January 18, 2007

Emily Eastwood on the trial of Pastor Bradley Schmeling

The defense team for Pastor Bradley Schmeling is assembled here in Atlanta and is busily preparing for opening arguments, witness questions and cross examination. The hearing begins on Friday. I want you all to know that I will be sequestered with the defense team during the trial itself. I will not be able to talk to the media or send substantive messages to you during the trial which runs from Friday 1/19 through Tuesday 1/23. Once the trial is over, I will be back in touch. In the interim LC/NA Communications Director, Phil Soucy, will be sending daily updates from the events surrounding the trial.

Since my last communication to you, the hearing officer has granted Bradley's request to allow his mother, Judy; his partner, Pastor Darin Easler; and the president of St John's, Laura Crawley, to be present throughout the hearing. I ask your prayers for all involved with this hearing, especially for Bradley and his family, Pastor Bob Rimbo and Pastor Jane Fahey who will represent Bradley, Jeremy Posadas, our constitutional guru, the witnesses, the hearing officer and the members of the hearing committee. I also ask your prayers for Bishop Warren and his representatives.

With this case we have reached a kairos time in the life of the church, a time when Peter is about to engage Cornelius in the presence of the believers from Joppa. I pray that the Holy Spirit will infuse the room and wash over all involved, leading the hearing committee to finally say that it is good to the Holy Spirit and to us that Bradley should remain a pastor of the ELCA. Time will prove the import of this moment in the movement for full participation, but from this hotel room in the wee hours of Thursday, the whole thing feels loaded with possibilities. We expect a roller coaster of a ride for the next six days. Pray for peace in our hearts, clear minds, powerful words, just the right amount of anger, and most of all the gifts of the Spirit that can move even the hardest of hearts.

During this week, I will pray for you, my partners in this ministry we share. Do not be afraid. No matter the verdict, God has claimed and called us to this time and place, to lives of integrity and wholeness. Bradley and St John's have acted in faith. Miracles will occur. The ultimate outcome is assured. Only the hour is in question.

With deep gratitude for your continued prayers and support,

Emily Eastwood
Executive Director