Coral Ridge fires elder who knew about Tullian Tchividjian's affair

Tullian Tchividjian left Coral Ridge church after an affair.(Twitter/pastortullian)

Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church announced on Sunday it had removed an elder who withheld information about Tullian Tchividjian's affair, the Christian Post has reported.

Another elder is thought to have resigned.

Tchividjian left the church after he and his wife both admitted adulterous affairs, and later took up a position at Willow Creek Presbyterian Church (WCPC). However, a recent revelation that he had a previous affair in 2014 resulted in his departure from WCPC as he had not previously disclosed it.

Two elders at Coral Ridge had known of the 2014 affair but had failed to report it to the church leadership.

A source who was in the congregation on Sunday told the Christian Post the church's pastor, Rob Pacienza, had confirmed elders had known about Tchividjian's affair but withheld the information.

"He just apologised that this happened and we're looking forward to in the future being more transparent and pastoral," the source said. "He apologised for the leadership failing the congregation. They took ownership. It was very sad but exciting for the next season. They were happy that this was the new standard."

The source continued: "I think there was probably a little bit of, on one level, frustration, but on the second level there was happiness that we're more transparent and happiness for the next season. It feels very optimistic and hopeful."

Tchividjian has said he will "forever regret" the effect his actions have had on his ex-wife and children.

He issued what his publicist says is his final statement on the issue, saying: "I recently confessed to my pastor and elders a previous failure from a few years ago. I deeply regret my actions and putting myself in the compromising position that led me to sin the way I did. My heart grieves for all of those that have been hurt by my selfishness and foolishness."