Hillsong Church founded by Brian Houston and his wife Boobie Houston in 1983 in the suburbs of Sydney, Australia marks its 40 years anniversary.
The global church founder has expressed gratitude to those who were a part of the Hillsong journey. “Well it’s 40 years this weekend since Bobbie and I pioneered our church with our 3 and 1 year old sons in tow,” Houston wrote in a Saturday Instagram post
“What a journey from small beginnings to millions who were reached and influenced with the gospel; with worship, and other globe impacting ministries and outreaches. All this was only possible because of God’s amazing grace and it’s to Him goes all the glory. Thank you to all those who have been part of the journey, for your faithfulness and support over many years.”
The church’s former global senior pastor who resigned in March 2022 regrets being unable to celebrate with the Church. “Our hope would have been to celebrate with you all, had the opportunity been extended to us. It was not.” So once again, thank you to all who have been part of our lives and these decades together.”
The foundation of Hillsong church was inspired by Brian’s father, Frank Houston, a former pastor who founded Sydney Christian Life Centre. At the time, Hillsong was affiliated with the Pentecostal church in Australia. It was part of the Assemblies of God until 2018 when it created its own denomination.
The church grew to attract millions of worshippers including a number of popular celebrities. It gained notoriety for releasing records of Christian worship and holding sizable charismatic worship gathering in several places.
Nevertheless, the global church has recently been embroiled in controversy after facing major abuse charges and acknowledging moral failings.
The megachurch’s internal investigation revealed that Houston had treated two women improperly. At the time, Hillsong officials claimed that Houston’s misbehavior had been influenced by prescription medicine and alcohol
He also was arrested in the USA and charged with Driving under the Influence of Alcohol. Houston pleaded guilty to the charges. “At the time it seemed like all hell had broken loose within Hillsong Church and I was under immense pressure and emotional strain. Clearly that is not an excuse, and I take full responsibility for my actions,” Houston said.
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