PINYPONY

You must be a very bitter angry person. Apparently, this Pastor was not in your life or any part. You didn't go to the church run by him, but for some reason you seem to write a lot of hateful comments about someone you didn't know? Sounds more like a personal agenda you have going here? Have some respect the man is gone what more else to you want? You definitely have issues you need to deal with instead of passing judgment on someone you obviously did not know personally. People who liked him and choose to honor him, instead of letting people like yourself diminish what he did for them. Will always defend him no matter what you write on this blog. They don't care what you have to say about Pastor Jerry Hanoum. You have no worth to their feelings and respect they have for him. Are you free of sin, your negative comments are proof you are not. Your negativity is full of poison. Please deal with it. You are only hurting yourself probably your children and spouse. Your negativity also brings shame to your hometown of Vacaville. You may be wealthy when it comes to possessions, but definitely not when it comes to your spirit. So you see no matter what you write about this man, you are not changing anyone’s opinion of him. Please deal with your own pain. Best of luck..

No, "Friend4Ever," I did not attend the Vacaville church run by Hanoum, but he visited my home one day and asked for my house plan because he wanted to build a house like mine. He was disappointed when we refused his request. He was also disappointed when we said "No thanks" to joining his congregation. I wonder if he often went out knocking on doors asking for house plans and searching for wealthy families to join his church.

This is very tragic for many reasons. I attended Christian Life Center in Vacaville for 14 years when Jerry was pastor...his wife was awesome...funny and fun. Jerry preached with incredible analogies and pulled people in by the droves, including me, giving them spiritual strength. God will use who he will. Jerry used to say church was a hospital for sinners not a place for saints. I know the ten percent I gave and beyond was honored by God...what happened to it after was between God and who used it. It was phenominal how my money "stretched" and I was able to give...not to church but to others and it felt good. Jerry used to say people complain about hypocrites in the church, but he reminded us you find them all kinds of places...I send love light and healing to the family, those who feel they were wronged by Jerry or misrepresented in some facet, and ask all to take pause and remember something funny Jerry said that made them laugh or something moving that made them cry or something that made them spiritually aware. He must have been in tremendous agony to take his life. Perhaps this was the only way he could say how truly sorry he was. Life is fragile...and short. Blessings to all who read this.

PINKPONY?

You have been on here way too much so I have to comment since you mention VVCLC- The only Pastors who brought shame to VVCLC were the ones that were there after Pastor Jerry left. Why do you think they changed the name after all these years. If you were not giving your 10% you were nobody and that's how they treated you. I know that personally!

Also you said you interacted with Pastor Jerry? You must of been the one he mentioned during his sermon. Who approached him gossiping, so he walked you over to the same person you were talking about so that you can repeat it in front of her so you would stop gossiping. LOL!! FUNNY! Still makes me laugh till this day. Thank you Pastor Jerry for putting a smile on my face! You were greatly missed at VVCLC and what you taught has never been taken away!

Pyrrhus, I think you are right on target. Thank you for putting such a cogent statement together. You are correct.

Rachel

I understand that many of his family members and friends are very defensive when it comes to Mr. Hanoum.

I don't think there is any question on whether he was a nice guy. We are condemning the actions of the man just as we would condemn the actions of Bernie Madoff or the executives at Enron. I'm sure those people had loving families and friends that cared deeply for them.

However, their actions, like Mr. Hanoum, had a negative impact on the community. Sure, we can forgive Mr. Hanoum for what he did but that doesn't mean we have to forget and not be weary of people like him. Should the victims of Mr. Hanoum simply forgive and forget and not try to seek justice and compensation for what they lost monetarily?

My condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Hanoum. You have lost someone that was obviously dear to your hearts. Regardless of what his actions are we can recognize that he was important to you and with that we can show respect. However, do not expect us to accept Mr. Hanoum as the victim in all this. What he did was reprehensible and now he only has the creator to face in all of this.

Amazing, how much people know!

He was my friend….

MM

My name is Rachel, I've been watching this thread. I don't know which one of my relatives just posted, but I know Jerry must have been in agony to have done what he did. It's truly heartbreaking. I was not ever as close as I wanted to be with this side of my family. Trust me, they are decent and good people. They could really use some kind words and support. I am sure that by now he has faced God. He has family, and a beautiful one, that loves him even if he made mistakes.

