Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Advertising: Pete Newman most thorough relationship builder with kids in Kanakuk history


The advertising for Kanakuk Kamps Father-Son Retreat which is scheduled to begin Wednesday, extolled the virtues of the camp director:

“Pete Newman is the most thorough relationship builder with kids in Kanakuk history. This guy has a raging love for God and it spills over constantly to the kids at kamp. A weekend with Pete will build a father-son relationship that will never be the same.


Newman has left Kanakuk and on Monday, two days before the father-son camp was scheudled to start, Newman was charged by Taney County authorities with four felony sex crimes.

Online Taney County Circuit Court records indicate Newman is charged with statutory sodomy, two counts of sexual misconduct involving a child under 15, and enticement of a child. The arrest was made by the Taney County Sheriff's Department, according to court records.

The sodomy count allegedly occurred on May 1, 2006, one of the sexual misconduct counts exactly one year later, with the other allegedly taking place May 1, 2008, and the enticement reportedly happening Sept. 1, 2008.

The charges are a shock for those who have known Newman, who was described this way in a flyer for a church camp he spoke at in February of this year:

He is one of the best, if not the best, at taking a personal interest in each student. He is one of the most genuine and passionate speakers you will find anywhere.


Details of allegations against Newman can be found at this link.

(The video features Newman at an appearance in Wichita, playing the role of Sylvester. He is the second character to appear in the video.)

125 comments:

Anonymous said...

The fact is Kanakuk asked Pete to resign last Spring as soon as this developed. Kanakuk took action immediately to remove Pete from Kampers. He was NOT scheduled to do a Father Son Retreat.

Randy said...

The flyers were sent out before Newman was asked to resign.

Randy said...

I have added a link to the advertisement.

Anonymous said...

It is a huge loss to the ministry of children. I do not believe it! Not true.

Anonymous said...

All of you people who don't believe it need to get your head out of your _ _ _! This guy is a pedifile pure and simple and he used his position to draw kids into his web of EVIL. If you don't believe it, get the report from the investigators.....SHOCKING!

Anonymous said...

We have two boys that were at K-Kountry for four years, and Pete has made a Difference in their lives that will impact them forever! Pete, We Love You ... We Support You ... and there are many of us that are standing in salute with you! I just wish we could find you!!!!

Anonymous said...

Pete was dismissed immediately upon these charges coming to light, last spring as the first poster said. Kanakuk handled it as best they could. I would know - I work for them.

Anonymous said...

We can argue you, chastise, and talk about it all we want. But it's not going to change anything. Best approach is to pray, forgive, move on, and see what comes with the Lord's plan in this time.

Anonymous said...

You'll be able to find him soon. In a federal prison with all the other freaks. This is disgusting. When are you Christians going to realize you are not immune from the world. I think, if there is a hell, this guy is destined for the hottest part. This is sick. What a waste. If your kids spent any time with this monster, you should be going to counseling to see what damage has been done.

Parent and former Kounselor said...

This is truly saddening. Anyone who has had the opportunity to hear Pete speak knows he is a dynamic, engaging, and convincing speaker. My child attended K-Kountry and thought Pete was the coolest guy ever. So it is no surprise to me that people didn't see signs or suspect anything out of the ordinary.

I worked as a counselor at Kanakuk when I was a college student and am familiar with what a top-notch organization Kanakuk truly is. That's why I send my kids there and will continue to send them.

I have no tolerance for child molesters and am aware that therapy fails for most offenders. Child sex offenders have one of the highest repeat offender rates among victimization criminals. My personal opinion is they need to be locked up and kept off the streets.

I do hope Joe White and the other K-Staff do not turn their backs on Pete's wife. She will need to be ministered to during this time. I'm sure Pete will be sentenced to prison. Some of you may remember Scott Douglas of the Christian rock band Whiteheart went through something similar and ended up serving 15 years.

Anonymous said...

I would like to read for myself. How do you get a copy of the investigative report?

Anonymous said...

Randy, please apply some of your award-winning editing skills and newsroom standards to the blog.

It is misleading to say: "Newman has left Kanakuk and on Monday, two days before the father-son camp was scheudled (sic) to start, Newman was charged by Taney County authorities with four felony sex crimes." Coupled with your lede on the retreat starting Wednesday, you are either intentionally or unintentionally leading people to believe he was employed by Kanakuk until Monday.

It would be far more accurate to say, "Newman, who was dismissed by Kanakuk earlier in the year as soon as these allegations were brought forward . . . " The start date of a retreat for which a poster was created six plus months ago is irrelevant.

Having said all that, what is alleged to have occurred here is indeed very serious.

Anonymous said...

Tough deal. He was in my sister's wedding. He's a great guy, and he's obviously innocent until proven guilty. If the charges are true, of course, let's pray 1) for Pete, 2) for the kids and the families, and 3) that this horrific thing was limited to these charges and not more widespread.

Anonymous said...

The allegations occured on dates that Kamp was not open to Kampers hmmmm. It seems very convienient they all occur on the 1st. I run very close circles with DCS investigators, you would be suprised what "teens" will say for any number of reasons. 99.9% of the time allegations are false, families are torn, reputations tarnished, and the teens & the parents or other adults that have coached them are never held accountable for the damage. Praying for Pete & his family as well as praying for the individual(s) making the allegations...God help them all.

Anonymous said...

Kanakuk has a strong history of loving and encouraging kids through the power of the Cross.

Both Kanakuk have been a part of our family's lives for over 12 years. He has been a bright beacon of hope to many, including us!

Let's be fair to Pete and Kanakuk and let the legal process take it's course before we assume the worst.

The person on here who said Pete lures kids into his web of evil is not only clueless, they are shallow and ignorant.

And let's remember, kids sometimes make stuff up to get back at someone or something. I've seen it happen first hand. It's a tragedy indeed when that happens.

Anonymous said...

Pete was always one of my favorite guys at Kamp, when a counselor and a kamper. Like the above statement says, I find it odd that they all happened on the 1st of a month every time, especially when there were no kampers at Kamp. I really hope this is just a confused kid and it isn't true. If it is, this tells us that every Christian, no matter how great we seem, has the ability to fall from glory, but luckily not fall from grace. Jesus still loves Pete as long as he's remorseful and seeks forgiveness. It's the beauty of Christianity. The best thing we can do as fellow Christians is not to shun Pete, but support him and help him get through this struggle. Romans tells us that "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." Let us encourage him as he gets his life and his walk with the Lord back on track.

Anonymous said...

The investigation started AFTER Pete ADMITTED to inappropriate behavior....I said ADMITTED. These are not allegations, these are facts. Joe White can't tell all the facts now, but he will. Get the report. He has a history of inappropriate behavior going back to 2001....he just hid it well. We were all burned. God help him.

Anonymous said...

The Warrant & PCS are on Kolr 10's page. Remember before you speak Jesus could be standing at your feet as He was the Pharasee's waiting for you to cast a stone. Imagine Him stooping at their feet to write their "sin" in the sand without saying a word of condemnation. What if He was standing at Your Feet?

Anonymous said...

WHERE CAN I FIND THE REPORT?

Anonymous said...

http://ozarksfirst.com/content/fulltext/?cid=185982

The police report is out there. It's all true.

Anonymous said...

for those of u who don't believe it, I'm sorry but it's true. He wrote Joe White an 8 page apology letter where he also admitted what he'd done. check out this link to the actual court document:
http://ozarksfirst.com/media/pdf/NewmanPC.pdf

And I do hope that Katie doesn't get shunned b/c of the horrible things her husband did. I'm sure she had no idea. Please pray for her, I can only imagine how humiliated she feels among other emotions.

Anonymous said...

My heart goes out to the children that have allegedly been deeply hurt by someone they trusted!! I pray that the families can stand strong and fight for truth and their innocent children! This is every parents worst nightmare!

Anonymous said...

Kanakuk needs to post the date of the first known incident asap.

Anonymous said...

So heartbreaking...You can read a full report and the actual court documents on OzarksFirst.com

http://ozarksfirst.com/media/pdf/NewmanCharges-PC.pdf

Anonymous said...

Read it for yourself:

http://media.kspr.com/documents/Newman+Warrant.pdf

These are not allegations - as the other poster said, HE ADMITTED TO THE CRIMES. So for those of you using the term "if", you need to wake up.

Anonymous said...

Just a couple of comments on the prior entries.

As Christians, we will deal with this in a realistic way tempered with love. We do not need to be chastised for our Christianity or told we have our head up our *** because we have seen the fall of someone we deeply appreciated.

