Officials involved with The Basement youth ministry issued a statement on Friday regarding the future of the ministry in light of the recent arrest of founder Matt Pitt.
In an email to The Tribune, Basement leader Vince Lovell said the group would move forward.
“In light of recent allegations made against Matt Pitt and concerns expressed by newspaper journalists and television news anchors, we would like to address the condition of The Basement Ministry. The Basement is stronger than ever and continues to meet for its weekly events just like it has done for the past 10 years. The Basement continues to stand firm on the Gospel message of the Bible. The Ministry is centered around a message; that is why it only grows stronger with allegations and persecution. This message has been passed down for over 2,000 years and not persecution, allegations, imprisonment, threats, or intimidation to be quiet could ever stop it. No one involved in The Basement is concerned about it ending or slowing down. Quite contrary, they continue to stay focused on reaching just one more person with the message of the Bible. As Matt Pitt says, “We are not perfect, just forgiven,” and “God loves you no matter what.” Thank you for your prayers for Matt Pitt, his family, and the Ministry, but continue to pray for the Gospel message to reach everyone that has not heard about God’s unconditional love. Thank you and God bless.”
Following a Friday night meeting, several Basement followers took to Twitter to share their thoughts on the evening’s worship service.
NO WORDS could begin to describe what tonight was like w/@thebasement team!!!! No stopping us!!!! You know what time it is! @_mattpitt
— Hannah McDaniel (@HannahMac__) August 24, 2013
Love @thebasement team so much!!! Literally NOTHING can hold us back or slow us down from our mission to reach this world!! So fired up!!!
— Mark Graydon (@Mark_Graydon) August 24, 2013
Worshipping for HOURS tonight with @thebasement team was so powerful! So thankful that Jesus never fails!! #refreshing
— Katie Oglesby (@KatieO_24) August 24, 2013