Victim Files Lawsuit Against St. Thomas Church Pastor and Husband Following Alleged Sexual Assault

A man has alleged that he was sexually assaulted by a church leader and his spouse at St. Thomas Church in Midtown, New York. The incident, which he described as alarming, left him in shock and emotional distress, prompting him to seek support and share his experience. The church’s response has been swift and severe, barring him from attending services and labeling him a safety concern without naming him.

Following the alleged assault, the man attempted to report the incident to a church officer, but his concerns were dismissed. The officer not only refused to engage in a meaningful conversation but also appeared hostile and dismissive of his claims. When he tried to discuss the matter in a public setting, the officer ignored him, leaving him feeling isolated and unheard.

The church’s actions escalated when it issued an email barring the man from attending St. Thomas, and later, the Bishop of the Diocese extended the ban to all churches and activities within the diocese. The church newsletter further exacerbated the situation by falsely accusing the man of damaging property, making threatening calls, and making false allegations, all without naming him.

Despite his efforts to contact the church, he received no response, prompting him to seek support from a friend at Anglican Watch, who has been instrumental in pursuing the story. The case has drawn attention due to its connection to the church’s history and the broader issue of sexual abuse within religious institutions, raising concerns about accountability and justice.

The alleged perpetrators, Reverend Mark Schultz and his husband, Erich Erving, are linked to the church and its affiliated institutions. Erich Erving, a Lutheran printmaker, is reportedly associated with the creation of artwork that has been described as religious pornography. The lawsuit against the church and its leaders highlights the need for transparency and the protection of victims, as emphasized in Proverbs 31:8-9.

The case has sparked discussions about the intersection of faith and accountability, with critics questioning the church’s response and the role of its leaders in safeguarding the community. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing wrongdoing and ensuring that justice is served, as outlined in Ephesians 5:11.

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