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Jeff Gilbert / Alamy Stock Photo
Brian Houston.jpg
Jeff Gilbert / Alamy Stock Photo
World News

Brian Houston resigns as global senior pastor amid misconduct allegations

by Kelly Valencia

Founder of Hillsong Brian Houston has resigned as global senior pastor. 

In a statement, Hillsong Church has said the board has accepted his resignation and are 'grateful for all that Brian and Bobbie have given to build his house.' 

"We understand there will be much emotion at this news, and we all share these feelings," the statement read.

"Irrespective of the circumstances around this, we can all agree that Brian and Bobbie have served God faithfully over many decades and that their ministry has resulted in millions of people across the world being impacted by the power, grace, and love of Jesus Christ." 

Houston's resignation comes a week after an internal investigation found he acted inappropriately towards two women.  

According to Hillsong Church, Houston sent inappropriate text messages to a member of staff and entered a hotel room of a different woman while drunk and under the influence medication. 

The 66-year-old had already taken a leave of absence this year, to prepare to stand trial for criminal charges that allege he concealed his father sexual abuse.

On Sunday, Pastor Phil Dooley, Hillsong's interim global senior pastor, committed to rebuild aspects of transparency that have been lost in the church and to focus on 'health and healing' during this season. 

According to ABC news, Pastor Dooley announced Houston's resignation to an all staff meeting on Tuesday. 

"We acknowledge that change is needed," the statement continued. "Our church leadership continues seeking God for His wisdom as we set the course for the future."

It concluded: "We have committed to an independent review of our governance structure and processes, understanding that this is a time of humble reflection and we are committed to doing what is necessary to ensure God is honoured, and our eyes are fixed on Jesus.

"We value your ongoing support and prayers. We are also praying for our entire church family at this time."
 

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