J
Jack Spieters
Guest
IFB X-Files said:
Haha. The people at these schools are insane!
Mike Zachary being investigated?
- Thread starter tobytyler
- Start date
Haha. The people at these schools are insane!
- Joined
- Feb 4, 2012
- Messages
- 4,013
- Reaction score
- 11
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- 38
Does this mean what I think it means?
From Twitter
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Sep 22
Had a wonderful class last night at Lighthouse Bible Institute.
Mike Zachary
0 retweets 0 favorites
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Sep 14
Had a great time at a new members' fellowship at our home last night. It was good to see Pastor Fisher's care for his flock.
0 retweets 1 favorite
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Sep 10
Very excited about the Couples Retreat coming up on October 17! Mike Zachary
0 retweets 0 favorites
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Aug 24
It's such a privilege to be working at Lighthouse Baptist Church with Pastor Fisher. He's a very patient man.
0 retweets 1 favorite
From Twitter
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Sep 22
Had a wonderful class last night at Lighthouse Bible Institute.
Mike Zachary
0 retweets 0 favorites
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Sep 14
Had a great time at a new members' fellowship at our home last night. It was good to see Pastor Fisher's care for his flock.
0 retweets 1 favorite
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Sep 10
Very excited about the Couples Retreat coming up on October 17! Mike Zachary
0 retweets 0 favorites
Mike Zachary ?@MikeZachary Aug 24
It's such a privilege to be working at Lighthouse Baptist Church with Pastor Fisher. He's a very patient man.
0 retweets 1 favorite
bgwilkinson said:
I thought Doug Fisher was smarter than that.
- Joined
- Feb 4, 2012
- Messages
- 4,013
- Reaction score
- 11
- Points
- 38
To save one from having to go through the whole thread here is the relevant statements published by both sides in order as they were posted on their web sites.
You'll note they have scrubbed most of these and are probably hoping they never see the light of day.
So they did go down a rabbit hole.
So these don't go down a rabbit hole and to make it easier to follow.
I'll post additional statements when they are forthcoming, it will help all of us understand better what transpired.
The following Statement is by West Coast Baptist College, Paul Chappell President.
http://wcbc.edu/articles/statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 12, 2014
On April 21, 2014, we received a phone call from the administration at North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara, California, indicating that their ministry had, for some time, been investigating an incident involving Mike Zachary. The incident, which we specifically were told was not “immoral or illegal,†allegedly took place during his employment there several years ago. While we were given no details of the incident, we were assured that there was no cause for dismissal of Dr. Zachary from our employment.
Our administration immediately began a series of meetings with Dr. Zachary to attempt to ascertain the nature of this past situation at the North Valley Baptist Church. It saddens us to share today that in these meetings, while Dr. Zachary admitted to no physical acts of immorality, he did acknowledge temptations and sinful behavior that was inconsistent with what he had disclosed in his interview process a few years ago. At that moment, for the integrity of the ministry, it was determined to dismiss Dr. Zachary.
During our employment interview with Dr. Zachary a few years ago, neither he nor his former employer disclosed any issue of concern regarding impropriety to us when they were asked. We have no reason to believe his former employer had any information about the matters to be disclosed about Dr. Zachary.
Dr. Zachary has expressed repentance for his untruthfulness and behavior. However, because he was not forthright in his interview and because of the behavior and personal struggle he has shared, Dr. Zachary was dismissed.
There have been no allegations or admissions of impropriety or sin during his time here at West Coast Baptist College. We know of no victims of any actions of Dr. Zachary.
While in a meeting with Dr. Zachary, it came to our attention that an employee of North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College had been aware of Dr. Zachary’s struggles. In the spirit of full disclosure, we contacted their ministry with specific information regarding their employee.
Lancaster Baptist Church and West Coast Baptist College abide by scriptural principles and written policies when handling such matters. We have not, and will not recommend biblically disqualified persons to another ministry.
We are unaware of the status of the investigation with the North Valley Baptist Church, or any other entities, but pledge to pray for them at this difficult time.
Due to the fact that we are told there is an investigation, it is important that if anyone knows of any impropriety at any ministry where Dr. Zachary has served, we encourage them to report it to the authorities immediately.
