July 17, 2024
Dear TFCA Family,
It has been three months since the release of the special investigation report. Your Vestry has been grieved by the report’s findings and is working to listen, learn, and love well. Although we have undoubtedly fallen short of the mark, we lament the harm that happened and are committed to doing whatever we can to honor Christ in our response. We are writing to update you on several aspects of the response and intend to do so quarterly.
Our current and former rectors have each publicly acknowledged their mistakes and sought forgiveness both in person and in writing. Private conversations are ongoing and, with the work of the Holy Spirit, can provide an important path toward healing. The large group gatherings we hosted received mixed reviews.
An addendum to the Isler Dare report is expected in August. In keeping with our commitment to be as transparent as possible, it will be publicly distributed in the same manner as the initial report. If you or others you know have new information, we encourage you to contact the FBI at http://tips.fbi.gov/home and the investigator Eddie Isler at confidentialFCA@islerdare.com
Our child and youth protections policies are being reviewed and revised by a working group made up of key staff and lay leaders. In addition to leaders and volunteers, parents and students will be notified of the policies at the beginning of each school year to increase awareness and accountability. Our church governance policies are also under review with an eye toward maximizing communication between the Executive Committee and the Vestry.
A Care Team co-led by Pastor Isaiah Brooms and Vestry member Scott Thompson and advised by Rich Dean and Gail Thompson is working to support those who have been hurt, whether directly or indirectly, by Jeff Taylor. The Care Team also includes former Cornerstone students, clergy members, professional counselors and healing prayer ministers. To reach the Care Team, please email Kelley at karlenn@tfcanglican.org
Financial assistance for counseling continues to be available through the benevolence fund for survivors and close family members. If you or someone you know are in need of counseling, we encourage you to reach out to Rebekah at rbeach@tfcanglican.org
Trauma-informed therapists Drs. Diane Langberg and Phil Monroe will lead an in-person training for the TFCA staff and clergy in September. Sam’s sermons on abuse remain available on our website along with a host of related communications, including a video from Dr. Monroe.
With the full support of the Vestry, Sam will be taking some time away this summer to regroup and to allow space and time to hear from the Lord about what He wants for our church family. Please join us in praying for Sam and for our church.
The Special Committee continues to receive inquiries and is committed to answering each one as thoughtfully, openly, and honestly as it can. If you have questions or concerns, please send them to specialcommittee@tfcanglican.org Of course, you are also welcome to email us as wardens@tfcanglican.org
As hard as this season is, we know that God is in control, and our response to the report is a vital part of our ministry. While hurt and hardship can challenge our faith, we believe that what the Lord has in store for TFCA is good. We will continue to follow His lead trusting that “God is able to do far more than we could ever ask or imagine.” Ephesians 3:20
We invite you to join us and your Vestry in continuing to pray for all who have been impacted by abuse of any sort. We are asking the Holy Spirit to bring healing, and we are claiming the protection of the shed blood of Jesus Christ over our church family.
We are grateful to be part of The Falls Church Anglican with all of you.
In Christ,
Kristen Short Steffen Johnson
Senior Warden Junior Warden