for Washingtonian magazine. By then, I had posted 72 articles on my blog.
These articles formed the foundation for much of Stanley’s work. I was her initial and primary source of information related to SGM. We worked together behind the scenes for the next ten months. In addition to the blog articles, I sent her hundreds of pages of other vital information. We talked at length on three occasions and exchanged scores of emails.
I share this backstory for the historical record so it can be referenced in a future book.
The Sex-Abuse Scandal That Devastated a Suburban Megachurch - Washingtonian
Inside the rise and fall of Sovereign Grace Ministries
February 14, 2016
C.J. Mahaney was a Takoma Park pot smoker when he found God and opened a church. Over the next 40 years, he expanded it from a hippie congregation into an evangelical empire. Photograph by James Thompson. Photo-illustration by Paul Spella.
The article quotes me several times but no one would get the idea I played a major role in its production unless, “Photographs courtesy of Brent Detwiler,” stood out to them. I’ve included some photos below.
I wrote about Tiffany’s article but made no mention of my involvement. CLC and SGM would have used it to discredit the article.
Long Story by Washingtonian Magazine about C.J. Mahaney, Covenant Life Church, & Sovereign Grace Ministries Hits Newsstands Tomorrow
Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at 4:57PM
Brent Detwiler
A More In-Depth Look at “The Sex Scandal That Devastated a Suburban Megachurch” by Washingtonian Magazine and TIME Magazine
Thursday, February 18, 2016 at 5:13PM
Brent Detwiler
Seven years have gone by since the article was published. It has be read by hundreds of thousands of people. The Lord has used it for good though there are things I would change and it was a disappointment to see so much left out of the article by the editors and lawyers for fear of lawsuits. The article contains some error and bias but on the whole it is well done.
Six stories about the sexual abuse of children in Covenant Church and Fairfax Covenant Church were posted on the blog, SGMSurvivors in 2008, 2009 and 2011 (4). Four were included in the article which used actual names, synonyms, and middle names.
Noel’s Story
December 31, 2008
Kate (synonym) & Edward (middle name), and Ann (middle name)
Wallace’s Story
April 8, 2011
Sarah & Richard (synonyms), Taylor & Rose (middle names)
“exCLCer’s” Story
July 29, 2011
Peggy Welsh (written by her daughter, Dara)
“SGMnot’s” Story
August 3, 2011
Pam & Dominic, and Renee
I am grateful all were willing to speak with Tiffany. Their stories are what matter most.
I share my correspondence with Tiffany and others for the historical record. I covered a lot of ground with her. I carefully documented our history and beliefs including the rise and fall of CLC and SGM. That was her subtitle.
I’ve added some explanatory NOTES. I’ve removed email addresses after the first use.
##
From: Tiffany Stanley [mailto:tiffstanley@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 4:30 PM
To: abrentdetwiler@gmail.com
Subject: Media Request – Washingtonian
Dear Brent,
I’m a reporter with Washingtonian magazine. I am working on an article about the ongoing allegations against Sovereign Grace ministries. I just started my reporting on SGM and Covenant Life Church when I came across your website.
Would you be up for a phone interview sometime this week?
I am happy to answer any questions you may have. I can be reached here or on my office line at 202.939.2866.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Tiffany
--
Tiffany Stanley
@tifflstanley
From: Brent Detwiler [mailto:abrentdetwiler@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 4:33 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Media Request – Washingtonian
I’d be glad to speak with you Tiffany.
When’s your deadline? Does Thursday morning work for you or too late?
Here’s a link to my most recent post in case you have not seen it.
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 4:40 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Media Request – Washingtonian
I can also do Wednesday.
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 4:44 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Media Request – Washingtonian
Hi Brent,
Either Wednesday or Thursday works for me. My best time frame on those days is between 11:30 am and 4 pm, but I’m flexible. Just let me know your preferred time and a number where I can reach you.
Thanks for getting back to me,
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 4:46 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Media Request – Washingtonian
How about Wednesday at 1 pm? 704-497-7986
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2015 4:55 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Media Request – Washingtonian
Brent,
Thanks so much. I’ll give you a call at 1 pm on Wednesday.
I specialize in longform magazine articles. My last big piece was a personal one that you can read here: http://www.nationaljournal.com/magazine/my-alzheimer-s-nightmare-and-why-it-will-soon-be-yours-20141003
I am a contributing writer for National Journal magazine. I have also worked for The New Republic and Religion News Service and written for a number of other outlets. The SGM piece is for Washingtonian magazine. I write a lot on religion, and I edit an online journal (http://religionandpolitics.org/) that also covers faith issues.
I look forward to talking on Wednesday.
All best,
Tiffany
[NOTE: The initial interview took place on April 8, 2015 from 1:00-2:30 pm. Afterward, I sent her my article on the “hush fund.”]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, April 08, 2015 5:47 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Hush Fund Set Up by Top SGM Leaders to Meet the Demands of a SGM Pastor Whose Son Was Sexually Abused
Tiffany,
Would you please make certain you read this post as soon as possible?
Here’s why. It gives you a feel for my sources. It is recent – March 2013. It demonstrates the kind of corruption that characterizes SGM.
Thanks
Brent
[NOTE: I updated the article and added details in 2021. UPDATED: Hush Fund Used by Top Sovereign Grace Leaders to Meet the Demands of a Sovereign Grace Pastor Whose Son Was Sexually Abused (April 10, 2021).]
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Wednesday, April 08, 2015 6:03 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Hush Fund Set Up by Top SGM Leaders to Meet the Demands of a SGM Pastor Whose Son Was Sexually Abused
Thanks Brent. I will be sure to give it a read.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, April 09, 2015 7:24 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Hush Fund Set Up by Top SGM Leaders to Meet the Demands of a SGM Pastor Whose Son Was Sexually Abused
Thank you Tiffany.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, July 23, 2015 3:04 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Source Material on BrentDetwiler.com
Hello Tiffany,
We talked back in April and since then I’ve wanted to send you primary and secondary source material in order to aid your research for the article but I have been delayed. Unfortunately, my dear wife, Jenny, was diagnosed with breast cancer of a serious nature the beginning of the year. The last seven months have been filled with medical treatments and procedures. They will continue. She undergoes a second surgery in August.
Nevertheless, I want to be as helpful to you as possible. I’ve attached all the links on BrentDetwiler.com regarding the conspiracy to commit and cover up child sex abuse. It is a lot of information. If you need specific information but don’t have time to locate it, please fill feel to contact me by phone (704-497-7986) or email me. I am glad to help in anyway. The work you are doing is so very important. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Brent
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2015 12:32 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Source Material on BrentDetwiler.com
Brent,
Thank you so much for sending this along. I’m so sorry to hear about your wife’s cancer, and I hope the surgery goes well in August.
I am trying to wrap up most of my reporting in the next month and start writing, and you were on my list to follow up with. I was hoping to pick your brain a little on the early history of SGM/PDI when you’re able.
Would you have a chance to chat for about 45 minutes this coming week, sometime between Monday and Wednesday.
All best and thanks again,
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2015 2:46 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Re: Source Material on BrentDetwiler.com
Does sometime on Monday work for you?
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2015 2:58 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Source Material on BrentDetwiler.com
Sure. I have time between 11 am and 1 pm and then 2:45 to 3:30 pm.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2015 3:01 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Source Material on BrentDetwiler.com
Great. Let’s do 11 a.m. You can call me at 704-497-7986.
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Friday, July 24, 2015 3:12 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Source Material on BrentDetwiler.com
Perfect. Will call you at 11 am on Monday.
[NOTE: We talked for two hours on July 27, 2015 from 11:15 am to 1:15 pm. Tiffany told me her deadline for finishing was August 31. Then it would go through a legal and editorial review. She said they realized SGM would come after her. They planned to close the article in mid-October (no more edits) and publish in the November 2015 issue.]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, July 31, 2015 3:43 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Additional Information on CLC
This is additional information regarding the decline of CLC.
First, you’’’ find the “semi-annual report” for 2007. This report was done twice a year to follow the growth or decline of churches in SGM. You’ll notice a column for membership and a separate column for attendance. You had to be 18 years old to be a member. CLC was always the largest church.
Second, you’ll find a post on “The Growing Crisis at CLC” from Dec 2014. Things have worsen since I wrote it.
Joshua leaving in June was a huge blow. Josh Cooley, the Children’s Ministry director (i.e. Discovery Land) also left about that time. Corby McGorden [Megorden] is supposed to go off staff as the administrator the end of August. And of course, now we have the upcoming departures of Kenneth [Maresco] on Sept 13 and Eric McAllister the end of December.
I’ve pasted below some analysis from Dave MacKenzie that appeared on SGMSuvivors. MacKenzie was an employee of CLC for many years. His information is generally solid.
