MCSA Minister Arrested Over Sexual Assault Allegations

The Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA) has confirmed the arrest of one of its ministers in connection with allegations of sexual assault. In a statement issued on Sunday, the church acknowledged its awareness of the arrest and announced that the minister has been placed on compulsory leave with immediate effect. The identity of the minister and the specific details surrounding the allegations have not been disclosed.

The MCSA stated that it takes allegations of sexual assault, gender-based violence, sexual violence, abuse, and harassment extremely seriously. The church condemned all forms of such conduct and recognized the profound impact these incidents can have on individuals, families, and communities. The institution emphasized that its immediate concern is the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of the complainant and anyone directly harmed or placed at risk.

Appropriate, confidential, and trauma-informed pastoral support is being made available to the complainant and their family. Separately, pastoral care is being offered to the accused minister and their family. The church stressed that providing support to the minister and their family does not diminish the seriousness of the allegations or the church’s safeguarding responsibilities.

The MCSA stated that it will cooperate with relevant authorities and continue to follow its own safeguarding, pastoral, and disciplinary processes where applicable. The decision to place the minister on compulsory leave was guided by the church’s intolerance of sexual assault and its anti-harassment policy. The minister remains on compulsory leave while legal proceedings and internal church processes take their course.

The church appealed to its members not to speculate about the case or publish unverified information while the matter is before the relevant authorities. It specifically warned against harassment, intimidation, or the dissemination of information that has not been verified. As an active legal matter, the MCSA stated it will not comment on the substance of the allegations or the evidence before the court.

This statement comes amid continued national concern over sexual violence and gender-based violence, with institutions and civil society organizations calling for stronger measures to protect victims and survivors and ensure accountability. The MCSA affirmed that its safeguarding obligations would continue alongside the legal process. Its own pastoral and disciplinary procedures will also continue where applicable, meaning the church will deal with the matter internally within its established processes while cooperating with the relevant authorities.

In matters of institutional accountability, the pursuit of justice must be balanced with the protection of the vulnerable. As Micah 6:8 calls for justice and mercy, the church’s commitment to safeguarding processes and trauma-informed care reflects a duty to uphold truth while caring for those affected by harm.

Source: Read the original report