A Florence pastor has been arrested and accused of sexually abusing at least one minor in his congregation.
John Martin, pastor of Lighthouse Baptist Church, Florence, was taken into custody June 28. He is charged with four counts of sexual abuse. The district attorney’s office would not confirm the possible number of victims but says the alleged victim is under 16 years old. According to authorities, Martin felt compelled to confess his sins from the pulpit Sunday, June 23. Martin resigned from his position immediately following the confession.
Members of the church immediately notified One Place of the Shoals, a family justice center, which launched an investigation immediately.
According to the church’s website, they are an Independent Fundamental Baptist church and are not affiliated with the Colbert-Lauderdale Baptist Association, Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions nor Southern Baptist Convention. (TAB)
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