Members of St. Mark Baptist Church are gathering to show support for Bishop Steven Arnold days after his resignation as pastor. A statement released by the church cites an "inappropriate relationship with a female parishioner," as the reason.
The St. Mark congregation is still healing from their pastor of 20 year's Sunday resignation, but for some members, protecting the Bishop remains a top priority.
Around 300 St. Mark members listened to their former pastor speak at Dunbar Community Center, Wednesday evening, in an effort to support Bishop Steven Arnold.
"He's helped direct my life. Taken me through a lot of personal storms. He's always been there for me and given me the right advice," said one member.
Despite the shock, hundreds of people from the 7,000 member church are standing by the Bishop.
"He's always preached forgiveness. He's forgiven me for many sins," said one member at Wednesday's gathering.
"I don't feel abandoned at all and I don't want him to feel abandoned," said one member. "I want him to know I love him."
Members shielded Bishop Arnold as he came and left Dunbar Community Center, showing their loyalty to their former pastor. Many say they will leave St. Mark if he decides to go elsewhere so they can still hear his sermons on Sunday mornings.
