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In a career crossover prompted by the disclosure earlier this year of an extramarital affair, gospel megastar Michael English has announced he will not soon return to Christian music.

Curb Records released his first mainstream single, "Healing," a duet with Wynonna from the soundtrack of "Silent Fall," in October.

"I have decided not to return to Christian music anytime in the near future," English said in a statement, thanking his fans for their support during his years as a Christian artist. "My weaknesses have greatly affected all of you, and for that I am sorry and I ask for your forgiveness."

Warner Alliance Records dropped English in May after he admitted adultery with married First Call singer Marabeth Jordon (CT, June 20, 1994, p. 64). English told Christianity Today he was dismayed with Warner Alliance's response. Bill Gaither "advised me to handle this situation privately," he says. "I am saddened that I wasn't respected and trusted enough to manage this personal crisis in a responsible and Christian manner myself."

Warner Alliance president Neal Joseph says the company's decisions were made with "efforts to follow biblical guidelines and were never intended to hurt [English]."

English says his pastor has greatly helped him cope the last several months. "Like a loving father, he held my hand and offered his help," English says. "Ultimately, my faith is the only thing that will get me through."

Copyright 1994 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

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December 12 1994, Vol. 38, No. 14