We dispute the outrageous claim in a headline that up to 35 pastors
were "ousted" from their churches because of their participation in the
"We Will Stand!" tour ["Some Pastors Fired Over Moon Connection," news
story, July 25]. We have found only one pastor who was removed, whose
relationship with his church had a history of difficulties. Our
investigation found, and The Post has acknowledged, that a second minister
mentioned was never in fact interviewed by the reporter. Contrary to
reporter Hanna Rosin's assertion, we know of no clergy member who traveled
with the Rev. Sun Myung Moon during his recent tour who was dismissed from
his or her church.
Ms. Rosin's source is a minister with no church who was never a member
of the American Clergy Leadership Conference. He claims to have 35
letters, but it appears that Ms. Rosin has seen only one. Rather than meet
with our board and present his evidence, as we requested, this dubious
source chose to use The Post to spread his undocumented claims.
The Rev. Moon is tearing down racial walls and strengthening families.
That is why some of the nation's most prominent pastors are standing with
him. We chose the theme, "Rebuild the Family, Restore the Community, Renew
the Nation and the World," and invited the Rev. Moon as our keynote
speaker because we share his vision.
We pray for those who malign this man and falsely assume that our
association even in the face of criticism must have been purchased through
a bribe. The Rev. Moon has preached one family under God and the unity of
the church and promoted interracial marriage for 40 years. We thank God
for the blessings we have received through his ministry.
T. L. BARRETT JR.
Chicago
MICHAEL JENKINS
Washington
The writers, both clergy members, are the co-conveners of the
American Clergy Leadership Conference.
