Ontario megachurch pauses programming in wake of sex abuse allegations

An Ontario megachurch has been forced to pause programming as its insurer won't renew abuse liability insurance in the wake of sexual abuse allegations against a former pastor.

In a statement on its website, The Meeting House said it was unable to secure parts of the insurance coverage it needs to continue normal operations beyond June 30. Specifically, it said it has been unable to find options for abuse liability or employment practices liability coverage.

"It's really hard for us to be able to get together, at least for our in-person gatherings," said pastor Chris Chase in a YouTube video from June 23.

"It's really hard to be able to do that because we can't guarantee protection for staff, we can't guarantee protection for volunteers, vulnerable people, including children and youth. We can't do that. And so in light of that, our leadership team has felt led to pause our normal ministry activity," he said.