Sex offender back in pulpit

[razors edge]

A southwest suburban Southern Baptist congregation allowed a convicted child sex offender to preach for the last few years -- despite his past, and a warning from his previous church that he might still be dangerous, the Chicago Sun-Times has learned.

In 1996, Jeff Hannah was sentenced to nine years in prison for having sexual relations with four underage girls -- ages 15 to 17 -- while a married youth minister at Crossroads Church in Libertyville.

Hannah was paroled in 2001 and joined the First Baptist Church of Romeoville, where his new wife was a member. Soon after, the pastor moved on, and church members -- aware of Hannah's crimes -- asked him to step into the pulpit until a replacement was hired, according to church members, Hannah and others.

Hannah served in that role for three years and ever since has been a fill-in preacher, teacher and music minister at the church.

'We believe in forgiveness'


And family values, no doubt.

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/517063,CST-NWS-Baptist20.article

[NYC Liberal]

1. Why does forgiveness mean he gets his job back?

I mean, even if I could *forgive* the guy (not that I'm in a position to forgive or not) I certainly wouldn't give him the job!

[razors edge]

2. I don't know.

But maybe the mindset that says we are all God's children, means to some, that those closest to God (as they may see it) should be able to have our children.