Episcopal Press and News

Michigan Priest Returns to Parish

Episcopal News Service. May 7, 2002 [2002-113-9]

A 'negotiated conclusion' has been reached by the Rev. Edward L. Mullins, Michigan bishop Wendell N. Gibbs, Jr. and the wardens and vestry of Christ Church Cranbrook in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Mullins returned to the pulpit on April 28.

Mullins was inhibited in February while the diocese investigated complaints that he had plagiarized sermons and violated parishioners' confidentiality. A group of 13 church staff members notified Mullins that they were unable to work with him, and a group of eight parishioners filed a formal complaint with the bishop.

The resolution between the church's leadership, the bishop and Mullins includes agreements that a written apology will be sent to each person who sent a letter to the diocesan review committee alleging plagiarism, as well as to each person who alleged that there had been a breach of confidentiality, indicating that Mullins did not believe there was any breach of confidentiality. In addition, Mullins must acknowledge sources of materials used in sermons and other published works; continue to work with an action planning committee to implement its recommendations as approved by the vestry; and must make clear which situations involve confidential communication and what limits exist on any confidentiality promised.

'It is now time for all concerned to turn to healing the divisions that exist both inside and outside Christ Church Cranbrook so that Christ's mission through the Church will not be obscured by continued controversy,' the statement concluded.