May 23, 2023 

To clarify: We are not aware of any allegations that Eli Stewart or any other Mountain Valley Fellowship leaders engaged in any sexual abuse. 

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May 21, 2023

In April 2023, the Board and Elders of Mountain Valley Fellowship learned of allegations that Lead Pastor Eli Stewart continued to refer young men to Daniel Savala for faulty spiritual guidance despite knowing that Savala was a convicted sex offender.

The Board and Elders commissioned an independent investigation into those allegations, and as the investigation began in early May it quickly become clear that Eli Stewart had fallen into sinful practices unbecoming of the office of a pastor and that he had neglected his duty to protect his flock from a known predator, both of which disqualify him from ministry. The Board and Elders voted to dismiss Eli Stewart as pastor in accordance with our bylaws.

The revelations of this case are devastating, and we mourn with all those who have been impacted by Savala’s actions and by Eli Stewart’s failure to protect people from him. We are committed to providing compassionate care to those in our congregation who have been affected, and reviewing our bylaws, policies and procedures to strengthen oversight and accountability for our leaders.

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Posted: April 24, 2023         Revised: May 13, 2023

Our church has learned of some major allegations against our Pastor and grievances against our church.

Recent revelations have led the Board and Elders of Mountain Valley Fellowship to prayerfully consider how to move forward, with discernment and transparency. For this reason, the Board and Elders are having a thorough independent investigation conducted, and with the best interest of the church in mind, have placed Pastor Stewart, Elder Bryce, and Elder Nitcholas on administrative leave. This investigation could take some time, but we believe for the Lord's sake, purity of His church, and the healing of the community that it is the best and necessary course of action. As a church, we are heartbroken as we examine these allegations, and we extend our deep, heartfelt sorrow to the victims that have been impacted. Our hope is in The Lord and we trust in His wisdom as we navigate what is ahead.

If you or anyone you know has been affected by this, we encourage you to come forward and contact our Board.