Statement from Bishop Deborah Hutterer of the Grand  Canyon  Synod

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Statement from Bishop Deborah Hutterer of the Grand Canyon Synod

We are deeply concerned by the news that Casey Goslin, a former youth-ministry leader associated with our Synod, has been arrested on serious federal charges involving child sex trafficking and the production of child-sexual-abuse material. While we affirm and uphold the civic principle that everyone is entitled to a fair trial and presumed innocent until proven guilty, we also affirm—without qualification—that the Grand Canyon Synod does not and cannot tolerate abuse, especially against children.

First and foremost, our hearts go out to any potential victims of these alleged crimes, and to their families. We commit ourselves to supporting anyone in our community who may have been harmed – and we encourage anyone with information or concerns to promptly contact the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

In light of these allegations:

  1. We have suspended Mr. Goslin from all his roles in the Synod, including his roles with the Synod’s youth ministry and Synod Advisory Team.

  2. We are cooperating fully with law-enforcement authorities and are reviewing our internal processes—background checks, volunteer supervision, and safeguarding best practices—to ensure they remain strong and effective.

  3. We are committed to providing pastoral care and counseling resources for any youth or families who may have been affected, offering safe spaces for conversation and healing.

We understand that trust is vital in ministry with youth and we deeply regret any harm or worry this situation may cause our congregations and their members. We ask for the prayers of our community for all involved in this matter.

In Christ’s service,

Bishop Deborah Hutterer
Grand Canyon Synod

Media inquiries may be directed to:
Brian Flatgard, Director of Communication
Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA
bflatgard@gcsynod.org

For Pastoral Care and Support
If you or someone you know within our Synod community is seeking pastoral support related to this matter, you are invited to contact:

Rev. Mike Girlinghouse, Acting Bishop | Chaplain, LCM Canterbury NAU
Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA
mgirlinghouse@gmail.com

Pastor Girlinghouse is available to offer confidential pastoral conversation, prayer, and assistance in connecting with additional resources as needed.

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