UMC suspends Rev. Stephanie Remington after leaders learned she worked for Jeffrey Epstein. The Missouri Conference of the United Methodist Church ordered a 90-day suspension starting March 12. The move places her position on pause while the episcopal office reviews the matter. Church officials said the conference had no prior knowledge of the connection. They also said required annual reports never disclosed the Epstein-related work, so supervisors had no notice.
Employment details emerge from Epstein records
Remington worked for Epstein from 2018 to 2019 as an administrative assistant. She later served as a temporary property manager for his private island. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, died in a New York jail on Aug. 10, 2019. Officials ruled his death a suicide by hanging, but the case remained a flashpoint. He had been arrested a month earlier on federal sex-trafficking charges. UM News reported Remington’s name appears in more than 1,800 records released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Conference cites discipline standards and reporting gaps
The Missouri Conference said clergy in extension ministry work outside local church appointments. Leaders said those clergy still report settings through annual paperwork, but no report flagged the Epstein role. The conference said neither the bishop nor a district superintendent received contact about the position. Resident bishop Robert Farr carried out the suspension decision. Conference leaders said that clergy must uphold high spiritual and moral standards and will review concerns carefully. They also acknowledged deep harm tied to Epstein’s crimes and pledged prayer for survivors seeking healing and justice.
Remington defends her choice as critics demand accountability
Remington told UM News she never witnessed wrongdoing while working for Epstein, and she framed the job through a lens of grace. She said she knew of his 2008 conviction, but argued people still deserve compassion because faith rejects “social death.” Supporters echo that theme, and they warn against guilt by association. Detractors counter that working for Epstein, especially on his island, raises serious questions about judgment. They also say church credibility suffers, so leaders must act transparently and set clear boundaries.
United Methodist Church Suspends Pastor After Learning She Worked for Jeffrey Epstein
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