The popular Hillsong church in the US has experienced a wave of scandals following the downfall of celebrity pastor Karl Lentz due to leadership issues, breaches of trust, and moral failures. The church's global head has resigned due to the controversy, and Lentz's previously high-profile presence has now turned negative attention onto the megachurch.
The Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) is looking into Hillsong's tax-exempt status amid criticism that the church is generating profits from its members' donations, while its defenders claim that the church is using the funds to support good works.
The speaker discusses his upbringing in a Pentecostal Christian family and the criticisms about Hillsong giving prominent positions to wealthy attendees.
Comedian Dana Carvey reflects on the creation of his famous Church Lady character during a time when religious scandals were rampant and he was living in the Bible Belt.
Australian politician and former whistleblower Andrew Wilkie has revealed financial records proving that Hillsong Church has been engaging in fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion in Australia and around the world. Documents show how church money was used for luxury trips, private jets, and business class flights by its leaders.
The Hillsong Church founder, Brian Houston, has been accused of sexual misconduct in two separate incidents. One of these incidents is alleged to have happened 10 years ago, while the other happened in 2019 during the Hillsong Conference.