Dave MacKenzie says:
July 15, 2015 at 12:09 pm
A discussion with some friends at CLC this week raised the question of how many current CLC members remember the pre-scandal days. The newer members presumably care less about reform and dealing with the aftermath of the revelations.
My estimate is that around 70% of current Covenant Life members joined before July 2011, when Brent’s documents became public, C.J. announced his leave of absence, and Josh said in a sermon that we were being spanked by God. I based that estimate on lists of new members starting around then, and membership totals from CLC’s draft 2016 budget (page 9):
2010: 2440
2011: 2508
2012: 2435
2013: 2300
2014: 2174
2015: 1990
CLC reported around 560 new members since the scandals broke in mid 2011, some of those being graduating youth joining as adults. So around 1,300 (+/-10%) of current adult members pre-date the major public revelations that threw the church into upheaval.
Dave MacKenzie says:
June 29, 2015 at 5:55 pm
Joy,
Adult membership is 1,961 currently, down from a high of 2,508 in 2011, according to a table in the draft 2016 budget.
Sunday attendance has the auditorium typically 75-80% full at the one service by my estimation, plus everyone in DiscoveryLand.
Persona says:
June 29, 2015 at 7:16 pm
1,961 isn’t much bigger than when they broke ground on the first CLC building.
Dave MacKenzie says:
June 28, 2015 at 2:44 pm
The status of Covenant Life’s lead elder search, for those interested:
The search committee (composed of both elders and members, including women) recently finished the job description and posted it on CLC’s web site. The job requirements include some given to the committee by CLC’s elders and some that came from requests by CLC members the committee talked with. There are two requirements from the elders that stood out to me as questionable: support for The Gospel Coalition (why?), and belief in a historical Adam (which needs clarification–does it imply young-earth creationism?)
The elders have decided not to pursue hiring an interim teaching pastor, although they received several resumes for that position. So far, there are no candidates identified for lead elder. None of CLC’s pastors believe they are gifted for that role, and looking to SGM is out of the question.
The proposed 2016 budget assumes a lead elder starting in January (as a guess) at a salary of $135,000/year (what Josh Harris was being paid), subject to negotiation and ultimately determined by the Financial Advisory Committee (made up of CLC members with business and finance experience). That’s said to be around the 30th percentile for lead elder of a megachurch in our area (the category CLC still belongs to) according to the National Association of Church Business Administrators (ministrypay.com). I haven’t double-checked that, not being a finance geek.
A few more somewhat interesting things came up in budget discussions, which I might post separately.
Job Opening - Lead Pastor
Contact: akriz@covlife.org
Position Description
Covenant Life Church (“CLC”) is a multi-ethnic, 1,800-member church, located in Gaithersburg, MD, which is strategically located near the nation’s capital. CLC is a reformed, charismatic church that exists to worship God, love one another and make disciples of Jesus Christ. CLC is seeking to fill the role of Lead Pastor. The Lead Pastor will serve as the primary preacher and teacher for the congregation as well as lead the Board of Elders.
Primary Requirements
1. Preaches, Teaches and Oversees Sunday Worship Services
* Demonstrated commitment to expositional preaching faithfully adhering to the Word of God
* Demonstrated experience in the planning and execution of Sunday worship services
2. Vision-casting
* Experience in developing, casting and strategically implementing vision for the church is essential
* Elements of vision:
- Leads the church in their understanding and application of God’s word
- Leads a multi-ethnic community that is committed to biblical fellowship and discipleship
- Casts vision and mobilizes the church for advancement of the gospel both locally and abroad
3. Leads the Elders
* Demonstrated affirmation and experience in working with a plurality of elders by:
- Leading, discipling and caring for other elders
- Equipping and encouraging other elders in caring for the congregation
* Demonstrated commitment to lead with humility and compassion
Key Personal Qualifications
1. Maintains a healthy, growing relationship with Jesus Christ as an example to the church.
2. Must meet and maintain the qualifications of an elder (1 Timothy 3:2-7, Titus 1:6-9, 1 Peter 5:1-4).
3. Must fully agree with and support CLC’s Statement of Faith.
4. Demonstrated heart for the lost.
5. Dedicated to devoting time each week to personal prayer and Bible study.
6. Develops and maintains an exemplary relationship with his wife and children.
7. Sets a personal example for the church to model in worshiping God, loving others, and making disciples of Jesus Christ.
8. Demonstrated commitment to biblical fellowship in community.
Other Considerations
1. Experience in a large church context of 800+ members is required.
2. 10 + years in full-time ministry required.
3. Must support CLC’s affiliation with the Gospel Coalition.
4. Masters level theological training desired.
5. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to ongoing personal and theological education (conferences, seminars, personal study, etc.).
Theological Convictions
1. Reformed in regard to soteriology and doctrine of God, but credo Baptist with regard to baptism
2. Affirms the doctrine of inerrancy as expressed in the Chicago Statement (http://www.alliancenet.org/the-chicago-statement-on-biblical-inerrancy)
3. Complementarian in regard to gender roles, as presented in the Danvers Statement (http://cbmw.org/core-beliefs/)
4. Continuationist in understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit, as presented by Wayne Grudem in chapters 52 and 53 Gifts of the Holy Spirit (1) and (2) of Systematic Theology
5. Affirms the Manhattan Declaration in regards to the following three vital cultural/social/political issues: Sanctity of Life, Dignity of Marriage and Freedom of Religion (http://www.manhattandeclaration.org/#0)
6. Affirms the historical Adam in regards to Creation
How To Apply
Please send a cover letter and résumé with references to Amy Kriz in Covenant Life’s Human Resource department.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, July 31, 2015 5:05 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: CLC Members’ Meeting / CLC 2016 Budget
Last Sunday, CLC had a Members’ Meeting after the Sunday morning worship service. I’ve attached the official notes from the meeting and the budget that was made available. Eric McAllister (worship leader) and Kenneth Maresco (who use to be an executive pastor with Grant Layman for Joshua Harris) both talked about their departure. Maresco would never leave CLC for Sovereign Grace Church of Fairfax unless there are significant disagreements. Maresco is part of the conspiracy in SGCF. He helped implement C.J. Mahaney’s counsel on how to handle child sex abuse in the church. I hope he is deposed by Susan Burke [the lead lawyer in the 46-page lawsuit].
In reviewing the budget, you’ll notice the steady decline in membership and giving since 2011 (cf. p. 11). That’s because I sent out The Documents in July 2011.
The CLC pastors, non-staff elders, and search committee headed up by Pat Ennis (an old friend and former Executive Director for SGM) are putting a lot of hope in P.J. Smyth coming from South Africa to CLC in order to turn things around. Symth could set up a huge operation for his church planting ministry (i.e. Advance) in the CLC/SGM facility. If interested, I’m glad to explain how SGM still owns most of the basement.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Saturday, August 1, 2015 12:56 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: The Growing Prominence of C.J. Mahaney & SGM
In 1995, we started doing an annual Special Ministry Overview in the magazine. The magazine ended in 2003 as we transitioned to more of a web presence. On the back of each overview, you’d find “Words from a Friend.” These were kind endorsements from people outside of SGM who were friends. As I mentioned on the phone, SGM began to grow in national prominence around 1995. Here are the endorsees.
1995 Terry Virgo
1996 David Powlison
1997 Jerry Bridges
1998 Wayne Grudem
1999 Ken Sande
2000 Mike Bullmore
2001 Mark Dever
2002 John Piper
2003 John Bettler
To add a little more perspective. In 2006, C.J., Mark Dever, Ligon Duncan, and Al Mohler founded Together for the Gospel in Louisville, KY. John Piper, R.C. Sproul, and John MacArthur were invited to participate. It was a huge success. See http://t4g.org/t4g-year/2006/?sessions=main. These were some of the most influential leaders in the evangelical and Reformed branch of the Church in America.
They’ve had to water down the history which used to put a strong emphasis on the fact that Mahaney (reformed charismatic), Dever (reformed Baptist), Duncan (reformed Presbyterian), and Mohler (reformed Baptist) were working together and relating together as close friends from diverse backgrounds. http://t4g.org/t4g-year/2006/?sessions=main.
T4G has greatly grown. In 2014, approximately 9,000 pastors attended.
The speakers for 2016 have not yet be announced. It will be interesting to see if C.J. is included as a speaker and panelist. They may be waiting to see what Susan Burke and William O’Neil put in the VA lawsuit.
See also “The Photo Promotion of C.J. Mahaney at Together for the Gospel” (Apr 9, 2014) at http://abrentdetwiler.squarespace.com/brentdetwilercom/the-photo-promotion-of-cj-mahaney-at-together-for-the-gospel.html.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Saturday, August 1, 2015 1:07 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Apostolic Involvement in Fairfax, VA
You asked about my history and role in Fairfax Covenant Church (a.k.a. Sovereign Grace Church in Fairfax). The 1986 annual report covers it well. You also asked about the role of apostolic ministry and why I was invited to come to FCC to help build the church. Benny Phillip’s testimony covers it well.
