Christian Week has chosen to tackle what is often a difficult topic for a religious magazine.
Peter Youngren, a Canadian evangelist who has been licensed to operate a TV channel is the subject of an investigative piece by the magazine.
In the BDBO post Peter Youngren, Running out of Grace, readers point out all is not well in the televangelists
world. Readers stepped up to the plate and contacted Canadian religious media.
In Peter Youngren Making Waves, Christian Week confirmed an affair, the loss of Youngren’s ministerial credentials, the separation of Youngren and his current wife, the loss of his son from ministry.
Youngren’s first marriage ended in divorce in 1982, and he remarried; this time to RoxAnne Rutkey (now Youngren). But about eight years ago Youngren had an affair with a married woman in the Niagara congregation he was leading. The affair resulted in a child.
After news of the scandal leaked out in 2003, Youngren stepped down from his position as founding president of Open Faith Bible Fellowship, an independent association of charismatic pastors and ministries. The fellowship’s current president Rick Ciaramitaro says the fellowship is no longer associated with Youngren “in any way shape or form.”
“OBFF will have nothing to do with his ministry,” Ciaramitaro says.
“Peter has not been in fellowship with OBFF since November of 2007. We do not support him as an organization in any way,” reads a statement posted by Ciaramitaro on the fellowship website.
According to a member of the fellowship contacted by ChristianWeek, details about Youngren’s infidelity were sketchy at first, and the board only learned about the child a few years later. Ongoing conflict between the board and Youngren ended in an unpleasant parting in 2007. The fellowship also stripped Youngren of ministry credentials he held through the fellowship.
“I had a great failing in my life eight years ago. I’m not trying to hide that. I didn’t try to hide that eight years ago when it happened,” Youngren told ChristianWeek. “All matters of my personal life were discussed at the time.
“Why, five years later, there was a parting of ways is something that could be explored, but I don’t have any comment on it.”
No divorce
The statement on Open Bible Faith Fellowship’s website also states that the fellowship is “not in agreement with [Youngren's] current action to divorce his wife on unbiblical grounds.”
“That is not entirely accurate,” Youngren said when ChristianWeek asked if he and RoxAnne are getting divorced. “I don’t think something is news until it is news. So until someone has filed for divorce, which has not occurred, I don’t think there’s anything of newsworthiness there.”
Youngren says he has not signed a separation agreement, and Canada’s national divorce registry has no record of divorce proceedings between Youngren and RoxAnne. RoxAnne did not return calls from ChristianWeek.
But sources who know the Youngren family tell ChristianWeek their relationship remains rocky and they are living in separate residences. RoxAnne is senior associate pastor of the Niagara Celebration Church,”part of a network of three Celebration churches founded by Youngren, and her husband is listed as senior pastor of the Celebration church in Toronto.
I want to be very clear here about the comment given to Christian Week below. I am not interested in being painted as someone out to tarnish anyone’s ‘reputation.’ Youngren is not important to me personally, his behavior is his own to be worked out with his family, his church and his friends. I do care people have been harmed.
Others are not required to accept responsibility for his choices. Shooting messengers and framing questioning as attack are tired old tactics in the Word of Faith movement, and attempts were made by BDBO to get Mr. Youngren’s people to confirm or deny facts. Youngren and his staff chose not to respond.
As the Christian Week article makes very clear, people are concerned.
What is important is his choice to be in public ministry, on public airwaves and his conduct around his ministry.
Youngren says rumours circulating about him in the blogosphere are part of a campaign to tarnish his reputation, but he doesn’t have time to find out who is behind it.
“I get under duress all the time about these things, and I’ve got to keep my eye on the ball. I’m trying to build a television channel across Canada. I’m trying to do something for the gospel in areas that are tough like Orissa,” Youngren says.
The TV station bought by Youngren, formerly The Christian Channel, is under a limited broadcast licence with the CRTC. Grace TV recently expanded it’s coverage on the Shaw Cable network. Questions remain. Who owns the building Grace TV is operating in? Who is financially benefiting from the station purchase and operation? Whether Grace TV is adhering to broadcast policy is also a public and open question. Another asked and unanswered question is through what association does Peter Youngren, owner, operator and star of Grace TV, senior minister of a Toronto church and host of a show broadcast on other Canadian religious channels, hold ministerial credentials?
An affair 8 years ago, followed by hundreds of thousands saved globally over the last 8 years, in Moslem countries few of us may even dare to visit. It would seem we should proceed on this blog with humility. “Let him who is without sin cast the next comment”.
Hi Ellie:
Humility is in order, thanks for the reminder.
Is that okay for casting the next comment?
This is about more than an affair eight years ago, no one is going after this family or this child surrounding that affair.
The hurt that choice caused his family is sad.
He got caught.
Do you know what accountability was in place, what restoration was given?
I’m not attacking you Ellie, I am questioning your information. I’m not prepared to accept a televangelists word for something because he thinks I should.
We are talking about someone who bought a tv station, has a public broadcast licence, who puts WoF programs on air, who has harmed his family, who people are afraid of and who can say he has done this that or the other thing with no way for anyone to verify.
