Hillsong megachurch founder resigns over ‘misconduct’ towards two women

Brian Houston, the founder of Hillsong Church, the world-renowned worship centre based in Australia, has resigned over claims that he behaved inappropriately with two women. The church’s board announced Houston’s resignation in a statement released via its website on Wednesday. In the statement, the board said it has accepted the resignation of the embattled clergyman as the global senior pastor of the church. It also said regardless of the circumstances surrounding his resignation, he and Bobbie, his wife, “served God faithfully over many decades” and impacted millions of people globally. The board said a change in the church’s leadership has become imperative. It added that the church is “committed to an independent review of our governance structure and processes.” “We would like to advise you that Pastor Brian Houston has resigned as Global Senior Pastor of Hillsong Church and the board has accepted his resignation,” the statement read. “As you can appreciate, there is still much to be done and our church leadership continues seeking God for His wisdom as we set the course for the future. We acknowledge that change is needed. 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.” The board called on members of the church to continue praying for the cleric and his family “during this challenging time.”