That being said, there appears to be a personal admission by Pete and Kanakuk has responded as they should. Whether they bear some guilt at providing a structure that allowed Pete to prey (bad unintended pun)on children will come out in court I am sure.

For now, the legal system will take over and I will continue to remember the fine lessons my son and daughter were taught at Kanakuk.

Anonymous said...

PEOPLE...i know we are all heart broken. Believe me, I gave my life to Christ at an alter call after hearing Pete speak when I was 13. I did not want to believe it. In fact I did not believe it at first, but the evidence is too concrete.

READ THE COURT DOCUMENTS!!!!!

He has ADMITTED to these inappropriate acts. The court documents can be found online through
www.ozarksfirst.com (the local news station in Branson's website)

If you read this very disturbing document, you will understand that it is NOT one confused teenager making these allegations, it is several...who were all Kanakuk Kampers from different states and different times of the year. Pray for his wife, pray for his innocent child, pray for Joe White and Kanakuk, pray for all those who trusted and loved Pete, pray for Pete and pray that justice will be served and that he will be sent to prison for A VERY VERY LONG TIME.

KDP said...

EVERYONE ! Read the Warrant for Pete's arrest....also, he confessed to in-appropriate behavior...As such, HE IS GUILTY. What an evil act.

Anonymous said...

The person who talked about Romans and we shouldn't shun Pete can be
the first person to let Pete come
stay with their little boy in their
home. Pete has stayed with my boy
in my home and Im sick. I am beyond
sick.

Anonymous said...

This makes me sick! My son went to Kanakuk for the first and last time this past summer. Why would I send him to camp ever again to allow such monsters access to him? To those of you who can avoid judging him and simply pray for him, I don't get it! Pete Newman is the lowest of low - a freak of nature.

Anonymous said...

Disturbing yes, unforgivable no. No one should be casting any stone here. Pete Newman made a tremendous influence on my three sons who have attended Kanakuk over the past 15 years. I doubt that many of us can say we have touched as many young lives in a positive way. Most of us if we are really honest can admit to some skeletons in the closet. Remember one sin is not greater than any other in the Lord's eyes. Lets be open-minded enough to forgive and pray for the healing process to begin for all involved

Anonymous said...

When the initial email went out to Kanakuk families back in March 2009 that he'd "left kamp," then he was wiped off every Kanakuk webpage as if he'd never even existed, this should have been a red flag to everyone that it was A LOT MORE than him leaving "to go deal with a personal problem." WAKE UP WORLD!

Kanakuk had better come clean with all they knew and when.

P.S. They restructured their whole business to become "non-profit" RIGHT BEFORE Pete was fired. Doesn't that give them some sort of protection from being sued for this kind of stuff?? Coincidence????

amy said...

My kids attended K-Kountry in 2008. They thought he was the coolest guy and loved him. BUT he is an admitted pedophile. I cannot believe anyone can defend him. Those kids are innocent victims. He used his position to "groom" these boys. I truly do not believe you can really know God and do what he did. I want to know if any of the abuse happened at the Kamp. I cannot tell from reading the police report.

Dusty said...

Those of you who are claiming that this isnt true are simply naive. Unfortunately this is more widespread than just the counts currently filed. I happen to be around the age of the victims and have talked to all age groups about what transpired with pete and many offered up information about participating in various nude acts that in hindsight seem like very odd behavior for a person in that position to be participating. The fact of the matter is that pete molested children that were trusted to him and people are only defending him because of his religious affiliations. This is both sad and wrong. Im sure if this were a teacher at a local school teaching sex ed all of you would condemn them instead of sending out your support and prayers. I would be ashamed if I was unable to look past my own hang-ups and see the truth and the monster for what it is.

Suzanne said...

Our family has been truly blessed to be part of the Kanakuk family and am disgusted by the report. Our youth minister was arrested on a child porn sting some 5 years ago and it has been a long haul and many, many questions from our kids on why he left. We can't keep our kids in a bubble-as much as we would like to. But we do need to be vigilant on safety and be honest that sexual misconduct and abuse is real. Teach them that even adults are not perfect and make bad decisions. That if someone is doing something that doesn't FEEL right, get out of there. My heart goes out to Pete's wife and family and the entire Kanakuk family who have now encountered a horrible blemish on such a fine institution. There is some good that will come out of this. Don't know what it is, but it isn't my job to figure that out. Just to have faith that God does indeed know what he is doing.

Anonymous said...

If the statements in the arrest warrant prove to be true in court, Pete was clearly guilt-ridden and 'confessed' to Joe in an 8-page document. Pete was in court today and stated he was "not guilty" and is scheduled to be back in court on October 29th.

Pete is clearly sick and needs help. I hope and pray that he gets it and that God will use Pete in ways none of us can ever imagine.

This is so very sad for all involved.

Anonymous said...

If you read the police report, you would not be defending him. The only ones that need to be defended are those innocent victims!

Anonymous said...

Of all people, Joe White would not support any of this if it were not true and factual. This will be a tremendous hurdle for his camp to get over. We received an email (as did other K-Country Family's) from Joe which was heartfelt and not leaving any gray areas as to if the allegations. The court documents say it all....unfortunately.

Anonymous said...

Of all people, Joe White would not support any of this if it were not true and factual. This will be a tremendous hurdle for his camp to get over. We received an email (as did other K-Country Family's) from Joe which was heartfelt and not leaving any gray areas as to if the allegations. The court documents say it all....unfortunately.

Richard Grier said...

Kanakuk was probably not allowed to make any comments about the firing or the case under investigation. They handled the right way.

As for suing a non-profit, you absolutely can. That business move had nothing to do with this case.

I am a former Kuk counselor and still current friend of Pete's. It is sad. It is disheartening. It is not unforgivable by anyone.

I am blown away and at a total loss. I have seen many guys in the ministry fall and it hurts to watch. My prayers go out to Pete, his wife and daughter, and any children effected through these sinful acts.

This will not deter me from sending my son to Kanakuk or any other camp in america. I will have some real and honest conversations with him. However, Kanakuk is still a trusted camp. I don't intend to shelter my son - simply speak Truth to him, pray for him and always be on the watch.

Anonymous said...

How can such "good" come from such an evil monster? He is an abomination to our Lord!

Anonymous said...

I don't think anyone here is defending either Pete or his actions. I have three boy Kampers and they love and adore him and now I have got to let them know exactly what kind of monster he really is. I trusted him, he had his hands on my children and all I can do now is pray that nothing inappropriate happened to my children and thank God they didn't fall into his "preferred age range".

Let's all pray for Katie, I cannot imagine the pain and humiliation she must be facing. I remember when their sweet little daughter was brought to Kamp as an infant and what a wonderful family I thought was before us all. Let's pray for their daughter, that she can grow up a strong young woman and can come out of the shadow of having a father who is a pedofile.

Anonymous said...

It is very graphic but to see the complete charges go to https://www.courts.mo.gov/casenet/cases/header.do and enter case # 09AF-CR02097. I can only imagine how heavy of a heart that Joe and Debbie Jo have right now know that they had hand picked this man and he betrayed so many victums. I pray for everyone at Kanakuk.

james said...

You guys are downright naive. There is no way you can say it is not real or that pete is a great person. He touched your kids' penises. But youre willing to forgive him? That makes no sense. The only way he "touched" your child's lives is by becoming such good friends with them, just so he could jerk them off. Stop being ignorant christians and own up to this problem Kanakuk.

Anonymous said...

Kanauk has some good Directors, Pete Newman just wasn't one of them. He should have been fired when top kamp officials were alerted that he might be a petafile six or seven years ago thus protecting the boy campers at K-Country and K-live boys in the interim. They need to start telling the truth and quit bowing to the almighty dollar.

Anonymous said...

Pete's actions show us how too many parents were putting their faith in a Man and not in our Heavenly Father. I heard many of my friends say "Pete" is the reason my child is going to Kanakuk. Kanakuk is a place that I feel has been blessed by God and has shown my children that it is ok to be a Christian and to stand up for what you believe.
Unfortunately, Pete is human, a sinner, and due to his sick acts has caused a shadow to fall on Kanakuk. All those who blame Kanakuk and Christians need to reflect on your own lives. Do you have a "black sheep" in your family? Do their actions reflect your whole families beliefs and moral standards? Be sure to put the blame on the man who committed the alleged crime, not Kanakuk, Christians and Christianity as a whole.