Rachel--Sonoma, CA

This sad incident has rocked Brentwood and the surrponding towns. It has effected people that never went to Mt View. Please be aware that Jerry WAS confronted SEVERAL times by the local Pastors that were made aware of his entrance to Brentwood. He WAS offered restoration if he'd repent and handle the trail of deception that he'd carried with him. These well establised pastors were being true shepherds of the flock. He refused over and over. The Pastors in the area knew exactly what he was up to and kept close watch on what was happening at MtView. He refused to come under the well established pastoral covering in this community and instead went out on his own with no covering. Listen...God is God...He will never be mocked. Many people were warned about Jerry and this Church yet they refused to listen. Jerry had convinced so many that he'd repented and taken care of the past issues. It sadly was a lie. We as people have something in us that wants to believe the best in people but when there is a long trail behind someone, open your eyes and protect your self and your heart. People were sadly deceived and thankfully some got out early. There was a very long track record he carried with him. Our hearts go out to the faithful teachers at the school that went without pay while Jerry continued his lavish lifestyle. Jerry groomed his people to be loyal...those that spoke out or questioned his dealings were "disciplined" and shunned in the community. Really? Is that how God works? Let's think back a few years ago...there was another pastor and church similar to Mt View that went through an implosion. Many were spiritually and emotionally abused...Jerry teamed up with that pastor, stormed a church service, took over that building and the same things happened. This pastor was confronted several times too..he finally fled town without ever repenting. Lawsuits came about, families were hurt...Scores of people were negatively impacted. The pain and devistation was horrible..now here we are again. God have mercy on those that are grieving right now and especially the family. This was never Gods plan..God is grieved. This is certainly a sad turn of events.

Wow, all these scriptures being quoted, and fingers being pointed from "people of god" or christians... I thought I was in church reading this jazz for a minute...oh ya I forgot I stopped going at 14 (now 25) because of this trash(And no, I did'nt attened Jerry's church). Your words show your true colors everyone, and sadly most arent pretty...more like a brownish-black. I am a family member, a nephew to uncle Jerry, and knew him as just as good a family man as any. First I do not know if he did actually try to commit fraud or not, as you all also cannot say for sure... Second who are you to even comment like you matter, or like your actions are/have been Godly throughout your lives. Third congregation of religion is complete and utter trash, all it brings is hypocrisy, war, deception, and false hopes....etc. God did'nt give you a hundred dollars, and the devil did'nt make you lose your job...copouts. I get on this site knowing I'm going to see some post from someone attacking my uncle jerry...CLAIMING CHRISTIANITY...when your probably at home Beating your child/looking up porn/lying to your spouse...ETC...can your see that "log" in your eye in the mirror, or are your egos so big that you think your Sunday sittings,and religious BS makes you any better a human than Jerry? Humble yourselves to your god. There are how many different religions in the world? And everyone of them, almost literally, think they're right... and you're wrong....as you think they are wrong(for the most part) give me a break...I cannot explain what his actions have put my family through, both positive and negative, over the years...including his departure. I also cannot explain the feelings of investors/church members/randoms on the internet ...But what I can tell you is this, stop killing yourselves people....It's bad for your health...and others, unless of course you believe otherwise...then by all means if your god says stand in a puddle and blow yourself up...please do so accordingly...You might just get where you're trying to go (just kidding people....don't blow yourselves up...) Just don't judge people who do, like you know what they going through or like their beliefs are wrong and yours are right, because one day, it might be you in the spotlight. Love you uncle jerry, R.I.P Ashes to Ashes Dust to Dust ....the population of this planet makes me sick....all of your opinions...including mine... won't mean anything in 100 years...think before you think...

StephenH, I am guessing/hoping you are a young man based on how naive and full of hypocrisy your statements are. Your desire to be a Pastor is likely a great concern to many if you were mentored by Hanoum. Please pray for your friend, but also remember his victims with a few prayers too.They suffered far longer than he was man enough to. All this talk about judgement. Judgement is about why people do and say what they do. Deeds are just that, deeds. You don't have to judge them. They are what they are. This all isn't just about your particlar church; we also have laws that no church can seperate themselves from, and guess what...in the eyes of the law, all sins are not equal.

