Brothers and Sisters,

It has come to my attention that Stephen J. Howard, pastor appointed to Muscoy United Methodist Church has been arrested on suspicion of child molestation.

I have reached out to his family and am working with our East District Superintendent, Rev. Bau Dang, to reach out to our Muscoy congregation.

I am deeply grieved by this sad situation and earnestly ask for your prayers for all who are affected. As United Methodists we stand firmly against child abuse, sexual abuse, and sexual misconduct. We also believe in justice for all and will await the determinations of the legal system.

May the truth be illumined by God’s own light.

Peace,

Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño
Los Angeles Area Resident Bishop
The United Methodist Church