Luke said...

http://lukep.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/09/broken-trust.html

When Trust is broken.

Anonymous said...

THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH KANAKUK... if you know Kamp you would NEVER say it does!

Bottom line: Don't let Satan have another second of this, because this is not of our Lord this is of Satan!!! May he not win!

Anonymous said...

Yea, Pete messed up, but God works through our sin and I think Pete is proof of that. Even through all his junk (no matter how extreme), he was able to affect so many people for Christ and people still saw Christ through him.

Anonymous said...

My kids have been Kampers for 10 and 8 years respectively. My questions for Joe White, which he will have to answer to avoid my wrath:

1. What did you know, and when did you know it?

2. Pete Newman was not just an "ex-employee" as your email stated (which by the way, you negelected to get every K-Country parent on the list because you forgot me) he was your 'heir apparent', your rainmaker, the 'one'. He was the one who grew your organization. How could he be in your employ in such a prominent position and you not have safeguards in check to catch him?

3. How is it that the investigation started at the beginning of camp, but charges aren't filed until the end of camp?

4. Did you change your corporate structure to avoid future civil litigation?

5. Did you give free days and weeks to the kids with swine flu to help your PR situation?

6. Are you concerned you have other long-term employees who may be suspected pedophiles?

7. Were you involved in any type of cover-up? You need to deny this publicly.

The Kanakuk trust ring has been broken. Joe, you need to answer these questions. You've mishandled this from the start, and now you need to come clean. You're either an accomplice, a piss-poor businessman, or a naive Christian, but not all three.'

May God bless that poor woman and her child.

Signed,

A concerned parent with more questions than answers.

Anonymous said...

We can't forget the brave boys that have come forward from around the country. I can't imagine how hard it has been and will be for them and their families but want them to know that there are many who are so grateful for their bravery. You have stopped this monster from harming other boys. I pray if there are others who have been harmed by him, that they will have the courage to speak with their parents so that they can get the help they need to move forward and heal. This does not have to crush you, talk with someone.

Anonymous said...

I know of other camps that offered free weeks at the end of the summer to those sent home earlier in the summer with swine flu, so it wasn't just Kanakuk.

Anonymous said...

If there are others? I pray that there are not.

Anonymous said...

Email from Joe White to families 3/16/09: Every director at each Kanakuk Kamp is one of our most valuable assets. We have had transitions through the years and this year is no exception. Pete Newman is no longer with Kanakuk Kamps. He is dealing with a personal family crisis. He has asked that you respect his privacy and not contact him or his family, but that you keep him in your prayers.

Anonymous said...

People it's spelled CAMP. Not KAMP. I don't care how this organization spells it. Get back to the real world. If you wanted to be more accurate you should spell it KULT.

Anonymous said...

i think that each and every one of you is speaking out of ignorance and spite. i do not condone what pete did by any means. He never impacted my life in a powerful way despite the fact that he was my employer for many years. I do know that if Kamp had ever heard of any of these acts prior to the termination of pete newman they would have pressed charges and terminated him long ago. I believe that this all came out fairly recently as in the last 6 months or so. When i worked there we went through hours upon hours of sessions regarding inappropriate and appropriate behavior. We aren't even allowed to be in the same area as kids showering much less touching them. So for those of you concerned about any of the abuse happening at kamp i honestly don't think you have anything to worry about. I am devastated to find out about this but more devastated to see that kamp is the blame. Kamp is not to blame. Pete Newman is to blame. It was his choices and actions that did this to these poor boys not Kamp.

Another parent and Kanakuk supporter said...

I am a kamp parent. My children have logged a total of 13 kamp years between them, and they will continue to attend Kanakuk despite this sad, sorry situation. I used to think this was my worst nightmare as a parent....my new nightmare is what the Newman family is living.

Those of you who use the term monster to describe Pete, be careful. Human beings are not monsters (whatever that is), we are human and all have to deal with that monster called lust at some time in our lives. Clearly the consequences differ depending on the person and the behavior, but it all boils down to the same root evil. Don’t forget that once upon a time, Pete was one of those innocent boys. 1 Corinthians 10:12; look it up.

My prayer is that Jesus is lifted up and that justice is served. God's grace and peace to all involved.

Anonymous said...

can everyone stop calling him a monster please. you did do a wrong thing but you dont know him like i do... So dont be being mean. all you have to do is pray for him, his wife, and chid.

Anonymous said...

Contrary to what some are saying here, Joe White and the rest of the directors of Kanakuk are heartbroken about this because they love kids and more importantly, they love Christ. I was a camper at Kanakuk and a counselor at K-Kountry while Pete was on leadership (before he was director). I also looked up to him and thought he was an amazing example and leader. It is easy to see how these young men, and many others, were deceived by Pete. Sociopaths are able to live two separate lives and I think possibly this is what Pete is. I would still send my kids to K-Kountry because like someone said earlier - there ARE many regulations and checks to make sure something like this wouldn't happen. I think Pete used his power and position to break those rules in order to gain access to the opportunities where the abuse occured. There is no hot tub at K-Kountry that I know of. So this was at his home, which may be on the property of Kamp, but I have never seen it.

And I am glad that someone before me mentioned that Pete was once in their position. Sin is generational. Read the verse in I Corinthians stated in the comment before mine. Pete had to have something happen to him to teach him how to hurt someone like this. I pray that he does start to heal from his abuse now that he has brought his sin out into the open. But along with many others, I hope his reconciliation with God and healing of what happened to him happens behind bars.

Richard Grier said...

To those that throw out accusations and demand responses from Joe White and Kanakuk - at least use your real name and not just a concerned parent. If you can be so bold to write accussatory and hateful things on here, then at least sign your name to them.

In a criminal case like this, Joe White and Kanakuk did exactly what they should have done and were advised to do. No one from Kanakuk covered up anything. Please do your homework on the legal matters before you start slinging mud.

Anonymous said...

I think Kanakuk has such a loyal following of campers, current and former counselors, and parents who were former campers that it is like a family - and just like a family, it is hard to believe that someone you know and trust and love could do something that harmful, something so destructive and something so opposite what you know of him. I think it would be the same as finding out a beloved brother had done something like this. I also think that we need to allow grace to the families and those who worked with Pete to experience some of the stages of grief...denial, anger, depression - the grief in learning someone they loved and held in great esteem is not the person they thought he was. It's almost like mourning a death, actually more like mourning a suicide - they lost someone influential in their lives and not only is that person forever gone, but the memories they had with him are also forever tarnished. A different person is still there, and we are required to still love him. But the love we show now is probably actually more Biblical than before, it's the love of "doing what is best for him" instead of an admiration love, or a winsome personality love. I am sad for the multiple heartbreaks caused, primarily for the victims and their families, next for the campers, camp staff, owners and camp families and lastly, for us in the Christian community who once again have to face the fact that nothing, nowhere, is really safe. The hope we have is that Christ will one day return and there will be no pain, no sorrow, no tears and no death.

Anonymous said...

I worked at K-Kountry as a counselor for the past couple of summers and I can vouch that we were given extensive training on what is appropiate/unappropriate. One rule even stated that we weren't allowed to sit on the kid's beds when we told them goodnight.

Anonymous said...

I have emailed Kanakuk twice and have not heard back. How do they know there are not LOTS of victims? How do I know my sons were not molested by this man. We have talked to them and they say NO. I don't think they were but how do we know for sure. If this happened to me as a child, I would probably deny it. Kanakuk needs to talk to us.....because I am so frustrated. If anyone can help me with information or encouragement, I would really appreciate it.

Shannon "Coupon Princess" said...

This whole thing is very sad. We all fall short of the Glory of God. The Devil will not crush the legacy Kanakuk has with bringing families and children to Christ. The Devil is very much alive and working and as Christians we need to ban together pray for Kanakuk, the families effected. Pray that justice is served, and Pete will have to face his maker when his life ends.

I will continue to support Kanakuk, their values, and trust them with my childern. It is just unfortunate that this happened in a Christian enviroment, setting. We all have questions, why did God allow this, but ultimately Pete did have choices he made some very disgusting choices and yes he needs to be punished.

Anonymous said...

Richard I agree but signing your "name" with no public profile really does not help us know who you are does it?

Anonymous said...