How do you know hundreds of thousands have been saved globally over the last eight years because of Peter Youngren?
What Moslem countries has Youngren visited ‘few of us would dare to visit?’
It makes me smile when people say ‘Oh he/they/she saved so many’ on their crusades and tent meetings, really! more likely they saved themselves. Poor muslims, poor africans I am sure they all feel delighted at being held in pity by the likes of the so called evangelists!
Seems theres one ‘holy war’ going on between the religious factions for our ‘souls’ and yet to me as I walk among the people few have been given any kind of freedom that speaks to me of a mighty saviour!; his place has been taken by the likes of those who think they are one and with media, multi media, politics, and money are going to forge ahead through peoples ‘needs, guilt, lack and fears to reach a place of dominion that has us in their grasp. Be a happy giver! are they, most seem to have left a trail of garbage behind them of one sort or another and yet readily go and try to sort out somebodys elses! (soul, ill health, debts, or is that the healing angel I forget!)
Give me a break these people are after power and are buying it.
Intimidation, exceleration, conglomeration. Lord have mercy before we forget what it really means to be saved.
A lot of man walks in the name of jesus ‘ but not a lot of jesus walks in the name of man. THAT WE NEED TO WORK ON before any man has the kind of power that comes without a price from someone elses lack of it.
The CRTC decision for Grace TV is quite the read.
Youngren bought The Christian Channel from S-Vox at a fraction of it’s worth and it’s hard to say where the money came from. The Vision TV Foundation?
In no time flat Vision ran this channel into the ground, and it was handed to Youngren with perks. The CRTC agreement is here.
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2009/2009-247.htm
“17. In accordance with the Asset Purchase Agreement (the Agreement), the purchase price for the assets of The Christian Channel amounts to $4 million. WIM will only be assuming commitments related to leases which amounts to $189,084. It is Commission practice to include this amount in the value of the transaction. As a result, the adjusted value amounts to $4.19 million.
22.
The Commission notes that WIM has entered into a Services Agreement with VisionTV; Canada’s Faith Network/Réseaux religieux canadien (VisionTV), a corporation that wholly owns and controls the vendor (CCI). The Services Agreement sets out that VisionTV will provide management services to WIM in connection with the operation of The Christian Channel for up to five years. VisionTV would be responsible for, among other things, maintaining affiliate relations, acting as an agent for sales of airtime and advertising, and maintaining the broadcast schedule for the undertaking. The agreement states that VisionTV is subject to the direction and control of WIM in the provision of these services.
23.
The Commission has carefully reviewed the Services Agreement and the relationship between the parties to determine the extent of VisionTV’s influence over the undertaking and it has concluded that VisionTV will not be in a position to exercise effective control over The Christian Channel. The Commission is of the view that WIM will exercise effective control over The Christian Channel through its board of directors.”
Canada is moving backwards on it’s religious program, not forward.
I looked up references to Peter Youngren in ‘the blogosphere going back several months.
“Youngren says rumours circulating about him in the blogosphere are part of a campaign to tarnish his reputation…”
Well no there isn’t.
Youngren is not a topic in blogging, he is a none entity. Since the CRTC granted him a licence there have been six posts in the ‘blogosphere’ questioning his actions and behavior.
That is hardly a campaign to tarnish his reputation.
His PR (see CRTC points above) churns out 10 times as much positive pr. I counted over 60 posts since the TV purchase which includes a few Peter Youngren fans among the pr.
Please read this article when you have a moment.
http://www.newcreationministries.tv/Articles/betterthanthey.htm
I am not exactly sure, if that is even true or pure rumor, Since I have never heard from his own mouth I can’t really say it is true, or Not true.But…. let say, it happend 8 years ago for the satsfaction of barking dogs don’t bite
( I wish John Bevere didn’t vist WOLC in 1998. Wished he did bring the entire Church under hevey performance legalsitic relgion It wasn’t too long after things start breaking out in Word of LIFE Church AKA NCC ( see Romans 7:7)
My question is this – Adultry takes two – He did have sexual intercourse with himself and he performed the act with someone – Why is the the woman who is invloved in the act with him don’t get stoned the way he gets stoned untill this day by relgious lunitics, barking dogs, busy buddies who don’t have nothing to do but, circulate rumors and mailicious gossip online and offline?
You see how relgious people reason? In John 8 we see the same pattern with relgious people. They brought the woman to Jesus and acusing her that she commited adultry – but, where is the man she had sex with? – She did’t performe the act with herself Granted there was a man
In my opinion must be one of her accusers. This is how relgioun works, Religion never reasons, judges and anlyzes and thinks in balanced and reasonable, manner.That is why I hate relgion.
I must give credit to Youngren and Joseph Prince who pave the way for me for the grace gospel – I was inspired to read Watch Man Nee’s book called ” SIT Walk, Stand” after hearing Youngren mentioned in his sermon in 2003.
