C.J. Mahaney Denies Claims That He Knew About CLC Abuse

Over the past few weeks a ton of accusations have been flying around surrounding the horrific sexual abuse scandal that is emerging amidst Covenant Life Church (Gaithersburg, MD) and Sovereign Grace Ministries. Last week, Grant Layman, a former pastor at CLC admitted under oath that he knew of the allegations of sexual abuse but did not report them to the police. Layman is the brother in law of C.J. Mahaney, the founding and former Pastor of CLC during the abuse. After much speculation as to whether C.J. knew of the abuse, today Mahaney has released an official statement on his new churches website denying any involvement or knowledge of the sexual abuse happening in his church. The statement reads:

“For nearly two years now, I have remained silent about a civil lawsuit brought against various parties including myself. During that time, many have urged me to respond publicly and address the accusations against me. These pleas have only intensified over the last week in light of reports of testimony in a recent trial. I look forward to the day when I can speak freely. For now, the simple and extraordinarily unsatisfying reality—for myself and others—is that in the face of an ongoing civil lawsuit, I simply cannot speak publicly to the specifics of these events. Even with those constraints, however, let me be clear about this: I have never conspired to protect a child predator, and I also deny all the claims made against me in the civil suit.

I am deeply grieved for those who suffered abuse while part of Covenant Life Church, as well as those beyond the church who were abused—and I continue to pray for justice to be served on their behalf and for God’s healing grace in their lives. I’m saddened, too, by the confusion and damage that has resulted from public comments and speculation about these events. Still, my trust remains in the Lord, who comforts the brokenhearted and promises in his justice and in his time to right every wrong.

In the grace of the gospel,

C.J. Mahaney

Sovereign Grace Church of Louisville

May 22, 2014”

Would you please join me in praying for the victims of this abuse, this community, and the leaders of Covenant Life Church and Sovereign Grace Ministries? I am tired of hearing all of the gossip and speculation surrounding this horrendous case and am deeply grieved for everyone involved. Pray for the victims whose lives have been destroyed, that they might find grace, healing, and hope in the love of Christ. And pray for Covenant Life Church. I have visited CLC numerous times and know that the community to be one of grace and joy and I can only imagine what this season of great betrayal of trust and confusion must be like for them.

Grace and Peace-

Brandan

Statement originally appeared on the website of Sovereign Grace Church, Louisville