Edenton Street UMC pastor will not return after being suspended for sexual misconduct allegations

A Raleigh pastor has been suspended after a sexual misconduct complaint was filed against him Thursday.

Edenton Street United Methodist Church said that senior pastor Rev. Greg Moore has been placed on administrative leave from all pastoral duties due to allegations of sexual misconduct. The church said that the charges don't involve children and youth.

"On Monday, April 8, Bishop Connie Mitchell Shelton received a report of sexual misconduct," the N.C. Conference of the United Methodist Church (NCCUMC) said in a statment. "Bishop Shelton immediately initiated a process to determine if there was a violation of sacred trust. On Tuesday, April 9, a formal complaint was received.

"Based on Bishop Shelton's findings and with recommendation from the Board of Ordained Ministry executive committee, Rev. Greg Moore is suspended from all clergy responsibilities," NCCUMC said.

Moore will not return to his appointment at Edenton Street UMC when the suspension ends, the church said. NCCUMC said Moore's salary, housing, and benefits will continue during the suspension.

The church said Rev. Ned Hill has been appointed as the interim senior pastor.

According to the church's Book of Discipline, Moore could technically work for another church after a maximum 120-day suspension.

"According to The Book of Discipline (the denomination's law and policy book), suspension is not to exceed ninety days," NCCUMC siad. "With the agreement of the executive committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry, the bishop may extend the suspension for only one additional period not to exceed thirty days."

Moore served at Edenton Street UMC from 2021 to 2024, according to the church.