Thoug I don’t agree with some of Nee, Prince, Lee’s or Youngren’s theology, I am greatfull to them to them for showing me Who CHRIST is. and God really used Youngren to connect me with Nee, Prince, Lee’s ministres. In my life he ( Youngren) is termondous blessing as well as to many others so, I’m not in liberty to speak eveil reports and gossip, and slander about Mr Youngren. I may not agree with evertying but, I know he is a father to many in the faith, we ought to cover our fathers nakdness NOT becasue a curse would come upon us. but, out of faithfulness to God’s Grace and mecey and LOVING KINDNESS. We love becasue He firist LOVED us.
Youngren never admitted his sin or moral failure to ALL of his followers – ever. Most of his followers are still UNAWARE of his wrongdoing. Youngren has faught hard to cover up his sins in order to protect his empire. This is part of his nature.
Youngren doesn’t meet the Biblical pastoral qualifications in Titus 1 and 1 Timothy 3. Therefore should Youngren continue and move on as a “pastor†and “overseer†in God’s Church when God’s Word says he shouldn’t be in leadership in His Church?
Is Peter Youngren above God’s Word?
Youngren is MOCKING and DENYING God’s Word by remaining as a “pastor†in God’s Church, and by doing so, his life remains in open rebellion against God’s Word.
How can anyone justify any person such as Peter Youngren who says God’s Word doesn’t apply to them. By being a “pastor†in God’s Church when the Word of God DISQUALIFIES Peter Youngren to be as such, the very fact that Youngren continues as a “pastor†shows you his HEART towards God’s Word.
Let God’s Word be true.
As an independent Mr. Youngren isn’t answerable to anyone.
He bought his TV station for about 12 cents on the dollar.
World Impact affiliates around the world have withdrawn.
He is separated from the wife who stood by him.
His son stepped away.
His daughter stepped away.
Youngren an affair eight years ago.
There are people who don’t know, weren’t told, aren’t told.
Tania arrived from Finland a year and a half ago.
OBFF withdrew their licencing support in 2007.
Plans are to move operations to Toronto this year and rebrand Grace TV as Canada’s Gospel Voice to the World.
People who value him, his family and value God’s word have had to walk away.
Facts are perceived as ‘current negative information’ to ‘tarnish his reputation.’
No one is going to stop him.
I agree with George W and you Bene D. I learned of this blog awhile back. When TICC was first built I put out sweat and finances to aid the ministry as did hundreds of people. Peter Youngren’s leadership wanted us accountable for our ministry efforts. My family and I left because we didn’t find him accountable to the church on his adulterous relationship-he still has many in the dark at TICC now about the last affair and issues pending now. I care about people coming to Christ as an evangelist myself..but we have to make disciples after the crusades leave town …
P Youngren is a brother in Christ to me and I love him… however family values are not preached and practiced by him. I pray they will come out in his ministry and he will deal with this integrity issue and then carry on stronger than ever.
Souls at any cost for the gospel…no…we need our families together & strong after our relationship with Christ. Keep up the good journalism efforts to strengthen the Body of Christ Bene D.
You know, as I said in my article on PY, knowing of all his apparent failures doesn’t make me happy – quite the opposite actually, it has made me sad to the point of tears for his family, friends, and for all the well-meaning deceived sheeple who continue to have their backs fleeced.
I drive by GraceTV at least once a week, the other day I took one of my business trucks there and just sat outside, watching the “prayer team” pray for people over the phone – a tricky way to say “we want your money – but we’ll take your soul too”.
Let me be 100% clear. Take away the religious veneer and what’s left? A business man. A very good one. And how do you put business men out of business? You stop paying them.
The end.
If any of you really want to see change, you’d tell your friends to stop giving this guy money, and stop “tithing” yourself as well.
In this country, in case you didn’t notice, we already “tithe” 13% of our incomes. And here comes the church asking for another 10%? So let me get this straight – the “tenth” has now evolved to 23%? And then “gifts and offerings” above it all? And what does our 13% tax go to? Gee, let me think – welfare, social programs, health care – all the things the tithe was for! Duh! This “Jezus” character is obviously horrible at money management, seeing as how he always needs ours!
I’m not even mad in the least anymore about this whole situation, I’m over it, resigned, and just waiting for this whole mess to sort itself out – and it will. Peter isn’t God. Maybe he needs to hear that.
Love asks tough questions.
In a high demand authoritarian organization questions are not going to be answered from the inside.
The internal milieu becomes so toxic and chronically stressful, it is prudent for people to leave to regain their emotional, spiritual, economic and social health.
So questions come from the outside, welcome or not.
How many sub-companies/organizations/accounts does World Impact Ministries have?
How transparent are finances?
How transparent and open are claims to scrutiny?
(ie: numbers used for aggrandizement such as saved, healed, viewers, sold, etc)
Why wasn’t the Grace TV licence challenged?
Why were concessions given that other Cdn religious broadcasters don’t have?
Is Grace TV honouring it’s licence obligations?
Has anyone drawn the dots between the sale of Vision TV assets to Zoomer Media and someone showing up on Youngrens doorstep with the Christian Channel offer?