Our board of deacons and West Coast Baptist College advisory members have been made aware of this situation.
Due to the need for personal family counsel, we have provided counsel for the Zacharys through a certified Christian counselor. The counseling is underway, and we ask you to pray for the entire Zachary family at this time. We also request prayer for Mrs. Zachary’s mother who was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease a few days ago. The Zacharys are praying about their future plans, and we are asking God to guide them in the process and help them to be restored through the grace of God and with help from the people of God (Galatians 6:1). They are aware of the publishing of this statement.
Anyone with questions regarding this matter from a West Coast Baptist College perspective may contact Dr. John Goetsch. Anyone with concerns of impropriety or illegal actions should contact the authorities.
The following Statement is by West Coast Baptist College, Paul Chappell President.
http://wcbc.edu/articles/follow-up-statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
Follow Up Statement regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 12, 2014
We received word late Monday afternoon from the North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara, California, that there is no longer an investigation of Dr. Mike Zachary. We, therefore, request your prayers for the Zacharys as they confront the spiritual battles of the past through Biblical counseling, application and obedience.
The Zacharys will be moving to Florida to minister to Angie's mother as she battles Lou Gehrig’s disease. Thank you again for your prayers at this time.
The following Statement is by Golden State Baptist College, Jack Trieber President.
http://gsbc.edu/recent_news/responsive-statement-to-west-coast-baptist-colleges-statement-regarding-dr-zacharys-termination/
Response Statement to West Coast Baptist College’s Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 13, 2014
On April 21, 2014, Dr. Jack Trieber telephoned Dr. Paul Chappell to cancel a breakfast appointment that Dr. Chappell had requested with him. Dr. Trieber explained that he did not think that it would be an appropriate time for them to meet because there was an on-going criminal investigation in Santa Clara regarding Dr. Mike Zachary, the Chairman of West Coast Baptist College’s music department.
Dr. Chappell was told that the investigation was on-going and that it was criminal. Dr. Trieber suggested that Dr. Chappell not interfere with the police investigation, and Dr. Trieber always viewed the allegations as both immoral and potentially criminal. That is why Dr. Trieber immediately and personally reported within the hour the allegations to the authorities upon the advice of his legal counsel at the NCLL. Dr. Trieber never recommended that Dr. Chappell keep Dr. Zachary, or any of his staff, as that was Dr. Chappell’s decision to make.
Irrespective of potentially interfering with the police investigation, Dr. Chappell proceeded to interview Dr. Zachary. During the course of these interviews, Dr. Chappell discovered a number of highly troubling facts and serious admissions from Dr. Zachary—Dr. Chappell’s staff member—that led to Dr. Zachary’s termination. It was later disclosed to Dr. Trieber, on May 1, 2014, that one of his staff members may have known about some of these sinful actions of Dr. Zachary. Once confirmed, this staff member was relieved of his responsibilities on May 2, 2014.
The actions to which Dr. Chappell stated Dr. Zachary confessed were clearly acts of gross immorality and potential criminality. Dr. Zachary’s dismissal—from a high position of leadership within a Bible college—was completely appropriate. We wholeheartedly agree with Dr. Chappell’s decision to dismiss Dr. Zachary immediately.
To be perfectly clear, when West Coast Baptist College hired Dr. and Mrs. Zachary, it was done without Dr. Trieber’s direction. Dr. Zachary had resigned from Golden State Baptist College and lined up his interviews at West Coast Baptist College before Dr. Trieber was even aware of Dr. Zachary’s future life plans.
As a matter of policy, North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College report all matters of potential child abuse to the authorities. We do not cover child abuse and we do not hire child abusers. We also do not tolerate immorality among our staff.
Please pray for the victims in this sad situation. They are the ones that are truly injured.
We took this opportunity with our staff and deacons to make sure that they understood that failure to immediately report allegations of child abuse is a crime in the State of California and it is grounds for immediate dismissal from our ministry. Transparency, child safety, and accountability are essential for successful ministry leadership.
Here is a new statement from both schools. This coordinates the stories.
Joint Statement of Dr. Paul Chappell and Dr. Jack Trieber Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 14, 2014
Joint Statement of
Dr. Paul Chappell, West Coast Baptist College and
Dr. Jack Trieber, Golden State Baptist College
http://wcbc.edu/articles/joint-statement-of-dr-paul-chappell-and-dr-jack-trieber-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
For the cause of Christ and for the advancement of the gospel, we mutually state our respect for one another and our appreciation for the ministries God has called us to serve in this needy hour.
It is with great appreciation and deep respect that we minister with one another here in California. It is our desire to model Christlikeness to this and future generations. We are truly thankful for what God is using the other ministry to accomplish for His glory.
"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it." ( 1 Peter 3:8–11)
Jesus also instructed in John 13:35: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.â€
It is the desire and practice of our ministries to encourage scriptural and legal handling of all matters brought to us by the sovereign hand of God. In our recent dealings with a very difficult matter, including public statements released by both ministries, it has not been the intent of either ministry to attack or impugn the character of another. We are fully persuaded that each ministry operates with the highest respect for Biblical principles and the legal guidelines of our state.
For the purpose of unity and clarification, adjustments have been graciously made in the previously issued statements (gsbc.edu, wcbc.edu) of each ministry which better reflect the spirit and content of our dealings.
We rejoice for every laborer trained for the harvest and every soul brought to Christ in our respective ministries. We wish to model Christian kindness and respect to each other in a way that encourages servants of God across the nation to keep standing for what is right.
We covet your prayers as we labor for Christ in this needy hour. Our nation needs strong local churches and Christlike men of God like never before.
Well they changed it again. Wow.
http://gsbc.edu/recent_news/responsive-statement-to-west-coast-baptist-colleges-statement-regarding-dr-zacharys-termination/
GSBCgeneric
Back to All News
Response Statement to West Coast Baptist College’s Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 13, 2014
On May 14, several revisions were made to our original statement. There were concerns that our statement implied that Dr. Chappell willfully interfered with a police investigation. It was not our intention to personally attack Dr. Chappell or further escalate an already difficult situation for both ministries. With that in mind, we are withdrawing the statements which are lined through below.
On April 21, 2014, Dr. Jack Trieber telephoned Dr. Paul Chappell to cancel a breakfast appointment that Dr. Chappell had requested with him. Dr. Trieber explained that he did not think that it would be an appropriate time for them to meet because there was an on-going criminal investigation in Santa Clara regarding Dr. Mike Zachary, the Chairman of West Coast Baptist College’s music department.
Dr. Chappell was told that the investigation was on-going and that it was criminal. Dr. Trieber suggested that Dr. Chappell not interfere with the police investigation, and Dr. Trieber always viewed the allegations as both immoral and potentially criminal. That is why Dr. Trieber immediately and personally reported within the hour the allegations to the authorities upon the advice of his legal counsel at the NCLL. Dr. Trieber never recommended that Dr. Chappell keep Dr. Zachary, or any of his staff, as that was Dr. Chappell’s decision to make.
Irrespective of potentially interfering with the police investigation, Dr. Chappell proceeded to interview Dr. Zachary. During the course of these interviews, Dr. Chappell discovered a number of highly troubling facts and serious admissions from Dr. Zachary—Dr. Chappell’s staff member—that led to Dr. Zachary’s termination. It was later disclosed to Dr. Trieber, on May 1, 2014, that one of his staff members may have known about some of these sinful actions of Dr. Zachary. Once confirmed, this staff member was relieved of his responsibilities on May 2, 2014.
The actions to which Dr. Chappell stated Dr. Zachary confessed were clearly acts of damaging sinful behavior. Dr. Zachary’s dismissal—from a high position of leadership within a Bible college—was completely appropriate. We wholeheartedly agree with Dr. Chappell’s decision to dismiss Dr. Zachary immediately.
To be perfectly clear, when West Coast Baptist College hired Dr. and Mrs. Zachary, it was done without Dr. Trieber’s direction. Dr. Zachary had resigned from Golden State Baptist College and lined up his interviews at West Coast Baptist College before Dr. Trieber was even aware of Dr. Zachary’s future life plans.
As a matter of policy, North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College report all matters of potential child abuse to the authorities. We do not cover child abuse and we do not hire child abusers. We also do not tolerate immorality among our staff.
Please pray for those who have been deeply hurt and affected by the actions of others through this sad situation. They are the ones that are truly injured.
We took this opportunity with our staff and deacons to make sure that they understood that failure to immediately report allegations of child abuse is a crime in the State of California and it is grounds for immediate dismissal from our ministry. Transparency, child safety, and accountability are essential for successful ministry leadership.
And this one.
http://wcbc.edu/articles/statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 12, 2014
We are adding the following words to our statement effective 5/13/2014:
On April 21, 2014, we received a phone call from the administration at North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara, California, indicating that there had been an ongoing investigation involving an incident with Dr. Mike Zachary. The incident, which we specifically were told had not been proven at that time to be “immoral or illegal,†allegedly took place during his employment there several years ago. While we were given no details of the incident, it was our understanding that there was no cause at that time for dismissal of Dr. Zachary from our employment.
Our administration immediately began a series of meetings with Dr. Zachary to attempt to ascertain the nature of this past situation at the North Valley Baptist Church. It saddens us to share today that in these meetings, while Dr. Zachary admitted to no physical acts of immorality, he did acknowledge temptations and sinful behavior that was inconsistent with what he had disclosed in his interview process a few years ago. At that moment, for the integrity of the ministry, it was determined to dismiss Dr. Zachary.
During our employment interview with Dr. Zachary a few years ago, neither he nor his former employer disclosed any issue of concern regarding impropriety to us when they were asked. We have no reason to believe his former employer had any information about the matters to be disclosed about Dr. Zachary.
Dr. Zachary has expressed repentance for his untruthfulness and behavior. However, because he was not forthright in his interview and because of the behavior and personal struggle he has shared, Dr. Zachary was dismissed.
There have been no allegations or admissions of impropriety or sin during his time here at West Coast Baptist College. We know of no victims of any actions of Dr. Zachary.
While in a meeting with Dr. Zachary, it came to our attention that an employee of North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College had been aware of Dr. Zachary’s struggles. In the spirit of full disclosure, we contacted their ministry with specific information regarding their employee.
Lancaster Baptist Church and West Coast Baptist College abide by scriptural principles and written policies when handling such matters. We have not, and will not recommend biblically disqualified persons to another ministry.
We are unaware of the status of the investigation with the North Valley Baptist Church, or any other entities, but pledge to pray for them at this difficult time.
Due to the fact that we are told there is an investigation, it is important that if anyone knows of any impropriety at any ministry where Dr. Zachary has served, we encourage them to report it to the authorities immediately.
Our board of deacons and West Coast Baptist College advisory members have been made aware of this situation.
Due to the need for personal family counsel, we have provided counsel for the Zacharys through a certified Christian counselor. The counseling is underway, and we ask you to pray for the entire Zachary family at this time. We also request prayer for Mrs. Zachary’s mother who was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease a few days ago. The Zacharys are praying about their future plans, and we are asking God to guide them in the process and help them to be restored through the grace of God and with help from the people of God (Galatians 6:1). They are aware of the publishing of this statement.
Anyone with questions regarding this matter from a West Coast Baptist College perspective may contact Dr. John Goetsch. Anyone with concerns of impropriety or illegal actions should contact the authorities.
Read a follow up statement: http://wcbc.edu/articles/follow-up-statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
You'll note they have scrubbed most of these and are probably hoping they never see the light of day.
So they did go down a rabbit hole.
So these don't go down a rabbit hole and to make it easier to follow.
I'll post additional statements when they are forthcoming, it will help all of us understand better what transpired.
The following Statement is by West Coast Baptist College, Paul Chappell President.
http://wcbc.edu/articles/statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 12, 2014
On April 21, 2014, we received a phone call from the administration at North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara, California, indicating that their ministry had, for some time, been investigating an incident involving Mike Zachary. The incident, which we specifically were told was not “immoral or illegal,†allegedly took place during his employment there several years ago. While we were given no details of the incident, we were assured that there was no cause for dismissal of Dr. Zachary from our employment.
Our administration immediately began a series of meetings with Dr. Zachary to attempt to ascertain the nature of this past situation at the North Valley Baptist Church. It saddens us to share today that in these meetings, while Dr. Zachary admitted to no physical acts of immorality, he did acknowledge temptations and sinful behavior that was inconsistent with what he had disclosed in his interview process a few years ago. At that moment, for the integrity of the ministry, it was determined to dismiss Dr. Zachary.
During our employment interview with Dr. Zachary a few years ago, neither he nor his former employer disclosed any issue of concern regarding impropriety to us when they were asked. We have no reason to believe his former employer had any information about the matters to be disclosed about Dr. Zachary.
Dr. Zachary has expressed repentance for his untruthfulness and behavior. However, because he was not forthright in his interview and because of the behavior and personal struggle he has shared, Dr. Zachary was dismissed.
There have been no allegations or admissions of impropriety or sin during his time here at West Coast Baptist College. We know of no victims of any actions of Dr. Zachary.
While in a meeting with Dr. Zachary, it came to our attention that an employee of North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College had been aware of Dr. Zachary’s struggles. In the spirit of full disclosure, we contacted their ministry with specific information regarding their employee.
Lancaster Baptist Church and West Coast Baptist College abide by scriptural principles and written policies when handling such matters. We have not, and will not recommend biblically disqualified persons to another ministry.
We are unaware of the status of the investigation with the North Valley Baptist Church, or any other entities, but pledge to pray for them at this difficult time.
Due to the fact that we are told there is an investigation, it is important that if anyone knows of any impropriety at any ministry where Dr. Zachary has served, we encourage them to report it to the authorities immediately.
Our board of deacons and West Coast Baptist College advisory members have been made aware of this situation.
Due to the need for personal family counsel, we have provided counsel for the Zacharys through a certified Christian counselor. The counseling is underway, and we ask you to pray for the entire Zachary family at this time. We also request prayer for Mrs. Zachary’s mother who was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease a few days ago. The Zacharys are praying about their future plans, and we are asking God to guide them in the process and help them to be restored through the grace of God and with help from the people of God (Galatians 6:1). They are aware of the publishing of this statement.
Anyone with questions regarding this matter from a West Coast Baptist College perspective may contact Dr. John Goetsch. Anyone with concerns of impropriety or illegal actions should contact the authorities.
The following Statement is by West Coast Baptist College, Paul Chappell President.
http://wcbc.edu/articles/follow-up-statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
Follow Up Statement regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 12, 2014
We received word late Monday afternoon from the North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara, California, that there is no longer an investigation of Dr. Mike Zachary. We, therefore, request your prayers for the Zacharys as they confront the spiritual battles of the past through Biblical counseling, application and obedience.
The Zacharys will be moving to Florida to minister to Angie's mother as she battles Lou Gehrig’s disease. Thank you again for your prayers at this time.
The following Statement is by Golden State Baptist College, Jack Trieber President.
http://gsbc.edu/recent_news/responsive-statement-to-west-coast-baptist-colleges-statement-regarding-dr-zacharys-termination/
Response Statement to West Coast Baptist College’s Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 13, 2014
On April 21, 2014, Dr. Jack Trieber telephoned Dr. Paul Chappell to cancel a breakfast appointment that Dr. Chappell had requested with him. Dr. Trieber explained that he did not think that it would be an appropriate time for them to meet because there was an on-going criminal investigation in Santa Clara regarding Dr. Mike Zachary, the Chairman of West Coast Baptist College’s music department.
Dr. Chappell was told that the investigation was on-going and that it was criminal. Dr. Trieber suggested that Dr. Chappell not interfere with the police investigation, and Dr. Trieber always viewed the allegations as both immoral and potentially criminal. That is why Dr. Trieber immediately and personally reported within the hour the allegations to the authorities upon the advice of his legal counsel at the NCLL. Dr. Trieber never recommended that Dr. Chappell keep Dr. Zachary, or any of his staff, as that was Dr. Chappell’s decision to make.
Irrespective of potentially interfering with the police investigation, Dr. Chappell proceeded to interview Dr. Zachary. During the course of these interviews, Dr. Chappell discovered a number of highly troubling facts and serious admissions from Dr. Zachary—Dr. Chappell’s staff member—that led to Dr. Zachary’s termination. It was later disclosed to Dr. Trieber, on May 1, 2014, that one of his staff members may have known about some of these sinful actions of Dr. Zachary. Once confirmed, this staff member was relieved of his responsibilities on May 2, 2014.
The actions to which Dr. Chappell stated Dr. Zachary confessed were clearly acts of gross immorality and potential criminality. Dr. Zachary’s dismissal—from a high position of leadership within a Bible college—was completely appropriate. We wholeheartedly agree with Dr. Chappell’s decision to dismiss Dr. Zachary immediately.
To be perfectly clear, when West Coast Baptist College hired Dr. and Mrs. Zachary, it was done without Dr. Trieber’s direction. Dr. Zachary had resigned from Golden State Baptist College and lined up his interviews at West Coast Baptist College before Dr. Trieber was even aware of Dr. Zachary’s future life plans.
As a matter of policy, North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College report all matters of potential child abuse to the authorities. We do not cover child abuse and we do not hire child abusers. We also do not tolerate immorality among our staff.
Please pray for the victims in this sad situation. They are the ones that are truly injured.
We took this opportunity with our staff and deacons to make sure that they understood that failure to immediately report allegations of child abuse is a crime in the State of California and it is grounds for immediate dismissal from our ministry. Transparency, child safety, and accountability are essential for successful ministry leadership.
Here is a new statement from both schools. This coordinates the stories.
Joint Statement of Dr. Paul Chappell and Dr. Jack Trieber Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 14, 2014
Joint Statement of
Dr. Paul Chappell, West Coast Baptist College and
Dr. Jack Trieber, Golden State Baptist College
http://wcbc.edu/articles/joint-statement-of-dr-paul-chappell-and-dr-jack-trieber-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
For the cause of Christ and for the advancement of the gospel, we mutually state our respect for one another and our appreciation for the ministries God has called us to serve in this needy hour.
It is with great appreciation and deep respect that we minister with one another here in California. It is our desire to model Christlikeness to this and future generations. We are truly thankful for what God is using the other ministry to accomplish for His glory.
"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it." ( 1 Peter 3:8–11)
Jesus also instructed in John 13:35: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.â€
It is the desire and practice of our ministries to encourage scriptural and legal handling of all matters brought to us by the sovereign hand of God. In our recent dealings with a very difficult matter, including public statements released by both ministries, it has not been the intent of either ministry to attack or impugn the character of another. We are fully persuaded that each ministry operates with the highest respect for Biblical principles and the legal guidelines of our state.
For the purpose of unity and clarification, adjustments have been graciously made in the previously issued statements (gsbc.edu, wcbc.edu) of each ministry which better reflect the spirit and content of our dealings.
We rejoice for every laborer trained for the harvest and every soul brought to Christ in our respective ministries. We wish to model Christian kindness and respect to each other in a way that encourages servants of God across the nation to keep standing for what is right.
We covet your prayers as we labor for Christ in this needy hour. Our nation needs strong local churches and Christlike men of God like never before.
Well they changed it again. Wow.
http://gsbc.edu/recent_news/responsive-statement-to-west-coast-baptist-colleges-statement-regarding-dr-zacharys-termination/
GSBCgeneric
Back to All News
Response Statement to West Coast Baptist College’s Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 13, 2014
On May 14, several revisions were made to our original statement. There were concerns that our statement implied that Dr. Chappell willfully interfered with a police investigation. It was not our intention to personally attack Dr. Chappell or further escalate an already difficult situation for both ministries. With that in mind, we are withdrawing the statements which are lined through below.
On April 21, 2014, Dr. Jack Trieber telephoned Dr. Paul Chappell to cancel a breakfast appointment that Dr. Chappell had requested with him. Dr. Trieber explained that he did not think that it would be an appropriate time for them to meet because there was an on-going criminal investigation in Santa Clara regarding Dr. Mike Zachary, the Chairman of West Coast Baptist College’s music department.
Dr. Chappell was told that the investigation was on-going and that it was criminal. Dr. Trieber suggested that Dr. Chappell not interfere with the police investigation, and Dr. Trieber always viewed the allegations as both immoral and potentially criminal. That is why Dr. Trieber immediately and personally reported within the hour the allegations to the authorities upon the advice of his legal counsel at the NCLL. Dr. Trieber never recommended that Dr. Chappell keep Dr. Zachary, or any of his staff, as that was Dr. Chappell’s decision to make.
Irrespective of potentially interfering with the police investigation, Dr. Chappell proceeded to interview Dr. Zachary. During the course of these interviews, Dr. Chappell discovered a number of highly troubling facts and serious admissions from Dr. Zachary—Dr. Chappell’s staff member—that led to Dr. Zachary’s termination. It was later disclosed to Dr. Trieber, on May 1, 2014, that one of his staff members may have known about some of these sinful actions of Dr. Zachary. Once confirmed, this staff member was relieved of his responsibilities on May 2, 2014.
The actions to which Dr. Chappell stated Dr. Zachary confessed were clearly acts of damaging sinful behavior. Dr. Zachary’s dismissal—from a high position of leadership within a Bible college—was completely appropriate. We wholeheartedly agree with Dr. Chappell’s decision to dismiss Dr. Zachary immediately.
To be perfectly clear, when West Coast Baptist College hired Dr. and Mrs. Zachary, it was done without Dr. Trieber’s direction. Dr. Zachary had resigned from Golden State Baptist College and lined up his interviews at West Coast Baptist College before Dr. Trieber was even aware of Dr. Zachary’s future life plans.
As a matter of policy, North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College report all matters of potential child abuse to the authorities. We do not cover child abuse and we do not hire child abusers. We also do not tolerate immorality among our staff.
Please pray for those who have been deeply hurt and affected by the actions of others through this sad situation. They are the ones that are truly injured.
We took this opportunity with our staff and deacons to make sure that they understood that failure to immediately report allegations of child abuse is a crime in the State of California and it is grounds for immediate dismissal from our ministry. Transparency, child safety, and accountability are essential for successful ministry leadership.
And this one.
http://wcbc.edu/articles/statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
Statement Regarding Dr. Mike Zachary
May 12, 2014
We are adding the following words to our statement effective 5/13/2014:
On April 21, 2014, we received a phone call from the administration at North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara, California, indicating that there had been an ongoing investigation involving an incident with Dr. Mike Zachary. The incident, which we specifically were told had not been proven at that time to be “immoral or illegal,†allegedly took place during his employment there several years ago. While we were given no details of the incident, it was our understanding that there was no cause at that time for dismissal of Dr. Zachary from our employment.
Our administration immediately began a series of meetings with Dr. Zachary to attempt to ascertain the nature of this past situation at the North Valley Baptist Church. It saddens us to share today that in these meetings, while Dr. Zachary admitted to no physical acts of immorality, he did acknowledge temptations and sinful behavior that was inconsistent with what he had disclosed in his interview process a few years ago. At that moment, for the integrity of the ministry, it was determined to dismiss Dr. Zachary.
During our employment interview with Dr. Zachary a few years ago, neither he nor his former employer disclosed any issue of concern regarding impropriety to us when they were asked. We have no reason to believe his former employer had any information about the matters to be disclosed about Dr. Zachary.
Dr. Zachary has expressed repentance for his untruthfulness and behavior. However, because he was not forthright in his interview and because of the behavior and personal struggle he has shared, Dr. Zachary was dismissed.
There have been no allegations or admissions of impropriety or sin during his time here at West Coast Baptist College. We know of no victims of any actions of Dr. Zachary.
While in a meeting with Dr. Zachary, it came to our attention that an employee of North Valley Baptist Church and Golden State Baptist College had been aware of Dr. Zachary’s struggles. In the spirit of full disclosure, we contacted their ministry with specific information regarding their employee.
Lancaster Baptist Church and West Coast Baptist College abide by scriptural principles and written policies when handling such matters. We have not, and will not recommend biblically disqualified persons to another ministry.
We are unaware of the status of the investigation with the North Valley Baptist Church, or any other entities, but pledge to pray for them at this difficult time.
Due to the fact that we are told there is an investigation, it is important that if anyone knows of any impropriety at any ministry where Dr. Zachary has served, we encourage them to report it to the authorities immediately.
Our board of deacons and West Coast Baptist College advisory members have been made aware of this situation.
Due to the need for personal family counsel, we have provided counsel for the Zacharys through a certified Christian counselor. The counseling is underway, and we ask you to pray for the entire Zachary family at this time. We also request prayer for Mrs. Zachary’s mother who was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease a few days ago. The Zacharys are praying about their future plans, and we are asking God to guide them in the process and help them to be restored through the grace of God and with help from the people of God (Galatians 6:1). They are aware of the publishing of this statement.
