From: H. Keuning
Subject: Apology to Keith (via Jens) from Helen K?
Date: March 29, 2022 at 9:45 AM CDT
To: John Miller
Cc: Alex Cameron, Paul Calvin

Hello Bishop John,

I spoke with Paul Calvin just now and he communicated to me the request that Jens had made for an apology from me and/or the Bishop’s Council for using Keith Hartzell’s name as a possible example of someone who would need to be disciplined by the BC post completion of Husch-Blackwell’s investigation.

I do apologize for putting the B/C in this awkward position.

I do acknowledge that it was foolish of me to use Keith’s name in the meeting with Greenhouse representatives. It obviously touched on a very sore and sensitive point with Jens and it was never my intention to antagonize or hurt him in any manner.

I do not, however, apologize for seeking the good of the diocese or the BC over and above the name of Keith Hartzell or above his kingdom. I do know that multiple women have supported reports to H-B regarding his misconduct towards them. I have received copies of a couple of them.

It seemed right to me to ask about who might hold Keith accountable, assuming that H-B named him as someone who required more investigation or proper disciplinary action. I don’t regret asking that question. And, if I recall, Jens never answered it.

To quote Shakespeare, it always has seemed to me that Keith “protests too much.” He has been quite vocal about his rights and his good name and his reputation. He has not, it seems to me, taken quite as seriously the rights of the women to allege and tell their stories, the good name of our Lord in this matter, or the reputation of the UMD.

Of course, this last part is a purely personal observation of a former member of the B/C. I do not presume to speak for anyone else at this juncture.

You can share with Jens/Keith that I have stepped down from the BC at this point? Perhaps they will take that as sufficient obeisance to satisfy their demands for an apology? And you have my permission to share with them any part of this email that you might find useful in appeasing them — please feel free to cut and paste sections.

Again, my sincerest regrets for causing you — Bp John — this trouble during my last session on the BC.

Sincerely, Helen

From: John Miller
Subject: Re: Apology to Keith (via Jens) from Helen K?
Date: March 30, 2022 at 4:03:53 PM CDT
To: H. Keuning
Cc: Alex Cameron, Paul Calvin

Dear Helen,

Thank you for writing and expressing your regret over using Keith Hartshell's name in an inappropriate manner during the Bishop's Council's call with Jens Nostad and Paul Wolfe on 3/14/22. I will speak to Keith directly to make a personal apology on behalf of the Bishop's Council.

I am also grateful for the additional information you shared. Thankfully, at least some of the women who have related to you the alleged misconduct they experienced through Keith's leadership have reported their concerns to Husch Blackwell. My continued prayer is that the ongoing investigations will bring to light the truth that we might exonerate the innocent and discipline those found guilty of the abuse of ecclesiastical power. May we be blessed with divine wisdom to make godly decisions and right actions.

I do hope your family enjoyed spring break in California.

Please in Jesus,

+ John

The Rt. Rev. John E. Miller, III
Acting Bishop, Diocese of the Upper Midwest
Assisting Bishop, Gulf Atlantic Diocese
Anglican Church in North America