Michigan televangelist storms off network
http://www.detnews.com/article/20110622/ENT10/106220333/1457/ENT10/Mich.-televangelist-storms-off-network
Oralandar Brand-Williams/ The Detroit News
Last Updated: June 22. 2011 10:22AM
Detroit — Michigan televangelist Jack Van Impe has preached the End Times for decades. Last week, his time ended at the Trinity Broadcast Network because of a dustup over two fellow televangelists.
The Rochester Hills-based host of "Jack Van Impe Presents" left the network because it yanked a show that was supposed to air June 6 that featured criticism of nationally known pastors Rick Warren and Robert H. Schuller.
Van Impe accused the two of trying to combine Christian and Muslim beliefs into a new movement called "Chrislam."
"Wherever Chrislam or its equivalent are promoted, Christians should run for their spiritual lives," Van Impe said in a copy of the show on YouTube.
Van Impe has hosted several daily programs on TBN for 23 years. Its president, Paul Crouch, said network policy prohibits its airwaves from being used as a "bully pulpit for endless debate and/or criticism on/of various doctrinal issues among denominations."
Van Impe decided last week to end the network affiliation, saying "I will not be silenced. I will not allow anyone to tell me what I can and cannot preach."
Van Impe spokesman Ken Vancil said "we would not be able to minister effectively if we had to look over our shoulder."
"Jack Van Impe Presents" is broadcast on other stations besides TBN.
Warren is pastor of Saddleback Church in California, the eighth-largest church in the United States, and author of several best sellers. A spokesperson declined comment.
Schuller is also a California pastor who hosted the "Hour of Power" show. His staff couldn't be reached for comment.
bwilliams@detnews.com
