Missouri Methodists lift Epstein-linked pastor’s suspension
Pastor had worked on Epstein island
The Missouri Conference of the United Methodist Church has dismissed its complaint against the Rev. Stephanie Remington and lifted her suspension over undisclosed work for Jeffrey Epstein. She will not return to a United Methodist pulpit for now.
Bishop Robert Farr concluded that the case would not proceed to church discipline under the denomination’s Book of Discipline, the conference announced.
At her request, Remington received “honorable location,” a status that removes her from the Missouri Conference and its system of clergy appointments while allowing her to retain clergy credentials. Any future United Methodist ministry role would require review and approval under church law.
Remington characterized the resolution as an “approved exit with good standing following findings of no misconduct and no evidence linking me to Mr. Epstein’s criminal conduct,” she told United Methodist News.
The conference did not announce a finding of no misconduct. It said only that the case would not proceed to disciplinary action under church law based on the available information.
Farr said the case nevertheless raised “serious concerns about judgment and public witness.”
“Clergy are entrusted with a visible and accountable ministry, and employment with a company connected to Jeffrey Epstein is deeply troubling given what is now known about the scope of his crimes and the harm done to his victims,” he said.
Remington is not accused of a crime. She worked as Epstein’s administrative assistant from August through December 2018, then as temporary property manager of Little St. James in the U.S. Virgin Islands from January through May 2019. Epstein was already a convicted sex offender.
As Metro Voice previously reported, Farr suspended Remington in March after conference leaders learned of the employment, which had not appeared in annual reports required of clergy working outside local church appointments. Remington previously served churches in North Kansas City and Lee’s Summit.
Remington told United Methodist News in March that she witnessed no abuse while working for Epstein.
–Dwight Widaman
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