By Danielle Dubetz
WPTV
September 10, 2007
http://www.wptv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=b5f0005c-2726-4ed8-9f6f-12da8c1a242e
A priest charged with soliciting a man for sex in a public restroom became the focus of today's sermon at St. Gregory's Episcopal Church in Boca Raton.
Father Michael Penland was the Director of Youth Ministries at St. Gregory's Episcopal Church.
Those who heard Sunday's message said they're concerned about the charges but they're focusing on what they believe, is their most central value as Christians.
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| St. Gregory's Episcopal Church Photo by Bruno Giglio |
People lifted their voices but some left with heavy hearts after hearing news Father Michael Penland was charged with soliciting a man for sex in a North Carolina public rest room.
"I was shocked. Nice man. He had a responsible job and was a great influence on the youth so it was a shame," Tricia Rason said.
"Ii think we're all praying for him," said Marlene Ellis.
During Sunday's service, a letter from Father Michael was read to the congregation, thanking them for their love and support and asking for forgiveness. Some say they already have.
"Christianity is about forgiveness so instead of dwelling on it, forgive him. Move on. People make mistakes," Colby Cook said.
While the congregation is focused on forgiveness, clergy at St. Gregory's Episcopal Church said Father Michael has officially resigned and he's focusing on what's next.
"With some sadness I've accepted his resignation," said Father Andrew Sherman, church Rector, "Michael is thinking about, 'what do I do next and what's for me?'...We certainly hope and believe and trust that god will have something good in store for Michael and his family as hard as it is for what he's going through now."
While Father Michael's future at St. Gregory's has come to an end, the church says their strong faith will continue.
"With God's grace and prayer and love we'll get through it."
Father Andrew said nothing has surfaced indicating anything inappropriate happened between Father Michael and the congregation but he has acknowledged that he engaged in an inappropriate conversation inside the North Carolina rest room.
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