Statement on Glory to God Concerns
Glory to God: The Presbyterian Hymnal includes four hymns by composer David Haas. These have been valuable songs in much of our worship. Nonetheless, in the face of continuing and credible accusations of sexual abuse against composer David Haas, the Presbyterian Association of Musicians (PAM) will no longer include any of his works (from Glory to God: The Presbyterian Hymnal or other sources) in its conferences and events.
The Presbyterian Association of Musicians affirms the following:
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All abuse violates the image of God in others, and we are called to hear the voices of those long silenced and suffering.
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Such acts of violence affect our communities in many ways. PAM encourages worshiping communities to seek pastoral counsel and engage in dialogue to understand the impact of sexual abuse on those close to us and beyond us.
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PAM encourages faithful conversation in worshiping communities about worship as an embodiment of justice, including what we say, sing, and do in community.
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In musical and artistic creations, old and new, PAM will continue to bear witness to the justice-making power of God and the saving love of Jesus Christ for all people.
We also commend these other statements to all who may find them helpful: ​
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With prayers for justice, peace, and the family of God,
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The Presbyterian Association of Musicians
November, 2021