Press Release
For Immediate Release
Date: October 16, 2024
Contact: medialiaison@friendlyavenue.com
Friendly Avenue Baptist Church Announces Pastor’s Legal Situation and Internal Review
[Greensboro, NC] – "Friendly Avenue Baptist Church’s leadership has become aware of today’s legal proceedings and Dr. Matthew Queen’s agreement to a plea deal. Dr. Queen has admitted to committing a serious crime by pleading guilty to a felony charge of making false statements to the government. Dr. Queen’s sentencing is scheduled for February 2025.
We stand firmly against any behavior that undermines trust and integrity. Our church leadership is reviewing these recent developments as it works to complete its investigation and submit a recommendation to the church membership concerning Dr. Queen’s status and relationship with Friendly Avenue Baptist Church, all in accordance with the church’s governing documents.
Our primary concern remains the spiritual well-being and support of our congregation. We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for all members and attendees. We ask for your prayers and understanding as we navigate this difficult season.
For any inquiries, please contact medialiaison@friendlyavenue.com."
For Immediate Release
Date: October 16, 2024
Contact: medialiaison@friendlyavenue.com
Friendly Avenue Baptist Church Announces Pastor’s Legal Situation and Internal Review
[Greensboro, NC] – "Friendly Avenue Baptist Church’s leadership has become aware of today’s legal proceedings and Dr. Matthew Queen’s agreement to a plea deal. Dr. Queen has admitted to committing a serious crime by pleading guilty to a felony charge of making false statements to the government. Dr. Queen’s sentencing is scheduled for February 2025.
We stand firmly against any behavior that undermines trust and integrity. Our church leadership is reviewing these recent developments as it works to complete its investigation and submit a recommendation to the church membership concerning Dr. Queen’s status and relationship with Friendly Avenue Baptist Church, all in accordance with the church’s governing documents.
Our primary concern remains the spiritual well-being and support of our congregation. We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for all members and attendees. We ask for your prayers and understanding as we navigate this difficult season.
For any inquiries, please contact medialiaison@friendlyavenue.com."
The following statement was read to our congregation after our business meeting on May 26, 2024 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.”
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.”