Philadelphia Church Takes Firm Stance in Pastor’s Rape Case

Apostle Franklin Snorton, Senior Pastor of the Philadelphia Church’s branch in Kakata, Margibi County

The Philadelphia Church Ministries International Inc. (PCMI) has said as a Christian Body, it does not condone any acts of violence against women, girls, children, and humanity and, as such, they are requesting speedy investigation into the rape allegation against Apostle Franklin Snorton, Senior Pastor of the church’s branch in Kakata, Margibi County.

“The Philadelphia Church Ministries International Inc expresses deep concerns and disappointment over the news of the alleged rape of a young lady by one of its Senior Ministers, Apostle D. Franklin Snorton,” the Church said.

The church in a press release signed by its presiding Bishop, George D. Harris, and Nathan G. Paul, Secretary-General, said sexual abuse is in no way tolerated by the Church; something they added makes the  allegation very serious and deeply disturbing. 

“Rev. Snorton has served as a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ for over thirty (30) years with the Philadelphia Church Ministries and remained in good standing until the alleged rape allegation. The news of the alleged rape, whether true or not, is unsettling because rape is unchristian and represents a betrayal of the trust reposed in a man of God to cater to God’s children who are entrusted to his care to nurture and teach in the ways of the Lord.

“The Church is therefore demanding and would support a thorough and complete investigation by due process of law,” it added.

While considering a speedy and impartial trial as cardinal, the Church has expressed concern for the wellbeing of the alleged survivor and extending prayers for her and her family, as well as for the family of the alleged perpetrator.

The Church said since the matter was reported, the PCMI considered it a very grave allegation and initiated an internal investigation which is still ongoing, while at the same time it has been cooperating and supporting the ongoing investigation by law enforcement. 

The leadership of the Church said as a law-abiding Christian Institution in Liberia, it respects the Rule of Law and prays that this matter will be handled expeditiously through the legal process so that due process can be rendered and justice prevails.

“While this matter is yet unresolved” the Church said, “It encourages all Philadelphia Churches to continue to uphold Apostle Snorton and the family of the alleged survivor in prayers as this matter is being investigated,” the Church said.



According to them, the reputable Christian ministry, contrary to speculations abounding on social media and in other circles, wishes to pursue only the rightful, proper, and legal means to adjudicate the matter for both the present and future record. 

The Church leadership said it has and will not make any attempt to take this issue from the courtroom because it remains resolute and adherent to the rule of law.

“The Church remains prayerful that a speedy, fair, and transparent trial will lead to the right outcome and that justice will be served,” the release noted.

It may be recalled on August 20, 2021, Apostle Snorton spent his first night behind bars for reportedly raping a 21 year old pregnant woman.