‘Back to Bible’ Megachurch Pastor Reinstated After ‘Innocent Error of Judgment’
John Munro, senior pastor of Calvary Church in Charlotte, North Carolina—one of the area’s most popular churches—has been restored to his pastoral office. The longtime “Back to the Bible” radio host was on paid leave while the board investigated allegations that he violated part of the employee handbook.
“Although we’re not at liberty to share specific details, we feel one of our obligations as elders is to be as transparent as possible,” said elder Bill Bailey, representing Calvary’s lay leaders, at the end of the 9:45 a.m. service, according to the Charlotte Observer. “I wanted to let you know that after extensive analysis in the investigation report, multiple-session meetings and extensive prayer, the session determined that the specific handbook violation alleged was not supported.”
A Scotland native, Munro has served as the megachurch’s senior pastor since 2006. Upon returning to the pulpit, the Observer reported Munro saying, “Thank you. It’s good to be back.” He then confessed to “an innocent error of judgment that while was neither unlawful nor sinful, failed to demonstrate the judgment the church expects of me” and asked for the congregation’s forgiveness for his “shortcomings.”
Back to the Bible, a global radio ministry, terminated Munro’s contract with the radio ministry for alleged misconduct in late August for similar complaints against him. The ministry has not reinstated him.
“I thank God for my godly wife who stood with me,” the Observer reported Munro saying. “We will testify that this ordeal has deepened our faith in Christ. We’re not bitter against God, we’re not bitter against people. … Our love for each other as husband and wife has been deepened.”
