Pastor Jailed: Arrested for Alleged Child Sex Abuse in Texas

By Elizabeth Summers
Sand Mountain Reporter
June 6, 2012

http://www.sandmountainreporter.com/news/local/article_a4db6180-b023-11e1-81f7-001a4bcf887a.html

Elders with the Cowboy Church of Marshall County in Albertville have terminated their pastor amid news he faces child sexual abuse charges in two Texas counties.

Mark Allen Green faces a charge of sexual abuse of a child in Ellis County and an aggravated sexual abuse of a child charge in neighboring Na var ro County, both in Texas.

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Green was jailed last week and remains in the Ellis County Jail under a $500,000 bond. Attempts to contact Ellis County Sheriff’s officials were not successful Wednesday.

Church officials declined comment on Green and the charges he faces because the case is “emotional, private and the courts are involved,” according to one church member.

Church members contacted by The Reporter declined comment Wednesday.

Randall Stoner, director of missions for the Marshall Baptist Association, confirmed Green’s termination when reached by phone Wednesday, but declined additional comment other than a written statement sent to The Reporter.

“While these alleged events involving Mark Allen Green did not happen in Marshall County, we are saddened by the circumstances surrounding his termination,” Stoner wrote.

“Due to legal issues, we cannot comment any further.

“Please know that we are praying for The Cowboy Church of Marshall County and all involved.

“Our prayer is that the church will pull together as a family does in trying times, and draw closer to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

A church member present at services Sunday when news of Green’s arrest and termination was announced to church members said the issue polarized the church membership. The member asked not to be identified because the issue is so emotionally charged at this time.

Sunday’s services turned tense and the news caused arguments and shouting, the member said.

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