Sept. 6, 2010 issue
Compassion needed
By Ruth E. Graybill Leola, Pa.I was impressed with the compassionate response of Stahl Mennonite Church in Johnstown, Pa., toward their former pastor, who confessed to misappropriating funds (“Church Forgives Pastor for Theft,” June 7). It was a striking contrast to the attitude of some church-related organizations toward their employees.
For instance, I know a person who held a responsible position for three and a half years in a local church-related organization. Things seemed to be going well: fundraising was successful, and several creative initiatives were implemented. Then, last winter, this person faced a serious family crisis. Within 10 weeks, she was informed that her employment was being terminated and asked to sign a letter of resignation. The severance package was contingent on “upholding the good reputation of the organization.”
There was never any hint of improper behavior on her part. The reasons given for the sudden termination were a loss of focus and concentration, and the loss of confidence of staff. A good severance package did not compensate for losing a job she loved, nor did it guarantee finding employment in an uncertain economic climate.
We Mennonites talk about community, peacemaking and love. However, when we fail to show compassion toward persons in our midst who are hurting, our words are empty.
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