Editor’s Note: In support of the sixth strategic action of Vision 2025 adopted by messengers to the 2021 SBC Annual Meeting, Baptist Press will continue to report every instance of sexual abuse related to Southern Baptist churches, entities, institutions or leaders of which we are made aware.
Wisconsin church loses childcare license as pastor is investigated for sexual abuse
By BRANDON PORTER
MADISON, Wisc. (BP) — A church’s preschool has lost its state license due to the pastor being investigated on sexual abuse charges. Kid’s Best Child Care located within Midvale Baptist Church received the notice from the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families on June 28.
“The Department has received credible information that licensee Robert Stine is the subject of an investigation, which has resulted in referral to the Dane County District Attorney’s office for criminal charges of sexual abuse of a child. The Department has concluded that these findings substantially relate to the care of children and have created a condition that directly threatens the health, safety, and welfare of children in care. The Department’s Child Care Background Unit has determined you are ineligible for licensure,” the letter said. It was made public by WISC-TV.
According to WISC, police are planning to recommend “charges to prosecutors of first-degree child sexual assault.”
A Google search lists Robert Stine as the pastor of Midvale Baptist, though the church’s website is not functioning.
In a written statement to Baptist Press, the Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention said, “We are heartbroken by these allegations and pray that the truth is known in full and justice is pursued. We likewise urge any individuals with relevant information to participate proactively in the investigative process by reaching out to the Madison Police Department as they conduct their investigation.”
Stine served as the president of the state convention until his resignation in May, according to the statement.
“We are heartbroken for those affected by abuse and believe firmly that our God is glorified when we seek justice. Isaiah 1:17 reminds us, “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.” We commit ourselves to this command,” the statement said.
Former Florida pastor arrested on sexual abuse charges
By BRANDON PORTER
COCOA, Fla. (BP) – A former associate pastor at First Baptist Church of Indialantic was arrested July 28 on two sexual abuse charges. Kyle Nelson Robinson, 30, was arrested by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.
Robinson was charged with two counts of lewd or lascivious molestation of a minor.
A statement from the church to Baptist Press said, “We are heart broken and grieved as we’ve learned about Kyle Robinson. His time on staff at FBI as a bi-vocational employee ended last year and he has not been an active member for quite some time.”
The church said, “none of the incidents in question took place on our campus or during a church-sponsored activity.”
“We are earnestly seeking God’s guidance as we navigate through this difficult situation,” the statement said.
If you are/have been a victim of sexual abuse or suspect sexual abuse by a pastor, staff member or member of a Southern Baptist church or entity, please reach out for help at 202-864-5578 or [email protected]. All calls are confidential.
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