Megachurch Pastor Bob Coy abruptly resigned Sunday afternoon, ending his 30-year leadership at one of the largest churches in the country. The reason for the resignation is a "moral failing," according to Calvary Chapel leaders, as reported by the Christian Post.
The senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale's resignation comes amid reports of an affair scandal and admitting to cheating on his wife, Diane Coy.
Coy himself was not present at the Sunday announcement in which his resignation was announced, but church elders read a statement and answered parishioners' questions.
"On April 3, 2014, Bob Coy resigned as senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, effective immediately, after confessing to a moral failing in his life which disqualifies him from continuing his leadership role at the church he has led since its founding in 1985," the statement read.
"The media ministry of the Active Word that distributes his Bible teachings through radio, television and digital media has also been suspended. Pastor Bob will be focusing his full attention on his personal relationship with God and with his family. The governing board of the church is providing counselors and ministers who will help guide him through the process of full repentance, cleansing and restoration."
After the announcement, the congregation had a prayer and worship service.
Pastor Bob Coy and his wife Diane led a Florida ministry that grew to include satellite locations in Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, West Boca, Plantation, Hollywood, and the Keys, according to SunSentinel. Their congregation consists of approximately 20,000 members.
Many members expressed disappointment, encouragement, and hope on the church's Facebook page.
"My heart is breaking for my Church, my Pastor and his family," wrote Marie L. Harris in a Facebook comment. "God is with us all who learn and grow so much from a man who always reminded us he was human and not one is perfect not even Pastor Bob but God gave him a purpose and he did well by God. The devil is a liar and trickster but God is the truth and his will shall be done."
"I haven't prayed enough for my Pastor Bob and his family," Beth Graber wrote. "That changes today."
Anne Marie Giri, a churchmember who was present at the announcement, stated that although the she was disappointed, we must not put our faith in human beings. "Everyone was visibly upset," she wrote on Facebook, according to the Christian Post. "But we need to remember it is Jesus Christ who is our leader and not man."