I am also guessing you are young based on the immature comment about people saying now what they wouldn't say to his face. Do you realize he has been sued, and settled one case out of court? Wake up. You are amongnst those that would do and say nothing. Maybe this makes your sins the same? I don't know as I don't pretend to be an expert.

You go on to say "division of the church is what the enemy wants". It appears to me the enemy was amongst you, and he was successful. Then, "the enemy" eliminated himself rather then face his accusers.Are you not aware enough to realize his final action stamped his admission of wrong doings?

I don't think most of us need you to pray "the Father to be clear" to us the wrong in our lives. Most of us know right from wrong, and what is moral, ethical, and legal.There's that word legal again.Yes, we have laws that don't see all sins as equal. Some acts are far more punishable then others,they are not decided by any congregation, and they are supposed to apply to everyone.

In other comments from readers, I was perplexed about how Hanoums apparent gifts as a speaker were considered a gift from God. I wonder why the church is where so many scandals take place. Maybe there are few better places to put yourself in front of good people of faith, that believe in the goodness in all people? If one is in it for personal financial gain and other temptations, it would only make sense to become an expert on, in this case, scripture, and fine tune your knowledge as to how to speak in a way that, motivates, inspires and influences your audience. The world is full of people in and outside the church that have developed such skills. It is amazing how so many people place their faith in a mans words, more than his deeds.

These are just my thoughts inspired by StephenH's comments.Very sad for all the victims, the loss to the family and the innocent people of the church. Hopefully, healing will begin soon for all.

Jerry Hanoum was my uncle, he was always very kind. He always made me feel loved. I pray for my Aunt Billie, his mom. She has been through so much. I know he is forgiven and was in over his head. He showed us human frailties and imperfections. Most of us have made mistakes.

Rachel Magnusson

Hello. I am unfortunately writing this because the amount of biblical mumbo jumbo people are professing about a man is absurd. First, I as a Christian man will continue to pray for this man, his family, his congregation because I am called too and I personally knew him. However, the truth and facts of the wrong doing are probably not all public, leaving lots of speculation, and that can be very dangerous for Christians and non. I do believe there is ignorance by people claiming God's name here, thinking it is ok to be 'judge,' as scripture states all sin is equal. So, the lie, the curse word, the anger, all of those you have done are equal to what may have taken place with this man. I would say, a man needs to be forgiven for any mistake, including what Mr. Hanoum was accused of doing. Was it not the apostle Paul who KILLED Christians? Nowhere in scripture does it say that once someone has passed it is ok to assume their position in eternity whether in heaven or eternal damnation. If you choose to condemn him, I ask the Father to let it be clear to you the wrong in your life. The division in the church is precisely what the enemy wants, and if this continues he wins. Lets take this and learn from it, keeping accountability, honesty, trustworthiness, love and respect as part of it. No man is perfect, not even a Pastor, and we can all make mistakes. Those who claim the name of God, lets learn and practice forgiveness. I am not excusing the behavior that may have taken place, but he will be judged accordingly for his actions. Repentance is key. If we would not say these things to this mans face, lets surely not do it to where he cannot defend himself. Please, dont forget, but forgive. Love, it is essential. Show respect, as I hope people would you. Sincerely, a future pastor.

Caliteammember, I couldn't say it better. Who else is involved and what in the world is up with these offshore accounts?

"His actions are indefenseable ... so the big question now is where is the money? In the off shore account that the City of Oakley discovered? Who has access? Lets face it there was a con game going on here, and there had to be more than one player involved. These "people" should not get off scott free"

Read more: thepress.net - Oakley Pastor Jerry Hanoum found dead

Hanoum's history in Vacaville is known by those who interfaced with him, and I was one of those people. Remembering his actions in our town (shameful,) and reading what has happened in other communities has led me to wonder if he had a long-standing personality disorder and/or mental illness.

He must have been insane to do what he did and seem to take such pleasure in it. It's tragic that he was not able to face his countless failures and see them as they were: selfish, self-serving, and dishonest. He tried to use God as an excuse and means to enrich himself. He had probably talked himself into believing God was inspiring him to take the life savings of a widow.

Madness.

I know that this time for many may be challenging for many people...whether you feel outraged, wrong, hurt or troubled.

I have seen many scriptures quoted here so I'm assuming there are professed believers on these comments.

