Praise in the Pines, a one-day Christian music festival held in Eagle River, Wisconsin, made the announcement it has decided to “choose love” by not canceling Newsboys as its headliner on July 19.
Other large festivals, such as Kingdom Bound, Lifest, and Big Church Festival, have pulled Newsboys from their lineups following allegations that the band’s former frontman, Michael Tait, groomed, sexually assaulted, and drugged young men—including minors—as well as watched a young woman be raped while on tour in 2014.
Some of the egregious allegations suggest that former crew members and current management were aware of Tait’s misconduct but chose to do nothing about it.
According to its website, the mission of Praise in the Pines is to “cultivate an environment in which the profound love of Jesus Christ touches hearts and instigates enduring change through relatable teaching, relevant Christian speakers, inspiring music, and a celebration of revival.”
Praise in the Pines Declares: ‘We Choose Love’
“[The] Board of Directors of Praise in the Pines is united in supporting the Newsboys,” the festival posted on social media. “We choose love. With hearts full of love and faith, we continue to move forward with our mission to glorify God through music and worship.”
“The Newsboys, with their unwavering commitment to ministry, remain dedicated to this event,” Praise in the Pines continued. “They are approaching this moment with humility, prayer and steadfast focus on their calling. We are excited to welcome them to the festival and celebrate the joy of this gathering together.”
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The festival concluded its statement by thanking concertgoers for their “continued support and prayers for everyone involved. Let’s come together to spread the joy of Jesus at the Praise in the Pines Festival on July 19th!”
Positive replies filled the comment section, most of which thanked the festival for choosing to not cancel Newsboys as its headliner. One person replied, “The best and right choice. We can’t wait to see them and to pray for them.” Another wrote, “No one should have a problem with this now that Tait resigned. Carry on ❤️.”
Following the festival’s announcement, Praise in the Pines posted, “When faith is tested, grace responds,” and included a message from one of its sponsors, Craig Figgins, founder of Superior Business Systems, Inc.
