Pentecostal 'Pastor' Yersson David Solarte and the Epidemic of Child Sexual Abuse in Pentecostal Communities

The Betrayal of Trust: Pentecostal Pastor Yersson David Solarte and the Epidemic of Child Sexual Abuse in Pentecostal Communities

The recent arrest of Yersson David Solarte, a 33-year-old Pentecostal pastor, has once again brought to light the disturbing reality of child sexual abuse within religious communities. On May 7, 2025, Solarte was arrested in Virginia while on a family trip, charged with sexual battery of a minor and lewd and lascivious molestation. This case, involving the abuse of two underage girls at Ipul Pentecostal Church in Sanford, Florida, underscores a broader pattern of hypocrisy among some Pentecostal leaders who proclaim holiness, claim to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and profess strict adherence to biblical teachings—yet engage in heinous acts against the most vulnerable. This blog post examines Solarte’s case, highlights other instances of child sexual abuse by Pentecostal leaders, and reflects on the stark contradiction between their professed faith and their actions, particularly in light of Jesus’ words about harming children.

Yersson David Solarte: A Predator in the Pulpit

Yersson David Solarte, a married father and former pastor at Ipul Pentecostal Church (Iglesia Pentecostal Unida Latinoamericana Orlando Norte), was accused of sexually assaulting two underage girls who were members of his congregation. According to the Sanford Police Department, the investigation began on April 10, 2025, following reports of an “inappropriate relationship” between Solarte and the victims. The police found that Solarte had inappropriately touched both girls and sexually assaulted one of them on church grounds, including in his office and the multimedia room. One victim reported that Solarte forced her to sit on his lap during the assaults, while the second girl alleged multiple instances of abuse, including an incident where Solarte “forcefully” grabbed her face to kiss her, expressed romantic feelings, and even claimed they were a “couple” after unzipping his pants (People.com, May 10, 2025; Miami Herald, May 9, 2025).

Shockingly, Solarte reportedly justified his actions with a chilling rationale, telling one of the girls, “We only live once,” a phrase more associated with carefree indulgence than the moral responsibility of a pastor (DNYuz.com, May 10, 2025). This flippant attitude betrays the sacred trust placed in him as a spiritual leader. Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith condemned Solarte’s actions, stating, “People like this are a special class of criminal, who use their position of trust to prey on innocent victims. Solarte is now behind bars where he belongs” (Sanford Police Department, May 8, 2025). Authorities have since removed Solarte from his pastoral role and are urging other potential victims to come forward, suspecting there may be more who have not yet spoken out (Orlando Sentinel, May 8, 2025).

A Broader Pattern: Child Sexual Abuse in Pentecostal Communities

Solarte’s case is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling pattern within Pentecostal and broader evangelical communities, where leaders often claim to be anointed by the Holy Spirit and uphold strict biblical standards, yet exploit their authority to harm children. The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) has documented how some pedophiles are drawn to the ministry precisely because it provides access to children while shielding them from scrutiny. Clergy are often given “blind obedience,” especially in conservative settings, and congregations may protect abusers while ostracizing victims (FFRF.org, 1988).

One notable case involved a Pentecostal youth pastor in Texas, Rob Shiflet, who was convicted in 2021 of sexually assaulting two girls on church youth trips. A 2019 investigation by Denton Bible Church revealed that Shiflet had abused 14 girls across two churches, exploiting his role in a theologically conservative environment where such abuse often goes unaddressed (Newsweek, December 9, 2022). Similarly, in 2010, the Archdiocese of Baltimore reported allegations against Father John Wielebski, a former Trinitarian priest who served in several parishes, including some with Pentecostal affiliations, for sexual misconduct in the 1980s (Archdiocese of Baltimore, 2023). These cases highlight a recurring theme: abusers often thrive in environments where their spiritual authority is unquestioned, and their claims of holiness provide a veneer of trustworthiness.

