Contact: David Runnion-Bareford, Biblical Witness Fellowship, 207-505-0600

MEDIA ADVISORY, Aug. 31 /Christian Newswire/ -- The announcement by the United Church of Christ Leadership that former UCC President and General Minister John Thomas is divorcing his wife to "live in a committed relationship" with a former co-worker has created a deepening crisis of confidence in the denomination. While it has since come to light that Thomas has had a long standing affair with UCC Ecumenical Officer Lydia Veliko, the UCC Collegium has indicated that it will make no further statement or reveal additional facts.

Dr. Thomas traveled with Veliko since 2005 to Micronesia, India, Germany, South America, Jerusalem and numerous other locations. Their extensive travel schedule was sponsored and paid for from church funds. Questions are being raised about whether other national staff knew and what, if any, action was taken.

Lydia Veliko resigned as Ecumenical Officer on June 16th, effective the "end of summer." Thomas, who was the Ecumenical Officer before being elected President, brought Veliko, then in her mid 30's, to the position shortly after his election in 2000. As President, Dr. Thomas came under strong criticism for his aggressive support for the UCC to sanction alternative sexual relationships and the redefinition of marriage. Both Thomas and Veliko came under fire for their public statements condemning Israel.

Further information can be found at biblicalwitness.org BWF Executive Director David Runnion-Bareford can be reached for comment at 207-505-0600.

Biblical Witness Fellowship is a confessing movement within the United Church of Christ since 1978.