Is World Impact Ministries a member of the Canadian Council of Christian Charities?
Is the charity a member of any accrediting agency which requires basic standards of membership?
What happened to former ministry relationships?
Why?
What are the members of the charity or non-charity boards doing to ensure the health and well being of their employees, members, leadership?
Why didn’t Peter step down 8 years ago?
What accountability, healing, restoration and restitution has been required?
There are a lot of questions.
Regarding post #10: The tithe is the Lord’s, but I guess we all have the free will to choose to do with it what we decide. You may choose to give it to the church. Instead you may choose to pay your hydro bill with it. It’s still the Lord’s tithe. The truth is that we give out of a sense of love and compassion. Not reluctantly. Not out of compulsion. It’s probably better to give 3% cheerfully than 10% out of guilt or compulsion. We’re accountable to the Lord for what we do with 100% of our money, not just 10% of it. So each one should decide in his own heart what to give. If we choose to give nothing, then fine. It’s not Peter Youngren we’re accountable to. It’s the Lord. When we give out of love, then there is no regret for the amount we have given, and never any guilt for giving less than someone else may pressure us to give.
the gracetv prayer center should be renamed the gracetv product center. i know people who worked for peter years ago and they told me they were trained on how to push product over the phone lines but never trained on how to pray. prayer partners are given scripts on what to say to get people to buy something. what does that tell you? its all about the money and nothing else make no mistake. and god forbid you ever get on the gracetv or world impact ministries mailing list! once on you will never get off no matter how many times you call in and ask to be removed. the junk mail and unwanted phone calls will continue until the day you die and even after
Ellie, tithing is a big topic. Not one that can be swept away in a blog’s comment section, or glossed over as easily as you or I did. If you haven’t, I suggest to read the 66 various books referred to as “the bible” and take note of every instance of the word tithe. Ask yourself, what does tithe mean? Where does the tithe come from? Why do we tithe? Who gets the tithe? Are modern gentile Pastors “Levites”? Do we tithe outside of the land of Israel? Since there is no Temple in Jerusalem, does the tithe change? Did the Israelittes always tithe? Do gentiles tithe? Does western society tithe?
I have studied this topic out myself, not that I have “arrived” at some plateau of ultimate anything, but I am eager to learn more, if you have the answers for all those questions. You can e-mail me anytime if you want to follow up. Like I said, it’s a rather large topic.
FYI, I am not Youngren’s follower.
It is the same Paul who wrote Titus 1 and 1 Timothy 3. Who also said also “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” ( Romans 8:1) Is Youngren IN CHRIST or is he not?
How easy it is to criticize and slander another person. It make “me” look so clever when done. In world where the pen, tongue and computer are the weapons, we can debate peoples deeds and lives at length.It is far better give someone hope, than to belittle others dreams, opinions and views so that we feel superior, while secretly been deceived in our life of luxury!
Some people go on about what the Bible says but I am normally looking for what THE WORD OF GOD ( John 1:1) is saying. The Scriptures said “Stone the adultress” BUT the WORD OF GOD said to the adultress “neither do I condemn you” and personally I still think Jesus is saying the same thing. My personal opinion is that people are more important to God than principles (just another word for laws). Being a Christian doesn’t mean we always get it right I think we all should surrender and really just give God the Father a chance to show His IMMEASURABLE love towards us That way we should be able walk away from the law that judges short comings condemns failures and points out wrong and right as good and evil.
With that in mind lets look at tithing- it is something so many churches go on about and say Christians should do but are they right ( I have heard some go as far as to say it is the way our finances are protected from the devourer)? What is the Biblical truth? First law of Bible interpretation is “in context’ and the second law is the same “in context’. For me it doesn’t really matter if I am reading the Old Testament or the New, what firstly puts it in context is the finished work of the cross, Jesus’ death and resurrection.
With that in mind if we fail to see that what is written in Leviticus and Malachi about the tithe is actually a shadow of Christ and that He is the fulfillment then it will be something we will feel we still need to do and unfortunately miss the truth – He was the tithe that redeemed the rest (us). Tithing was something that testified of Christ. Here is sharing with all an interesting teachng on thting by a south African Brother Bertie Brtis. If you are interested Check it out The title is :Money on the Cross ”
http://www.dynamicministries.com/archiveseries1.htm
Adam, in case my post was perhaps misunderstood, I have read the 66 books and will agree that rules around tithing which may pertain to the Mosaic Law are today commonly taken quite out of their original context and applied in ways out of character with their original purpose. I was not trying to advocate a leglistic approach to giving based on any mathematical formula. I am suggesting that love and compassion needs to be the motivation for our giving. When loves motivates us to give, we don’t give based on mathematical equations. We give as much as we are comfortable or able to, because we value other people’s needs even ahead of our own. Then we need not feel guilty because someone suggests we havn’t given enough. Then we have no regrets about how much we have given, because it comes from a heart of compassion. I mentioned that we are accountable to the Lord for the stewardship of 100% of our money (not just 10% of it). The Lord knows we have mortgages or rent and bills to pay, as well as food and clothes to buy …. and taxes to pay. After that, we decide in our own hearts what to give. Not reluctantly and not under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek nor male nor female. All are one in Christ. So to the comment on whether Gentiles tithe, that is not a distinction for me. All in Christ should give based on love, whatever the amount. If the love of Christ is our motivation, it may even end up being much more than 10%. Alternately, someone of lesser means can give 2% with more love and compassion than a millionaire giving 30% of his income. The exact % of the giving is less relevant than the motivation and the heart.
