Michigan UCC Leader’s Memoir on Sexual Misconduct Faces Criticism from Fellow Pastors

Lillian Daniel, a leader within the United Church of Christ (UCC), has faced criticism from fellow pastors over her memoir, *Defrocked*, which details an inappropriate sexual relationship she had with a church employee during her tenure as pastor in suburban Chicago. The book, published this summer, includes her admission of the misconduct, which led to her losing her job at First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn in 2015. Daniel later became a pastor in Iowa and now serves as conference minister for the UCC in Michigan, overseeing 350 pastors.

A group of 143 UCC pastors, including prominent figures such as Ann Kansfield, Laura Everett, and Kerri Parker, have expressed concern that Daniel’s memoir does not fully address the harm caused by her actions. In a letter of concern sent to UCC leaders on September 15, these clergy members argue that Daniel’s portrayal of herself as a victim of the church’s accountability system overlooks the broader issue of clergy sexual abuse. They emphasize the need for accountability, stating that her book “ignores the long and painful history of clergy sexual abuse which has transgressed so many boundaries held in sacred trust by clergy.”

The letter calls for a formal review of Daniel’s “misuse and abuse of power, crossing of boundaries, and disregard for covenantal relationships.” It also highlights the potential for re-traumatization of victims and others affected by the church’s failures. The signatories include leaders from various UCC-affiliated organizations, such as the Massachusetts Council of Churches and the Wisconsin Council of Churches.

The letter was sent to several UCC officials, including President Karen Georgia Thompson and Darrell Goodwin, chair of the Council of Conference Ministers. It was also delivered to Elizabeth Dilley, head of the UCC’s Ministerial Excellence, Support and Authorization team, and Diane Baker, moderator of the board for the Michigan Conference. As of now, it is unclear whether any of the recipients have responded to the letter.

Daniel’s memoir, subtitled “Good News from a Bad Pastor for a Better Church,” faced initial resistance from its publisher, Westminster John Knox (WJK) Books. Originally scheduled for release on April 7, the book was quietly withdrawn before publication. The reasons for the withdrawal were not disclosed, but the clergy letter suggests that concerns over Daniel’s portrayal of her past actions may have played a role.

The controversy surrounding Daniel’s memoir raises important questions about accountability, transparency, and the role of leadership within the UCC. As the denomination continues to grapple with issues of clergy misconduct, the call for a formal review reflects a broader commitment to addressing past harm and preventing future abuse. Proverbs 18:17 reminds us that “the first to answer is the one who has understanding,” and in this case, the voices of those who have been harmed are urging a deeper examination of leadership practices within the church.

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