The South Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has been made aware that Mr. Anthony Haglund was recently indicted by a Lincoln County Grand Jury. Mr. Haglund served as an ELCA pastor until the Synod became aware of his sexual misconduct with an adult female. The Synod then requested and received Mr. Haglund’s resignation from his congregation call and from the clergy roster of the ELCA effective September 15, 2013. As a result, Haglund is no longer a pastor in this church.
The South Dakota Synod and the ELCA do not tolerate inappropriate sexual behavior of any kind by members of the clergy. ELCA congregations seek to be safe and welcoming places for all who attend and worship. Please keep all those affected by this tragic situation in your prayers, especially the victims of sexual misconduct and their families, as well as the congregations where Anthony Haglund previously served, and the Haglund family.
The South Dakota Synod has fully cooperated with law enforcement from the beginning and will continue to do so.