According to below Youtube Video the son stepped away becsue he wanted to a part of City Councillor election this year.
It had been know for so time that Peter Karl intended to go into local politics. Certainly hope that he succeeds in that area.
But the truth about the Toronto church is also known.
Peter Youngren had “lost” his platform in St. Cathrines
and needed a local church to give him credibility.
Otherwise he is just one of those “TV-evangelists” of which many
people are highly suspicious of.
PY threatend last fall to start his own church in Toronto, and Peter Karl realised that this would have a very adverse effect on his own church TICC.
So a “highjacking” took place and Youngren took over from Peter Karl – this would have prevented the split, which would have happened if Youngren would have started his own church in the area.
But this guy (Youngren) uses “cosmetics” and “cover ups” to his own benefit. Quite simple really!
Inside information.
Comment #17 – wow. First off, for those who don’t know, yes that really is Peter Karl Youngren. He was one of my teachers in bible college. He taught apologetics, and maybe another course – I’m not sure.
Regardless, my gut reaction to the video was “oh jeez, what now? Politics? Really?”
But after my gut settled down, the truth is – he can do whatever he wants. He is a decent man so far as I know, he loves his wife, and tries to do his best. He used to be an atheist, but apparently God converted him.
To Ellie – Amen, I agree that love comes first, I just thought that that didn’t really need to be said. We are all loving people here I thought.
Take care,
Comment #18
I don’t really know what the inside track is though I have known these people ( Youngren and his family) since 1995.
Currently I have lost contact with them so, I don’t really know what is going on… All I say is…. let God be true, and every man a liar
Care to share a trip down memory lane? There are so many gaps…I think the present is starting to be filled in.
Do you know who ordained Mr. Youngren?
Well, as to who ordained Youngren Geroge W would be able to tell you that – I say this becasue when I was taking memebership class in that Church ( WOLC aka NCC ) back in my guillible days there was one class was held by GW. Hence, Woodward stated that Peter Youngren subbimts to Lester Summeral ( something like that) Which leves me to assume that Lester Summeral might have ordained Youngren.
Well, I was very isolated – Did’t make that much of freinds becasue of my reserved and shy personality – I had good days and down days –
But, I am not into Instititualn Church any more. In the
firist place I don’t even know why do we need all kinds of organized agendas Can’t we just meet with out agenda ? If you have not yet… Check out a book called ” So you don’t want to go to Church any more” by Wayne Jacbson . It did revolotionize my life.
I’ve seen videos of Joey Prince and find his views on Torah to be disturbing too but I honestly don’t know who formulated this “disgrace doctrine” first; him or PY. Tithing is food, for the poor. I’ve also heard he’s moving “DisgraceTV” to Toronto, not surprising seeing as that’s where his new home base is. So he’s not getting a divorce, he’s just living in a separate house; is that any better? Good grief.
Just to keep the record clean and straight -
I am NOT the George Woodward quoted in # 22.
(whoever he may be?)
G.W.
Let’s back up a bit.
If this George W. who has commented here is the same one I am thinking of, then I think a short story is in order. In my article on PY that has been one of the few blogs that are in the limelight these days ( http://www.adamdanyluck.com/blog.html/on_peter_youngren ) I never mentioned the part about George W.
I left it out because I wanted to respect his privacy. Despite what many have come to believe about PY’s “ministry”, it’s not all bad news, as I think I made clear in the article. There are SO many great people who came out of and worked with PY’s ministry. Phatityahu being another one of them. Mr. W, and his wife, as I recall them – are great, and respectable people, who have been in ministry long enough to know what’s what, and managed to find even greener pastures after whatever transpired at PY’s.
When I was doing my 20 minute preach that got me kicked out, George W. was watching me. After the preach, I’m not 100% sure what exactly happened, but I imagine that it went something like this – PY: Who the heck is this, someone kick him out.
Regardless, George W. called me into his office, sat me down, and encouraged me. I had no idea what was going on behind the scenes, and if I was saying anything towards PY that had a cutting effect, it was more likely the Spirit cutting at him, and not me. I had prepared my preach long in advance of any knowledge of all the things we so clearly see now in hindsight.
Anyhow, maybe George W. knew what was coming down the pipes my way, maybe he didn’t, but I totally respect him and was encouraged by him. He said a few things that made me feel that he knew what I was trying to say when it came to loving the commandments and still keeping them, and made sure to let me know that I could be used by the Lord greatly in the future if I stuck on the path. I remember sort of taken back, and humbled all at the same time in our meeting. I left, thanked him, then about 4 hours later was kicked out by letter by PY himself.
