West Ohio Annual Conference

Donald “Bud” Heckman, accused of sexual misconduct and abuse, withdrew under complaint from membership in the West Ohio Conference, effective June 10, 2020. Photo courtesy of the Religion Communicators Council.

#MeToo case ends with surrendered credentials

Donald “Bud” Heckman has left ordained ministry under complaint after facing an earlier complaint of sexual misconduct and abuse brought by four women.

Mission and Ministry

Custodian James Jimmerson disinfects pews to prevent any possible spread of the coronavirus at Belmont United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tenn. on Sunday, May 10, 2020, after online worship, which was recorded in the sanctuary. As churches consider returning to in-person worship, cleaning measures are one of many factors leaders will need to consider. “I believe my job, my part in this, is to make sure people are safe in here,” Jimmerson said. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Churches have much to consider before reopening

As many states’ shelter-in-place orders are being lifted, churches contemplate how — or whether — to return to in-person worship.

Local Church

The Rev. Donald “Bud” Heckman, accused of sexual misconduct and abuse, reached a resolution with the West Ohio Conference in which he retired under complaint. Young United Methodist clergywomen have circulated an open letter asking the judicial process be reopened. Photo courtesy of the Religion Communicators Council.

Conference urged to reopen misconduct case

Hundreds have signed letters calling a resolution unjust because it did not include the four women who accused a clergyman of harassment and abuse.

Local Church

The Rev. Bud Heckman. Photo courtesy of the Religion Communicators Council.

Clergyman retires ‘under complaint’ of abuse

The Rev. Donald “Bud” Heckman, who is prominent in interfaith circles, faced formal accusations from four women of sexual misconduct and abuse.

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