December 19, 2025

We are writing to share some important news regarding the recently pending lawsuit against our Church, the Diocese, and a current and a former staff member. We are very pleased to announce that the complainant has officially withdrawn his case. That decision comes on the heels of the thorough third-party investigation of the allegations. As the Vestry shared with you on November 29, the investigators found no evidence to substantiate the allegations of misconduct, and questioned the veracity of those allegations. To be clear, there has been no out of court settlement, and no payments have been made to the complainant or any third party.

The plaintiff’s decision to withdraw his allegations and voluntarily discontinue this lawsuit ‘with prejudice’ means that these allegations cannot be brought again. This finally draws to a close the matter, and offers great relief to our Saint Thomas Church community — most especially to those who were unjustly accused and personally suffered under the cloud of the baseless and unsubstantiated attacks. 

The safety of all those in our communities is of paramount importance to Saint Thomas Church. Our commitment to our baptismal covenant, to respect the dignity of every human being, and our strict adherence to safe church protocols have guided us throughout in response to the allegations contained within the lawsuit. We take any allegations of sexual misconduct very seriously and have taken steps to ensure that we have the highest regard for the safeguarding of our community. You can find our safeguarding policies for the protection of children and youth, and the protection of vulnerable adults here. This link also includes contact information for how to report concerns. 

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, let us reflect on Christ’s love and the hope it brings to our lives. We are grateful to be able to put this matter behind us and to focus on celebrating the gift of our Lord’s redemption and the promise of renewal and compassion Jesus offers all people. Together, we are able to close this chapter and move forward in peace and unity as we strive to build a beloved community that seeks to worship, love, and serve our Lord Jesus Christ.

Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers for all who have been impacted by this. 

Sincerely Yours,
 
The Rev. Canon Carl Turner, Rector

Lloyd Stanford, Warden

Gregory Zaffiro, Warden