I’ve also included a short article on being sent out from Fairfax to Charlotte in 1991.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Saturday, August 1, 2015 1:24 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Brief History of PDI in 1995
This is a brief history from the Special Ministry Overview in May/June 1995. It was titled, “Growing by His Grace, Building for His Glory.” You’ll like the timeline and photos.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Saturday, August 1, 2015 2:48 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Reformed Doctrine
I’ve attached four documents.
First, “Called to Salvation and Much, Much More” dates from 1987. That is early on in the history of SGM. You’ll see my emphasis on election, predestination and God’s sovereignty in my conversion and the conversion of others. As I mentioned on the phone, I taught a basic understanding of Reformed theology from the beginning in 1982.
On a side note, you’ll see a picture of a family in my article. That is Dick and Marsha Wolohan and their four children. Brian is on the left and [redacted] is on the right. Brian testified against Morales. [Redacted] was also abused by Morales but did not testify. He told police but he was not willing to go public. His abuse is confidential
In the second article, I respond to a question about our doctrinal position in brief. I reduced it to the following. “We hold to an essentially Reformed understanding of Christian doctrine but with a significant charismatic dimension to our faith.” That became our theological tagline and a phrase used by everyone to succinctly describe our charismatic Calvinism.
Third, in the March/April 1997 issue of the magazine, we announced our name change (see p. 2) from People of Destiny International to PDI which stood for Proclaiming God’s Grace, Developing Local Churches and Influencing Our World with the Gospel. We also changed the name of the magazine to Sovereign Grace and laid out our essentially Reformed doctrine in some detail.
The fourth article announces our name change from PDI to Sovereign Grace Ministries in September 2002.
Here is a summary of the above that I wrote up in the past.
We changed People of Destiny Magazine to Sovereign Grace magazine in the Mar/Apr 1997 issue. We also changed People of Destiny International to PDI at the same time. We wrote about it in the opening article. For the previous 18 months, we tried to come up with a new name for People of Destiny International. It was man-centered, we were not international, and it sounded cultish. I suggested Sovereign Grace Ministries. I also humorously suggested Apostles ‘R’ Us. Gammon and Grange [our law firm] looked into Sovereign Grace Ministries [in 1995] but reported back that the name was already copyrighted with patent rights. They said it was therefore unusable. Five years later, we asked G&G to try again. They worked out a cash deal with this small ministry and we bought the right to use the name and patent products.
The Mar/Apr 1997 issue was also the issue we went “public” with our essentially Reformed theology though I had summated our theology in the earlier May/Jun 1995 issue (p. 12) and coined the phrase, “We hold to an essentially Reformed understanding of Christian doctrine but with a significant charismatic dimension to our faith.” The Mar/Apr 1997 issue was titled, “God’s Grace in Election, Regeneration, Justification, Sanctification, Glorification.” I did the piece on sanctification. In July 1998, I expanded the Statement of Faith and incorporated more Reformed elements.
In the Fall 2002 issue of the magazine, we announced the new name, Sovereign Grace Ministries. C.J. wrote “PDI Ministries becomes Sovereign Grace” on p. 2.
C.J. became the team leader in Feb 1991. I remember it well because I made the announcement at our “Leaders & Wives Conference” in Baltimore. Larry and C.J. followed with comments.
I’ll send you the Statements of Faith tomorrow.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2015 8:21 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: 1998 Ministry Overview / Phone Call
Here is the Ministry Overivew from 1998. It tells a lot of my history. The article, “A Cat, Raccoons, and Vaudeville Tunes,” contains a lot of insider humor that will be hard to follow. Mark, Bo and I were dear friends. We took liberties in the use of sarcasm to kid one another.
You’ll also find an article by Mark Mullery on “The PDI Pastors College – Year One.” It wasn’t really year one but I’ll explain later. I still need to get you information on the Statement of Faith and our essentially Reformed theology.
I think you’ll also find helpful the short article on Joshua Harris on page 17. It gives a good overview of his accomplishments up until that time.
Last Tues, we met with the oncologist to talk about options for hormonal therapy. Last Thurs, we met with the surgeon about surgical options. Today we meet with the radiologist to talk about radiation therapy. On Weds, Jenny has an axillary lymph node dissection.
Is it possible to talk tomorrow for 15 minutes about the “hush fund” post? I am still undecided.
Thanks
Brent
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2015 8:39 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: 1998 Ministry Overview / Phone Call
Thanks so much for sending these documents over the weekend. I’m going to be going through them all today.
I’d be happy to chat tomorrow. What time works for you? Maybe 11 am?
I’ll be thinking about you and Jenny on Wednesday. I imagine this week has been quite stressful. Thanks for still taking the time to help me.
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, August 4, 2015 10:28 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Questions Regarding Polity, Nathan Ecelbarger, & Conspiracy
I sent this email in August 2013 to all the men on staff at Sovereign Grace Church of Fairfax in an attempt to ascertain the truth. They never replied. It outlines the issues surrounding the conspiracy in SGCF.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2013 1:41 PM
To: Mark Mullery; Lou Gallo; David Hinders; Vince Hinders
Cc: Tim Lewis; Seita Sakaguchi; Luke Middleton
Subject: Questions Regarding Polity, Nathan & Conspiracy
August 20, 2013
Mark, Vince, David, and Lou,
I am writing a post regarding the factual allegations pertaining to you and SGCF. I want to represent you fairly and understand your policies. With that in mind, would please send me your “Child Protection Guidelines” and “Sex Offender Agreement.”
I’d also appreciate if you answered the following questions.
1. Are you resolved to immediately contact law enforcement upon the suspicion of sex abuse?
2. Are you resolved to inform church members about the presence of sex offenders in the church?
3. Are you working with law enforcement and doing all in your power to identify the adults who sexually abused children/youth in SGCF and CLC? Some of these children/youth later abused other children/youth.
4. Are you working with law enforcement and doing all in your power to expose this multi-tiered and multi-generational sex abuse conspiracy?
5. Please explain the following contradiction.
Vince made the following claim at the Family Meeting on July 24, 2011.
“First of all, in over 32 years of being a church [1979-2011], we are not aware of any sexual abuse – any child sexual abuse – occurring at any church event or ever taking place on our church property…. Again, we are grateful that, in over 32 years, we’re not aware of any of this type of activity occurring in our church or by any of our church workers.”
The Second Amended Complaint alleges just the opposite. Please explain the contradiction.
107. In 1996, [redacted], the son of [redacted], began to molest Karl Koe, then six years old and living in Virginia. [Redacted] isolated Karl Koe in various locations, including his home, Karl Koe’s home, outdoors and the Fairfax Church bathrooms. [Redacted] kissed Karl Koe, and used his hands to fondle Karl Koe’s penis and anus under his clothes. [Redacted] forced Karl Koe to put his hands down [redacted] pants and fondle his penis and his anus. [Redacted] also frequently exposed himself to Karl Koe, and forced Karl Koe to do the same. [Redacted] would press his nakedness against Karl Koe as he fondled Koe’s penis and anus.
111. In fact, after Defendants were put on notice of the ongoing molestation, [redacted] continued to molest Karl Koe in the bathrooms at the Fairfax Church. Approximately forty percent of [redacted] molestations of Karl Koe occurred after Defendants had been put on express notice that [redacted] was molesting young children in the Fairfax Church.
6. Are the allegations of fact in Complaints 107 and 111 true? If not, please explain how they are false.
7. Specifically, did [redacted] molest other children besides Karl Koe? If so, how many? If so, when did you become aware of these molestations? Did you report these molestations to law enforcement?
8. Was C.J. told about [redacted] crimes? If so, when was he told?
I am after the truth. That’s all. I welcome your answers and/or defense.
Sincerely,
Brent
[NOTE: I never heard back from the pastors at Sovereign Grace Church of Fairfax (previously Fairfax Covenant Church, now Redeeming Grace Church). I provided Tiffany the name of the confessed abuser and his father, who was forced to step down as a pastor. C.J. relocated them to Metro Life Church in Orlando but never told the church about the alleged juvenile abuser.
Next, I sent her a post on my Facebook page from an enraged person who wrote in part, “I firmly believe Satan has used you mightily, but I know that God is greater. … I pray for the day your voice is silenced.” You can read about it here. Are Supporters of Covenant Life Church Praying for My “Ad Hominem” or Actual Death? You Decide (Apr. 3, 2016)]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, August 4, 2015 1:40 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Praying for Your Voice to be Silenced
See attached for your entertainment pleasure. Israel [David Groveman] is no longer in CLC but I believe his parents and maybe some of his siblings still attend. They are the prominent family I referred to in our conversation.
