New Wine has initiated an independent investigation into allegations surrounding Mike Pilavachi's conduct and its connection to New Wine. Fiona Scolding KC will lead the review, independent of the ongoing examination by Soul Survivor.

Rich Johnson, New Wine’s national director, made the announcement at the church’s annual leadership conference on Tuesday, emphasising the importance of ensuring the review is “survivor-centred” and urged the community to pray and actively participate in the process.

While the Terms of Reference for the review are yet to be disclosed, a statement on the church's website mentioned that it would encompass a "relationship audit" concerning the association with Mike Pilavachi and Soul Survivor.

New Wine encouraged individuals who haven't come forward to the Soul Survivor review organised by the Trustees of Soul Survivor and Soul 61 to share their experiences.

New Wine faced calls to address its association with Mike Pilavachi following revelations by the Church of England’s National Safeguarding Team. The team disclosed that Pilavachi had used his spiritual authority to "control people," resulting in "inappropriate relationships and the massaging of young male interns" throughout his ministry spanning decades.

While New Wine described the findings as "shocking and deeply disappointing," many perceived the acknowledgement as insufficient, feeling that New Wine was downplaying its ties with the youth leader.

In response, Bishop Jill Duff, Chair of New Wine Trustees, announced they were working on a review to "ascertain if there were allegations about his conduct at any New Wine events, and to highlight what we can learn for the future."

Mike Pilavachi and New Wine had a close relationship, especially during the inception of both movements.

New Wine was founded by the late Bishop David Pytches, who mentored Pilavachi at St Andrew’s Chorleywood, where Pilavachi led the youth ministry. Consequently, Pilavachi ministered to the youth at New Wine’s inaugural event in 1989. Before taking on Soul Survivor full-time, Pilavachi divided his time between both events. After New Wine 94, many young people joined him for outreach in Watford, where Pilavachi started a church.

Over the years, the leadership teams of both festivals mutually supported each other, with regular attendance from figures Matt and Beth Redman at both events.

To hear more on the allegations facing Soul Survivor and its founder, Mike Pilavachi, check out Premier's Soul Survivors podcast.