Wow...I cannot believe that this is what a person who claims to be a Christian believes (earlier post) ...." Best approach is to pray, forgive, move on, and see what comes with the Lord's plan in this time." I am pretty sure that none of this is the "Lord's Plan" and in case you anonymous poster knows nothing about sexual abuse of a child..."Move On" is not an option for these victims. This is a burden that these poor young kids will carry with them throughout their lives, inflicted by this sick man posing under the guise of not just a youth leader but a Christian. Shame on you people that think that this kind of sin can be prayed away. I am a believer in the power of prayer, but there is a lot more that these victims will need to help them TRY to heal. One thing they do not need to hear EVER is "Move On". I am not just speaking to the anonymous post but to all that share this view...please do not torture these victims any more than they have been by this ordeal. The only thing we can do as parents & a community is to listen to our children & look for signs of these things. From some stories I have heard about this man, there were some pretty big red flags...Parents knowing about these hot tub outings???...are you kidding??? If I ever heard that my child was exposed to something like this at camp or anywhere else I cannot imagine the heads that would roll. There probably WERE signs, it sounds like people just refused to see them because of the uber-Christian environment lead by this charismatic leader. remember...Hitler was charismatic as well. Newman will have his own judgement day not only with the the law but with his maker. I beg that you do not make this any worse for his victims...I am sure you mean well and I hope your are completely ignorant about child abuse, therefore thinking that it can be overcome so easily. Please think before you blog about someone who has committed such unthinkable crimes against children.

D said...

Forgive because you have been forgiven. If you do not forgive, God will not forgive you. No one is beyond the grace of God or we are all doomed. Pete will face judgment for his sin and we will too for the sins we have committed. If we confess our sins He(God) will be faithful and just and will for give us. That is a promise to everyone no matter the crime. I pray that Pete repents and I pray that we all repent for the sins we have committed. All sin is the same in the eyes of God. It is not our job to judge Pete, God will deal with Pete the way He sees fit. Put down your stones. We are called to love and be broken for both the victims and Pete. Don't think for a minute this could not happen to you. The Bible says the pride comes before the fall. In a fallen world of sin, this is the result. Let's quit hiding behind the show of being a good Christian and let's start talking about sin and how we all struggle. Lets create Church's and organizations that value the pursuit of holiness and not a big Sunday show that attracts lot of people who are entertained but their hearts are not transformed into His likeness. Churches that think success is about the spiritual growth of their people and not based on growing numbers and results of their leaders. Many of us have become Christians who put on their Sundays best but their true struggles are kept secret because they are afraid of how others Christians we respond. Let's put practices into place that can stop this before it happens. Lets be open and honest about our struggles and be people of grace. I do not excuse Pete for his actions and he alone made his unrighteous choices, but is it possible that he a product of the system we have created? A system that says large ministries must have the hand of God behind them and their leaders can go unchecked. Were many believe as long as my ministry is growing everything must be okay. I see ministry's growing everywhere and we often look at these leaders as legends or even rock stars. I can’t tell you how many times I heard of Pete referred to in this way. In the eyes of the world it looks successful but many of the foundations of these individuals are terribly weak! As long as we view success and ministry this way we will continue to breed individuals who look good on the outside, but on the inside there is major struggle. Nothing is more dangerous than success! Nothing is more dangerous than successful ministries that have no outlets for their leaders to be open and honest about their deep struggles. These people grow in popularity and become more entangled in sin and have no where to go. Their popularity has captured them and they are not willing to let it go. God does not desire you to be a rock star for the kingdom. That is not success. If it was, Jesus would have been a failure. Success is living a life loving God, spending time with him in prayer, pursuing holiness, loving others, pointing people to Jesus and leaving the results up to Him. If we do not make these our highest values over doing whatever it takes to build large ministries, we will see multiple Christians continue fall to sin and fall away form God. My heart is deeply broken for the victims, their families, Kanakuk, and Pete's entire family - who deeply love Jesus. May God bring healing, forgiveness and grace to us all. Let’s all take some time this day and spend it with our heavenly father. Don’t say a word, just rest in his arms. Blessings!

Anonymous said...

We need to be so careful not to point fingers. Everyone remember what Jesus said, "Let him who is without sin throw the first stone." But for God's grace, it could be anyone. To God, our pride might be as "sick". I have jumped on the angry band wagon but I want to pray mercy for Pete, mercy for us all, while trusting that God is a just God. Vengence is His. He will repay with perfect justice.

Anonymous said...

'We can argue you, chastise, and talk about it all we want. But it's not going to change anything. Best approach is to pray, forgive, move on, and see what comes with the Lord's plan in this time.'

In response to telling the children to move on. You took those words out of context due to not being specific. So my apologies that you had to waste your frustrations on my behalf. So specifics.
When I said move on, thats not what I'm telling your children. Everyone is praying for those kids, and alot of them will take years of rehab, and by God's healing hand may they get past this tragedy not in our timing but in the Lords. Because there is nothing man can do to fix that. When I said "Pray, Forgive, Move and and wait on the lords timing" Take in mind that though there are a lot of kids who were abused, and those are the main ones we are in prayer for. But there are i pray even more kids that, key here, not abused but are hurting because they put there trust into this man and feel betrayed. Literally thousands of families are having the same conversation you have had with your children. And in your response to me on you believing in the power of prayer...i challenge you to go back and think what prayer really is. If you don't believe that through prayer and counseling that these kids can somehow be healed in time. Then what hope is left in this world. Thousands are affected, but debating and commenting probably doesn't help this much. I apologize if I offended you in my move on comment. That was not my intention, and I hurt for you that you had to have that conversation with your kids. I personally know some of the kids that were abused, and I would never expect them to move on. So my apologies, I pray that the POWER of PRAYER is effective enough to help these victims. Because if its not, then all we have to depend on is man. And that is why we are discussing this in the first place, a single man.

Anonymous said...

Where's Joe White? When Kamp is being praised, I see him on TV, hear him on radio, been to big events where he is the face behind the "K". Why is he sending out employees to make the statements now? How bout owning this deal - leader. A few years ago he was standing in court lecturing on why his personal pilot (who was convicted of molesting his child) shouldn't go to prison. What will his position be on this one? Kanakuk has helped many - will help many more. Many great people there. It deserves, as do the victims, some up front leadership from the King "K" himself. Step up and own your part Joe. An email in march saying that Pete has a personal family crisis is weak and lacking. I know this is an impossible task to navigate perfectly - but it would be great if Joe would step out and speak to the issues - publicly - personally - honestly.

Anonymous said...

Is it true that Joe White's child was molested by his pilot and he went to court to defend him. Is it true that a few years ago he was warned that Pete Newman was a pedophile. That is what has been said in previous posts. Can anyone back this up with facts? Or is just mean lies?

Anonymous said...

I agree that all have sinned, but please understand the concept of church discipline. It is very Biblical. Jesus was the hardest on the Pharisee's sin--not the unbelievers. We can't judge an unbeliever, but even Paul said that if you are unrepentant, the church should discipline you. Judgment begins within the church--not without. What Pete did was the worst of the worst. Truly despicable. He needs tough love and a counselor!

I also want to know if Joe White knew in March about all this then why weren't we warned before we sent our kids off to kamp last summer? We all assumed the best about Pete after getting that email last March, but it is very possible that there are lots of kids out there who are victims--parents had a right to know the charges in March. We would have still sent our own kids, but would have had a conversation with them first. I know it was a hard situation to handle, but leadership does the right thing, and doesn't cover up. I feel duped.

Anonymous said...

Actually, Joe White has spoken out about what Pete did. In March when he sent out the email saying Pete was dealing with a personal family crisis, that was the truth. Joe couldn't explain the details of it then, as the authorities hadn't yet brought the charges against Pete. However, earlier this week, Joe emailed all the Kamp families informing them of the situation, and what Kanakuk is doing in working with the authorities as well as the families of the victims. So, Joe is up front in all this. Not all leaders always stand in front of the cameras. Some leadership is given behind the scenes.

ozarker said...

My daughter attended k-kountry several years ago. This guy gave me the creeps the moment i met him. I'm not saying i knew he was a pedophile, but it was obvious to me he was either homosexual or bi-sexual. If either was the case than it should have disqualified him from such an important position. I don't see how so many people were duped, for so long! I'm not the only one who felt this way about him as i have family members who work for Kanakuk and they mentioned the same thing several years ago. I pray for the victims and their families. I've not yet found a place in my heart to pray for Pete yet and for that i'm sorry. It's a shame that one man can destroy the life's work of so many others!

Anonymous said...

What did Joe know, and when did he know it? Perhaps it was too easy to turn the other cheek for the Rainmaker?