[NOTE: We talked a third time on August 4, 2015 from 11:00 am-12:15 pm. She pressed me for primary source materials I was not willing to give her. I confronted her that evening.]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, August 4, 2015 8:08 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Feedback from Conversation
I did not appreciate your belligerent attitude today. What you called “crankiness.” And I think your editors would agree with me if you played the recording for them. Pressure never works. Neither does manipulation. I am not going to give up sources to whom I’ve promised confidentiality because I am governed by integrity.
Furthermore, I know my sources. They are 100% reliable. I don’t expect you to believe me. That is fine and understandable since you don’t know them. For example, the 2016 budget [for CLC] or the official notes from the Members Meeting [at CLC on July 26, 2015].
Regarding primary sources in general. My emails and the responses to my emails in thousands of cases are primary source material. They are backed up by my hard drive and server. I realize they are not primary source material for you because they come from me. To you, they are mere hearsay. I understand but they are in fact hard evidence and that is overwhelmingly how I’ve made my case against CLC and SGM. I’ve not doctored any emails. They are pure history.
Because I am working from known sources and primary documents, I can make a far stronger case against CLC and SGM then you. I can swear to the authenticity of primary sources in a court of law and prove it. I can provide affidavits. None of this hinders me from trying to help you but you are limited in what you can accomplish since you cannot accept as fact what I know to be fact. For instance, there is absolutely no doubt about the source material regarding the hush fund. To you, it must remain suspect. I understand.
All of this points to the need for me to write a book.
I am glad for the part your long story will play in calling attention to issues in SGM and CLC. Tomorrow, I will send additional information.
[NOTE: Tiffany asked me for the original “hush fund” emails. She stated she could not write about it without them. She also said it is a “very serious story.” I provided the originals but in the end she did not include in the article.]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, August 5, 2015 12:57 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Original Email re: Hush Fund
You’ll find attached the unedited emails regarding the hush fund. I’ve also removed my notations that were in brackets
I’m sure you’ll noticed Kathy [Stewart] did not take issue with the sum and substance of what I wrote in Hush Fund Set Up by Top SGM Leaders to Meet the Demands of a SGM Pastor Whose Son Was Sexually Abused. And she took no issue with the authenticity or accuracy of the emails in her “couple of things to correct some points of fact.” Her focus was on The Wartburg Watch and their take on my post.
I hope you’ll attempt to contact [Mark] Prater, [Paul] Buckley, [Tommy] Hill, [Chip] Grange, [Aron] Osborne, and [Toby] Kurth for comment. I doubt any of them will talk to you. That, of course, is telling and should be included in your long story. If you need phone numbers or email addresses let me know.
Jenny is in pre-op now.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, August 5, 2015 10:44 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Original Email re: Hush Fund
A few minutes ago, I sent you a blind copy of my response to Kathy Stewart’s letter that I wrote this morning.
I will send the original emails regarding the hush fund later. Off to the hospital.
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Wednesday, August 5, 2015 11:01 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Original Email re: Hush Fund
Hi Brent,
Thank you for your help on the emails. Wishing you and Jenny all the best today at the hospital.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2015 8:50 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Photo - Boettcher, Mellinger, Prater, Buckley, Shorey
I posted about the hush fund on March 30 exposing Prater, Buckley, etc. Soon after Prater, Buckley, etc. posted this picture on the SGM (aka SGC) website. You may want to use it in your story. All these men have acted corruptly. The photo is staged and makes the pious looking Prater the center of attention.
From left to right.
1. Warren Boettcher – on the Executive Committee (cf. Board of Directors), sr. pastor of Sovereign Grace Church, Marlton, NJ.
2. Ken Mellinger – on the Executive Committee, sr. pastor of Living Hope Church in Harrisburg, PA; he is also the father of Jared Mellinger, who is the sr. pastor of Covenant Fellowship Church in Glenn Mills, PA which is the new “flag ship” church for SGM, not C.J.’s church, in the opinion of many.
3. Mark Prater – Executive Director (cf. President), based in Covenant Fellowship Church.
4. Paul Buckley – Chairman of the Executive Committee, sr. pastor of King of Grace Church in Haverhill, MA.
5, Don Shorey – Northeast Regional Leader, pastor in Covenant Fellowship Church
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2015 9:16 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Photo - Boettcher, Mellinger, Prater, Buckley, Shorey
I forgot to mention that I always email my posts about SGM to all the former and current pastors in SGM. Every leader in SGM knows about the hush fund but they have done nothing. Prater is still Exec. Director and Buckley is still Chairman. No leave of absence for an investigation, etc.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2015 3:56 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Reformed Theology - Statements of Faith from 1987 & 1998
I’ve attached the original Statement of Faith from 1987. No question, it contained Reformed points of theology. It just wasn’t as explicit or in depth.
In 1997, however, we brought greater clarity and emphasis to our “essentially Reformed” theology. That included the March/April 1997 issue of the newly named Sovereign Grace magazine on “God’s Grace in Election, Regeneration, Justification, Sanctification, Glorification.” I sent this to you already.
In 1998, I expanded the Statement of Faith in numerous ways. That expansion included the addition of Reformed points of theology. You’ll find it attached. For your convenience, I’ve underlined the additions related to Reformed theology and added some simple footnotes. The same Statement of Faith is used today with only minor changes to the work of the Holy Spirit in one section.
Soli Deo Gloria
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2015 5:41 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Information about the Pastors College
The People of Destiny School of Ministry began in 1987-1988. It was nine months in duration and had ten students the first year. Frank Ecelbarger was in that class. I founded and headed up the school as “Director of Studies” and taught half the curriculum.
The school was discontinued as a nine month program the next two years due to the demands it put upon our resources. It was resumed in 1990-1991. I still headed up the school as “Executive Director” but cut back a bit on the amount of teaching I did given my growing apostolic responsibilities. There were six men in the case including Kenneth Maresco.
For the next six years, the school was discontinued for the same reason. We did theological training in other more abbreviated contexts.
In 1997-1998, we resumed the school permanently and changed the name to PDI Pastors College. I headed up the school once again. There were 16 students. C.J. referred to this as our first year but it was really our third year or third class. The curriculum and requirements were the same. The men in the first two classes always felt slighted by C.J.’s dismissal.
I continued to teach in the Pastors College until deceitfully removed by C.J. and Jeff Purswell in 2008. I effectively turned the PC over to Purswell in 2000-2001. If interested, see “Brent Removed from the Pastors College” in Response Regarding Friendship & Doctrine (pp. 122-125) at:
Purswell is on the SGC Leadership Team and a pastor in C.J.’s church. He has enabled and protected C.J. as much as anyone.
The Pastors College was shut down in 2014-2015 because few students applied and because of the high overhead. For example, in 2012-2013 they ran a $606,000 deficit. If interested, see SGM Pastors College on Life Support – Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Terminates Special Agreement at:
They plan to resume the PC this September.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2015 5:47 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: TYPO - 1983 not 1987
Importance: High
Please correct my typo. I wrote and compiled the original Statement of Faith in 1983 not 1986.
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2015 12:07 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: TYPO - 1983 not 1987
Got it. Thanks!
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Saturday, August 22, 2015 10:17 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Gene Emerson, Former Regional Leader for SGM, Arrested, Arraigned, Found Guilty, & Sentenced for Solicitation of Prostitution.
Another example of corruption. Hope your writing is coming along.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, September 8, 2015 12:42 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Gene Emerson
Hi Tiffany,
I don’t know if you are following the story regarding Gene Emerson or not.
He was sr. pastor of KingsWay Community Church in Midlothian, VA until he recently resigned. He lied to the church about the circumstances regarding his arrest and blamed the Chesterfield County Police Department for entrapment and implied he would file a lawsuit against them. Anyway, it was all part of his attempting to cover up in the site of the church.
But Gene was more than a sr. pastor. He is one of the best known leaders in all of SGM. For example, Gene was on C.J.’s apostolic team in 2011. He oversaw all the SGM churches in TN, NC, WV and central/south VA.
Gene is also the one who demanded my firing behind my back by treacherous means in 2009. He worked for C.J.
You may want to include a paragraph or two about him.
Let me know if I can be of help.
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, September 9, 2015 10:11 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Mahaney - T4G
Here is the list of speakers for Together for the Gospel. It was posted last night. C.J. will have a prominent role and a breakout session will be done for “anyone who wishes to know more, inquire about, or explore opportunities for church planting or church adoption within Sovereign Grace.”
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Wednesday, September 9, 2015 10:24 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Mahaney - T4G
Thanks for the heads-up!