Pentecostal leaders frequently emphasize their spiritual purity, claiming to be “filled with the Holy Spirit” and living by the Bible’s teachings. They often preach about moral absolutes, speaking in tongues, and experiencing divine encounters, which can elevate their status in the eyes of their congregations. Yet, this self-proclaimed holiness starkly contrasts with their actions when they prey on children. The Center for Parent/Youth Understanding notes that in theologically conservative churches, where trust in leaders is high and protective measures may be lacking, abusers find it easier to groom victims (CPYU.org, 2018). This dynamic creates a perfect storm for abuse, as the very communities that claim to be the most “Bible-believing” become breeding grounds for exploitation.

Jesus’ Words on Harming Children: A Condemnation of Hypocrisy

The actions of Solarte and other Pentecostal abusers stand in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus, particularly His stern warnings about harming children. In Matthew 18:6, Jesus declares, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea” (NIV). This vivid imagery underscores the severity of exploiting or harming a child, especially one who trusts in Christ. Jesus’ words are a direct rebuke to those who, under the guise of spiritual leadership, betray the innocence of the vulnerable.

The hypocrisy of Pentecostal abusers like Solarte is glaring. They claim to be vessels of the Holy Spirit, preaching sermons about righteousness and holiness, yet their actions reveal a profound moral failure. The FFRF highlights how church teachings of “forgiveness” can be misused to protect abusers at the expense of victims, further compounding the harm (FFRF.org, 1988). Solarte’s alleged use of the phrase “we only live once” to justify his abuse mocks the biblical call to holiness and betrays the trust of his congregation. Such behavior not only violates the ethical standards of Christianity but also desecrates the sacred role of a pastor, who is meant to shepherd and protect the flock, not prey on it.

The Hypocrisy of Pentecostals: A Call for Accountability

The cases of Yersson David Solarte, Rob Shiflet, and others reveal a deep hypocrisy within some Pentecostal circles. These leaders often position themselves as moral exemplars, claiming to be guided by the Holy Spirit and devoted to biblical truth, yet their actions directly contradict their professed beliefs. The Bible calls for leaders to be “above reproach” (1 Timothy 3:2), a standard that Solarte and others have grievously failed to meet. Their abuse of power not only harms their victims but also undermines the credibility of the Church as a whole, alienating those who seek genuine spiritual guidance.

The Pentecostal emphasis on spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues and divine healing, can create an environment where leaders are seen as untouchable, anointed figures. This perception often discourages victims from coming forward, as they fear disbelief or retribution, as noted in the FFRF report (FFRF.org, 1988). Moreover, the culture of forgiveness within these communities can lead to abusers being quietly reassigned rather than held accountable, a pattern seen in various denominations (The Guardian, 2016). This systemic failure to protect children reveals a disconnect between the Pentecostal claim of being “Spirit-filled” and the reality of unchecked sin within their ranks.

Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Reform

The arrest of Yersson David Solarte is a grim reminder of the ongoing crisis of child sexual abuse within religious communities, including Pentecostal churches. His actions, along with those of other abusers like Rob Shiflet, expose a troubling hypocrisy: leaders who claim to be holy, filled with the Holy Spirit, and devoted to the Bible, yet exploit their positions to harm the innocent. Jesus’ warning in Matthew 18:6 serves as a sobering indictment of such behavior, calling for justice and protection for the vulnerable.

The Church must confront this hypocrisy head-on by implementing robust safeguards, holding abusers accountable, and prioritizing the voices of victims over the reputations of leaders. Congregations should demand transparency and reject the culture of blind obedience that enables abuse. As believers, we must heed Jesus’ call to protect “these little ones,” ensuring that the Church becomes a true sanctuary—not a hunting ground—for the most vulnerable among us.

