stanley's divorce from his wife anna in 2000, after several years of separation, caused a minor controversy in the southern baptist convention. the matter was complicated by reports that stanley had said he would resign as pastor if he became divorced. at the time, he did not believe his separation would result in divorce. however, when it did, the members of his church overwhelmingly voted to keep him on as pastor. according to first baptist atlanta's bylaws, stanley will be able to keep his post as long as he does not remarry.