Anonymous said...

http://www.christchurchfrederica.org/eyc/EYSee%20Times/EYSee%20Times_June%202009.pdf

copy and paste above link...does this mean that after Pete was "found out" at Kanakuk that he moved on to a church youth camp in Georgia? It is dated June 2009 and the date July 14th is by Pete's name...Wonder if there may possibly be victims there?

Anonymous said...

I am struggling!!! I cannot even wear a Kanakuk t-shirt with pride right now and I worked there for 5 years! This truly is/was my home away from home.... but I am sick, disappointed, and ashamed! Yes, I know/hope it is isolated to one person(Pete), but it still reflects on all of us! As a former staff member, I beg of Joe and Doug to address K-Kountry parents on how to talk to their kids about this. Before this goes national, which it probably will at some point, Kanakuk needs to address parents again before it gets out of hand. Joe and Doug, you owe this to the parents! I am so sad and sick!!! There are tens of thousands of us that are really REALLY struggling over this (staff members, parents and the KIDS)!!! But, PLEASE HELP THE PARENTS SO THAT THEY CAN HELP THEIR KIDS!!!

Anonymous said...

"What did Joe know, and when did he know it? Perhaps it was too easy to turn the other cheek for the Rainmaker?"

You ask? Incidents happened in 2001 and 2003 he should have been fired for. MANY people know this. You don't have to search far to find out. Documented incidents. They knew it then. They hoped a slap on the wrist would be better that letting go of their Rainmaker!

They knowingly put all these children at risk. Ask Joe White, Chris Cooper, and Doug if they would ever have let Pete take their 13 year old son on trip together back then. They WOULD NOT HAVE! They had plenty of cause and complaints of parents BACK THEN to get rid of him, but no, that would have been too "costly."

The truth will be exposed in time.

Anonymous said...

"Looking the other way" cleared the way for this to happen, unfortunately. Even great men sometimes "look the other way." Tragic. It will cost them everything.

Anonymous said...

A known prostitue is more honorable than this slime.

Anonymous said...

If anyone has any good links or advice on how to talk about it with younger children, would you please comment? We emailed Joe early in the week and asked for help to talk about it, but haven't received a responses.

Anonymous said...

Can someone shed a little more light on these previous incidents (from 2001 and whatnot)? People seem to mention it like it was common knowledge, but I had no idea. A link would be appreciated.

Michelle said...

What "documented" incidents in 2001 and 2003 that they knew about? Where did you find this information that EVERYONE knew about?

Anonymous said...

I agree with those asking for more info regarding the previous alleged "known" incidents. That changes everything in the way I can view Kanakuk and its leaders if those allegations are true. As it stands now, I'm extremely torn. I've talked to friends who have a much longer history with the camp and their support is unwavering which I admire and respect. Their love of Kanakuk and my respect for these friend does influence my perception of this horrific ordeal. HOWEVER, we can all be fooled by those we love and admire, so if Kanakuk leaders really did see some red flags years ago I NEED to know and NEED proof... links or what-have-you. It's irresponsible and reckless to put allegations out there without support. It seems clear that Newman is guilty based on the court documents. I respect the emails Joe White has sent out to families. I'd like to think there were never ANY signs of this deviant behavior prior to the firing in March. Please, if you have information that will help parents make informed decisions, then provide more in the way of evidence. I, too, am praying for all who are suffering and praying for wisdom as I try to digest it all. I haven't yet decided how to approach talking to my kids about it as they've not been in contact with Pete. I have to have some conversation with them about it, though i may not mention Kanakuk. I think if nothing else, a lot of parents will have some important discussions with their kids about trust and authority figures, false idols, and guarding their precious hearts. Conversations we should have whether or not this had come to light. This opens our eyes in a painful way to the necessity of these difficult discussions.

Anonymous said...

Regarding how to talk to younger kids about this: my friend distributed an email from a social worker/counselor to her friend with advice on talking to her son. Maybe it will help the poster above if I excerpt it here since I don't have a way to link it. It's conversational from friend to friend and personal because they know each other. I'll change the names.

"As for Danny, I know that you and Bob must be worried to death. Most molesters are great at choosing their victims. Danny does not meet the usual characteristics, but having said that, you both need to address the issue with him in a very loving, caring, non-threatening way. I think the best way for you to approach this would be to talk with him together in a very calm, loving manner (even though you are bursting at the seams). I would begin by saying how much you love him and how important and special he is and that he will always come first and that no matter what you will always love him and support him.

"I know you have both prayed that nothing has happened to Danny. If it has, it is very hard to disclose, and just keep that in mind. The child always feels somehow responsible. Kids that have been warned about this and did not tell have an even bigger burden. I would gently bring up the topic that this man has been arrested and briefly, without many details, explain why. At this point is when I would explain that as his parents you take responsibility in making sure that he is okay. Explain that if anybody has ever taken advantage of him that you as a family with God's guidance will decide how to deal with it. I would also explain that not everyone will know about it, but it is your job to protect him."

Hope this helps. God bless.

Anonymous said...

A group of us were just discussing the irony of the parallels here between Newman and a pretty significant leader in our gov't. Wolf in sheep's clothing. Deceptive. Not on the inside what they appear to be on the outside. Scheming. Manipulative. Twisted. And we as a country are so naive to let it happen right under our nose. Both remind me of the antichrist....one who'll be so charming and deceptive .

Anonymous said...

"Actually, Joe White has spoken out about what Pete did. In March when he sent out the email saying Pete was dealing with a personal family crisis, that was the truth. Joe couldn't explain the details of it then, as the authorities hadn't yet brought the charges against Pete. However, earlier this week, Joe emailed all the Kamp families informing them of the situation, and what Kanakuk is doing in working with the authorities as well as the families of the victims. So, Joe is up front in all this. Not all leaders always stand in front of the cameras. Some leadership is given behind the scenes."

This post gets me. Joe did not speak out about what Pete did, he said Pete was dealing with a personal issue. If he was afraid of being sued by Pete, then what did he do with the signed 8 paged confession Pete gave him after Kanakuk confronted Pete after parents confronted Kanakuk. The bottom line is, Joe didn't have enough balls to say that there were some inappropriate actions done that caused the dismissal of Peter Daniel Newman.
We were all left to feel sorry for Pete, was his marriage having trouble, was someone sick, etc. I never thought He was a PERV............
I lost alot of respect for Joe White and Kanakuk when he didn't stand up for the kids. He had every legal right to disclose to all of us, ie. Kanakuk Families, the truth. I think he was more worried about the fallout than the truth.
There is already one 10 million dollar lawsuit, how many more will come. I am afraid Kanakuk's days are numbered and I think Joe knew it.

Anonymous said...

Praying for everyone.

Praying for the TRUTH TO BE REVEALED concerning Pete.

Praying for the TRUTH TO BE REVEALED regarding if/when camp knew he had a potential problem.

WHO WILL STAND IN TRUTH? WHO WILL STAND IN THE WHOLE TRUTH? THE WHOLE TRUTH? Will Pete? Will camp?

Anonymous said...

"Don't excuse yourself by saying, 'Look, we didn't know.'

For God understands all hearts, and He sees you.

He who guards your soul knows you knew.

He will repay all people as their actions deserve."

~Proverbs 24:12

Anonymous said...

One blogger wrote "I lost alot of respect for Joe White and Kanakuk when he didn't stand up for the kids. He had every legal right to disclose to all of us, ie. Kanakuk Families, the truth. I think he was more worried about the fallout than the truth.
There is already one 10 million dollar lawsuit, how many more will come. I am afraid Kanakuk's days are numbered and I think Joe knew it."

In the March email Joe sent out, he stated all he could without jeopardizing the investagation. "Family crisis" can mean several things, as you noted. However, it was definitely a family crisis. So, Joe wrote the truth. After that email, the investagation of Pete continued unimpeded without the public knowing.

Then, when the charges were officially brought against Pete, indicating most of the investigation had been done (at least, what was necessary to bring the charges and make them stick), Joe sent out an email to Kamp families telling what the charges were.

Now, until the October 29th date, when Pete must appear in court, Joe is working with the authorities and the victimized families. In other words, what Joe is doing with the authorities and the families is behind the scenes.

Although we curiously would like to know every detail, we don't need to know...in order to know justice will be served. In my opinion, Joe is above board in every aspect, including his desire to protect Kanakuk from potential legal actions.

The Kamp has had a phenomenal impact worldwide. Why should it needlessly suffer for trying to do the right thing? Why should Joe or Kanakuk be blamed for the actions of one Pete Newman who had everyone, including his closest friends, fooled?

