The Struggle to Say Im Sorry in Public

Published: Feb. 20, 2019, 3:46 p.m.

Note: Quick to Listen\xa0now has transcripts! Scroll to the bottom of the episode description to read through our conversation with David Bailey.\xa0Last week, the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News published a three-part investigation into the scope of sex abuse in the Southern Baptist Convention. Among one of the seeming fruits of their report was an announcement from the head of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Al Mohler wanted to apologize for the role that he played in protecting his friend CJ Mahaney after he was accused of covering up a sex abuse scandal at his church. In an 850-word statement, Mohler acknowledged his role in supporting Mahaney, even as questions arose about his involvement. He then expressed regret for his former actions and spoke specifically about where he believed he had fallen short. \u201cI can only speak for myself, but I wish to do so clearly, acknowledging these errors, grieving at the harm that was done, and committing to do everything I can to lead well and to serve Christ faithfully.\u201d Like many public apologies today, Mohler\u2019s drew a mixed reaction. Some were frustrated about the length of time it took for him to acknowledge his mistakes. Others were encouraged by the change of heart from a man who it had seemed might never change his mind. \u201cWith our leaders, any kind of leadership, people want to know, if something\u2019s wrong, do you see it and are you going to do something about it? Are you going to do the right thing?\u201d said David Bailey, the executive director of Arrabaon, a ministry that helps Christian leaders engage in in reconciliation. \u201cLeadership, a lot of times, is moving on the currency of trust. I think a demand for an apology is \u2018Hey, can I trust you? Are you going to do the right thing?\u2019\u201d Bailey joined digital media producer Morgan Lee and editor in chief Mark Galli to discuss why it\u2019s hard to offer a good public apology, why it\u2019s significant that we \u201cdemand an apology,\u201d and how long is long enough before the start of a \u201ccomeback\u201d story.\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices