Ben Boswell, senior minister at Myers Park Baptist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, has resigned under contentious circumstances following a sermon critiquing Donald Trump’s incoming administration. While the church framed his resignation as a mutual decision, critics argue it was a forced dismissal prompted by discomfort over Boswell’s advocacy for social justice.
Sermon Sparks Tensions
Boswell’s Nov. 10 sermon, “Where Do We Go from Here?” urged constructive responses to Trump’s election. Drawing biblical parallels, he warned of the administration’s potential impact on marginalized groups.
Boswell:
“One of the reasons we grieve today is because we’ve been told quite clearly that the election of Donald Trump will lead to the crucifixion of people we love. It will lead to the crucifixion of immigrant families, women in need of reproductive rights, transgender and nonbinary people, sick people in need of health care, government workers clinging to a job, poor people in need of resources. And so we grieve today with our entire body for those who we love. But our faith also teaches us something else. It teaches us that every crucifixion needs a witness.”
While there is no official link between the sermon and his resignation, critics, including local attorney and deacon Tim Emry, claim his stance on racial justice contributed to his ousting.
Abrupt Decision Draws Criticism
The decision to remove Boswell came quickly, with emergency meetings held on Nov. 24. Emry and other church members denounced the process as unfair and lacking transparency. They suggested that concerns over declining attendance and donations, cited by Boswell’s critics, were shared across churches nationwide and insufficient justification for the pastor’s removal.
Church Leadership Defends Action
Deacon Chair Marcy McClanahan defended the decision, citing broader discussions about the church’s future. She emphasized a shared commitment to inclusivity, spirituality, and justice, though she did not refute the abrupt timing. Some church members, however, remain unconvinced, calling for further dialogue with leadership.
A Legacy of Progressive Advocacy
Myers Park Baptist Church, known for its progressive stances, including ordaining women and affirming LGBTQ inclusion, has faced internal divisions over its social justice mission. Boswell, appointed in 2015, continued this tradition, advocating for racial equity and addressing systemic injustice.
Boswell has not commented publicly, while critics fear the decision signals a retreat from the church’s progressive values. Members plan to meet this Sunday to discuss the controversy further.
Source: North Carolina pastor abruptly forced out of prominent pulpit
Image: YouTube Screen Capture
About Post Author