Anonymous said...

I am saddened and broken hearted by these allegations. I became a Christian because of this man. He is one of the best motivational speakers I have ever heard. At first I didn't believe it, but reading all the articles I have to believe its true. Pete, there are many saved souls out there because of you. I honestly don't know what to say about the rest of it.

Anonymous said...

"My husband and I informed Kanakuk Kamps of inappropriate behavior displayed by Pete Newman nearly 9 years ago. We were told the matter would be addressed and appropriate action would be taken up Pete. Surprisingly he remained on staff and we were called alarmists. The fallout and repercussions now do not surprise us, but deeply grieves us as so many boys could have been spared their experiences. The damage can be felt community wide and erodes the very fabric of trust we place in persons of authority."

Found this on another blog. WHY would they have not just released him back in the early days of his inappropriate behavior????????????????

WHY did they have to wait until the "allegations" were numerous and strong before they acted???????

Was it because THEY had been contacted by SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES, therefore forcing them to report as dictated by the law????????????

How far does a deviant person have to go before we take action to PROTECT others??????????

Whatever little lawsuit Peter Daniel Newman could have brought against camp back in 2001 for "firing him without just cause" would have been NOTHING compared to their loss now......not to mention all the irrepairable LOSS OF THESE VICTIMS, and their families, and all the other fall-out affecting everyone from Joe White to every single camper who's ever known Pete.

Anonymous said...

To the parents who reported something to camp in 2001, have you gone to authorities with this information? If not, please do.

Anonymous said...

To the parents who reported something in 2001, maybe instead of going to authorities you can get in touch with the lawyers of the families affected. (Perhaps the prosecuting attorney can help with that. Hopefully camp will be held accountable for turning away and causing this to happen to more kids.

Anonymous said...

This is devastating to say the least. We have known this man for 7 years. When we thought of Kanakuk, we thought of Pete Newman. He was so creative and funny. He made EVERYONE laugh. There was not one thing that anyone I ever knew over the years that anyone thought was strange about him. Most kids sent their kids to K Kountry because of him. And never did I hear he gave anyone the creeps or nor did I hear anyone ever thought he was gay or feminine. If fact he was the total opposite. He was a huge sports fan. Major football fanatic, worked out all the time, drove around in an old jeep wrangler with the top off, very handsome and very masculine. So you people who claim "the minute you met this man you knew something was up" then you must have an ability that thousands of us don't have including major church organizations all over the country don't have. Many organization hired him to be be a speaker and were thrilled to have gotten him to speak at their event. He spoke at moms coffees and at youth groups. By far the most entertaining speaker I have ever heard. He made every effort to make camp a blast and that it was. I am saddened that what we thought about him has to change now. We had such a fondness for him in and out of Kanakuk. My kids hearts are broken. Mine is broken. But let me just assure you, even his closest friends and HIS WIFE had no idea. How could Joe White have had any idea??? Kanakuk is still a place we love and respect. My kids want to go back. And I will let them.

Unknown said...

I totally agree with the assessment of Pete. He is polar opposite of the type of person I think could be involved in something like this. My question is was he for real at all or was it all a hoax? Is he a true sociopath and had us totally fooled this entire time??? I guess when they finalize the investigation we will know just how deep he was into all this. I feel like someone has died and I guess the Pete we all knew did.

Anonymous said...

Katie and Riley ARE STILL WITH PETE!!!!!!!

SOMEONE out there needs to get her out of that danger, not to mention him being with Riley is a violation of his bail and this needs to be reported.

IF ANYONE CAN FIND THEM, please get her and that precious child away from this untrustworthy deviant before something unspeakable happens to them.

The fact that Katie is still with him is proof enough that his con job is effective even with those closest to him. She is under his power and influence and probably helpless to do anything. WHERE IS HER FAMILY????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

WHY IN THE WORLD DON'T THEY INTERVENE?!?!

Anonymous said...

To the person who just said being with his daughter is a violation of his parole:

You need to make sure you have ALL of your facts straight before you start making accusations. The details of the release on bond are to have no contact with anyone under 17, EXCEPT his daughter. He is allowed to be with her. You are making a lot of accusations about people in your comment. You are making the accusation that Katie's family doesn't care about her or Rylie's well being. You are assuming that you know exactly what should be done by Katie in this deal, WITHOUT having talked to her to hear her thoughts, what she is going through, etc.

It seems to me the best path anyone can take is to PRAY for all people involved, NOT make assumptions we can't back up that turns into gossip. Quit throwing stones all you sinners.

Anonymous said...

maybe joe whites hypocritical ass can fly on his private plane and see his buddy petey boy. rumors(and must rumors are true especially since i have been hearing about petey boy being a perv for years) are that joe knew about this is 2003 but did nothing in fear of it getting out. WHOOOPSSSS

Anonymous said...

What words can express the disappointment and sadness this situation has caused? As followers of Christ, we must take a closer look into the life of Christ to even know how to respond to the choices Pete made. My first reaction is to spit on him and say all kinds of awful things to make sure he knows the gravity of his actions toward the kids. Their lives will be changed, and they will need God's love and grace to see themselves as God does. As a former counselor at Kanakuk, I also worked with Pete, and saw how much he loved kids and how much kids loved him. There is no question about that. On the other hand, these actions were occuring while we worked together, which saddens me to no end. I knew his wife shortly before their engagement, and was so thrilled to see her marry such a terrific guy. But, he was hiding this from her the entire time. WOW! Trust is such a fragile thing to acquire, but you blow it once, you can lose
for good.
According to the reports, Pete wrote an 8-page letter to Joe admitting his actions with the kids, therefore he was fired, in June! Why was he arrested in September? Did Joe keep his mouth shut out of love for Pete, or the kids? I think many of us Kanakuk admirers and current or former employees would love to believe in only the best of those well-respected and loved leaders, but I have taken them off their pedistal and remember we are all fallen people in need of a Savior every single second of the day.
Pete- he needs forgiveness just as much as we all do. His sin has caused great consequences, but his sin is still sin likes ours.
As followers of Christ, let NONE of us pass judgment on Pete, but to maintain a heart of love for those affected by his choices, and pray for him to be broken and restored. God WILL bring good about this to those who follow Him. I pray everyone will trust the Lord with this very sad situation.
My heart goes out to those kanakuk boys, who I am sure I crossed paths with at kamp. I pray for their complete healing from this, and grounded faith in God to know He will protect them and restore what has been broken.

Unknown said...

Pete was fired in March not June

Anonymous said...

To the poster at 8:50:

It sounds that perhaps you are possibly a Newman, or a member of Katy's family, or etc..

If so, you understandably, are most likely in HUGE DENIAL. And who could blame you? I doubt if there is a single person out there who doesn't weep with you and pray for you as much as Peter's victims. Next to those he victimized, you all have to be hurt the worst.

The poster before you was asking something that ALMOST EVERYBODY is asking....It's a logical question. It's a reasonable question. It's a question asked out of CONCERN for Katy and their daughter.

Once the family/in-laws come to grips with this unimaginable truth and talk to all the appropriate people and inform themselves of the WHOLE TRUTH, they'll wake up, pull themselves up by their boot-straps, and go do EXACTLY what should be done....PROTECT THOSE 2 PRECIOUS GIRLS from that pedophile. It's just that they're probably trying to snap out of their shock at the moment.

Of course, his family is never going to believe it. And that's understandable too. How does a mom and dad come to terms with such a nightmare done by their beloved son? They need our prayer.

PETER needs our prayer too. However, he needs to be locked away forever. Pedophiles do NOT get rehabilitated. It's a sickness they can't conquer. The "millstone" verse comes to mind.

Tate said...

This is a low life puke who preyed on your children not prayed for them!!!!! This is a guy who admitted to doing the most filthy thing he can do to an innocent child of God. Whats even worse is that he used God to hide behind for his prey. All I hear on here is poor Pete and His Family, what is wrong with you people????? How about the poor KIDS? I guess it's easy to forgive if It's not your child's butt hole that wasn't violated! It's obvious that what ever Good he has done was so he could get to the children. If you think that child molestation is the same sin as fornication or stealing then you're a Dumb-_ss!!!! Then on top of it use Gods pulpit to get to them? Its up to us to protect our children from low life's like this, this is the trouble with putting people like Pete on a pedestal. He is the most vial,evil soldier Satan has in his army! I hope he gets his in prison, that goes to show what type of person he is that even prisoners can't stand Child Molesters what does that tell ya. But oh yea poor Pete!!!!!! P.S People on here are posting that " this is a Hugh loss to the Children's Ministry"... this is not a Hugh loss to the Ministry of children... Hey stupid we just got a Child Molester away from our Children. How Dumb can you be...........

