“There is a second condition, Thomas,” I said, holding his gaze. “You have compromised the spiritual authority of your office. You did it for love, and I am saving you from prison for love, but you can no longer lead this flock. You have one year.

You will spend the next twelve months wrapping up your ministry, and then you will announce your early retirement to spend more time with Sarah. You will step down gracefully, on your own terms. If you refuse, I will go to the board with the original March statements.” He sat there for a long time, the tears drying on his cheeks, staring at the woman he had saved from grief, who had just saved him from ruin.

Slowly, heavily, he nodded. I picked up my pen, pulled the audit form toward me, and signed my name on the bottom line. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but as I watched him walk down the hallway to go visit his wife at the hospital, I knew I could finally sleep tonight.