Southern Baptist Executive Committee Reverses Decision on ERLC President Leatherwood
- The public-policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention experienced a dramatic reversal regarding the firing of its leader.
- Initial reports stated that the leader had been dismissed, but those statements were later retracted.
- This incident has led to confusion and concern within the organization and the broader community.
In a surprising turn of events, the Southern Baptist Convention's Executive Committee has reaffirmed its support for Brent Leatherwood, the president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), after initially announcing his removal. The committee's chairman, Smith, resigned and apologized for the erroneous announcement, stating he believed there was a consensus for Leatherwood's ousting. However, the committee clarified that no authorized meeting or vote had taken place regarding his removal. Leatherwood has led the ERLC for three years, navigating the agency through various challenges, including the political landscape surrounding former President Donald Trump. His recent comments on President Biden's decision not to seek re-election were met with mixed reactions, highlighting the divisions within the Southern Baptist community. The ERLC's executive committee acknowledged the destabilizing nature of the recent events and emphasized the need to rebuild trust among Southern Baptists. Smith, who made history as the first Black chairman of the ERLC, was also involved in legal efforts to protect sensitive information related to a school shooting. His resignation has raised questions about leadership stability within the organization. Meanwhile, Leatherwood's separate event featuring former Vice President Mike Pence underscores the ongoing tensions between traditional Southern Baptist values and the political affiliations of its leaders. Prominent figures within the Southern Baptist community have expressed their discontent with the handling of Leatherwood's situation, with some labeling the initial report of his removal as "shameful and disgraceful." The unfolding drama reflects broader issues of governance and ideological alignment within the denomination.