Compiled by B&R staff
Paige Patterson (Photo: Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary)
FORT WORTH, Texas — The Executive Committee of the board of trustees of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary voted May 30 to terminate Paige Patterson “effective immediately, removing all the benefits, rights, and privileges provided by the May 23-24 board meeting, including the title of president emeritus, the invitation to reside at the Baptist Heritage Center as theologian-in-residence, and ongoing compensation.”
In a statement released by the seminary, “new information confirmed this morning was presented regarding the handling of an allegation of sexual abuse against a student during Dr. Paige Patterson’s presidency at another institution and resulting issues connected with statements to the board of trustees that are inconsistent with SWBT’s biblically informed core values.”
The statement noted that “deeming the information demanded immediate action and could not be deferred to a regular meeting of the board, based on the details presented,” the Executive Committee “unanimously resolved’ to terminate Patterson immediately.
The statement continued, “Under the leadership of Interim President Dr. Jeffrey Bingham, SWBTS remains committed to its calling to assist the churches of the Southern Baptist Convention by biblically educating God-called men and women for ministries that fulfill the Great Commission and glorify God.
“Further the seminary stands against all forms of abuse and grieves for individuals wounded by abuse. Today, Dr. Bingham made it clear that SWBTS denounces all abusive behavior, any behavior that enables abuse, any failure to protect the abused, and any failure to safeguard those who are vulnerable to abuse. Dr. Bingham called for the SWBTS community to join the body of Christ in praying for healing for all individuals affected by abuse.”
Check the B&R website at www.baptistandreflector.org for updated information.