Since then, I have e-mailed George W. an e-mail of gratitude, which he responded to. I wish him all the best, and ask YHWH to bless him even more richly than he ever could possibly imagine.
There are few people in this life who have really encouraged me the way he did that day. Like he knew what was about to happen, not just to me, but to PY as well, and wanted to help me to not get discouraged in the times to come. And that, that is rare.
Since comment #24 makes my last comment sort of irrelevant, I’ll leave it up to you Bene to delete it and this if you want. I trust your judgment.
Take care all,
George Woodward he is currently a president of CBN Canada and formerly a dean of World Impact of Bible Institute. aka CBC
That is the GW I am referring to. He was part of the family and I don’t know what happened in recent years to their friendships -
He used appear on PY as well.
Correction – GW used to appear on PY TV show as well
I’ve been told Peter Youngren was ordained by the PAOC and was kicked out after the first divorce.
I don’t know if that is true, it’s third hand information.
To lose your ordination and licence is huge.
So all that is currently available are rumours.
We know a licencing association withdrew.
We don’t know how long they were Youngren’s association.
We don’t know if any association stepped in.
We don’t know if Youngren is ordained.
I’m speaking legally; academic and govermentally legitimate.
Earned, recognized and in good standing ordained.
Do you mean the late Dr. Lester Sumrall?
http://www.lesea.com/
http://www.smiltd.org/
http://www.feedthehungry.org/
H – I’m staying away from the family, Youngren’s choices are his, not theirs.
Adam – no worries. He isn’t the Canada CBN George.:^)
This is the CBN director/Canadian who encouraged you.
http://www.obff.com/
Yes I am referring to the late Dr. Lester Sumrall? I think things started to go down the hills in PY’s life and ministry after Dr Lester Sumrall passed away ( Just my opiniion)
Hi all, it is very fascinating to be studying televangelism. One person has been contacting the “stars” for 20 years on scriptural grounds. I encourage all to see this site > http://aworlddeceived.ca/articles/huntley.html.
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And can a saved person walk away from Jesus? YES. The BIBLE is our 100% guide – not men. Hebrews 6:4-8 and 10:26-31 [READ IT!] plainly state one can fall away. Paul warned that he was able to fall away from grace and mercy. Proverbs (written by plural writers) 21:21 says: “He who follows after righteousness and mercy finds life, righteousness, and honor.” We choose. God gave us this privilege.
Jeremiah says in 29:13 “And you shall seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. 14 And I will be found by you, says Jehovah.”
Please recall David did sin, BUT, the remainder of his life he always sought the Lord, with all his heart. Read those psalms which he wrote (again plural authors). But, because of his sin, he died a frail old man at 70, a shadow of the mighty warrior who could destroy a whole troop, jump a fortress wall, break a metal bow, kill a lion and a bear without a weapon, slay a hybrid giant.
T.E. can you use capitals? And, the woman at the well was not at Jerusalem.
Adam, the name (ha shem) of the Lord is iYahu, as in hall-EL-u-iYah.
And the name of Jesus, is in fact “Jesus”. Just sayin’.
———————–
Let us know we will all one day stand before Him, to give account. Let us pray these wolves will repent, but, as they are already “right” I doubt it.
2Cor. 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive the things done through the body, according to that which he has done, whether good or bad.
11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men.”
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George W:
Would you be willing to provide me with a working email?
Just hit the contact button at the top of the page.
Thanks.
Greetings in the name of the Lord. I have read all of these comments and what i find so odd is the fact that no one seems to understand the value of their courtship with the Kings of Kings. Iam a married lady who loves her husband very much and i would never do anything to degrade him or make any decision to hurt him in any fashion or form.I get tired of people saying Peter Youngren has brought many people to Christ. That may be so , but i also can lead many people to Christ just by my lifestyle, being a moral christian and treating people like they are someone special.I realize that people are not perfect but there comes a time when people have to be accountable for their actions. I once heard a sermon by Peter stating that everywhere he goes Jesus goes with him. Where was Jesus when he was committing adultery? Did he leave Him outside the door? I`am not saying that people are not tempted i`am only saying ,where is the accountability for Ministers of the Gospel? If you want to be a minister of the Lord you need to be self-controlled. He could have said NO.Ellie, stop defending his sin and start to pray that the Lord would allow Peter to deal with his-self. The problem with all this mess is that people are more prone to deception because they want to defend the man,not the Gospel.Just stand on whats right and stop making excuses.If i was Peter , i would think about what this is doing to my family, especially my children.What a shame that they have to go through this. Be blessed!
Sandy, you wrote: “Ellie, stop defending his sin “.
