NEWS

Turning to God in Prayer
By Rick Wolcott

The power of prayer is alive and well at Mentor United Methodist Church.  The congregation gathered Thursday night in the sanctuary to offer love and support to one another.

The more than 120 congregants in attendance lifted their voices to God:

“Amazing grace! How sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me!  I once was lost, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.”

Grace was in abundant supply on this night.

During services on Sunday, Western Reserve District Superintendent Dave Scavuzzo had announced to the congregation unsettling news about associate pastor Shawn Harris:

“Many of you know that Shawn Harris has been on a two week leave. This was due to the beginning of a police investigation. There have been numerous allegations that Pastor Shawn Harris has been involved in the theft of prescription drugs from people entrusted into his care as pastor. Bishop John L. Hopkins has therefore, released Shawn Harris from his appointment at Mentor United Methodist Church.

The decision was reached based on information collected during an internal investigation of several complaints brought by parishioners against Shawn. These complaints are currently being investigated by local law enforcement agencies for possible criminal charges. 

Shawn has had numerous opportunities to sincerely turn toward a redemptive plan that could have restored him to ministry. Since Shawn has rejected these chances, his calling and vocation in the UM Church for now in general and here at Mentor in particular has not been able to be salvaged. Even now we are working with Shawn in a way toward healing and perfected love, but let me be clear that Shawn’s violation of the sacred trust has resulted in the removal of his license to practice ministry in the UMC.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who stepped forward with courage whose trust has been violated and to Shawn for the hope of healing and especially Angela and his three beautiful children.”  

The prayer vigil allowed people an opportunity to express their feelings.  While sadness, anger, confusion, betrayal and hurt weighed on those entering the sanctuary, it was love that permeated the room.  Love for Shawn, Angela and their kids.  Love for those who were directly victimized.  Love for the rest of the congregation and staff -- indirect victims of Shawn’s poor decisions.  Love for God, through whom all things are possible.

This is not the first challenge the good people of Mentor UMC have faced, but they would be happy if it was their last.  In the meantime, they will continue to live out God’s love.

The evening ended with those in attendance hand in hand encircling the entire sanctuary.  A church united.

“The Lord has promised good to me, his word my hope secures; he will my shield and portion be, as long as life endures.”