As a believer in Christ, I am asking that anyone who wants to comment further whether for or against simply refrain in doing so. WE CAN SILENCE THE PLAN THAT SATAN HE HAS IN BRINGING DIVISION AMONG GOD'S PEOPLE WITH THE POWER OF OUR TONGUES. God is not the author of confusion, so a quoting of scripture that brings about an argument among believers is not of God.

Silence, however, goes a long way. Let's use this time to pray and hear from God instead of judging and casting stones. I beseech you my sisters and brothers do not conform to the way's of the world....allow your mind to be transformed..Let the mind of Christ be in you. Do not let the words cut and bring any more pain that is already present. This is a huge opportunity for God's body to come together instead of tearing each other apart.

If there are any prayer warriors reading these comments or articles, I challenge you to get on your knees and face for the kingdom of God.

A tragedy all the way around, no matter what this man indiscretions were I cannot believe anyone would have wanted him to live in eternal damnation. Granted the “Man up” and honorable thing would have been to confess and submit to the consequences. In doing that, GOD as he no doubt preached over the years would have been glorified. Unfortunately his new master is relishing in having a new resident in his fiery furnace. Which brings me to a similar point there is also another (former) pastor who was removed from a small church in Oakley who also has used the church for entirely his own personal gain. Vacations, food, home expenses, while continuing the feeble attempt to profess to anyone who would listen with the, “I did it for the good of the church” defense. Only the foolish or the non-discerning would believe that story of spending money on yourself, would in any way be, “for the good of the church”. Let this tragic situation of your personal friend Jerry Hanoum, whom you knew well, be a lesson to you that while you still can repent before you too are faced with the path of Heaven or Hell, where there are no second thoughts or reruns. As we pray for you to not let the enemy continue to have his grasp on you, do the right thing and confess your crime to the DA and do the “honorable thing”, plea for the criminal courts mercy. In this you will show God’s glory and also show the congregation and community that you hurt that there is redemption in truth. This may be your last opportunity, please take advantage of it. You know who you are, as you drive around town in that silver Jaguar.

James 4:14–17 (NKJV)

14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” 16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.

17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

We are truly and deeply saddened for the loss of Pastor Jerry Hanoum. He was a great instrument that God used to minister in many people's life. Despite all things, past and present, we will remember him as a passionate believer in Jesus Christ and for his amazing expression in teaching the gospel with such faith and fervor. No one can discount His love for God. Let us hope for faith, peace and understanding to bring us through this time of grief. You will always be loved Pastor Jerry Hanoum.

Pink Pony,

You also have non factual information regarding the bookeeper at VVCLC. Also regarding Psor Hanoums Family. I can assure yuo his wife Yvonne (God rest her soul) and his daughter had not understanding of wrongdoing, nor did his extended family at VVCLC Vacaville. Unfortunately his sons name does appear in legal docs online that may incriminate him. Again get your facts straight or find something else to do with your spare time!

TO realtycoop;

You really should get your facts straight before you cast a bad light on anyone at VacaValley Christian Life Center, or any other leadership that have tried to help Pastor Jerry Hanoum and his now obvious problems over the years. Your comments alone tell that you have not gotten facutal information. I lived it!

The leadership and board at VVCLC Vacaville and also the Vacaville Ministerial Association both attempted to hold Pastor Hanoumm accountable for his actions as they were uncovered.

HOwever GOd gives us and we all at one time or another exibit free will. Pastor Hanoum chose to not take any offers for counseling , restoration, and guidance, and there were a few offers.

There were public declarations of any actions as they were found absolutely factual. If they were only rumored they were not discussed. Truth is what sets us free, not gossip!

I have no idea why the following churches after VVCLC failed to see the warnign signs or take into accountablilty the past regarding Pastor Hanoum The Assembelies of God did remove him from being licensed with them, which is the most they can do. His last church and the one before that were independent .

For realtycoop, if you really were at VVCLC you know Pastor Hanoum had amazing God given talents and abilities, but with them comes an even greater responsibility to handle them in the right way. Pastor Hanoum failed in this.

I would rather, realtycoop, that you spent your time praying for Pastor Hanoums remaining children and grandchildren that are left behind, instead of penning unfounded information, weather well meaning or not.

Thank you!