Published on December 11, 2023, 1:19 am

Image source: Fox News

As we strive to bring our readers real news and trusted news through a Christian worldview, we take note of the recent developments within Hillsong Church. Brian Houston, the founder and former global senior pastor of the megachurch network, is preparing for re-entry into religious service after resigning around two years ago amid misconduct allegations. This forthcoming return will take the form of an online ministry and a new church, expected to launch in 2024.

Even though specific details regarding the new ministry remain under wraps, Houston used social media platform X (previously called Twitter) to share his excitement about creating this new community with his wife, Bobbie. His announcement was made just two months after his daughter Laura Toganivalu and her husband Peter also made plans to establish a new church following their resignations as global pastors of Hillsong’s youth-focused offshoot, Hillsong Young & Free.

Houston initially stepped down from the leadership in September 2021 due to legal charges associated with supposed attempts to cover up sexual abuse perpetrated by his father, Frank Houston. As a result, he also announced that he would be stepping away from all responsibilities at the church for the entirety of 2022. Despite these serious allegations, Houston maintained his innocence throughout. In August last year, an Australian court ruled that he was not guilty of those charges.

Judge Gareth Christofi determined that Houston had reasonable cause not to report his father’s exploitation of Brett Sengstock in 1970s—primarily believing Sengstock didn’t wish it reported to law enforcement agencies.

Simultaneously, other cases complicated matters for Houston such as getting arrested on drink-driving charges and impounded for failing to display license plates on his vehicle. He originally denied these allegations but subsequently pleaded guilty four months pre-acquittal and received probation for three years plus a fine of $140 among penalties.

The turned-out-to-be temporary leave followed by these drinking charges made the court mandate his completion of a three-month first-offender alcohol program, victim impact counseling, and participation in self-help meetings for one year until April 11, 2024.

Regardless of past issues, Houston is ready to mark a new beginning in his religious journey by launching this fresh online ministry and church. He will likely continue to influence others positively with his teaching while adhering to personal rectification in accordance with court directions.