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Dear Members and Friends of Myers Park Baptist Church,
The past two weeks have brought difficult decisions, heartfelt prayers, and moments of deep reflection. Through it all, our shared commitment to this community continues to revitalize and guide us. This Sunday’s congregational meeting will provide a space for us to come together as a family of faith to share, listen, and look ahead.
I understand that many of you have questions and concerns about recent events. As Chair of the Board of Deacons, I am bound by confidentiality regarding personnel matters, as are the Church Council and all active Deacons. While we cannot address specific details, the meeting will offer an opportunity for members to ask questions, share their thoughts, and hear updates on our governance process, staff care, and plans for the future.
In recent weeks, both accurate and inaccurate information has circulated among members, in the media, and on social platforms. I ask that we approach the details below with open hearts and minds, as they reflect our church’s commitment to transparency, faithful governance, and our long history of social justice.
A Faithful and Thorough Process
The departure of a senior minister is always significant and often challenging. In this case, it was the result of many months of prayerful discernment by the Human Resources Deacons and Church Council, who ultimately determined that a leadership change was necessary for the health and future of our church. This decision was made in accordance with the processes outlined in our church governance documents.
While we grieve the pain caused by this transition, we remain focused on the four elements of our strategic plan: Faith, Church Family, External Community, and Sustainability. The Board of Deacons believes that while our commitment to advancing justice remains steadfast, new leadership is necessary to strengthen our faith, deepen our internal connections, and sustain the long-term vitality of our church.
Our History of Social Justice
For over 80 years, Myers Park Baptist Church has stood as a beacon of justice and inclusion, with a specific focus on equity for all. This work has been woven into the fabric of our community through actions large and small. Below are just a few examples of how we have lived out our commitment to justice over the decades:
1965: Member C.D. Spangler sent construction crews to the homes of four Black civil rights leaders to rebuild them the day after they were bombed by white extremists, standing in solidarity with the civil rights movement.
1960s: Several prominent members of our church were leaders in desegregating Charlotte restaurants by organizing coordinated, same-day lunches with Black community leaders.
1966: Senior Minister Rev. Dr. Carlyle Marney and member Billy Pinson personally bailed out the Charlotte Three—three Black men unjustly accused of burning down a horse stable, showing the church’s commitment to racial justice and fairness in the legal system.
1971: Senior Minister Rev. Dr. Gene Owens publicly and vocally supported school busing after Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education. Many MPBC members "walked the talk" by keeping their children enrolled in public schools, setting an example of faith in action.
2001: Myers Park Baptist Church publicly affirmed its support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, becoming one of the first Baptist churches in the region to do so. This commitment led to the church's expulsion from the North Carolina Baptist Convention in 2007 due to its welcoming stance toward LGBTQ+ individuals.
2013: Senior Minister Rev. Dr. Steve Shoemaker and congregants attended countless protests focused on racial justice, including Moral Mondays organized by Rev. William Barber. Steve joined other clergy in occupying the State Legislature buildings, even risking arrest, to stand for equity and justice.
2018: Myers Park Baptist Church launched Confronting Whiteness, an anti-racism program developed by Senior Minister Rev. Dr. Ben Boswell, to help individuals racialized as White identify and dismantle their Whiteness as part of a spiritual journey toward justice.
These examples highlight just a portion of the ways MPBC has worked tirelessly to promote justice and equity throughout its history. Our dedication to social justice predates any single pastor or leadership decision. It is a cornerstone of our church’s identity and mission, and it will continue to guide us as we move forward together.
A Call to Faithful Dialogue
Our church covenant reminds us that we are a diverse and inclusive congregation, committed to embracing controversy as part of life together. As we gather for Sunday’s meeting, let us hold space for one another with kindness, humility, and a spirit of deep listening.
I remain hopeful for what lies ahead for Myers Park Baptist Church. Together, we will continue to live out our calling with courage and faith, rooted in the principles that have defined us for over 80 years.
In faith and service,
Marcy McClanahan
Chair, Board of Deacons
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