UPDATED: Logan releases statement about resignation

Chapman confirms 'departure' not due to 'unethical or immoral conduct'

Jul 7, 2009
JAMES A. SMITH SR.
Executive Editor

NASHVILLE (FBW) - Clark Logan, who abruptly resigned July 1 as vice president of business and finance of the SBC Executive Committee, released a statement desiring to "make clear" he has not been "involved in, nor have I been accused of being involved in, any immoral or unethical action."

The July 6 statement, released exclusively to Florida Baptist Witness, also notes he was asked to resign.

Responding July 7 to an e-mail inquiry from the Witness, Morris Chapman, president of the Executive Committee, confirmed Logan's resignation was not related to unethical behavior.

While noting personnel matters "follow established policy" and such matters must be "private," Chapman told the Witness, "However, I can confirm without reservation Clark's statements that his departure from the Executive Committee was in no way related to any allegations of unethical or immoral conduct."

Chapman added, "As I said at the time of Clark's resignation, Clark is a fine young man, and I am grateful for the contributions he made to the work of the Executive Committee."

Chapman declined to respond to other questions, including seeking confirmation that Logan's resignation was requested, the reason for the resignation, how other Southern Baptists have reacted to the controversy, and if Logan has been given a severance.

Asked similar questions, Randall James, chairman of the Executive Committee, told the Witness in a July 7 e-mail: "The Executive Committee does not discuss personnel matters in the public forum."

James, assistant pastor of First Baptist Church in Orlando, added, "Both Dr. Chapman and I are grateful for Clark's contribution to the Executive Committee and we pray for Clark and his beautiful family God's divine guidance and wisdom in all he is led to do for Christ's sake."

Logan's resignation was first reported July 2 by the Southern Baptist TEXAN.

Concerning whether Logan's resignation was requested, Chapman told the TEXAN, "It is not the practice of the Executive Committee to respond to rumors."

Chapman also told the TEXAN: "Clark Logan resigned yesterday from his position as Vice President for Business and Finance of the Executive Committee. Clark is a fine young man and his gifts and skills uniquely equip him for many positions of service among Southern Baptists. I am grateful for the contributions he made to the work of the Executive Committee, and I wish the best for him and his family as Clark pursues other opportunities for ministry."

Logan joined the Executive Committee staff Oct. 15, 2007, after serving various positions, including vice president for administration, at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky.

Logan, who said his family is "extremely grateful and overwhelmed by the love of our friends and family," declined to elaborate any further on his statement.

The entire July 6 statement issued by Clark Logan follows.

"Over the past several days, Helen and I have received an outpouring of support and prayers from brothers and sisters in Christ all over the country. We are uncomfortable and embarrassed by being in the center of this attention but are extremely grateful and overwhelmed by the love of our friends and family.

"On Wednesday, July 1, 2009, I was asked to submit my resignation before the end of the day, which I did. I do not have any comment to make regarding my separation, except to make clear that I have not been involved in, nor have I been accused of being involved in, any immoral or unethical action.

"I have enjoyed the past 21 months of service to the people of the SBC through the VP role and that of Convention Manager. I am grateful to God, my staff, and countless volunteers for a successful Annual Meeting just two weeks ago.

"I wish to assure all interested parties that the Business and Finance office at the EC is in the capable hands of a great staff of loyal kingdom workers.

"I also wish God's blessings on the entire Executive Committee. I trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and His protection of and provision for Helen, our boys, and me."

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