Lima News - 09/21/2000

Former The Way president no longer with organization

The former president of The Way International is no longer employed by the New Knoxville-based religious organization.

The Rev. L. Craig Martindale resigned from his position as president in April after a lawsuit claimed he sexually assaulted a former member. Martindale admitted to having a consensual affair with Mrs. Allen, who filed the lawsuit along with her husband, Mr. Allen.

A second lawsuit by another former member was filed in June in Shelby County Common Pleas Court. It also alleged sexual assault by Martindale.

At the time of Martindale's resignation, a spokesman for the organization said he would continue to work for The Way in a different capacity. Wednesday, a spokesman said Martindale is no longer employed by The Way and is seeking secular employment.

The board of trustees for The Way issued the following statement:

"We have considered these matters very seriously at length and made our decisions because it was the right thing to do. We've had to respect everyone's interest here."

Board members declined to say any more regarding Martindale or the lawsuit, saying they "don't believe it warrants public discussion."

The Way International describes itself as a biblical research, teaching and fellowship ministry. It was founded in 1942 by Victor Paul Wierwille, a former Reformed minister. Martindale succeeded Wierwille in 1982.

The Way is a reference to Jesus Christ, alluding to scriptures in which Christ identifies himself as "the way."