---

Sources:

• People.com, “Pastor Is Accused of Sexually Assaulting 2 Girls at a Florida Church,” May 10, 2025.
• Miami Herald, “Pastor Molested Girls in His Church Office: Florida Police,” May 9, 2025.
• DNYuz.com, “Accused Pedophile Pastor Allegedly Sexually Assaulted 2 Girls at Florida Church,” May 10, 2025.
• Sanford Police Department, Media Release, May 8, 2025.
• Orlando Sentinel, “Former Sanford Pastor Arrested in Virginia, Charged with Sex Crimes,” May 8, 2025.
• Freedom From Religion Foundation, “Betrayal of Trust: Clergy Abuse of Children,” 1988.
• Newsweek, “10 Texas Pastors Have Been Charged with Sexually Abusing Children This Year,” December 9, 2022.
• Archdiocese of Baltimore, “List of Priests and Brothers Accused of Child Sexual Abuse,” 2023.
• The Center for Parent/Youth Understanding, “Youth Ministry… Addressing The Sad Reality of Sexual Abuse,” 2018.
• The Guardian, “He Was a Monster: How Priest Child Abuse Tore Apart Pennsylvania Towns,” 2016.
• The Holy Bible, New International Version, Matthew 18:6, 1 Timothy 3:2.

Florida pastor Yersson David Solarte accused of sexually assaulting two young girls inside church

Yersson David Solarte - Google Search

Ex-Sanford pastor charged with sex crimes against girls at church

Pastor Accused of Sexually Assaulting 2 Girls at Florida Church, Allegedly Gave Chilling Reasoning Why

Instagram

Sanford pastor arrested in Virginia on child sex crime charges

Yersson David Solarte - Google Search

Seminole County pastor arrested, charged with sexual battery of underage girl, police say – WFTV

Pastor molested girls in his church office: Florida police | Miami Herald

Orlando pastor accused of sexually assaulting girls at church

Sanford Police Arrest Pastor For Sex... - Sanford Police Department | Facebook

Accused pedophile pastor allegedly sexually assaulted 2 girls at Florida church, telling one, ‘We only live once’

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Bishop Stika Resigns

 

Bishop Stika Resigns Amid Vatican Investigation

In a surprising move, Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Bishop Richard F. Stika of Knoxville, Tennessee, who was under investigation by the Vatican for allegations of abuse cover-up and financial mismanagement. Stika, 65, announced his decision on June 27, 2023, citing health issues as the reason for his early retirement. He was the longest-serving bishop in Eastern Tennessee, having been appointed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009.

However, Stika's tenure has been marred by controversy and scandal, especially in the last two years. He has been accused of protecting and financing Wojciech Sobczuk, a former seminarian who allegedly raped a parish organist and another seminarian. Stika admitted to The Pillar that he interfered with a diocesan review board investigation into the case, claiming that he knew Sobczuk was innocent and that the organist was lying. He also removed an investigator appointed by the review board and replaced him with one who interviewed only Sobczuk before filing a report.

The organist has since filed a lawsuit against Stika and the diocese, alleging that they failed to protect him from Sobczuk's repeated assaults and that they retaliated against him for reporting the abuse. The lawsuit also claims that Stika used diocesan funds to pay for Sobczuk's tuition at St. Louis University, where he enrolled after being dismissed from the seminary. The Pillar reported that Stika had given Sobczuk thousands of dollars in diocesan funds while he was a seminarian, exceeding the stipend of other seminarians and providing for his trips, laptops, and car repairs.

Stika has also faced criticism for his financial management of the diocese, which has been plagued by debt and deficits. He has been accused of overspending on projects such as the construction of a new cathedral and a shrine to St. John Paul II, while neglecting the needs of parishes and schools. He has also been accused of bullying and harassing his priests and staff, creating a climate of fear and mistrust in the diocese.

The Vatican ordered an investigation into Stika's leadership in April 2021, under the norms of Vos estis lux mundi, Pope Francis' 2019 document on handling cases of abuse and cover-up by bishops. The investigation was conducted by Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre of Louisville, Kentucky, who was appointed as apostolic administrator of Knoxville after Stika's resignation. According to sources close to the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Francis decided to request Stika's resignation after reviewing the results of the investigation in May 2021.

