A former pastor from a prominent Maryland church has been indicted on serious charges related to child sex abuse that allegedly took place over four decades ago. Eric Anderson, aged 80, once served at Greater Grace World Outreach (GGWO) in Baltimore and is now facing two counts of assault and battery against a child under 14. The allegations trace back to 1980 when Anderson was affiliated with the church’s earlier location in Massachusetts, then known as The Bible Speaks.
The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office has reported that the charges arise from incidents that occurred during Anderson’s tenure at the church. This revelation has sparked significant concern among church members and the wider community, particularly regarding the safety and oversight of congregations.
A group known as The Millstones, composed of former GGWO members, has been vocal about the church’s handling of abuse allegations. They stated that Anderson was one of the first alleged offenders they became aware of, emphasizing the long-lasting pain his actions have caused across generations. “The justice he’s facing now is long overdue,” they remarked, underscoring the need for accountability within church communities.
In response to the charges, GGWO has expressed its commitment to justice and transparency. The church released a statement asserting their unawareness of any past reports concerning Anderson’s conduct. They emphasized that sexual assault is fundamentally opposed to their beliefs and values. “We are grateful for law enforcement officers who pursue justice, and for the individuals who chose to speak to law enforcement, knowing that the choice to engage the criminal justice process often comes at great personal cost,” the statement read.
The issue of abuse within church settings is not new, and GGWO has faced scrutiny for previous allegations. In June of last year, an investigative series by The Baltimore Banner revealed numerous claims of abuse and failures by church leaders to address these issues adequately. In light of these findings, GGWO committed to an independent investigation to ensure the safety of its congregation and to address the concerns raised by victims and their families.
The church has announced plans to hire a nationally recognized firm specializing in sexual abuse investigations to conduct a thorough review of its practices and policies. This step aims to restore trust among its members and ensure a safe environment for both adults and children.
As the legal proceedings unfold, many hope this case will serve as a wake-up call for churches everywhere to prioritize the safety of their congregations. The message is clear: those who exploit their positions of trust must be held accountable, and the church must be a safe haven for all its members.
For more information on the ongoing investigations into church abuse and how communities can support victims, visit the National Sexual Violence Resource Center for resources and guidance.
In a world where faith should foster safety and support, the church must confront these painful truths head-on. Only through transparency and accountability can healing begin, and justice be served.