ChristianWeek

LETHBRIDGE, AB—Well-known Canadian Television evangelist and founder of the Miracle Channel Dick Dewert has resigned as its president because he was involved in an extramarital affair.

Board chairman and interim CEO Ray Block, says they also accepted the resignation of Dewert's wife and co-host Joan Dewert, who will "stand with her husband."

He accepted Dewert's resignation because he and the station do not condone Dewert's actions, says Block. Miracle Channel has offered counselling assistance to the couple. There was no word on whether assistance would be offered to the other woman; some reports saying she had connections with the channel.

"We are thankful that God raised up a couple to begin this ministry," the organization says on its website. "That is why it makes it very difficult to write this letter."

Dewert's resignation was announced to staff prior to the Victoria Day long weekend, and then to members of the Victory Church. Dewert began broadcasting at Victory in 1996 using an outdated CBC "remote" unit that was inexplicably left at the rear of the church.

Block said he has been overwhelmed with statements of support from ministry partners and viewers across North America, many who contribute financially to the $7.5 million in annual revenue that keeps the Christian station on the air.

Rob Parker, director of the National House of Prayer in Ottawa, has been a guest on Dewert's show many times and was shocked at the news of Dewert's affair and subsequent resignation.

"We're really sad. We're concerned for them, and I know they're in California right now taking steps to get into counselling," says Parker. "Even though this has happened, he still believes what he preaches. I know it doesn't look like it right now."

Parker says Dewert was instrumental in helping get the word out about his Ottawa ministry and that he is rallying people to pray for the Dewerts to be restored as a couple and eventually to their TV ministry. "Dewert's fallen. Let's help him get back up."

The Miracle Channel is currently available through satellite and cable providers across North America, with licences pending for expansion into Calgary and Edmonton. Unconfirmed estimates on total viewership have ranged as high as four million.

Miracle Channel flagship program "LifeLine," formerly hosted by Dick and Joan Dewert, will now feature a variety of guest hosts.

"We have such a depth of ministry resources that we'll be drawing from," said Block. "It's business as usual. We'll be going forward with our new season starting in September."