Sandy, when did I ever defend any sin that Peter ever committed or anyone else? That fact that you say that proves to me that you do not know my heart at all (or my posts). If you do not know my heart, then pehaps you don’t know Peter’s heart either. Post #1 is definitely not defending any sin. But it is saying 8 years ago is a long time and I am not here to judge someone for a sin that happened almost a decade ago that is forgiven by Christ. That is not to condone what happened. Of course not. But if it is under the Blood of Jesus now, then it’s not for me to keep highlighting that sin any more. Sandy, you say “I get tired of people saying Peter Youngren has brought many people to Christ. That may be so , but i also can lead many people to Christ just by my lifestyle, being a moral christian and treating people like they are someone special.”. But do you? I don’t know. It takes more than just being a moral Christian. We must proclaim the Gospel verbally and clearly to those around us. If you’ve also saved thousands by verbally proclaiming the Gospel like PY has, then that is wonderful. God bless you. But if you havn’t, then at least be cautious before stones are thrown at someone God has used mightily. “Where was Jesus when he was committing adultery? Did he leave Him outside the door?” Yes. He did. He sinned. It was 8 years ago and he confessed and it is now under the Blood of Jesus. Please leave it there.
Dearest Ellie, sorry if you were offended by what i said but the fact still remains that we have to be doers of the word not just sayers, if that is an appropriate word to use. Many people make decisions for Christ every day but do they live for Christ! I do not know , i`ll leave that with God. My only concern in all of this is that ministers need to take heed on how they conduct their lives before the people who support them. No i`am not perfect either but i`am honest with my-self and i have no problem confessing my short comings with my creator. Yes , leave the old sin , the one you said happened 8 years ago, under the blood of Christ, but it`s whats happening now that concerns people . I was at that church when all this mess happened and i know the people involved ,so i know what i`am saying. Anyway Ellie have a great day!
Thanks Sandy. No offense taken. I hope that all of this is somehow resolved and healed soon. Festering wounds don’t help the Body of Christ.
Here is Peter Youngren Jr.’s campaign page.
He is running for TO city council.
http://www.peterkarlyoungren.com/
Again, I’m not interested in drawing Peter Youngren’s children and wife into his choices, but I think it’s important to know his son is not his father.
I think the son rather prefers to be refereed as ” Peter Karl Yongren” than Peter Youngren Jr
Hi H:
Okay, no problem.
To be honest…
I think what some people perceive to be “loose morals” might just be honesty in the eyes of others:-) Institutional Christianity has become a religion of morality that has driven its participants into a world of secrecy and cover ups. We’ve created a stage full of actors who are each playing a role in an effort to gain acceptance and approval yet, in truth, no one person in the play is anymore ethical then the next. When someone comes out and speaks openly about who they are and how they REALLY think, it throws everyone for a loop. Our first thought is that they are immoral or have “loose morals” because they aren’t covering anything up. A closer look proves that they are just like us; only free
he apparently started his own fellowship CNCM.
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As I hear from reliable sources all that has gone on in Peter Youngren’s life, church, family and ministry, I am truly saddened at the deep deception that this man seems to be in. Unfortunately, it seems as if there are still many people unaware of the deception he lives in and continue to support his ministry. I fear for Peter as he has made ‘himself’ god of his life. The Bible does say that “the gifts and callings of God are without repentance.” Peter has giftings from God and has walked in them preaching and healing thousands. God gives us all gifts and he doesn’t take them away because we choose to walk in sin. I do know that in time God will deal with Peter as He has done with others who do not repent from their continued and purposeful sin. I say purposeful because God will forgive any sin as a man acknowleges and turns away from his sin but if a man continues to walk in his sin, justifies it and thinks he is above God’s word, he will eventually find see that God ‘is’ just and ‘resists’ the proud. ‘Pride comes before a fall’ the Bible says and you can be sure that Peter will fall in time if he will not humble himself and make things right with God and man. I am just sad and sickened by the number of people around him who have had their trust broke and may have been led astray by this person of influence. The one redeeming factor may be that the word of God preached is life changing to the hearer. Just because the messenger has chosen not to live the word of God, it is still truth and brings life and healing to those that hear and recieve it for themselves. Leaders are usually very gifted, charming, charismatic and are masters at talking their way in or out of anything. This is a gift but the flip side of this gift is that it can also be used to decieve people. People are like sheep, easily impressed by gifted and talented people and easily swayed. The best thing we as fellow believers could all do is not be dumb sheep. We all need to look into the allegations brought against Peter Youngren. He may think that because of his giftings and abilities God has given him the right to live by his own rules and selfish desires and that God doesn’t really care too much because he has a special calling and because of all the ‘good’ he is doing for God. If this is true and he refuses to turn away from the deception that exists in his personal lifestyle and actions, the most loving thing we can do is to stop enabling him by continuing to support him and/or turning a blind eye to what he is doing. Let Peter Youngren have a chance to come to senses and realize that he is not above you or I and certainly not above God and his word.
I wish reliable sources would go to regulatory bodies and tell what they know.
I’m not talking about Mr. Youngren’s personal life, his family have made their difficult choices. Nor the Finland investigation, it will play out in time.
I refer to closed WIM offices, broken ties with other ministries, the financial trail if there is one to be made public.
