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Hope Fellowship Pastor Resigns After Admitting to 'Sexual Sin' and 'Moral Failure'

Interim leaders now oversee the church during a review of safeguards.

Overview

  • Founding pastor John McKinzie confessed to church leadership on Sunday and offered his resignation on Monday, which the board accepted.
  • An FAQ from elders said he admitted to sexual sin and a pattern of consensual behavior they deemed disqualifying for ministry, with no further details provided.
  • Church leaders said staff were unaware prior to his confession and indicated no additional staff changes at this time.
  • The church lists Angela Linz and Aaron Alexander as co-interim lead pastors, with leadership teams overseeing operations until a permanent successor is selected.
  • The announcement follows the January removal of a student pastor over past misconduct as the multi-campus church, which draws thousands weekly, pledges a policy review to strengthen safeguards.