Craig Clarifies Reasons for stepping down.
Below is a letter from Craig that he emailed out to Keith and others. Earlier this week someone noted a rumor as to why Craig had stepped down. I removed those comments from this website as fast as I humanly could when I woke up the next day and read them. But in the interest of Craig’s reputation, I’d like to post his letter.
A few years ago, I had talked with Craig briefly for an interview that’s found in Lead the Way God Made You. I found Craig to be remarkably kind and generous with his time. His first leadership book got me through a nasty stretch of my tenure; I found new courage to continue when I doubted my calling and skills.
Friends, this is what it looks like for a righteous man to stumble and get back up. I’m confident that Craig will continue to bless the kingdom, and in the future will do it in a manner that blesses his family. This past year, we all watched another unnamed “giant” in children’s ministry abruptly resign to repair his health and family. And he’s doing just fine now. Craig? I’m confident that through God’s grace he will stand soon.
Hey Everyone,
I am sure many of you already know that I have resigned my position at Saddleback Church for “personal reasons.” I know rumors may be running rampant but I wanted you to know that I did not resign due to an affair. (That seems to be the rumor circulating at this point)
My wife, Mary, and I have been in counseling since December working on my work-o-holic tendencies, as well as my very out of balance priorities. Bottom line, I feel that I crossed emotional lines with people I should not have. I was alienating my wife and kids and becoming a general mess. I have done my best to speak openly and honestly to those of you who have heard me speak or have read something I have written over the years. And that is what I want to do in this letter to you, speak openly and honestly…
Yes, I have resigned to work on my marriage. Yes, I have resigned to spend more time with my kids. Mary and I are committed to each other and to God. God has been our refuge, strength, encourager and very present help in time of need. I will not be working at another church for a while and I am taking a few months off speaking, so I can focus on the things that are most important to me. I’m looking forward to throwing my efforts into Empowering Kids, writing and continuing to produce curriculum, and down the line, hosting regional conferences and networking events. I will also be helping oversee our non-profit company, Haddassah’s Hope, which provides financial grants to loving parents who want to adopt internationally. If you have any questions or comments about any of this, you can reach me at [Omited].
Blessings To You,
Craig
Thanks for posting this Larry.
Dave.
Craig you and Mary are champions! I’m listening to some of your CD’s in the car right now and they are awesome. I met you in Sydney, got the kids some jumpers. You my friend are a general in childrens ministry. I love your humor and wisdom in your books and messages and will be praying for you through this difficult time. Great move focussing on your family! Bless you heaps
Rob
Amen, Rob!
Truth be told, I believe all of us struggle with these issues of balance and attachments that are energizing. It’s never easy to admit we need more help than what we have in ourselves. I’m proud to be part of a community of pastors who can stand up and say, “Time out,” my family needs me, my kids need me and I need to put them first! As a PK and now a pastor, I know the value of admitting you have a problem and having the guts to do the hard thing.
May God continue to bless you and your family, Craig!
My prayers are for Craig and his family. I have visited Saddleback and have received great ideas and insight from both Ty (former CP)and Craig. Have seen them in action and heard their passion for kids. I can understand how “time” can get away from you as a CP,especially at highly visible ministries of Saddleback. Family time is often one of the “first” that goes by the way side in ministry.
I have recently relocated to a much smaller church for one reason…family. This position allows me more freedom to spend w/family without the “program” pressures that come w/children’s ministry. It has been eight months since my move and oh what a difference it has brought to our whole family, including extended, too.
“May Lord bring healing,and strength to Craig’s marriage. Grant him the much needed time w/his children and bless his ministry locally and abroad”. Amen!
My sister Carolyn and I have known Craig and Mary ever since Craig first left Biola University and began his work at Victoria Community Church (now known as The Grove) in Riverside, California. We saw him rapidly develop as an outstanding Children’s Pastor, organizer of our first AWANA Club of over 600 children, and wonderful organizer of personnel. No one could run a meeting of volunteers like Craig! Mary was always there as his “Girl Friday” and together, they were a team to lead and follow. Our love and prayers goes out to both of them and their children…God bless you, dear friends, Carolyn Root and Debbie Ward
As a children’s minister, I have too struggled with finding the right balance between my responsibilities at church and at home. I attended a leadership conference yesterday and was given a valuable piece of advice from the keynote speaker, Reggie McNeal. He said on the topic of discipline of self-management, “Time, give up on balance, it’s all about rhythm. We must find the rhythm that works best for us through time spent with God. He knows the plans He has for you. You will be in my prayers as you find your rhythm. Susan Martinez
There are no giants in children’s ministry. God may give us different sphere’s of influence, but our first and most important is our family, and we must be willing to walk away from anything else for the sake of our family. Most of us (myself included) don’t do it soon enough. My prayers are with Craig and his family, and for the countless others who are struggling under the yoke of ministry. Remember, HIS YOKE is easy and HIS BURDEN is light. If it aint’ light, its probably not His!
Craig,
Kudos!
Without a doubt, you will be faced with a lot of pressure and issues going forward…. Don’t be discouraged…
I’m proud of you for recognizing this needed change. A lesser man would have wiggled around the issue….
You have to understand that while we’ve admired your efforts and creativity, we’ve never held you to be G-O-D. If you are worried, that we’ll judge you – understand that I’m one Children’s Pastor who will be grateful for your efforts and prayerful for your family.
Many Blessings,
John
North Reading, MA
Craig: You continue to inspire. It takes great courage to step up in this way. You have enriched my ministry experience in countless ways and I continue to pray that God will refresh you, refuel you and refocus you. He is faithful to complete the work He began in you. Praying he will bless you and Mary abundantly as you work together to care for your marriage and family. As a very busy Children’s Pastor I clearly understand the pulls on our time and priorities when we desire in the depths of our hearts to do Kingdom work. Thank you for your courage and leadership yet again. Blessing, Kathy, Toronto Canada.
Hey, gang– just a reminder that Craig does post here. And I don’t know if he reads this site. The stuff you’ve posted here is thoughtful and encouraging. Consider emailing him your sentiments. His website is http://www.empoweringkids.net. You can find an email address there.
God bless you all,
Larry and Keith
Whups. that should have read “does NOT post here.”
Craig,
Thank you for setting the rumors straight. You have been and will continue to be used by God. You are an inspiration to me and my ministry. I pray for God’s healing on you and your family.
God Bless!
Skipper
Well as i looke trough the web trying to find some information on Craigs conferences…..I found this news….Good for you Cragi….your family needs you
Remember
Practice GOOD ENOUGH and Do The Little Things, that make little changes that make Great differnces
now practice this inyour own home…
hopw you read this….
Dios Te Bendiga
Mucho
Esgardo Cuen from Yuma Arizona
I’m a recovering workaholic myself. I finally posted on my fridge: “If I’m too busy for my family, I’m too busy.” It’s a great reminder everyday.
Craig, I am more impressed with you as a man of God now than I ever was. It takes a lot to step away and do the right thing. I willnever forget coming to Saddleback and attending one of your conferences. It was life changing for me. We will be praying for you and your family.
Clarence