It is not clear whether Stika agreed to resign voluntarily or whether he was pressured by the Vatican to do so. In his statement, he said he made his decision "during a time when our Scripture readings, found in Acts of the Apostles, focused on the turbulent growth of the Church." He added: "Reading Scripture is good. It reminds us that the Church isn't perfect—it's human, but it continues to grow in goodness, thanks be to God."

Stika's resignation is a rare occurrence in the U.S. Church, where bishops usually serve until they reach the mandatory retirement age of 75. It is also a sign of Pope Francis' commitment to holding bishops accountable for their actions or inactions regarding cases of abuse and cover-up in their dioceses.

What do you think? Post your comment below on Disqus.  Be sure to follow the rules so your comment can go through.  

Sources:

Vatican to ask Stika for resignation - pillarcatholic.com

 Bishop Stika of Knoxville resigns early amid Vatican investigation into abuse cover-up and financial mismanagement | America Magazine

 Pope Francis accepts resignation of Knoxville Bishop Rick Stika

 Vatican accepts early resignation of 65-year-old Bishop Stika of Knoxville, Tenn.

 Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Bishop Richard Stika of Knoxville and Appoints Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre as Apostolic Administrator

Fr. George Rutler Groped Woman & Looked at Porn on Computer, Says Accuser

A Bronx woman is accusing renowned priest and EWTN favorite, Fr. George Rutler of forcible touching. Rutler was assigned to St. Michael the Archangel Church in Manhattan this June 2020.  The alleged victim, Ashley Gonzalez who worked as security at the parish is calling on the NYPD to arrest the priest.  

Gonzalez recorded Fr. Rutler looking at porn on his computer in front of her.  She claims "He looked at me with a smile, looked away, and he put his hand inside his pants, and he was playing with himself...He aggressively threw himself on me and grabbed me sexually, aggressively, and I was fighting him off of me..." 

EWTN has stopped airing his programs while the Archdiocese of New York is investigating.  Fr. Rutler denies the allegations and voluntarily stepped down from his duties and is not serving as a priest.  

Here is the alleged victim's text to her mom telling of the attack:

Here are screen captures of the video and a screen recording of the newscast the alleged victim provided allegedly showing Fr. Rutler looking a pornography on a church computer.  

Here below is a letter being circulated around which is allegedly penned by Fr. Rutler explaining the situation and confirming the investigation. Note he confirms the accusation of touching and denies doing it but does not mention nor deny the video with him allegedly looking at pornography on a parish computer: 

I will update this post as I learn more.  

UPDATE December 1, 2020

After a long silence from Catholic news media, both CNA and the NCRegister are reporting the allegations. They claim that the pornography Fr. Rutler was allegedly views was homosexual in nature. The alleged victim was in his office. The incident occurred around 1 in the morning.  She claims that she walked to the door to leave and Fr. Rutler slammed it breaking one of her nails.  He then grabbed her breast.  The alleged victim hired a private detective who helped her file the police report. The Archdiocese of New York said the district attorney is investigating. The latter declined to comment. 

UPDATE December 2, 2020

More secular media outlets are starting to report on this story.  The Daily Beast informs that the video taken by Gonzalez is 18 seconds and shows a bald man sitting under religious icons. Those religious icons are of Cardinal O'Connor and possibly his success, Cardinal Egan. Moreover, the Daily Beast continues in its story that the bald man is watching gay porn with hands in his pants.  Manuel Gomez of Black Ops Private Investigators claims that Rutler invited the young security guard into his office between her rounds.  He allowed her to sit and rest for a bit.  Gomez claims that while Rutler was looking on the computer for presidential election results, Gonzalez looks at her texts and began texting her mother. When she glanced up, she noticed Rutler looking at pornography with "young men."  The video entailed one man performing oral sex on the other. This is when she began to record him with her cell phone.  Manuel Gomez claims that this was a "warm-up" for the assault both he and Gonzalez claim happened. The company, MG Security which Gonzalez works for offered to reassign her, however, she has refused to be reassigned.  It is interesting to note that the one assisting Gonzalez with this situation -Manuel Gomez- has been a subject of suspicion in other cases.  He has been accused of tampering with witnesses in a murder case. He was also arrested for choking a superintendent at a building in Queens. He was charged with criminals trespass, harassment, and strangulation. Nevertheless, his personal cases are not directly related to this accusation against Fr. Rutler.    

