MENONITE PASTOR SAYS
And one pastor in the community of Spanish Lookout says it needs to be downgraded - not upgraded.
One church within Spanish Lookout, held a prayer session for the Plett family at the Rosenhof Church.
While we were informed that this is not the church where the family worships, the pastor overseeing the sermon saw it fit to put on the record the family's account of what happened in the household.
He claims that the Pletts did physically discipline Ayana but not to the degree of multiple blunt force trauma:
Cornelius Friesen, Pastor, Rosenhof Church
"With the publicity of this case, we have received numerous requests for clarification. As Marvin and Lena's church, we desire to share a few particulars about the situation and provide our perspective to our fellow believers and affiliated churches."
"However, due to the ongoing investigation, some details cannot be shared at this time. Marvin and Lena desired to show care to children in need and with the support of our church opened their home to Ayana in mid-September."
"They enjoyed having her in their home while in their care. She at times displayed a rebellious temperament and as a last resort on the evening of November 16, the Pletts, out of love for Ayanna, chose to spank her on her buttocks."
"Their methods were consistent with the Biblical principle of discipline as found in Proverbs 13, verse 24. We, along with the Pletts, are opposed to mistreatment or abuse of children. Following the resolution of this incident, everyone went to bed."
"Early the next morning, the Pletts awoke and checked on Ayana. To their dismay, they found she had passed away. They immediately contacted appropriate authorities to request assistance. As a church, we deeply appreciate Marvin and Lena Plett and any malicious actions and intentions on their part would be very uncharacteristic of what we know them to be."
"We, along with the Pletts, care deeply for Ayana and desire to provide a safe, loving environment for her. Children are dear to God's heart and we as a church desire to show this love by opening our homes to foster children."
"As Jesus said in Luke 18, verse 16, let the little children come to me."
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