Larry Kirk, Lead Pastor of Central Christian Church in Baltimore County, Maryland, Responds to Former Youth Pastor’s Arrest on Child Sex Abuse Charges
In a deeply troubling development that has sent shockwaves through the Baltimore faith community, Thomas Pinkerton, a former youth pastor at Central Christian Church, has been arrested on multiple charges of sexual abuse involving minors. The allegations, which date back to between 2006 and 2010, have raised serious concerns about the safety and accountability within church environments.
According to an official statement from the Baltimore County Police Department, Pinkerton, 52, was taken into custody on August 6 and faces 24 felony and misdemeanor counts related to the alleged abuse. Investigators revealed that the offenses reportedly occurred both at the church and at Pinkerton’s residence in Baltimore County during his tenure as a youth pastor.
The investigation began last fall after seven men came forward, alleging that Pinkerton sexually abused them during their teenage years. Disturbingly, some of the accusers described inappropriate physical contact and manipulative behavior, including what Pinkerton purportedly termed “heavenly kisses” or “brotherly kisses.” The former pastor allegedly referred to himself as their “spiritual father” and singled out certain youths as his favorites, a dynamic that experts say can create dangerous power imbalances in ministry settings.
Larry Kirk, who currently leads Central Christian Church, expressed profound sorrow over the allegations. “This news is deeply heartbreaking,” Kirk said in a public statement. He emphasized the church’s commitment to supporting the victims with compassion and care throughout the ongoing investigation. “We are walking alongside these young men and are dedicated to providing counseling and spiritual support,” he added.
Central Christian Church clarified that Pinkerton has not been affiliated with the church for approximately 15 years, having left around 2010 to establish his own ministry, Souls4Christ. The church affirmed that since his departure, there has been no formal connection, and they are fully cooperating with law enforcement as the case unfolds.
The courage of the initial victim who reported the abuse has encouraged others—some from different states—to come forward. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the case to contact the Crimes Against Children Unit at 410-887-7720.
Pinkerton’s legal counsel, Justin Hollimon, has publicly stated that his client denies all charges and is “completely shocked” by the accusations. Hollimon emphasized Pinkerton’s longstanding commitment to ministry and community service, noting that he is eagerly awaiting his day in court.
Background information from the Souls4Christ ministry website paints a picture of Pinkerton as a man called to serve from a young age. According to the site, he received his calling at age 12 and preached his first sermon at 17. The ministry has focused on local outreach, Bible studies, mentorship, and leadership conferences. Pinkerton is married and has two sons.
This case highlights the critical importance of vigilance and accountability within church leadership. Child protection policies, transparent reporting mechanisms, and community awareness are essential to safeguarding the vulnerable and maintaining trust in Christian ministries.
For more information on protecting children in faith communities, readers can visit resources from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, which offers comprehensive guidance on preventing abuse and supporting victims.
As this story develops, Central Christian Church and law enforcement continue their efforts to ensure justice and healing for those impacted. The Christian community nationwide is reminded of the responsibility to uphold integrity and care within all ministries.
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