Church Offers Counsel to Sex Abuse Victims

By Diana Crawford
WAFF
February 5, 2014

http://www.waff.com/story/24645271/church-offers-counsel-to-sex-abuse-victims

[court document]

[with video]

MUSCLE SHOALS, AL (WAFF) -

The pastor of Highland Park Baptist Church spoke briefly Wednesday about the arrest of a children's pastor facing charges of sexual abuse.

He has declined all requests for a separate interview, but at a press conference Wednesday, Pastor Brett Pitman said the church is outraged and saddened by the events that have unfolded over the last few days.

Pitman stressed the church's top priority is to help those involved. He said children or families in search of counseling may contact the church office for assistance. He also thanked every person that has come forward, saying they are the heroes and should be treated as such.

"First and foremost, we are striving to assist any children and families that have been affected by these events. The health and well-being of these children is our number one priority at this time. For years, Highland Park Baptist Church has invested in the Shoals community and we are committed to helping our entire community cope with this situation," Pitman said at the press conference.

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