It's pretty standard protocol in most congregations with a decent Body of Elders that when a Ministerial Servant or Elder in good standing need to step down ...after the announcement is made, said individual is asked to close with prayer. That puts to rest any rumors instantly!
I remember being in a congregation with a ruthless good for nothing service committee (Cobe, Secretary & Service Overseer). Due to family related matters an Elder in good standing had to step down. The announcement was going to be made similar to the announcement regarding Anthony Morris...in a brief, cold & matter-of-fact manner. I stepped in just about ten minutes before the end of meeting & told these idiots that Brother So & So & his family deserved a courteous & decent send-off! They reluctantly agreed & allowed him to close with prayer...happy ending!🙂
Maybe the the announcement regarding Anthony Morris needed to be made the way it was cause he didn't deserve a good send-off...time will tell. In the mean time let's enjoy juicy-talk at 'Tony The Turd's' expense!🤣
