The Rev. Jerry Sutton, a one-time Southern Baptist presidential candidate and embattled pastor of a Nashville, Tenn., church, has sealed an early retirement deal with his congregation after disputes that lasted more than a year. The Tennessean reports that the congregation approved a $314,000 retirement package for Sutton on Sunday.
Two Rivers Baptist Church was sued by dissident church members who sought Sutton’s ouster and access to church financial information. That suit continues, though the plaintiffs were ousted from the church in May.
Said Sutton in a letter to church members: “Although we have won court cases and church votes the conflict continues. Our people are weary, leaders are tired, and those who love Two Rivers honestly want it to end. I do not believe that will happen as long as I am pastor at Two Rivers.”
In a church announcement, Deacon Chairman Andy Dunning expressed gratitude for Sutton’s 22 years of leadership but said: “Church leadership agreed with Dr. Sutton’s view that it is time for the next phase in the life of this church, and in his life as well.”