From: Paula Snyder Belousek, Conference Minister
Date: November 12, 2026

Ohio Mennonite Conference announces the permanent termination of the ordination credential of Hendrick (Henry) Beun, who was arrested on May 29, 2026, for one count of enticing a child through use of the internet or other communication device. Following this termination, Mr. Beun’s name has been placed in Mennonite Church USA’s permanent ineligible clergy file, barring him permanently from holding a credential or serving in any position of authority within Ohio Mennonite Conference or Mennonite Church USA.

Ohio Mennonite Conference ordained Beun for his work as an administrator, Bible teacher, and chaplain at Central Christian School in Kidron, Ohio. Following his retirement, his credential status was changed to “ordained, retired.” Until his arrest, he continued to teach and preach in area churches.

On June 3, 2026, Ohio Mennonite Conference suspended Beun’s credential pending the outcome of his court case. This suspension prohibited him from participating in any ministry activities, including preaching and Bible teaching. While his misconduct did not take place in conference churches or associated ministries, we recognize that his recent presence in local congregations may bring pain and confusion. Conference leadership and the Conference Safety Liaison are available to support local church communities as they process this news.

As part of an investigation conducted by the Idaho Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, Beun requested explicit photographs from an undercover officer. He was extradited to Idaho, where he pleaded guilty to enticing a child through the internet. On November 4, 2026, he was sentenced to a fixed term of two years, followed by an indeterminate term of up to thirteen years, with credit for 146 days already served, in addition to fines and court costs.

On November 11, 2026, the Ohio Mennonite Conference Credentialing Committee terminated Hendrick Beun’s ordination credential.

 Accountability and Transparency

In accordance with Ohio Mennonite Conference practice, the termination of a pastor’s credentials is announced publicly. This is an important part of our commitment to openness and transparency, holding credentialed ministers accountable for their actions, and holding the Conference accountable to our churches, members, and the larger church community.

Announcements of ministerial misconduct bring pain to many people; nevertheless, public accountability is necessary. Ohio Mennonite Conference is called to be a place of safety and refuge, uncompromising in our protection of the vulnerable. We want victims and survivors of ministerial misconduct to know that they will be taken seriously, and we are committed to walking alongside all those impacted with trauma-informed care and grace.

Ohio Mennonite Conference holds all credentialed ministers to high standards of ethical conduct. We have established policies, procedures, and training for active credentialed ministers to promote safe and ethical interactions between ministers and those who participate in their faith communities.

For specialized survivor support resources, safe-church policies, and prevention tools, visit the Prevention and Abuse Resource page on the Ohio Mennonite Conference website: https://ohiomennoniteconference.org/resources/ministerial-sexual-misconduct-policy/

Reporting Ministerial Misconduct

To report ministerial misconduct, contact:

Ohio Mennonite Conference Safety Liaison
Mark “Woody” Woods, MSW, LISW-S
Phone: 330-621-4395
Email: mwoods.woody@gmail.com

Michael Danner
Mennonite Church USA Church Vitality Office
Phone: 574-523-3045

It is our prayer that all those who have been impacted by Henry Beun’s actions, as well as all who have experienced ministerial misconduct, will experience the justice, grace, mercy, love, and healing of Jesus Christ.