Anyone with questions regarding this matter from a West Coast Baptist College perspective may contact Dr. John Goetsch. Anyone with concerns of impropriety or illegal actions should contact the authorities.
Read a follow up statement: http://wcbc.edu/articles/follow-up-statement-regarding-dr-mike-zachary
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Wow. Stinkin' unbelievable.IFB X-Files said:
Binaca Chugger said:
This reminds me of when Roger Voegtlin brought John Price on staff.
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Zachary is not listed on staff of the church website
Binaca Chugger said:
Can you amplify the statement?
From reading the statements of LBC and NVBC, it appears that while he committed no crime, he had temptations (not a sin), and did some things that were sinful, but not criminal.
So, why is it so unbelievable that he is working at a new church? Am I missing something "between the lines"?
(I assume that, from reading between the lines, that he committed no sodomite behavior, but he may have been tempted that way, and perhaps looked up some stuff on the internet. This would explain his firing. Assuming he has repented of his past behavior, I don't see the problem here.)
Walt said:
May I kindly suggest replacing your hearing-aid battery.
So here's a very accomplished pianist who was booted from2 Christian ministries and you see no issue with him working in a third? At a minimum, Doug Fisher shows lack of wisdom. If Zachary has "temptations" again, and Doug is aware of his past, it is trouble for him. Sorry, Mike, you're good, but not worth the risk.
Didn't Doug Fisher just preach at FBC's mission conference last night? Maybe someone
should've asked him about it when he was in Hammond, or maybe even brought Zachary in for the music part of the service, just as Wilkerson had Trieber take part in leading some congregational
hymns.
should've asked him about it when he was in Hammond, or maybe even brought Zachary in for the music part of the service, just as Wilkerson had Trieber take part in leading some congregational
hymns.
IFB X-Files said:
My understanding is that he left NVBC for a better position at LBC. He was not "booted" from NVBC. Per the LBC statement, he lied during his interview with LBC, and whatever he confessed to was enough for them to "boot" him. They aren't talking about what MZ confessed to, but it was not anything illegal, they claim (my guess was perhaps going to inappropriate web sites - if so, I presume that his web surfing is now monitored).
So, what is the risk? That he "might" give in and actually do something illegal, when he has exercised sufficient self-control before? Sounds like he is being condemned for what "might" happen.
Walt said:
Did you not read the statements from Golden State? They are posted in this thread.
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You are misinformed. Go back to the original statements. He molested the son of another staff member who may have been out age (making it not illegal).Walt said:
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The investigation was into how many pupils of his that he had attempted to recruit for homosexual purposes, and if any were under age.Binaca Chugger said:
To the State of CA, this was simply a flamer music teacher, hitting on sissy music majors, at the College.
This crap happens in every School in CA, most likely.
To us, this is a wolf , preying on the sheep, and one to be warned about.
Of course, if we actually read Scriptures, we would know not to hire effeminate men, and this would never have come up.
Anybody besides me want to vomit every time they heard Zach speak?
Earnestly Contend
Bruh said:
Granted, but by that logic, one should never hire anyone, because they "might" turn out to be a molester.
IFB X-Files said:
Yes, I read them carefully, not assuming anything.
It's clear that something happened while he was at GSBC; it is not clear if MZ left because of this, or just to seek a better position at WCBC. He apparently lied in his interview to WCBC. Later, an investigation started at GSBC (it's not clear how); when PC heard about it, he quizzed MZ in detail and MZ confessed to non-criminal sins. That, and his lying at the interview were what made him terminated. During the course of the interview, MZ apparently mentioned a man at GSBC who know about his trouble; this was communicated to JT, who then fired the man.
It's not clear to me what MZ confessed to; feelings/desires, or possibly inappropriate relationships; maybe going to inappropriate web sites.
The statements talk about molesting children, but clearly that isn't the case, as that would be a criminal action.
I don't know any of the people involved; I'm going just by the statements released. Perhaps others do know the people, or are experts at reading between the lines.
Assuming he is properly repentant and not trying to cover up any longer, I'm not sure why it is "unbelievable" for a pastor to give him a chance.