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, September 9, 2015 10:33 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Mahaney - T4G
You’re welcome.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2015 9:49 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: T4G - 1.8 million
The average registration fee is $200. Nine thousand attended in 2014. That equals 1.8 million. Where does all that money go? They don’t publish a budget or release honoraria amounts.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, September 18, 2015 8:29 PM
To: Stanley Tiffany
Subject: C.J. Mahaney Becomes a Southern Baptist Minister
FYI
From: Brent Detwiler
Date: September 18, 2015 at 3:39:32 PM EDT
To: National Leaders
Subject: C.J. Mahaney Becomes a Southern Baptist Minister
For your information, I just wrote a post about C.J. Mahaney becoming a Southern Baptist Minister and Sovereign Grace Church of Louisville becoming a Southern Baptist Church at this link.
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Friday, September 18, 2015 8:53 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: C.J. Mahaney Becomes a Southern Baptist Minister
Whoa! Thank you for letting me know.
Tiffany
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Monday, October 12, 2015 10:00 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: memo question
Hi Brent,
I hope this note finds you well. I had a quick question for you about John Loftness’ memo on how pastors should handle child sex abuse. He wrote it in 2009, but do you know what prompted him to draft it?
I know you were on your way out of the organization around then, but I wondered if you had any insights. Thanks as always, Tiffany
--
Tiffany Stanley
(303) 328-1670 I @tifflstanley
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, October 12, 2015 11:22 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: memo question
C.J. was covering up the cover up of spiritual abuse and sexual abuse in SGM. When C.J. distributed the Loftness paper at the 2009 Leadership Conference he swore there was no cover up and never would be a cover up in SGM. All hot air.
C.J. and Loftness did the very opposite of what was contained in the paper in terms of caring for victims. And as you know, Loftness is an alleged sexual sadist. What a perfect cover for him to write the paper and be put forth by C.J. as the SGM child sex abuse expert. All a colossal example of deceit and hypocrisy from my perspective.
So the motivation. One, C.J. was deceiving people into believing that nothing was ever covered up including child sex abuse. Two, he was providing cover for Loftness who was an alleged conspirator and abuser. Three, C.J. feared lawsuits from sex abuse victims who were totally mishandled by their pastors. He wanted pastors to make amends. Four, he was trying to prevent lawsuits in the future.
See the attached, “C.J. Mahaney on No Damage Control in SGM.”
I also talked about this in “John Loftness in Focus – Former Chairman of the SGM Board & Alleged Sexual Sadist.” Here’s an excerpt.
Sovereign Grace Ministries does an annual Pastors Conference. In 2009, C.J. asked Mark Mullery to share “pastoral failures” committed by him and the pastors of Sovereign Grace Church of Fairfax in their defective care for the victims and families of sex abuse in the church. Mullery’s comments were woefully inadequate. Four Plaintiffs’ in the SAC are seeking to sue him and four other pastors for damages. Investigations are under way.
C.J. also distributed a 14 page article by John Loftness entitled, “When Child Abuse Occurs: Considerations for Pastors.” I believe Defendant Mullery’s “confession” and Defendants Loftness’ paper were part of a conspiracy orchestrated by C.J. whereby Mullery appears open about faults and Loftness appears an expert in caring for the victims of physical and sexual abuse.
Most significantly, C.J. used this setting to repeatedly and emphatically exclaim there has been, and there will be, absolutely no damage control in SGM including the cover up of physical and sexual abuse of children. I was at this Pastors Conference. I left SGM four months later.
All of this was part of a diabolical plan to mislead the movement. C.J. was well aware that he and others were covering up the criminal acts of sexual predators. Saying there would be “no damage control” was at the center of his plan to do damage control. See pages 107-112 in Concluding Remarks for C.J.’s comments.
The footnotes on pp. 107-112 provide additional commentary.
Are you still planning to publish in November? Glad to help with “historical” editing if that is helpful to you.
Any idea when the VA lawsuit will be filed?
Heading out the door for a couple hours.
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2015 1:44 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: memo question
Hi Tiffany,
I trust you received my response re: John Loftness’ motivation for writing the paper.
Can you bring me up to speed on these questions?
“Are you still planning to publish in November? Glad to help with “historical” editing if that is helpful to you.”
“Any idea when the VA lawsuit will be filed?”
Thanks
Brent
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2015 2:03 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: memo question
Hi Brent,
I did receive your response--thank you. I have filed the story, and hope to close it out in November. I’m not sure which issue it will be in yet. I’ll be sure to follow up if I have fact-checking questions. I don’t have current information about when a new suit will be filed.
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2015 2:14 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: memo question
Any “old” information on when the suit will be filed? J
Did you feel the story came together well with good sources?
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2015 2:47 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: memo question
I do feel like the story came together well--thanks for all your help. We’re editing it now, and I’m looking forward to getting the final draft ready. I don’t have intel on the lawsuit—you’ll have to check in with Susan about that.
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2015 2:49 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Re: memo question
Great to hear. Hope the final editing goes well. Thanks.
From: Brent Detwiler
Date: November 23, 2015 at 7:56:17 AM EST
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Long Story
Hi Tiffany,
I hope everything went well during the editing process.
Will the long story come out in the Dec 15 edition?
Thanks
Brent
From: Lauren Joseph [mailto:ljoseph@washingtonian.com]
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 2:09 PM
To: abrentdetwiler@gmail.com
Subject: Photo Request for Washingtonian
Importance: High
Hi Brent,
How are you? My name is Lauren, I’m the Assistant Photo Editor at Washingtonian magazine in DC. My editor provided me with your contact information, I hope that is okay. I’m working on the visuals for the CJ Mahaney/church story and was hoping to talk with you about it. I am wondering if you have any imagery you might be willing to share with us. We’d love to see any photos, videos, etc from your time at the church. Any interactions with CJ or other main leaders, gatherings, etc. The only requirement we have is that it’s high resolution if possible. I realize this is a very sensitive matter for many people involved or previously involved with the church and we don’t want to disrespect anyone’s privacy. We feel it’s very important to illustrate this story as honestly as we can and so if you have any imagery at all that you’d be willing to share with us, we’d be so grateful. If you have any questions, please feel free to send them my way. I’m in the office next to my phone today but will be out the rest of the week starting tomorrow and only available via email. We’d like to see what you might have available before Christmas or right after the Christmas holiday if possible. Our deadlines are quickly approaching and we want to give the designers enough time to work on the layout. I look forward to talking with you. Thank you so much for your time.
LAUREN JOSEPH
Assistant Photo Editor
W. 202.739.2419
ljoseph@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
Washingtonian | Washingtonian MOM | Washingtonian Welcome Guide
Washingtonian Bride & Groom | Washingtonian Events | Washingtonian Custom Media
We are Certified WBE/WOSB.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 2:22 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: RE: Photo Request for Washingtonian
I’m glad to help you out. I’ll try to work on it this week. If not, early next week. I’ll email some photos with captions. Sound okay?
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 4:04 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Cc: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Photo Request for Washingtonian
Hi Brent and Lauren,
I never reached out to Jeff Truesdale in my reporting, so I’m afraid I can’t be much help on that front.
Brent--I think some of the old PDI magazines you have could be great resources for Lauren if they were scanned in hi-def. Even in the few you sent me, there were lots of great, old photos of church leaders like yourself and CJ and Larry.
Thanks,
Tiffany
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 4:08 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Cc: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Photo Request for Washingtonian
Thank you Tiffany. Have you been in touch with any investigators or prosecutors who might have documents, court room sketches or mug shots? I’d like to be put in touch with those people if so. Thank you for both of your help on this, especially this time of year– I know it’s a busy time. Really appreciate it!
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 4:20 PM
To: Lauren Joseph; Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Photo Request for Washingtonian
Thanks Tiffany re: Jeff T. I’ll work from the photos in the magazine, etc.
Sounds like the article will be published in the Feb. edition. Is that correct?
Back to you Lauren.
[NOTE: It turns out Jeff Truesdale was sexually abusing his oldest daughter, who was sexually abusing her younger sister. Read The Conspiracy to Cover Up the Sexual Abuse of Children Under C.J. Mahaney Grows as Shannon Truesdale Comes Forward to Tell Story of Abuse by Her Father & Sister (Apr. 29, 2021).]
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 4:24 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Cc: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Re: Photo Request for Washingtonian
Importance: High
It’s slated for our February issue, yes. Though our deadline is much sooner than that to give the printer time to get it on newsstands in early January.
Looking forward to seeing any imagery you have available Brent. Thanks so much!
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 21, 2015 4:26 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Cc: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Photo Request for Washingtonian
Understand. You’re welcome.
From: Jackson Knapp [mailto:jknapp@washingtonian.com]
Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2015 3:08 PM
To: abrentdetwiler@gmail.com
Subject: Washingtonian Magazine -- Fact Check for Tiffany Stanley's Church Story
Hi Mr. Detwiler,
How are you? My name is Jackson and I’m a fact checker with Washingtonian magazine. I’m going over Tiffany Stanley’s Sovereign Grace Ministries story for our February issue, and I was wondering if we could schedule a time to speak over the phone to confirm some of the info we’re looking to publish. I’ll be in the office today and tomorrow, then will be out until Tuesday the 29th, when I’ll be back around through the 31st. What’s your availability like?
