WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The pastor of National City Christian Church asked forgiveness from his congregation for "borrowing liberally" from sermons by other religious leaders and for suggesting those who criticized him had a vendetta against him, according to the Washington Post.
"I am so very sorry for bringing embarrassment on this wonderful congregation," the Rev. Alvin O'Neal Jackson told more than 200 worshippers Aug. 17. "I apologize for casting aspersions against anyone in this congregation….This won't happen again."
The newspaper reported many in the pews stood and applauded Jackson. After the service, scores of worshippers and some pastors from other churches who had come to show their support greeted him with hugs or warm handshakes and words of encouragement.
Jackson previously acknowledged using the work of the Rev. Thomas K. Tewell, pastor of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City and of the Rev. John Buchanan, pastor of Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago without seeking permission or crediting them. (See related story, Church members upset pastor lifted sermons from Internet.)
Jackson, who holds the highest elected position in the 800,000-member Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) denomination, told the newspaper he used 16 sermons of Tewell's and one of Buchanan's over the last 18 months. He said he is reviewing other sermons that may include material written by others to give proper credit if necessary.
