A History Of
Faith-based Media
1962
Beginning With
A Vision...
On June 2, 1962, a 26-year-old pastor in Pembroke, Ontario, Rev. David Mainse launched his first television show, Crossroads as a weekly 15-minute Saturday program, following the late-night news. His message was simple, direct and personal:
David Mainse’s partner in life and ministry, Norma-Jean, also devoted herself to sharing the message of hope and love found in Jesus.
1975-1977
Reaching All Ages
Crossroads syndicates across Canada and children’s programming begins with Circle Square – airing for 13 years in 50 countries, impacting a whole new generation.
This outreach to children would quickly expand, and Circle Square Ranch would become one of the largest camp programs in Canada.
1977-1980
On June 15, 1977, 100 Huntley Street broadcasts from Canada’s first studio exclusively dedicated to Christian TV in downtown Toronto.
100 Huntley Street continues to feature personal guest stories, Gospel music and a live studio audience, but now with 24/7 telephone prayer line support for viewers.
Humanitarian Relief
Crossroads Emergency Relief and Development Fund (renamed Crossroads Cares) is born following an earthquake in Italy — aid has been delivered to 40+ countries since.
1981-1982
Growing Influence
Summer of ‘81: “Salute to Canada” takes 100 Huntley Street on the road to 25 cities across Canada, broadcasting live daily. The first of four extended ministry tours allows David Mainse to meet faithful viewers and supporters in person.
Crossroads Conway School of Broadcasting launches, resulting in 1,200 graduates reaching potential radio/TV audience of 3 billion in 88 countries.
1984-1986
Connecting Our Past
International Impact
100 Huntley Street raises $8 million with viewer-support and matching funds from the Canadian Foodgrains Bank to help famine victims in Ethiopia.
The Canadian Ambassador to Ethiopia credits Crossroads for saving 51,000 lives.
At the World’s Fair, Expo ‘86 in British Columbia, Crossroads created the first Pavilion of Promise, presenting the Gospel to international visitors.
1992-1998
Media Mission Takes Off
CRTC grants Crossroads Television Systems (CTS) a 24-hour, over-the-air “religiously-balanced” channel. Production shifts into high gear with programs created for the whole family.
CTS (now Yes TV) begins broadcasting in Ontario, Calgary and Edmonton.
Crossroads moves to The Crossroads Centre, a brand new, state-of-the-art television production facility in Burlington, ON.
Norma-Jean Mainse cuts the ribbon at the CTS station launch.
2012-Present
Building Our Future
In 2012, David accepts the Lifetime Global Impact Award.
Rev. David Mainse passed into the presence of our precious Lord and Saviour on September 25th 2017.
60+ Years Of Ministry!
In 2015, 100 Huntley Street airs 10,000th show — becoming Canada’s longest-running TV program with 1 million+ weekly viewers.
Castle Streaming Service
Crossroads launches Castle — a streaming service featuring thousands of faith and family titles.
Prayer Centre
To date, Crossroads Prayer Center has answered over 13.5 million calls. That number grows daily.