According to the Daily Mail, the same accounts are given, but they quote an email Rutler sent to NCR stating:

 

‘I am not permitted by Counsel to comment except that I enjoy the confidence of my superiors and am totally innocent.

‘Until this matter is adjudicated it is prudent to avoid comment and potential libel.’

So according to the email. Rutler seems confident that his superiors believe him and that he will be exonerated. The DA and Archdiocese have not given any more statements. 

Church Militant who often allows columns by Fr. Rutler and is quick to report clergy misconduct, has not published a story as of yet. Here are screenshots of their latest reports, including a column by Fr. Rutler on November 29, 2020:

We at Sacerdotus even tweeted to Church Militant to make them aware of the news, but no response:

Did you see this? Sad https://t.co/HtolOqQvmJ

— ☧✝️Sacerdotus™⚛✡🇻🇦🌲🎄🎅 (@Sacerdotus) November 27, 2020

Source:

https://brooklyn.news12.com/prestigious-nyc-priest-accused-by-bronx-woman-of-forcible-touching

UPDATED SOURCE DEC 1, 2020:

https://www.ncregister.com/news/father-george-rutler-accused-of-sexual-assault-denies-allegation?amp&__twitter_impression=true

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/father-george-rutler-accused-of-sexual-assault-denies-allegation-56964

UPDATED SOURCE DEC 2, 2020:

George Rutler, Prominent ETWN Catholic TV Priest, Accused of Sexually Assaulting NYC Female Security Guard (thedailybeast.com)

Security guard, 22, says she was sexually assaulted by prominent NYC priest Father George Rutler, 75 | Daily Mail Online

NYC priest accused of sexually assaulting security guard (radio.com)

Bronx DA accuses high-profile private eye Manuel Gomez of tampering with witnesses in gang murder case - New York Daily News (nydailynews.com)

Private eye Manuel Gomez choked NYC building super: cops - New York Daily News (nydailynews.com)

UPDATED SOURCE DEC 4, 2020:

NYC church security guard accuses priest of sexual assault (nypost.com)

Rev. George William Rutler Investigated Over Sexual Assault Accusation - The New York Times (nytimes.com)

UPDATED JULY 27, 2025:

Some reports claim that the charges against Fr. Rutler were dropped; however, we have not been able to confirm this. There is no report from the Manhattan District Attorney or the Archdiocese of NY.  Reports on social media claim he is still the pastor of St. Michael's Church in New York, but the website shows a temporary administrator listed.  

Cardinal Pell Appeal Denied

As expected by me and many in the Catholic blogosphere, Cardinal Pell's appeal was denied. A panel of judges in Australia's appeals court system decided 2-1 that the verdict in the trial against Cardinal Pell was beyond a reasonable doubt.

So Cardinal Pell now stands still convicted of five counts of child sexual abuse, charges he adamantly denies even till today. The Chief Justice, Anne Ferguson declared the 2-1 decision and informed that Pell will be "eligible for parole after he has served three years and eight months."

The judges found the complainant as a "compelling witness" and that he did not fabricate the story nor embellished it. However, Justice Mark Weinberg found the testimony to have occasionally been embellished and was inconsistent. Over 24,000 people signed a petition fighting for Cardinal Pell to have an appeal. Many have shown doubt regarding the accusations and verdict. The details of the story do not add up, according to them. One of the major details is the claim that the Cardinal was able to sexually assault the alleged victim while wearing episcopal vestments and in an open area where other priests and personnel walked about. Nevertheless, defenders of the verdict insist that the cardinal could have simply lifted up his vestments in order to expose himself and engage in intercourse.