Feel free to email me back or call anytime at 202 739 2402, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks a ton and have a great rest of your day,
JACKSON KNAPP
Editorial Fellow, Washingtonian
W. 202.739.2402
jknapp@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2015 3:48 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: RE: Washingtonian Magazine -- Fact Check for Tiffany Stanley’s Church Story
Can you email me your questions? That way I am not reliant on memory. I can research my files as needed.
From: Jackson Knapp
Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2015 3:56 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Washingtonian Magazine -- Fact Check for Tiffany Stanley's Church Story
That should be fine. It’ll take me a moment to get everything together, so would you mind if I sent something out sometime early tomorrow? You don’t need to get back to me right away, and we can talk things out as needed.
Thanks for getting back to me,
JACKSON KNAPP
Editorial Fellow, Washingtonian
W. 202.739.2402
jknapp@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, December 23, 2015 5:30 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Another Example of Layman’s Perjury at Morales Trial – “Just a Member”
Hi Tiffany,
I just came across the attached “April 1988 Family News - Covenant Life Church” in my files and happened to notice the following paragraph written by Grant Layman in his “Lifeline Update” on page 2. Grant was the “Pastor of Youth.” That included junior high, senior high and college aged youth. Chris Glass assisted Grant in overseeing the junior high and senior high. Nate Morales oversaw the International Student Ministry at Montgomery College in Rockville.
“Nate Morales is overseeing our International Student Ministry and is doing a great job! Starting from scratch this past year Nate is now meeting regularly with approximately twenty international students. Valentine’s Day will always be a memorable day for Nate as he proposed to Miss Pam Bassett after a romantic dinner in Annapolis. They are planning to be married on August 20. By the way, since October Nate has lost over fifty pounds! Congratulations!!!” (April 1988 Family News - Covenant Life Church)
At the Morales trial, ASA Michalski asked Layman about Morales’ role in CLC. Layman lied under oath. Here’s what he said.
Grant Layman
Direct Examination by State
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
1:50:27-1:51:21 PM
Michalski: “What is the first time you can remember having contact with him [Nate Morales]?”
Layman: “It would be hard for me to say. I would guess back in the mid-80s somewhere.”
Michalski: “And what was his role at Covenant Life.”
Layman: “He was just a member.”
Michalski: “Okay. And specifically, did he have a role on the worship team at Covenant Life Church?”
Layman: “He did. He served on the worship team as a volunteer along with several other members of the church for a period of time.”
Michalski: “And what did he do for the worship team?”
Layman: “It would have involved singing on Sundays to help lead the congregation in singing.”
Michalski: “Okay. And was he also regularly involved in youth activities?”
Layman: “Not to my knowledge.”
Lifeline was the youth ministry. It included outreach to Montgomery College. Morales led the International Student Ministry. He was not “just a member.” Far from it. Layman repeatedly lied under oath. This is another example.
You’ll also find this interesting. In January 2010, Layman told Detective Magee and Detective Toner, he “could not recall if Nate Morales was a member of the church” (find police report attached). That too was a lie. Both false statements were an attempt to put legal and personal distance between Layman and Morales.
Montgomery County Police Department
Incident – Offense Report
07/27/2011
“On January 7, 2010, the writer [Det. Sally Magee] and Det. R. [Rebecca] Toner met with Grant Layman, a pastor at Covenant Life Church. The writer asked Mr. Layman about his conversation with Samuel Bates’ father [in 1993] concerning Samuel’s report [in 1993]. Mr. Layman advised he had “vague recollections” from 15-20 years ago [i.e. 1990-1995]. He could not recall if Nate Morales was a member of the church at the time, however he knew Nate Morales was teaching at the Montgomery County Christian Academy. This academy no longer exists.”
Layman worked closely with Morales in overseeing the International Student Ministry. This was at the height of Morales’ predatory sexual abuse of minor boys. Morales was also pursuing homosexual sex with young men 18 years and older. I assume he used the ministry to exploit international students for homosexual sex.
Layman and Morales worked together in the youth/student ministry and the worship ministry. They were also friends. Layman knew details about his personal life (e.g. his engagement, wedding date, loss of weight, etc.) The reference to his finance, “Miss Pam Bassett,” is a reference Pam Plaisted who testified against Morales at the trial. She broke off the engagement to Morales that same year.
I don’t know if you can, or want, to add this to your story at this late date.
Sorry to put work in front of you, two days before Christmas, but I know it is time sensitive.
I hope you have an enjoyable and fulfilling Holiday.
Brent
Postscript
A non-member would never be allowed to head up the International Student Ministry or being in the Worship Group and featured as a soloist on Sunday mornings.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 28, 2015 6:40 AM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: RE: Photo Request for Washingtonian
I’ll be sending you photos over the next couple of days. Some of them come from the ministry magazine we used to publish like the attached issue on “A Restoration of Relationships” from Jan/Feb 1988. Here are a couple photos of Larry and C.J.
C.J. preaching at Creation Festival at Agape Farm in Shirleysburg, PA
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 11:19 AM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: T4G Photos
Check here for images from Together for the Gospel 2014 like the one below. It’s the all-star team! John MacArthur and R.C. Sproul are missing but go to T4G 2016 and you’ll see a photo that includes them.
Together for the Gospel 2014 photo - Google Search
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 29, 2015 12:37 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: Larry & C.J.
Attached
Larry & C.J. - 1975 Gary Ricucci, his Dad, C.J., Robin Boisvert - Jesus Festival 1973
Larry & C.J. - 1975
Larry & C.J. - last TAG mtg - Tues Dec 18, 1979
Larry and C.J.
Larry praying with C.J.
Larry, C.J. & Carolyn - Oct 1979
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 12:44 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Larry & C.J.
These are fantastic! Thank you Brent!
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 12:46 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Steve Griney
Oh this is good to know too. I’ll definitely show my creative director these. Thank you
[NOTE: I am missing the email and photos I sent Lauren of Steve Griney and John Loftness. These men worked together in the sexual abuse of children in the CLC school according to the lawsuit. Loftness was principal. Griney a teacher.]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 3:55 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Cc: Jackson Knapp
Subject: Team Retreat 1983
This is a pic while on our first retreat as an apostolic team (aka, church planting team, leadership team) in Nov 1983.
Left to right: Steve Shank, Brent Detwiler, Che Ahn, Larry Tomczak, Bill Galbraith, C.J. Mahaney
Steve and Che were added to the team in 1983. Sovereign Grace Ministries (aka People of Destiny International, PDI Ministries, Sovereign Grace Churches, Inc.) began with Larry, C.J., Bill and me in 1982.
Only C.J. and Steve remain.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 4:13 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: SGM Facility
Here are some pics and statistics of the new SGM facility being built in 2002. Ten years later in 2012, C.J. abruptly moved SGM to Louisville because he was angry at Joshua Harris, the other CLC pastors and the church. SGM still owns the facility but it sits empty.
I wrote about it here. Sovereign Grace Ministries' Relocation Announcement
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 4:34 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: Group Picture of Pastors and Wives
This group photo is early on in our history (1980’s) at our Celebration East conference at Indiana University of Indiana in Indiana, Pennsylvania. These were all the pastors and wives at the time. The apostolic or leadership team is in the front row. Bill and Judy, Carolyn and C.J., Larry and Doris, Jenny and Brent.
Group Pic of Team & Wives, Pastors & Wives
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 4:53 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Group Picture of Pastors and Wives
Thank you Brent! I received the group photo and the SGM facility
LAUREN JOSEPH
Assistant Photo Editor
W. 202.739.2419
ljoseph@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 5:34 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Group Picture of Pastors and Wives
We definitely have some good ones now thanks to your help!!
LAUREN JOSEPH
Assistant Photo Editor
W. 202.739.2419
ljoseph@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 5:37 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: RE: Group Picture of Pastors and Wives
Will the issue be available online? When will it posted?
Can you or someone send me a hard copy edition? When does it hit the newsstands?
Thanks
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 28, 2015 9:26 AM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: # of Churches and Where
Here is a link to current churches in US. You’ll see other links to the international churches.
http://www.sovereigngrace.com/our-churches
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 4:28 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: C.J. – College
I may have said C.J. went to Frostburg State Univ. in Frostburg, MD. That was a mistake. To the best of my recollection, he went to Fairmont State Univ. in Fairmont, WV.
http://www.fairmontstate.edu/. That’s where he was busted for growing marijuana in his dorm room as a freshman year (1971) and thrown out of college.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Monday, December 28, 2015 9:43 AM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: Pastors College - # of Students
Here is a link of the Pastors College. Ave. graduation of 15 students from 1997 to present.
http://www.sovereigngrace.com/pastors-college
From: Jackson Knapp
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 9:38 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Pastors College - # of Students
Mr. Detwiler,
Sorry for the delayed response to all this, I was out of the office for the past 5-ish days. But thank you! That was all really helpful, and thanks again for taking the time to speak with me at length last week. I’ll probably have some extra questions as I keep going through this — would you mind if I gave a quick phone call if something pops up?
