Founder of Hillsong Church, Brian Houston, has thanked his congregants – and “huge network of friends” for their love and support.

Houston resigned from his position as global lead pastor last month, after two allegations of misconduct came to light. 

The claims were made by two women; one – a former member of staff – says the leader sent her inappropriate messages. The other says Houston entered her hotel room, intoxicated, during a conference. 

The relationship between the founder and the megachurch appears to have become somewhat fractured since the claims came to light. Houston has condemned the church for their treatment of his wife, Bobbie, who was “made redundant” following the departure of her husband. 

However, despite the circumstances, Brian says he and his wife have received an “incredible outpouring of kindness.”

Taking to Instagram, the former leader said: “I’m really glad to have a chance to talk to people for even a few seconds. 

“Just to let you know, life is – well, life is right now.

“But God is on the throne. 

“We’re so, so grateful for the incredible, incredible outpouring of kindness from the congregation of Hillsong Church.

“So many incredible people who we, of course, miss desperately. 

“And then a huge network of friends around the world who have just kept on supporting us, encouraging us and speaking faith into us. 

“Every word you speak, every conversation you give-  because we don’t always get conversation – every scripture we receive, it just makes such a difference.

“So, Bobbi and I are grateful, so thank you again.

“As for the people, you really are what Hillsong Church is all about.

“I don’t know where we would be without your love and support, and we’re clearly getting a whole lot of that. 

“And we know, there’s good days ahead. There’s better days ahead. 

“Be blessed, and thank you.”