Cardinal Pell was the prefect for the Secretariate for the Economy. This is the branch of the Vatican which controlled finances. During his tenure, he discovered millions of euros hidden in other accounts and which were not listed on balance sheets. He found that various Vatican dicasteries, councils, and congregations had their own independent finances with funds totaling to nearly 1 billion euros.  No one had oversight of these accounts.

The cardinal has fought for his innocence to the point of not invoking diplomatic immunity as a cardinal.  Cardinals are Vatican citizens and are considered diplomats.  The cardinal could have stayed at the Vatican and declared diplomatic immunity rather than waiving this right and flying to Australia to clear his name.  This act, to many, shows that he is truly innocent.

You can write Cardinal Pell at:

Cardinal George Pell 

Melbourne Assessment Prison 

317-353 Spencer Street 

West Melbourne VIC 3003 AUSTRALIA
Let us pray for the Cardinal, alleged victims, and the Australian legal system.  The fight is not yet over.





Source:

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2019/02/cardinal-pell-found-guilty-of-child-sex.html

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/livestream-and-cna-live-blog-on-cardinal-pell-appeal-watch-tuesday-aug-20-at-730-eastern-74303

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-49416573

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/20/world/australia/cardinal-pell-appeal.html

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/cardinal-pell-the-highest-vatican-official-to-face-justice-over-abuse-appeals-guilty-verdict/2019/08/20/e9646c86-c2b6-11e9-8bf7-cde2d9e09055_story.html

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/aug/21/victim-advocates-cheer-as-pell-appeal-rejected-hallelujah-proof-there-is-a-god

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2019/aug/21/cardinal-george-pell-appeal-sexual-assault-conviction

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/08/20/australia/cardinal-george-pell-intl-hnk/index.html

https://www.churchmilitant.com/news/article/cardinal-pell-appeal

Atheist Lawrence Krauss to Retire after Sexual Assault Claim: ASU Dean recommends Firing Him

Many men are being accused by women and other men of sexual misconduct. In many cases, these incidents are decades old. Recently, we have seen the same accusations placed against a nominee for the Supreme Court of the United States. Prior to this, comedian Bill Cosby was accused and sentenced to prison. All of this has occurred under the so-called "Me Too" era. As I have written before, Atheism is not immune from this. Many Atheist women have complained about their male counterparts sexually harassing and sexually assaulting them. This has gone to deaf ears among Atheist leaders. One prominent Atheist and physicist, Dr. Lawrence Krauss is among the accused. He was accused by several women of sexual misconduct and assault, see: www.sacerdotus.com/2018/02/atheist-lawrence-krauss-accused-of.html.

I was surprised that Arizona State University took no action. It seemed to me that the university was afraid to loose a person who has been a cashcow for them. Krauss' outspoken demeanor on Atheism in the name of Science has shed light on the university and the field of Physics. However, it seems that deans at the university have recommended that he be terminated. Krauss who earns $275,000 a year will be terminated and lose tenure. You can read the statement here: http://www.sciencemag.org/sites/default/files/Melanie%20Thomson%207.31.18.pdf. Krauss has lost many positions since the accusations surfaced. However, Krauss seems to want to avoid being fired by announcing that he will retire in May of 2019. This move closes the review process that was underway.

