Friends, Family, and Hillsong Members Commented on Bobbie’s Post
Nearly 8,000 people liked the post. The vast majority of comments—in a variety of languages—were in support of Brian, Bobbie, and the entire Hillsong community. Yet, some were surprised by Bobbie’s post.
“Can someone enlighten me? What is happening? Why is he in court?”
One called for the prosecution of all involved in the scandal.
“I don’t get this. From the evidence given, I believe other people knew but they aren’t being prosecuted. I really wish I could make sense of the last twelve plus months. #ThyKingdomCome Be blessed, Brian and Bobbie. This is spiritual warfare at a new level. God is on your side. <3 <3”
Brian Houston and Hillsong Have a Long, Scandalous History
In 1999, Brian Houston fired his father, Frank Houston, after learning of Frank’s horrific sexual abuse of nine boys. However, Brian failed to alert the police, covering up the scandal.
Brian Houston launched an investigation into how its churches handle finances—following multiple accusations of mishandled funds. Hillsong Global lost many of its 16 U.S.-based churches due to continued leadership and financial scandals.
In September 2021, Brian announced he was stepping down from church boards. While this came in the wake of his impending trial, Brian shared the news in an email to his congregation: “I am still full of vision and know that there is an exciting season ahead for our church.”
A year-long sabbatical beginning in early 2022 was initially said to allow Brian Houston time and focus to defend himself against allegations of concealing his father’s abuse. But, in reality, the church board forced a sabbatical as part of disciplinary action for Brian’s moral indiscretions. Brian Houston then fully resigned as global senior pastor of Hillsong Church in March 2022.
