A Texas megachurch has fired its pastor over “a pattern of predatory manipulation, sexual exploitation, and abuse of influence.” According to a Sunday, February 11, 2024, post from the church, Aaron Ivey, a pastor and musician, partook in “inappropriate and explicit communications, and indecent exposure.”
In addition, Ivey partook in the “use of alcohol and illegal substances” with a minor in 2011. The elders of Austin Stone Community Church claim he had “inappropriate and explicit” communications and behavior with three adult men since 2020.
The church said it fired the pastor on February 5, 2024, after learning that Ivey “engaged in inappropriate and explicit ongoing text messages” with a man. Consequently, the church cited “biblical standards” for the firing. In addition, the church said it reported its findings to the Texas and Austin authorities.
However, the Austin police department said it could not find an incident or case tied to Ivey. Mark Wilson, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, said all case information is “confidential.”
ALSO READ: Brewery To Discontinue Beer Production Over Mormon Church Trademark Complaint
In 2021, the Washington Post published a beaming feature, “The Happy Hour,” on the disgraced pastor. The publication also featured his wife, Jamie Ivey, a famous preacher and evangelical podcaster. The two were prime examples of young white evangelicals raising four children, including three adopted Black kids.
As one of America’s fastest-rising pastors, Ivey created the persona of a hat-wearing, tattooed, tech-savvy musician. In recent years, he spoke on SBC ethics panels titled “Husband, Strong Father: Embracing God’s Design for Manhood in Marriage.”
Furthermore, he co-wrote a book with his wife titled, “Complement: The Surprising Beauty of Choosing Together Over Separate in Marriage.” The book gave readers tips for sustaining a “flourishing and vibrant marriage.” With the pastor’s popularity on the rise, the news of the allegations shocked members.
Current and former SBC members expressed shock when the megachurch announced they fired Ivey. The elders said they “uncovered multiple similar instances dating back over a decade.” Also, they alleged that their findings show a very clear pattern of predatory manipulation.
“As elders, we are heartbroken for the victims and their families,” the elders said in a statement. “Knowing the Lord’s sheep are worth our protection and our love, we are committed to loving this body and rooting out evil.” They added, “We know this may affect your trust because we know it certainly has rattled ours.”
ALSO READ: Pope Francis Punishes Critic Cardinal Burke in Second Action Against Conservative Critics
Pastor Ivey is the latest SBC-affiliated pastor in Texas to face accusations of abusing a minor. The allegations come after the SBC and others in January 2024 reached a private settlement in a lawsuit. The lawsuit allegedly accused SBC member and ex-Houston judge Paul Pressler of sexual abuse.
In addition, it alleged that others, including First Baptist Church of Houston, were responsible for covering up crimes. Afterward, Gene Besen, a Dallas-based SBC attorney, affirmed the allegations against Pressler. He called the 93-year-old Houstonian a “monster.”
Besen also called him a “dangerous predator” whose “actions are of the devil” in posts on X. Following the accusations and his subsequent dismissal, Ivey took his website down. Also, the former SBC pastor has not responded to requests for comments.
On the other hand, the Austin Stone Community Church said the recent allegations and controversy saddens its elders. “We lift our weeping eyes to Jesus, the author and protector of our faith,” the elders said. “He alone is worthy of our hope and our lives.”
You Might Also Like:
US District Judge Sentences Former Aide to Disgraced Illinois Speaker to Prison
California Parolee Steals $900 Worth of LEGO Sets, Jumps out of Moving Car During Escape
Disney Performer in ‘Serious Condition’ After Falling During Routine
Unidentified Person Sets Waymo Driverless Car on Fire in San Francisco
Police Arrest Former Pro Wrestler Billy Jack Haynes for Allegedly Shooting and Killing His Wife