Krauss claims that the review process is unfair and would force him to be dismissed. He claims that he would have no option to have a lawyer present nor that all the evidence would be presented. The university disputed his claims calling them inaccurate. Krauss tweeted this:

An update on my situation at ASU. I have chosen to retire from ASU in May, 2019, when I turn 65. Onward and hopefully upward to new and different challenges. Details below. Thanks for the support and encouragement from so many of you. pic.twitter.com/7PSh0i4NnU

— Lawrence M. Krauss (@LKrauss1) October 21, 2018

Time will only tell what will happen next as to whether or not Dr. Krauss will face charges and be arrested. It seems that his career has finally come to an end. It remains to be seen if Atheist organizations will continue to invite him to speak in the name of Atheism.

All women should speak out against their abusers and let the judicial process take hold. No one is above the law. Hopefully, people tempted to the Atheism cult will see why it fosters immoral behavior.






Source:

https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/peteraldhous/lawrence-krauss-arizona-state-tenure

https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2018/08/university-finds-prominent-astrophysicist-lawrence-krauss-grabbed-woman-s-breast

http://www.statepress.com/article/2018/10/spscience-university-official-recommends-lawrence-krauss-dismissal-review-process-ongoing

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-education/2018/08/02/lawrence-krauss-out-director-asu-origins-project/894752002/

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-education/2018/10/05/asu-professor-lawrence-krauss-should-fired-dean-michael-crow-final-decision/1538655002/

http://www.statepress.com/article/2018/10/spcampus-lawrence-krauss-says-he-will-retire-may-2019-asu

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/22/science/lawrence-krauss-retires-sexual-harassment.html

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-education/2018/10/21/lawrence-krauss-retiring-asu-after-sexual-misconduct-allegations-buzzfeed-news/1721679002/

Cardinal McCarrick Accused of Sexual Abuse

Retired archbishop emeritus Theodore McCarrick of the Archdiocese of Washing D.C. has been accused of sexual abuse. The abuse allegedly happened decades ago when McCarrick was a priest in the Archdiocese of New York. McCarrick was a prominent voice during the pontificate of Saint Pope John Paul II. 

The Archdiocese of New York issued a statement saying that the Vatican was investigating claims against McCarrick. McCarrick claims he is innocent, however, the Vatican found the accusations credible. In light of this, McCarrick has resigned from public ministry.  He wrote in a statement:

“While I have absolutely no recollection of this reported abuse, and believe in my innocence,” his statement said, “I am sorry for the pain the person who brought the charges has gone through, as well as for the scandal such charges cause our people.”

His accuser is a 62-year-old married businessman from New Jersey.  His lawyer, Patrick Noaker stated that his client wished to remain anonymous.  The abuse is said to have begun in 1971. The victim was a student at Cathedral Prep Seminary which is a school for young boys interested in becoming a priest.  After being invited to serve Christmas Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, the victim claims that he was measured for a cassock by then monsignor McCarrick.  While being measure, the victim claims that McCarrick unzipped his pants and molested him.  McCarrick then told the victim not to tell anyone about what happened.  After this assault, the victim claims that McCarrick flirted with him and assaulted him again in the bathroom.

Here are the statements issued:

Source:

https://archny.org/cardinalmccarrick

http://adw.org/2018/06/20/statement-cardinal-theodore-mccarrick-retired-archbishop-washington/

https://archny.org/tm-faq

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/20/us/theodore-mccarrick-sex-abuse.html

https://www.cnn.com/2018/06/20/politics/theodore-mccarrick-washington-abuse-allegation/index.html

http://time.com/5317954/theodore-mccarrick-removed-catholic-church-abuse/

David Silverman: 'MrAtheistPERVERTEDPANTS' Fired from American Atheists for Sexual Assault

American Atheists president, David Silverman was fired from the atheist organization after reports surfaced that he engaged in sexual misconduct, assault and financial conflicts regarding his book: Fighting God: An Atheist Manifesto for a Religious World.

The news comes months after atheist physicist Lawrence Krauss has been accused of the same (see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2018/02/atheist-lawrence-krauss-accused-of.html). According to Buzzfeed, Silverman was accused by two women who say he sexually assaulted them. He also abused his authority at the atheist organization. Silverman met one of the women who goes by Rose St. Clair at a party during the 2012 Secular Student Alliance Conference. He flirted with her and took her to his hotel room. The other women who goes by "R" claims that Silverman forced himself onto her and bruised her arms. He forced her to get on her knees.

