ORLANDO — The Rev. Gilbert W. Fonger, senior pastor of University Carillon United Methodist Church in Oviedo, and the Rev. Glenn G. Gutek, the church’s associate pastor, were suspended from pastoral duties Dec. 1 by the late Bishop Cornelius L. Henderson. The decision was approved by the executive committee of the Florida Conference Board of Ordained Ministry.

"Ordination and membership in an annual conference of the United Methodist Church is a sacred trust," said Orlando District Superintendent Dean Witten in a written statement. "Whenever a pastor is accused of violating this trust…his or her ministerial office shall be subject to review."

Witten received reports in early November accusing the pastors of sexual misconduct. Two separate complaints charging Fonger and Gutek with sexual misconduct were filed with Bishop J. Lloyd Knox Dec. 6.

Knox is serving as bishop of the Florida Conference following Henderson’s death Dec. 7 and until a permanent bishop is named.

The misconduct did not involve children or youth and was neither homosexual nor criminal in nature, according to Witten.

"These have been two very fine ministers with excellent track records," Witten said. "I am deeply saddened by this turn of events."

Because sexual misconduct is a chargeable offense according to the 1996 United Methodist Book of Discipline, the denomination’s book of law, the complaints were referred to a committee on investigation and could result in a church trial of the two pastors.

The suspensions can last at least 60 days and be extended until the judicial process is resolved, according to the Book of Discipline. During that time, Fonger and Gutek will continue to receive their salaries and compensation, including church-provided housing.

Witten is currently leading the University Carillon congregation and has appointed the Rev. George Dettman to assist him as minister of pastoral care and administration. Dettman is a retired United Methodist pastor who most previously served Cypress Lakes United Methodist Church in Fort Lauderdale. Pastors on staff at Asbury Theological Seminary’s Florida campus will also help lead worship services.

Witten recruited Dr. Burrell Dinkins, a professor of pastoral care at Asbury, to coordinate counseling services for church members.