An independent investigative report has concluded that former Vineyard pastor Denis Roy sexually abused multiple women over nearly two decades while serving in church leadership roles in Virginia and Indiana.
The investigation, commissioned by Vineyard USA, examined Roy's tenure at Christian Assembly near Vienna, Virginia, and later at Brownsburg Vineyard Church, the Indiana congregation he founded.
According to the report, Roy used his pastoral authority to groom and exploit women under his spiritual care. Investigators determined that relationships Roy described as consensual were, in fact, abusive due to the significant power imbalance between pastor and congregant. The findings detail patterns of manipulation, coercion, and inappropriate conduct spanning multiple ministry assignments.
The report also found that concerns about Roy's behavior surfaced at various points during his ministry. However, systemic failures in oversight and accountability allegedly allowed him to continue in leadership roles with access to congregants in two states.
Following the completion of the investigation, Roy's ordination was revoked and his ministerial credentials were terminated. In a public response, Vineyard USA acknowledged shortcomings in its handling of prior concerns and expressed sorrow for the harm caused. The denomination stated that reforms are underway to strengthen vetting, reporting mechanisms, and survivor care.
Brownsburg Vineyard Church also issued a statement condemning the misconduct and affirming support for those impacted, pledging cooperation with denominational leadership and continued safeguarding improvements.
The findings intensify broader conversations within evangelical church networks about clergy accountability, independent investigations, and institutional responsibility in responding to abuse allegations. Advocates say the report marks a significant step toward transparency but emphasize that lasting reform will require sustained structural change and survivor-centered practices.
