The following statement was read to our congregation after our business meeting on May 26, after the conclusion of our Worship Service.

Friendly Avenue Baptist Church issues the following statement in response to the announcement by the Department of Justice of the indictment of Dr. Matt Queen.

“Our church leaders and staff were first informed of a falsification of records charge against our Lead Pastor, Dr. Matt Queen, in recent days. The actions alleged in the indictment oppose the moral values of Friendly Avenue Baptist Church, and we condemn all forms of sexual abuse. Dr. Queen has committed to resolve this matter responsibly, and we support his full cooperation with the authorities. To this end, Dr. Queen is on administrative leave from his pastoral responsibilities. He will step away to devote his attention to his family and to assist authorities in their inquiry. As Dr. Queen steps away, we will secure other speakers to fill the pulpit on Sundays. In parallel, the church will continue to monitor events closely. We respectfully request further inquiries be directed to medialiaison@friendlyavenue.com.”