JACKSON KNAPP
Editorial Fellow, Washingtonian
W. 202.739.2402
jknapp@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 5:38 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: RE: Pastors College - # of Students
No problem. Just send me an email if you need to talk. Then we can set up a call.
Feel free to send questions also.
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 10:18 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Group Picture of Pastors and Wives
Importance: High
Our editors typically put the print stories online after the issue is on newsstands. It’s slated for our February issue which will be on newsstands January 21st. I’d be happy to send you a hard copy, what is your preferred address?
LAUREN JOSEPH
Assistant Photo Editor
W. 202.739.2419
ljoseph@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 10:20 AM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: RE: Group Picture of Pastors and Wives
Thank you Lauren!
Brent Detwiler
117 Tilton Drive
Mooresville, NC 28115
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2016 3:21 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: Larry and C.J.
Here is the story about C.J. and Larry’s on and off “reconciliation.”
Harvey Tells Tomczak to Stay Home
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2016 3:50 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: Two Sons-In-Laws are Deacons
FYI.
Two of the seven deacons in the church are C.J.’s sons in law. That is, Mike Bradshaw and Steve Whitacre.
http://www.sgclouisville.org/our-deacons
Brian was a pastor at Covenant Life Church and Steve was a pastor at Sovereign Grace Church of Fairfax before moving to Louisville. I’m sure C.J. would love to hire them as pastors in Louisville if the church grows.
As you know, his third son in law, Brian Chesemore, is the only other full time pastor in Louisville besides C.J.
http://www.sgclouisville.org/sovereign-grace-church-louisville-our-pastors
C.J. has three daughters. Brian married Kristin, Mike married Janelle, and Steve married Nicole.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, January 7, 2016 12:48 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Cc: Brent Detwiler
Subject: RE: Two Sons-In-Laws are Deacons
I just noticed a mistake in this sentence: “Brian was a pastor at Covenant Life Church.” It should read “Mike [Bradshaw] was a pastor at Covenant Life Church.”
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2016 3:55 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: Three Panel Review - A Kangaroo Court
Here’s a link to one of the articles I did on the Three Panel Review which really was a kangaroo court.
Panel Report on Brent Detwiler’s Dismissal from Grace Community Church
From: Jackson Knapp
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2016 4:26 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Three Panel Review - A Kangaroo Court
Thanks Brent! All very helpful again. Another thing — though CJ isn’t on SGC’s leadership team, do you know if he still helps recruit/plant/adopt new churches into the ministry?
JACKSON KNAPP
Editorial Fellow, Washingtonian
W. 202.739.2402
jknapp@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, January 6, 2016 2:24 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: RE: Three Panel Review - A Kangaroo Court
Yes. Seven of the 12 men in the Pastors College are from his church in Louisville. If you go to this link you will see C.J. highlighted in the photos. He is also referenced as a faculty member and he regularly meets with the students.
http://www.sovereigngrace.com/pastors-college
Also remember that Bob Kauflin and Jeff Purswell are on the SGM Leadership Team. They also work for C.J. in his church. His influence over them is great and their influence, in turn, over SGM is great.
The same is true of Tommy Hill. He is on the SGM Leadership Team and was a member of C.J.’s church until recently.
Lastly, C.J. chose Mark Prater to be his replacement as President (aka Executive Director) of SGM. C.J. influence over Mark is also great.
C.J. has tremendous clout even though he is not in an official position. The Pastors College and the SGM headquarters are based in his church. So are most of the staff for both entities.
C.J. also teaches at SGM conferences. For instance, the 2015 Pastors Conference this past October.
C.J. is still the draw for SGM. His connections to men like Al Mohler, R.C. Sproul, John MacArthur, et al., are the main reason anyone is attracted to SGM. No doubt he is recruiting men all the time and advising Mark, Bob, Jeff, Tommy, etc. how to use these men to plant and/or staff churches.
One other point from yesterday. Keep in mind that Gary Ricucci is a pastor in C.J.’s church also. He married C.J.’s sister, Betsy. So, Gary, Brian, Steve and Mike are all key leaders in the church. You should also know that Gary is alleged to have aiding and abetting child sexual abuse and the conspiracy to cover it up. I believe those allegations are true. See Gary Ricucci & the Conspiracy Surrounding Convicted Felon, David Adams.
Last point, Craig Cabaniss was a seventh member of the Leadership Team until recently. He name was removed from the list in December. He was the Director of Church Development. Here is his bio. SGM has put out no explanation for his removal or resignation. When people leave on good terms, SGM recognizes them. There has been no recognition for Craig. I don’t know why he is gone but it is a major development.
Director of Church Development
Craig Cabaniss
Craig is senior pastor of Grace Church (Frisco, TX). He grew up in the Houston area, going on to study at Baylor University. After graduation, Craig married Ginger, and they moved to Pasadena, California where Craig earned his Master of Divinity from Fuller Seminary. While in seminary, Craig was first introduced to Sovereign Grace Ministries through their member church in Pasadena. He later served on their pastoral staff for five years, and then planted a church in San Diego. Craig pastored Grace Church in San Diego for ten years before returning to Texas to lead a team in planting a new church in Frisco. Craig and Ginger have four children and one grandson.
This position is previously known as the Director of Church Care. I’m [Mark Prater] changing the name of this role to emphasize that in our new polity, care for churches occurs primarily at a regional level. However, the Director of Church Development will promote and coordinate care for our churches and pastors by equipping, communicating, and working with our Regional Leaders, ensuring that there is a consistent standard of care experienced across our regions. Beyond the care component, the Director of Church Development will help develop and equip local elderships as they mature at a local level. Craig has six years of regional leadership experience that has equipped him for this role, and he possesses a doctrinal depth that is needed for the equipping and development of local elderships. I’m excited for you to benefit from some of the ideas Craig has to develop our local pluralities of elders.
From: Jackson Knapp
Sent: Thursday, January 7, 2016 5:25 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Washingtonian CLC Attendance Drop Email (on deadline)
Hi Brent,
Thanks for all your help with this! Are you able to forward me this email?
Brent Detwiler shared an email on his website from CLC’s Executive Pastor Mark Mitchell to members from November 21, 2014, that read: “Over the last three years Sunday attendance and giving have declined. Since 2011, Sunday attendance has dropped from 3,305 to 1,715.”
It’s a little time sensitive. Thanks!
JACKSON KNAPP
Editorial Fellow, Washingtonian
W. 202.739.2402
jknapp@washingtonian.com
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, January 7, 2016 5:40 PM
To: Jackson Knapp
Subject: RE: Washingtonian CLC Attendance Drop Email (on deadline)
Here you go.
From: Mark Mitchell
Sent: Friday, November 21, 2014 6:00 PM
Subject: Budget Outlook
November 21, 2014
Dear church family,
Earlier this year when we affirmed our budget, we said that we would update you as the year unfolded if giving decreased and we needed to make adjustments to our plans. In the providence of God giving has decreased, and I’m writing today to share how we’re seeking to be good stewards in response.
In Psalm 16 David writes, “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places.” God is in control and he is good and right now he is redrawing our “boundary lines” as a church when it comes to our size and budget.
OUR SITUATION
Over the last three years Sunday attendance and giving have declined. Since 2011, Sunday attendance has dropped from 3,305 to 1,715, and giving has declined from $8.2 million to $6.2 million. Up until now, we have been able to keep in step with these realities through the departures of several pastors and reducing other expenditures.
But in September of this year, giving took an unprecedented downturn, dropping from the norm by about 25% and remaining at or near that level since then.
Very simply, we are a smaller church with less than expected revenue, and we need to reduce our staff to match this reality. While this is difficult we believe it’s part of God’s ongoing work of pruning us and focusing us as a church so that we can be more fruitful in the days ahead.
OUR RESPONSE
The elders, having consulted with the non-staff elder candidates and Financial Advisory Committee, are in agreement that we cannot sustain our present budget and that it’s necessary to lay off two pastors.
I realize this is unexpected and uncomfortable news that affects our whole church body. As the one with specific responsibility to implement the layoffs, my heart is heavy at the prospect.
We plan to share more specifics on the layoffs at an after-service Members Meeting on Sunday, December 14. We would appreciate your prayers for the whole staff in the interim.
Also on the 14th, we will share plans to help the congregation get to know the non-staff elder candidates during January and move forward with an affirmation vote in January or February. Even as the Lord is taking away, he is providing new means of care and leadership for his people.