Co-dependency, lack of transparency and fear have no place in our walk with God, this is not a ministry and tv station which can operate with healthy inter-dependency.
I know it has been awhile since anyone has put comments on here, but I would like to know where God is in all of these comments. It is not Youngren who has saved any one, it is the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. That is the bottom line and when we look to what man is doing for God we have it all wrong. Look what God has done, the man is just a vessel. I believe that when a vessel is not following God then there needs to be repentence, healing and grace, but until then God has given us minds to use and will give us wisdom about what we are to do. Let us not walk around blinded by humanity’s abilities and sins, but to walk in the light of a Most Holy God.
I agree Janet, none of us can save anyone, and I think the discussion goes beyond repentance and healing.
I think ethics and maturity are important to look at also.
The state of Youngrens soul is between him and God, his behavior and theology are fair subjects for discussion because he is on public airwaves and representing himself as a Canadian Christian leader.
Just like we aren’t to park our brains at the church door, I don’t think we’re to park them in front of the flatscreen either.
I have not been closely associated with P.Y. or followed his ministry, but when ever I have heard him preach or teach, I have been blessed. I visited his church and thoroughly enjoyed the ministry there along with the warmth of God’s people, the wonderful organization, and above all,God’s presence. Many years ago Peter was invited for a crusade in my home church in Elmira ON. and it was glorious. P.Y. prophesied over me and a verse he spoke over my life has been my life anthem down through the years. This is all to say that Satan is always working to pull down the messengers of God and the allure of women is first and foremost in his arsenal. As men we are relational and sexual beings. The desire for female companionship and sexual intimacy are part of our makeup. Proverbs 7:26 notes in a warning for us all, “For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her”. Peter has been a victim, as King David was. Another great enticement of Satan is success and wealth which seems to provide a false sense of immunity from wrong doing, feeding ones own pride and making it even harder to “fess up” to one’s own sins. But Peter has always lifted up and pointed people, not to himself, but to the Lord Jesus Christ, thus he still has very effective ministry and God’s blessing upon it. God will honour the Gospel and preaching when it points to His Son Jesus. In this Peter Youngren is, without a doubt, faithful to God in always proclaiming God’s grace to man through Jesus Christ. Peter has done more in proclaiming the kingdom of God than most men and I am reminded of the scripture in Romans that says, ” Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand” (Rom.14:4). It is not up to us denounce Peter with a judgmental, unloving attitude, but to grieve over this, and intercede on his behalf for him and future ministry, and for God’s reputation. What man has not looked upon a woman with lust and needed His forgiving grace? What man has been freed from lust and not attributed it to God’s keeping grace? When the lame man at the gate Beautiful was healed he said, “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?” (Acts3:12). Peter Youngren is the first to acknowledge this, his own need of God, and God’s working in and through his life. I have seen far to many professing Christians that have not fallen in these outward, overt, kinds of sins but greatly lack in the fruits of the Spirit, especially love. They are quick to proclain their own goodness and donounce others but genuine humility and love are wanting. “If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death”(1 John 5:16) . Galatians 6:1
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted” (Gal.6:1). We love you Peter, our brother in Christ, and I for one shall remember you in prayer. “He that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him (1John4:16).
you Know I read all the replies and I have to say I was hurt badly by Peter Youngren and have seen on a number of occasions where my face was put n tv withouth my consent they still air one of me in the prayer room I have gotten alot of behind the sceene info. that has lead me away I wanted to be in ministry I paid thousands of dollars to attend CBC and was promised this and that and in the end was fired unfairly and then in the final records they put I resigned and said they did that for my own good Peter Youngren is a Very unholy man who is out for nothing more than money did you guys know that he everyone on the prayer lines has to offer a free book and the reason is to get the address of everyone to harass them to give peter youngren has been cought severeal times cheating on his wife but what about those of us who were hurt and ripped off by him when I was fired I was offered to volunteer at anytime…… but yet how many of you know about him hveing people here with false visas stating they are ministers and they are not what about that he has people working for him under the table so they do not have to pay taxes and what about the high school kids he uses to call people about his so called cursades……. what about the fact that he under pays most of his staff and that he has no concern about anyone unless they are lieing for him or bringing in lots of money for the ministry I am thankfully now starting to look back into my desire to be in ministry but I can’t even go to Ncc with out looking at things and remembering things that are immoral and illlegal going on his number one Man Nathan thurber is the one who sirgned most of the documetns for Grce tv right now if you look at it is not PY who ones but wim and Nathan thurber is the leader of wim and as for this afair eight years ago that is past there is one that till this day is going on and I have wittnessed it with my own eyes. honestly stop with the past and look at the facts of things he still does this is all things that have happend in about year that I have witnessed and have been victim to
Lesley:
I am so sorry you have been hurt and I hope you are surrounded by good people who can help you heal. While I have been told about Youngren exploiting (any ‘bible college’ which is not accredited is a huge warning sign) it is going to take people such as yourself stepping forward regarding labour laws etc. to put a stop to WIM and Grace TV practises.