The American Atheists Board of Directors has voted to terminate David Silverman as president of American Atheists. https://t.co/BOFTvo3WjI

— American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) April 13, 2018

Neal Cary, the chair of American Atheists Board of Directors issued this statement:

"Last night, the American Atheists Board of Directors voted to terminate David Silverman as President of American Atheists. Board Chair Neal Cary and Vice President Kathleen Johnson will continue to fulfill the duties of the President while National Program Director Nick Fish oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization.
On April 10, 2018, the Board of Directors placed President David Silverman on leave pending a review of allegations raised regarding Mr. Silverman’s conduct. The Board of Directors has reviewed internal documents and communications related to the initial complaint as well as evidence relating to the additional allegations brought to the Board’s attention. Today’s announcement is based on these findings, and the Board intends to cooperate with any future investigations.
American Atheists is committed to creating and maintaining an environment that is safe and welcoming to all. Based on the allegations made, and the evidence presented, the Board believes it is prudent and necessary to reaffirm that commitment and move forward with new leadership.
The staff of American Atheists will continue our mission to advocate for the absolute separation of religion from government, to elevate the profile of atheism in public discourse, and to build and strengthen communities that fully represent the growing number of atheists in America. We thank our members, supporters, and volunteers for their dedication and support of our mission."

We take our obligation to create safe and welcoming communities for our staff, volunteers, members and supporters very seriously. We have zero tolerance for the type of behavior alleged in these accounts. (1/2) https://t.co/eqJ4Kr3GNm

— American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) April 14, 2018

We will continue to demand the highest standards and accountability from our leaders, staff, and volunteers. (2/2)

— American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) April 14, 2018

In the time since the initial complaint was made, the Board evaluated internal documents and records and, based on that examination, made the decision to terminate Mr. Silverman.

— American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) April 13, 2018

Because this is a personnel matter, we cannot go into specifics about the allegations. This is to protect both the persons who brought the allegations and Mr. Silverman. We take all allegations of misconduct seriously and acted quickly to begin an investigation.

— American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) April 13, 2018

The atheism movement has had trouble with men abusing women for decades. These incidents go un-reported due to fear of retaliation. The movement is dominated by wealthy white men who assert their authority over women, many who are pressured to do things in order to achieve status among atheists. Something has to be done in order to protect women from these perverts. David Silverman tweets as "MrAtheistPants." We are now learning that he is really "MrAtheistPervertPants." His actions are deplorable and must be condemned by atheists.

Silverman is one who focused a lot of priests and other Christian leaders in regards to sexual abuse, yet he had his own skeletons in his closet, so to speak. I applaud American Atheists for immediately taking action against this perverted man and applaud the brave women who spoke out. Atheism breeds immorality. When morals are relative, anything goes. I am afraid that this is the tip of the iceberg. We will see more prominent atheist leaders outed for their sexual abuse.







Source:

https://www.atheists.org/2018/04/update-regarding-david-silverman/

https://www.atheists.org/2018/04/announcement-regarding-american-atheists-president-david-silverman/

https://www.christianpost.com/news/american-atheists-president-david-silverman-suspended-after-complaint-investigation-launched-222795/

http://www.thecabin.net/news/20180413/american-atheists-president-placed-on-leave

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/accordingtomatthew/2018/04/david-silverman-officially-fired-from-american-atheists-after-allegations-of-sexual-assault-and-financial-conflicts/

https://www.buzzfeed.com/peteraldhous/david-silverman-atheist-fired-sexual-misconduct?utm_term=.seYjMmY6A#.aam7BW8Kv

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/freethoughtnow/4385-2/

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2018/04/10/david-silverman-has-been-temporarily-suspended-from-american-atheists/