THIS SUNDAY
Finally, two notes about this coming Sunday. First, we’re having a Coffee & Conversation meeting at 12:15 p.m. in the Edwards Room, and we invite you to come and ask any questions and share your thoughts with us there. Second, I’m preaching a message in our “Life Together” series on giving and its role in our community.
When we planned the series earlier this year we didn’t know that giving would drop in September or that we’d be facing the prospect of laying off staff. I want you to know that the purpose of this message is not to trumpet the need for giving in hopes of quickly reversing the trend. We are entrusting that to the Lord. The purpose of the message is simply to let God’s Word speak and remind us all of God’s call to generosity and faith in regards to our resources—something that so many of you are already modeling.
May God help us to process this news in keeping with the truths from God’s Word throughout the “Life Together” series. We are God’s dearly loved children, redeemed for his glory, and called by his grace to draw near to one another in enduring love and service.
With faith, hope and love,
Mark Mitchell with the Elders
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, January 8, 2016 8:04 AM
To: Betsy White w.betsy@verizon.net
Subject: Reprint Article on C.J. Mahaney, Covenant Life Church & Sovereign Grace Ministries
Hello Betsy
I’ve worked closely with Tiffany Stanley, Jackson Knapp and Lauren Joseph in putting together the upcoming story in the February issue on C.J. Mahaney, Covenant Life Church and Sovereign Grace Ministries. May I have permission to reprint the article on my blog at http://abrentdetwiler.squarespace.com/?
I look forward to seeing the issue come out after ten months of work and appreciate all the effort that has going into its writing and editing.
Thank you.
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 3:11 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: Title / Newsstands
Hi Lauren
A couple quick questions. What is the title of the article? Still on newsstands Jan 21?
I look forward to reading it – better, viewing it; you know the photos! Thanks again for sending.
Thanks
Brent
From: Lauren Joseph
Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 3:24 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Title / Newstands
Hi Brent,
The editors are working on that so I’m unsure of the title… something including “Megachurch”. It’ll be on newsstands on the 21st and once we get them in the office I’ll send you a hard copy
Thank you!
LAUREN JOSEPH
Assistant Photo Editor
W. 202.739.2419
ljoseph@washingtonian.com
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 3:30 PM
To: Lauren Joseph
Subject: RE: Title / Newstands
You are so kind! Thanks for the update.
From: Betsy White
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 9:46 AM
To: Brent DetwilerSubject: RE: Reprint Article on C.J. Mahaney, Covenant Life Church & Sovereign Grace Ministries
Brent,
You need to contact the publisher directly. We are an “outsourced” company, and we handle only customized bulk (100 or more) reprints of articles. For a back issue, or a copy of the article please contact the publisher directly.
Thank you
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2016 6:48 PM
To: Stanley Tiffany
Subject: Congrats!
The article is finally out. Wow. A long process. One of the editors is sending me a copy. I like the title and description.
Question. Do you know when it will be posted on the website for general access without having to subscribe?
Lots of people are asking me.
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2016 7:34 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Congrats!
Thanks!
And I am as ready for it to be online as anybody, but unfortunately the editors haven’t decided when to post it yet (but it will likely be next week at the earliest). I will let you know as soon as I know about the online pub date. And hopefully it’s soon!
Thanks as always,
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2016 7:52 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Re: Congrats!
Thanks! I’ll inform others after I hear from you.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Sunday, January 24, 2016 3:49 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: FW: Featured Story by Washingtonian Magazine about C.J. Mahaney, Covenant Life Church & Sovereign Grace Ministries Hits Newsstands Tomorrow
FYI. I sent this out to over 100 national leaders and all my contacts in Christian media. Your article will be getting coverage. Someone said this about the article, “Just finished reading it. Well done, very thoughtful, not liberal anti-Christian but caring about kids and families.” I thought that might encourage you.
Hope your well
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, February 4, 2016 10:12 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Online Publishing Date?
Pardon my impatience. Lots of folks asking from around the country. Any update on online publishing date?
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Thursday, February 4, 2016 11:57 AM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Online Publishing Date?
We know it won’t be up this week, but check back in next week after Wednesday.
Thanks,
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, February 11, 2016 7:51 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Online Publishing Date
Any update?
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Thursday, February 11, 2016 4:49 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Online Publishing Date
It’s scheduled to go live on Sunday evening (Feb. 14). Thanks!
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Saturday, February 20, 2016 10:25 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Response from CLC
Here’s the response from [Mark] Mitchell. Includes this pathetic paragraph.
“You may be reading this because you’ve seen or heard media reports that paint a different picture, one that suggests our church is insensitive to victims of child abuse. Such coverage has omitted crucial information, perpetuated distortions and false allegations, and mischaracterized Covenant Life Church.”
We Strive To Be a Community of Healing and Hope
February 19 2016 at 4:05 pm
[NOTE: Five weeks later, I broke another story about a prominent member in CLC arrested for abusing his daughter. Read Covenant Life Member & Children’s Ministry Worker, Larry Ellis Caffery, Arrested on Nine Counts of Child Sex Abuse & Two Counts of False Imprisonment (Mar. 26, 2016). Three days later, he was on Tiffany’s radio show trying to defend CLC. My article took the wind out of his sails.]
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 2:24 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Radio Show
I was just told Mark Mitchell and Pam Palmer are on your radio show. I’d like to join you [in progress]. I know Mitchell’s lies and deceit like no one else. I’d like the opportunity to counter him. I hope that is doable.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 3:49 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Mitchell Letter
Mark Mitchell sent out this letter on Sunday, March 29 and made two claims.
First, “We’ve been learning all we can so that we can communicate with you fully and accurately in the days to come.” The CLC pastors have made countless promises like this one, only to break them. I have no confidence there will be a full accounting which includes the admittance of fault.
Second, Mitchell “reassures” the church that “our child protection measures are robust.” If their measures were robust, the pastors would never have allowed [Larry] Caffery to serve in children’s ministry where he could potentially abuse or build relationships with children he could exploit outside of children’s ministry.
March 29, 2016
Dear church family,
I am sorry to bring sad and disturbing news. We learned Saturday that a 66-year-old male member [Larry Caffery] of the church was arrested earlier this month and charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse of a minor. We are grateful that law enforcement is involved. We are not naming the accused at this time to protect the minor.
We’ve been learning all we can so that we can communicate with you fully and accurately in the days to come. We want to reassure you that our child protection measures are robust, and we continue to work hard to ensure Covenant Life remains a place of safety for children.
So far as we know nothing related to these charges occurred at the church. However, if you have any information we encourage you to contact Montgomery County Police at 301-279-8000.
Sincerely,
Mark Mitchell
And a final observation. Given the policies of CLC, Caffery could have been arrested, tried and sentenced but the members of CLC never told. That is what they did with convicted felon, David Adams. He went off to jail but it was kept a secret. When he got out of jail, he returned to the church. No one was told about his three year history of abuse. Those are the “robust” policies used at CLC.
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 1:36 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Loftness Document
Importance: High
Hey Tiffany,
Good job on the radio. On so difficult to make your points and counter points in such a short amount of time but you did well!
Once again, Mitchell was deceptive in numerous ways. For instance, not pointing out that CLC pastor of 17 years, John Loftness, wrote the definitive statement on how to handle child sex abuse and it was most definitely followed by CLC.
By the way, could you send me your version of the document. My version is shorter. I may have an earlier draft.
Thanks for your help and your advocacy.
Brent
From: Tiffany Stanley
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 4:17 PM
To: Brent Detwiler
Subject: Re: Loftness Document
Hi Brent,
Unfortunately my copy has markings on it from a family (which would likely give away who they are), and since they gave it to me in confidence, I don’t feel comfortable giving it out. But I am betting a few families from the lawsuit have access to it.
Thanks,
Tiffany
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, July 22, 2016 11:18 AM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: Caffery
Hi Tiffany,
Hope you’re working on some great stories!
Question. Do you know why the police closed the investigation on Caffery? I assume his daughter changed her mind and decided not to cooperate or follow through. Any idea what is going on?
Thanks
Brent
From: Brent Detwiler
Sent: Friday, July 29, 2016 3:10 PM
To: Tiffany Stanley
Subject: RE: Caffery
Can you provide a brief update for me?
Thanks
Brent
[NOTE: That was my last email. I didn’t hear from Tiffany. I was dropped like a hot potato when no longer needed. Oh well, that’s the way of the world and irrelevant.
Here’s what is evident. The publishing of the article on February 14, 2016 was a powerful expression of God’s sovereignty and holy indignation toward evil.
For five years, I’d been fiercely opposed by the most powerful evangelical leaders in the nation. Then God did what only he can do. He raised up Tiffany Stanley and Washingtonian magazine with a monthly readership of 400,000 in the Washington D.C. area, to further expose the corruption and sexual abuse of children in Sovereign Grace Ministries under the leadership of C.J. Mahaney.
Praise be to God!