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Crossroads at a Crossroads?
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In early June, the board of directors of Crossroads Christian Communications Inc. announced that President Ron Mainse and Missions Host/Advisor Reynold Mainse, “will not be appearing on any Crossroads programming or otherwise represent Crossroads while they focus  their energies on certain matters in their personal lives.” The announcement followed published news reports linking the brothers to software developer Gordon Driver, who was recently accused in a California court of running a US $14-million Ponzi scheme.
Maranatha News requested an interview with Crossroads’ CEO Doug McKenzie.
MN: What can you tell us about the situation that led to this announcement?
DM: I can tell you that Ron and Reynold are dealing with some personal financial matters, and that the Crossroads’ board of directors feels it is best for our ministry that they step aside while those matters are resolved.
MN: When did you first learn there was a problem?
DM: We learned there was a potential personal issue for them a  few months ago. We learned in mid-April that the OSC [Ontario Securities Commission] was looking into investments they made with Gordon Driver. And subsequent to that we learned that a claim was entered against Mr. Driver by the [Securities and Exchange Commission] in a U.S. court.
MN: How did you learn about it?
DM: Our board became aware through some Christian friends of the ministry.
MN: Why did the Board determine to take the step of removing the Mainse brothers from their positions?
DM: We know that Ron/Reynold had invested with Mr. Driver. While that investigation continues, Crossroads’ board of directors feels it is best for our ministry that they step aside.
MN: Is this a temporary step?
DM: We hope so. Mr. Driver’s activities are being investigated in the U.S. and Canada. Once the board has more information about the investigation it will be in a better position to make a fully informed decision on next steps.
MN: Who is filling in for them in their absence?
DM: Some very familiar faces will carry on the ministry of 100 Huntley Street, including Jim Cantelon, Moira Brown, Ann Mainse, and we believe that our founder, David Mainse, may be stepping into the “host chair” from time to time throughout July and August. We are hoping that Kathy [Mainse] will co-host the program from time to time throughout the summer.
MN: What steps have been taken to communicate the changes at Crossroads to ministry supporters and to the broader Christian community?
DM: Our Board and I have communicated personally to our staff and with letters to supporters, and our on-air team have made announcements on our programs. There is also an announcement on our web site at www.crossroads.ca.
MN: In regards to Heaven’s Rehearsal, can you tell us if this incident has or will cause a delay or cancellation of future HR events across Canada?
DK: Heaven’s Rehearsal, since early 2008, has been a completely separate entity operating under the direction of Reynold and Kathy Mainse. As such I am not privy to any current information regarding that ministry.
MN: What lessons do you think the wider Church should draw from this situation?
DM: To be even more vigilant in praying for wisdom and God’s protection over all those who are called to leadership in ministry.
MN: How would you ask people to pray for this situation?
DM: Without judgment, and without ceasing. For such prayer, we are very grateful. |
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