To Set the Record Straight

                                                                                                                     Vol. XIII, No. 6, June/July 2000

I was reading the May issue of The Baptist Banner and saw the article concerning Bethany McLemore's statement before the Virginia Senate Education and Health Committee. Her statement is included in that issue in which she testifies against the 24 hour waiting period for those seeking an abortion.

After discussing this development with the deacons of Waverly Place Baptist Church, I wanted to let the readership of The Banner know where we stand as a church on the issue of abortion. Ms. McLemore made reference to the fact that she was ordained at Waverly Place. This occurred before my assuming the pastorate and so I am not at liberty to address that issue. Some members have confided in me that they were certainly not in support of that action.

The majority of the membership of Waverly Place Baptist church take a pro-life stance in support of the Southern Baptist Convention. It is my desire as pastor and the deacons at our last meeting were unanimous in their desire to separate the church from any connection with Beverly McLemore's opinions on abortion or her employment with Planned Parenthood. We were certainly saddened by her testimony to the Virginia Senate Committee.

In conclusion, please understand that her testimony in no way reflects the opinion of Waverly Place Baptist church and certainly not mine as pastor.

Serving Christ Jesus,

Rev. Reed A. Ness

Senior Pastor

Waverly Place Baptist Church

Roanoke, VA