Faith Presbyterian Church Advocates for Its Assets
Members of Faith Presbyterian Church in Pasadena, TX, are speaking out against the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), claiming that their church assets have been unjustly taken. This situation centers around Rev. John Stout, a former NASA scientist and chaplain to the Apollo astronauts, whose legacy is closely linked to the Apollo Prayer League (APL). The APL, which Rev. Stout helped establish, consists of 40,000 members, including NASA employees and supporters worldwide, all dedicated to a significant mission: landing the first Bible on the Moon.
The Story of Rev. John Stout and the Apollo Prayer League
Rev. John Stout played a vital role in the Apollo Prayer League, formed in the wake of the Apollo 14 mission where a copy of the King James Version of the Bible was flown to the lunar surface. The League operated within Faith Presbyterian Church, where Stout served as interim pastor. As the director of the APL, his work aimed to ensure the safety of astronauts and the spacecraft during their historic missions.
Insights from the Book 'Undaunted'
The book titled "Undaunted: The Unflinching Faith, Audacity, and Ultimate Betrayal of Reverend John Maxwell Stout" by Carol Mersch chronicles Rev. Stout's journey and highlights how the church and the Apollo Prayer League contributed significantly to this remarkable event in history.
The Conflict with the State
Court records reveal that in October 2010, DADS seized Rev. Stout's assets, including valuable space memorabilia that contained lunar Bibles in microfiche format. These items held significant monetary and sentimental value. Due to accusations regarding their mental capacity from an estranged family member, Rev. Stout, who was 88 at the time, and his wife Helen, who was 86, were deemed incapacitated. Consequently, they were placed in the Heritage Villa Nursing Home, significantly restricting their freedoms.
The Struggles of Isolation and Advocacy
Documents indicate that Rev. Stout was held incommunicado at the nursing home. His computer was confiscated, and he faced severe limitations on communication with friends and family. Nursing home staff noticed his isolation and remarked that he was not demented, highlighting the surreal circumstances surrounding his care.
The Courage of Betty Duke
Betty Duke, a 92-year-old Elder and Treasurer at Faith Presbyterian, organized visits to support Rev. Stout during his time in the nursing home. Despite her efforts, access was denied by the nursing home administrator under the pretext of protecting Stout. Duke’s determination led her to escalate her complaints through various channels, even addressing state legislators, advocating against what she deemed elder abuse.
The Ongoing Legal Battle
The fight for the return of Rev. Stout’s church assets has been prolonged, now stretching into its sixth year within the Chambers County probate court. The absence of judicial progress has only added to the frustration of those rallying for justice on behalf of Rev. Stout and his family.
Legacy and Heritage
Rev. Stout's narrative is interwoven with notable figures and historic events, including relationships with the President of Brazil, U.N. Ambassadors, and even the young Lyndon B. Johnson. His adventures in Brazil before joining NASA, where he contributed to the Mercury and Apollo programs, highlight a life dedicated to science, exploration, and faith.
Contact Information
For more information, please reach out to APR, Kirk Public Relations at 512-940-4402.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Apollo Prayer League?
The Apollo Prayer League is a nonprofit organization formed by NASA employees and supporters, aiming to pray for the safety of astronauts during Apollo missions.
Who was Rev. John Stout?
Rev. John Stout was a NASA scientist and chaplain known for his significant contributions to the Apollo missions and the Apollo Prayer League.
Why did the state confiscate church assets?
The state confiscated the assets based on claims of incompetency against Rev. Stout and his wife by a family member, which are being disputed by church members.
What significant items were taken from Rev. Stout?
Among the items seized were valuable space memorabilia, including lunar Bibles in microfiche format that had historic significance.
How can one support the church in this matter?
Support can be shown by advocating for the return of the assets and raising awareness about the situation through community outreach and engagement.
