ARLINGTON (TX)
ChurchLeaders.com [Wheaton, IL]
August 8, 2024
By Stephanie Martin
Following the recent arrest of founding pastor Ronnie Goines, Koinonia Christian Church in Arlington, Texas, has named James Ray Taylor to the interim role of lead pastor. In late July, Goines was arrested on one count of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault. He was released on $23,000 bond, and a police investigation is ongoing.
In an Aug. 1 press release, Koinonia stated, “Through the Providence of God, our Executive Pastor, James Ray Taylor, was already properly positioned to assume an interim role as Lead Pastor.” Taylor’s new role became effective immediately, according to the church.
Although Koinonia didn’t address the allegations against Goines, the church acknowledged his “committed leadership” for the past 20 years. “Recognizing the unique challenges that our founding pastor is facing presently, we want his full attention to be focused on becoming healed, whole, and fully restored,” the church stated.
RELATED: Texas Pastor Known for Work in Community Arrested on 2 Sexual Assault Charges
In a July 31 Facebook post, Taylor posted the message #KOINONIASTRONG. The married father of four was previously the senior pastor of Heavenly Vision Church in Los Angeles.
Koinonia Christian Church Pastor Ronnie Goines Denies Allegations
In June, a woman filed a report with Arlington police, alleging that Goines, 51, made unwanted advances on her. The woman, who doesn’t live in the area, said she met the pastor in 2022 and then the two began texting.
The woman claims that when she later visited the Dallas area for a conference, she and Goines met up twice. Both times, she alleged, the pastor made sexual advances, trying to kiss and touch her—and even pulling down her shirt.
Goines denied the accusations, telling authorities he “in no way, shape, or form” forced himself on the woman. According to the arrest warrant, the alleged victim provided a recording of the pastor apologizing for making her feel uncomfortable. “The bottom line is that you were uncomfortable,” Goines allegedly said. “I caused it, and I’m sorry. Period.”