RALEIGH, N.C. – Edenton Street United Methodist Church, a prominent religious institution in Raleigh with over two centuries of history, is facing a period of upheaval as its senior pastor has been suspended following a formal complaint of sexual misconduct. Reverend Greg Moore, who has led the Edenton Street United Methodist Church for the past three years, was placed on suspension after the complaint was filed on Tuesday, April 9th.
The announcement of Rev. Moore’s suspension has prompted Edenton Street UMC to activate protocols aimed at fostering healing within the congregation and preventing similar incidents in the future. Emanuel Lirag, spokesperson for Edenton Street United Methodist Church, emphasized the church’s commitment to these protocols, stating, “We are looking at our protocols to promote healing as well as to ensure this will never happen again.” Lirag highlighted the established guidelines for pastoral conduct, indicating that any violation of these guidelines was unexpected. Edenton Street United Methodist Church, known for its large Sunday gatherings that can reach up to 600 parishioners, informed its congregation of the complaint and Rev. Moore’s suspension last Sunday. Despite the current situation, Lirag affirmed the church’s ongoing mission: “We continue to do ministry. We continue to promote the story and goodness of Jesus Christ throughout the city of Raleigh.”
The North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church also released a statement addressing the matter, underscoring their commitment to taking such complaints seriously. The statement detailed the timeline of events: Bishop Connie Mitchell Shelton received the initial report of sexual misconduct on Monday, April 8th, and immediately initiated an investigation to assess potential violations of sacred trust. Upon receiving a formal complaint the following day, Bishop Shelton, with recommendations from the Board of Ordained Ministry executive committee, decided to suspend Rev. Greg Moore from all clergy responsibilities.
The NC Conference clarified that Rev. Moore’s salary, housing, and benefits will continue during the suspension period, which, according to The Book of Discipline, the denomination’s policy book, is not to exceed ninety days, with a possible extension of up to thirty days with the executive committee’s agreement. It was further stated that “Rev. Moore will not return to his appointment at Edenton Street UMC when the suspension ends.” Rev. Ned Hill has been appointed as the interim Senior Pastor to lead Edenton Street United Methodist Church during this transition. Both the NC Conference and Edenton Street United Methodist Church cited the need to respect the due process rights of Rev. Moore and the privacy of all involved as reasons for not disclosing further details about the nature of the complaint.
Edenton Street United Methodist Church released its own statement confirming Rev. Moore’s suspension and clarifying that “These charges do not involve children or youth.” The church reiterated that Rev. Moore, who served at Edenton Street UMC from 2021 to 2024, will not be returning after his suspension. The statement emphasized the congregation’s resilience and dedication: “Edenton Street UMC is made up of an engaged and committed congregation, and together, we will move forward to continue our mission of sharing Christ from the heart of Raleigh.”
While Edenton Street United Methodist Church refrained from providing specific details regarding the investigation, the church spokesperson directed ABC11 to the UMC Book of Resolutions for context on the definition of sexual misconduct within a ministerial relationship. According to the UMC Book of Resolutions, “Sexual misconduct within a ministerial relationship is a betrayal of sacred trust.” The definition encompasses a range of behaviors, including abuse, harassment, sexualized comments, unwelcome advances, and the misuse of ministerial positions for exploitation. The document stresses that such misconduct is unacceptable in all church and ministry settings, regardless of who is involved. It emphasizes that individuals working or volunteering under the Church’s authority are expected to uphold the highest standards of behavior, free from any form of sexual misconduct.
As Edenton Street United Methodist Church navigates this challenging period, the focus remains on supporting its congregation and upholding its mission within Raleigh. The appointment of Rev. Ned Hill as interim Senior Pastor signals a step towards stability and continued service for the Edenton Street United Methodist Church community.