Anonymous said...

PETER: Do you see how many people are so disgusted by you? Do you honestly think you're going to have a chance once you get out of prison? Do the world a favor and admit to everything you've done...ALL OF IT...and then go to prison for the rest of your life....At least people will feel some sort of peace now.

YOU ARE THE MOST EVIL, VILE person on earth!

Anonymous said...

Matthew 18:6
But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.

Anonymous said...

I personally knew Pete, he was my mentor from the time i first stepped into Kamp. He was the coolest guy ever, and he was so faithful to Christ and i loved him. I still cannot believe this happened. It does not seem like him at all.

Anonymous said...

i think ill be one of the only objective voices in this group....there were some things on the court docs that seem very suspicious.

1. peter newmans date of birth is listed as 10/30/1975...yet lists his sge as 23.

2. on the warrant app, the incident is listed as sexual abuse (F) which means the victim would have been female.

i work in a law office and have for several years; although i have no knowledge on missouri law.

BUT...if the allegations are true that newman confessed, theres not really anything to argue about is there?

Anonymous said...

You can say you don't believe it, but he has admitted to it. All we can do is pray that those affected can heal and that he too can heal from this. Just because we are Christians doesn't mean that we don't struggle with sin. It just means that we have a hope that surpasses all sin. I pray that everyone can heal from such a horrible circumstance.

Anonymous said...

HE ADMITTED IT!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

First of all, you don't know for sure what all Pete Newman admitted to. He did not admit to ALL of the charges. Although any of it is horrible, let's be careful to let the authorities complete this investigation. Something Kanakuk has offered to families, when trying to counsel families of Kanakuk, for those of you saying they are not doing anything, is the following:
. Be in prayer and seek the Lord (Mt 6:33)
. Steer away from unnecessary/non-beneficial conversation/gossip or adding to the growing fire of speculation and rumors. Stick to what is beneficial and constructive for everyone involved (Eph. 4:29)
. In conversation stick to what is true, what the facts are at the current time & check your sources (Pr. 12:18, 13:3, 21:23)
. Move quickly from talking to Praying (Eph. 6:18-20)
-Pray that God would be glorified and His character made known
-Pray for the families involved - for healing and reconciliation
-Pray for the Newman's - for healing and reconciliation
-Pray for Kanakuk - for wisdom and guidance for its leaders
-Pray that Satan does not receive the victory

.God is on His throne.
.We live in a broken and fallen world.
.Effective ministries and ministers of the Gospel will always be under attack from the evil one.
.No one is infallible.
.We are not to put our full trust, hope or faith in men or institutions, but in Christ and Christ alone.
.Submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit and be continually in prayer.

I think these things are healthy and something we should remember.

Anonymous said...

I don't know why no other victims have commented here. My 12 yr old son was IN LOVE with Pete, just like al the others and would NEVER have believed any of this --- if it hadn't happened to him.
Pete invited my son to a sleep over after a party - it was late and I had that weird feeling. Why would Pete ask a 12 yr old to sleep over? The question was buried too deep in the deceptive plan of our great enemy. I couldn't really bring myself to answer it, but it was there... as the party continued, I debated with the Lord. I even went outside to pray No, I would not allow him to stay, it was so late and he had to be home for school early the next morning. But somehow, when I saw my own son's eyes begging me to hand out with his beloved Pete, I relented. Pete was not facing me, it was weird, like he was ignoring my presence until I said yes. In retrospect, I can literally SEE the guilt.
Long story short, I did not want to leave that house. I prayed all the way home for protection for my son. Did not sleep well. The next morning, I asked my son immediately if anything happened sexually with Pete and he reacted so strongly that I believed him with "Mom, Pete taught me about purity".
I never felt good about that night and a few months later when the "family crisis" email came out, my worst fears were confirmed. I knew something was up - couldn't be a cooincidence. After breaking the news to my son and then re-asking in the way Joe instructed me, I found that Pete indeed did make sexual advances toward my son, but he never understood them as such. Let's just say he asked him some personal questions (way too personal) and offered to go sleep in a single bed together, to which my son said no. The conversation was graphic, but no physical contact. I see now the grooming process was beginning and I blame myself because I know God was speaking to me that night at the party. We have had counseling and firmly believe that there was contact, but are aware that more could come to light in the future as our son deals with it all. He did not even really understand that what Pete had said and suggested to him was sexual. It is a combination of their love of Pete (denial) and their innocence that makes this the perfect crime. Our enemy is prowling. We know that Pete was indeed a great teacher and many came to Christ thru him - it is quite obvious to me that Satan targeted this man and he should have confessed to Joe years ago, repented and God could and would have blessed his ministry. But men love darkness for the light exposes their deeds...Yes, I have lost sleep - but more over the sons who did not escape the grasp of the devil. I continue to pray for all the victims and claim God's promise that what the enemy means for evil, God will use for GOOD! Romans 8:28

Anonymous said...

I am a mother of a boy who respected and looked up to Pete. There were times when he would show up after school and want to take my son and other boys for ice cream just to hang out. My son thought he was awesome. A friend who was going to start sending her son to the bible study asked if I felt he was trustworthy and I was adament in sharing how genuine and real he was and how much he desired to impact their lives in a Christ like way. I am not a naive child, but an intelligent woman who was completely snowed by Pete. My husband and I are kept up at nights with the thoughts that someone like this was in our lives and we had no idea. We are protective, involved parents who have been called the strictest parents ever by our kids, and yet literally had no clue. When all this broke we hated to have to ask the questions we asked our son, feeling like we were taking away the innocence of a child who truly trusts from a pure heart.
People need to realize that these victims have been mentored by him for years. They ALL trusted him completely! The things he would share with these boys would be shared in ways that totally took advantage of their innocence and trust in him and he knew it! Quit looking at their ages and making comments like "they are old enough to know better, they knew what they were doing!" I have heard such ridiculous comments victimizing the victims all over again, as if they deliberately allowed it. HE IS AN ADULT, A PREDATOR who knew exactly how to get into the minds of these boys. For all of you ignorant parents out there talking about how it would never happen to your kids because you've raised them to know better, you're world just has not been rocked yet, and I pray never is. It's easy to stand back and criticize and put your two cents when you have no right. We need to all be praying for the boys and their families. That when the time is right for each and every one of them they will get the help they need. Stop trying to figure out who the victims are and focus our energy and attention on making sure the justice system works and he is put away for a very long time!

Anonymous said...

PETER:

Can't stop thinking about your mom, dad, 3 brothers, sister-in-laws, and neices and nephews...not to mention your wife and daughter. Can't stop thinking about the shame they must feel to even be associated with you.

Your twin brother...a pastor. Imagine how ashamed he is.

Everyone who knew you (or thought they did) is ashamed to say they ever knew you.

You are a disgrace.

You are an abomination.

You are the lowest scum.

You need to be locked up forever.

You have DESTROYED SO MANY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HOW CAN YOU LIVE WITH YOURSELF??????????

When are you going to start whining and crying and saying some pervert molested you when you were just a little boy?

GET SOME BIG-BOY-BALLS and go turn yourself in, tell it all, come clean, tell the truth for once, and do THE FREAKING WORLD A FAVOR and go to prison for the rest of your life.

Enjoy your little fantasies behind bars. Sorry they don't have hot tubs in prison. But, maybe you can teach your little purity course on not lusting through mutual masturbation to somebody there. You'll just have to start liking older men instead of little innocent precious CHILDREN!

Just tell the WHOLE TRUTH if you have any decency left you creep.

"Pete Newman most thorough relationship builder with kids in Kanakuk history" I bet you were. Those pseudo-relationships worked out for you, didn't they?

Your cheep thrills COST LIVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So go ROT!

Anonymous said...

This is disturbing and sad. How can someone so great be so bad. I have family members who went to Kanakuk and fell in love with Pete. He helped them through things and became close friends. What is the world coming to?
Lord all i can say is im leaving this up to you. The Bible says to forgive and this is what i will do in the Lords name, but this is a real disappointment. What a waste of a wonderful life. Pete the Lord will forgive you only if you ask of him, but know that you will live with this forever and it will eat away at you. I am sorry for his family, but sad to say not sorry for you.

Anonymous said...

