Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina (BCH) greatly appreciates the prayers and messages of encouragement following the announced voluntary indefinite leave of absence of President/CEO Dr. Michael C. Blackwell. In light of misinformation circulating in public conversation, we believe it is important to provide clarity.

First, the May 21 resignation of former BCH board chair James Goldston, who stepped down so that his personal matters would not be a “distraction or hindrance” to BCH’s mission, is a separate matter from Dr. Blackwell’s subsequent leave of absence.

Second, in order to provide additional context and avoid further confusion, consistent with BCH’s policies, and in response to questions raised about accounting issues, BCH’s Executive Committee recently commissioned an independent financial review.  We are grateful that Dr. Blackwell chose to take leave from his position to support the integrity of the review process.  Throughout these circumstances, BCH’s Executive Committee has emphasized the importance of respecting the privacy of all of its personnel, addressing serious questions with appropriate due process and careful consideration, and the need for transparency as soon as circumstances so allow.

We ask for your continued prayers during this time.