'A number of people' have come forward with 'concerns' after Carl Lentz's Hillsong firing

More people have come forward with "concerns" about Carl Lentz's time at Hillsong NYC following his firing from the church earlier this month. 

Hillsong senior pastor Brian Houston confirmed on Twitter that the church was launching an independent investigation after Lentz was let go for adultery. 

He said the investigation would provide "a solid foundation for a fresh start and new beginning." 

In a subsequent media statement, Hillsong confirms that more people have since raised concerns.

"Since last week's announcement of a leadership change at Hillsong East Coast, we have heard from a number of people about their experiences and concerns," the Australia-based church said. 

"It is important that we establish the truth and then do everything we can to ensure our church is both a safe place and one that seeks to glorify God in all that we say and do." 

Hillsong said the investigation would be conducted by a New York-based legal firm "that is not associated or affiliated with Hillsong." 

It has been tasked with conducting "an in-depth review and investigation into all concerns and any wider cultural issues." 

"We are taking this extremely seriously and on the basis of this report, we will be better positioned to take whatever actions are deemed necessary to right the wrongs and see Hillsong East Coast move forward in a way that enables many more people to find hope in Jesus," the statement concluded.

Lentz was the founding pastor of Hillsong NYC, set up in Manhattan 10 years ago with Joel Houston. 

During his time at the helm, he mingled with the stars, including Justin and Hailey Bieber, Drake, and members of the Kardashian family. 

The Biebers have since unfollowed Lentz on Instagram. 

Lentz's wife of 17 years, Laura, appears to be standing by him and has not commented publicly on the revelations of his affair.  She also worked for Hillsong but was let go from the church along with her husband. 

Last week, a Muslim woman came forward to claim that she had been in an intimate relationship with Lentz from May until the time of his firing. 

News
Irish archbishops urge peace and reconciliation amid Drumcree stand-off
Irish archbishops urge peace and reconciliation amid Drumcree stand-off

Ireland’s Catholic and Church of Ireland archbishops have appealed for an “urgent” initiative to resolve the Drumcree parade dispute and asked Christians to pray for peace. 

Former priest Chris Brain convicted of rape as Church review set to begin
Former priest Chris Brain convicted of rape as Church review set to begin

Former Church of England priest Chris Brain has been convicted of rape and four counts of indecent assault following a retrial. 

Franklin Graham preaches with warning from Sodom in Manchester
Franklin Graham preaches with warning from Sodom in Manchester

Franklin Graham used the biblical story of Lot’s flight from Sodom to urge thousands in Manchester on Saturday night to seek forgiveness through Christ and accept His gift of salvation.

More than 4,200 Christians killed in Nigeria this year - report
More than 4,200 Christians killed in Nigeria this year - report

More than 4,200 Christians have been killed in Nigeria so far this year, according to a new report calling for stronger action to protect communities facing violence across the country’s Middle Belt.