Pete Newman babtised me when I was 10 years old. This has been the worse experience of my life but even still what he instilled in my mind is the values in which I live by today

Anonymous said...

I wish I would quit hearing new stories about boys who are just starting to talk about what happened to them. It's been over a month since the initial story broke. They are boys. He was their hero. Many did not understand the sexual undertones of the advances. I have heard many stories about these boys just beginning to open up. I think we have no idea. Parents, keeping talking to your children.

fosy said...

i love this kid and he is super funnyosy

Anonymous said...

For everyone out there who is supporting Pete through this I have a question. Can you please ask him why he won't do the right thing and waive his right to a preliminary hearing and spare the boys the heartache of having to testify in an open court. These boys truly trusted you, looked up to you, believed you as you groomed them from the time they were in elementary school. Why, why won't you do the right thing. You know prison time is inevitable Pete, you need to face the consequences for what you have done. Your time may be 20+, 30+, 40+ years, but these boys will have this with them for a lifetime. Our God is a big God and I believe they can get the healing they need so that it won't hinder them into being the men God has called them to be, but do the right thing so that the healing can begin. Let them put this behind them. Stop telling people you haven't been offered a plea, you know that's not true. You still have a few days Pete. Don't allow the enemy to continue to use YOU to harm anymore. Stop and do the right thing!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

i cant believe that he turned out like this. He was a great speaker. too bad it was all fake. I went to camp lee and saw him. I almost feel as if im not going to wear the camp lee '09 shirt because he signed it. sad. AND THE BIG THING IS HE HAD A FRIKKING KID THERE WITH HIM THT HE TAKES AROUND ON HIS CHURCH CAMPS.

Anonymous said...

What is sad is that I went to K-Country and Pete was the coolest guy there. He cared for all of us (this was liek 7 years ago) and when i saw this, i was shocked..more pissed than anything though

Anonymous said...

In 2001, as a staff member at K-Kountry, I remember a male staff meeting in May during staff training week when Pete and Will (who was the director then) mentioned that we always needed to be careful that we don't do anything that even appears bad. They then mentioned that a parent had brought an allegation against Pete to the effect that Pete had abused their son. I remember Pete talking about how the "ridiculous" allegations were the "worst thing that had ever happened" to him.

I can't believe I didn't ask more about that incident. I worked for this guy...he personally hired me...I received counsel from this guy...I looked up to him. Hearing in 2001 that he had been accused of stuff made me raise my eyebrows and wonder why he would even put himself in a position to be accused, but I foolishly overlooked it.

I'm so concerned about some of my kampers who were close to Pete because they lived in Branson and I remember they had regular contact with him.

I just found out about this last night and have wanted to throw up all day.

Does anyone know anything more about the allegations before 2001? I really wished I had asked more about it then. And I agree with the mom who said she sensed something kinda weird and slightly effeminate in Pete...I did too. While I was always in awe of Pete, I was also always distanced from him...like it was impossible to really connect with him like it was possible to connect with Will. Pete almost seemed too placed on a pedastool and I think he wanted it like that. Was he abused as a kid or something (not that I think that excuses his behavior in the least!).

Finally, why aren't these comments dated (there's only a time of day, not a date)
1/14/2010

Anonymous said...

I was masturbated by Pete. It was disgusting.

Anonymous said...

PLEASE HEAR ME OUT:
I MYSELF WAS ON AN INFORMAL PROBATION LAST YEAR WHILE WORKING AT K2 AND I BACK UP KANAKUK'S HEAD STAFF(NOT PETER) FULLY:I worked IN k2 kamps kitchen last summer. Each "kitchie" is assigned a kabin to set up plates and cups for, decorate for birthdays, leave verses at during meals, etc. All kitchies were also invited to their girls kabins nightly devotions-which i attended. i was fully invested in my girls but i didn't know the boys, so i'd try and sit for 5 minutes at meal time with them to learn names, and hear about their experience. Eventually id see them outside of meals, often at the lake or nurse and i'd talk with them. I have for all my life been the outgoing one who wants to meet and befriend everyone and anyone. The boys began wanting to help in the kitchen just because we all formed a bond. They would cheer my name occassionally at meals. Once I was seen crying behind the kitchen counter and so the boys were all asking my boss about what was wrong and if they could help. My also bubbly friend had a similar situation, where her boys were big fans of heres. However MOST kitchies didnt make a huge effort to know their brother cabin or sometimes even girl kabin, so this was new. All to say i was confronted by head staff and told that the goal is for the male counselors to pour God's love into these boys (which i support wholeheartedly) and that a friendly college girl was not what they wanted on the kampers minds, no matter how innocent. Even though the situation was 100% innocent, i was sternly directed by the directors to keep distance and hold a position of authority rather than friend. I was annoyed but I put myself in the position of a mother who sends her boy away to be impacted by the Holy Spirit and I would want no distractions in that path. I then understood. I was also told that if I found eating meals or befriending them, I would be automatically sent home. Sounds harsh and trust me I felt VERY accused. BUT BUT BUT Kanakuk is 100% after the kampers heart. I myself, do not feel adequate to potentially led kampers to Christ and through experiencing a counselor who shaped my faith, prayed without ceasing, and sincerely loved God and others (when I was kamper), I was not about to take that role (which i envied) from someone more equipt and it was only through the extensive written and oral interviewing process that my eyes were opened to this truth. K2 puts their everything into this kamp and they only hire those who are prepared and armed with God word and living it out daily. Peter was a snake who slipped through because he put on a show. Anyways- I myself was technically on probation for God-as-my-witness the most innocent reason. SO do not judge a kamp as a whole for this monster's actions. KANAKUK DOESNT TAKE ANYTHING LIGHTLY.

Anonymous said...

PLEASE HEAR ME OUT:
I MYSELF WAS ON AN INFORMAL PROBATION LAST YEAR WHILE WORKING AT K2 AND I BACK UP KANAKUK'S HEAD STAFF(NOT PETER) FULLY:I worked IN k2 kamps kitchen last summer. Each "kitchie" is assigned a kabin to set up plates and cups for, decorate for birthdays, leave verses at during meals, etc. All kitchies were also invited to their girls kabins nightly devotions-which i attended. i was fully invested in my girls but i didn't know the boys, so i'd try and sit for 5 minutes at meal time with them to learn names, and hear about their experience. Eventually id see them outside of meals, often at the lake or nurse and i'd talk with them. I have for all my life been the outgoing one who wants to meet and befriend everyone and anyone. The boys began wanting to help in the kitchen just because we all formed a bond. They would cheer my name occassionally at meals. Once I was seen crying behind the kitchen counter and so the boys were all asking my boss about what was wrong and if they could help. My also bubbly friend had a similar situation, where her boys were big fans of heres. However MOST kitchies didnt make a huge effort to know their brother cabin or sometimes even girl kabin, so this was new. All to say i was confronted by head staff and told that the goal is for the male counselors to pour God's love into these boys (which i support wholeheartedly) and that a friendly college girl was not what they wanted on the kampers minds, no matter how innocent. Even though the situation was 100% innocent, i was sternly directed by the directors to keep distance and hold a position of authority rather than friend. I was annoyed but I put myself in the position of a mother who sends her boy away to be impacted by the Holy Spirit and I would want no distractions in that path. I then understood. I was also told that if I found eating meals or befriending them, I would be automatically sent home. Sounds harsh and trust me I felt VERY accused. BUT BUT BUT Kanakuk is 100% after the kampers heart. I myself, do not feel adequate to potentially led kampers to Christ and through experiencing a counselor who shaped my faith, prayed without ceasing, and sincerely loved God and others (when I was kamper), I was not about to take that role (which i envied) from someone more equipt and it was only through the extensive written and oral interviewing process that my eyes were opened to this truth. K2 puts their everything into this kamp and they only hire those who are prepared and armed with God word and living it out daily. Peter was a snake who slipped through because he put on a show. Anyways- I myself was technically on probation for God-as-my-witness the most innocent reason. SO do not judge a kamp as a whole for this monster's actions. KANAKUK DOESNT TAKE ANYTHING LIGHTLY.

Anonymous said...

Even David sinned sexually and was still considered by God to be a man after His own heart. What he did is unimaginable but it doesn't make his good influence any less important. We need to pray for him and ask that he will remember God in this time and turn away from this. He is still our brother and justice has come just as God tells us it will. This is a time for us to stand together in Christ and remind him of God's ever-working providence, grace, and mercy. It is good that this has been discovered and good that justice is being fulfilled and God will continue to do what is right even when we don't see it.