The Lavish Lifestyles of Hillsong Church Leaders: A Peek Behind Closed Doors
In recent months, the real estate dealings of Hillsong Church leaders have come under scrutiny, revealing a world of luxury that many might not associate with a religious organization. A series of high-profile property sales has shed light on the extravagant homes owned by these leaders, showcasing multimillion-dollar mansions in some of the most desirable locations around the globe.
A Glimpse into Opulence
The properties owned by Hillsong leaders are nothing short of spectacular. Many of these homes boast features that would make any homeowner envious: plush swimming pools, expansive entertainment areas complete with pizza ovens, walk-in wardrobes, and beautifully landscaped gardens. These luxurious amenities paint a picture of a lifestyle that contrasts sharply with the humble beginnings often associated with religious leadership.
Recent High-Profile Sales
One of the most notable recent transactions involved former Hillsong pastors Joel and Julia A’Bell, who quietly sold their designer Gold Coast home in a multimillion-dollar deal. While the exact sale price remains undisclosed, the couple had initially listed the property with a guide price of $2.95 million. The A’Bells, who stepped down from their senior pastor roles in 2019 after nearly two decades with the church, had once counted former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison among their congregation.
This sale is part of a broader trend, as other prominent figures within Hillsong have also offloaded their properties. For instance, Hillsong founder Brian Houston and his wife Bobbie sold their palatial Sydney home for approximately $4.1 million in late 2022. This sale came on the heels of Houston’s resignation amid a series of scandals involving both financial and personal misconduct.
The Houston Legacy
Brian Houston’s departure from the church he founded has been a significant turning point for Hillsong. Following his resignation, he listed his Glenhaven estate, which was described as offering a “spectacular entertainer’s lifestyle” with a chef’s kitchen, private pool, and expansive outdoor entertaining areas. Initially listed for $4.5 million, it ultimately sold for $4.15 million, a move Houston claimed was necessary to reduce debts and simplify their lives.
Houston’s son, Joel, who leads the worship band Hillsong United, also made headlines during the pandemic by selling a Bondi Beach apartment for $1.23 million, netting a profit of around $600,000. This trend of property sales among Hillsong leaders raises questions about the financial health of the church, especially as it faces ongoing investigations into its charitable operations.
The Disgraced Celebrity Pastor
Another prominent figure in the Hillsong saga is Carl Lentz, who gained fame as a spiritual advisor to celebrities like Justin Bieber and Kendall Jenner. Lentz reportedly owned a luxury hideaway in Montclair, New Jersey, before moving into a rental mansion in Los Angeles, allegedly supported by nearly $100,000 in rent contributions from actor Tyler Perry. As of 2023, he is said to be residing in a smaller home in Florida, a stark contrast to his previous lavish lifestyle.
The Business Side of Hillsong
Hillsong’s financial dealings have come under increasing scrutiny, particularly regarding the compensation of its leaders. Church elder Nabi Saleh, known for his acquisition of Gloria Jeans, owns a five-bedroom property in Castle Hill, estimated to be worth over $2.4 million. Meanwhile, current leader Phil Dooley has maintained a low profile regarding his personal property holdings, with few records available to the public.
The church has faced allegations of extravagant spending by its hierarchy, with MP Andrew Wilkie claiming that significant cash splurges were made by senior members. These accusations were made under parliamentary privilege, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigations into Hillsong’s finances.
Honorariums and Extravagance
The financial landscape of Hillsong extends beyond property sales. Internal documents revealed that senior members received substantial honorariums for speaking at church events. Notable figures such as Joyce Meyer and TD Jakes were reported to have received honorariums ranging from tens of thousands to over $160,000, raising eyebrows about the church’s financial priorities.
Meyer, who leads her own ministry, resides in a two-story mansion outside St. Louis, Missouri, valued at approximately $1.5 million. Similarly, Bishop Jakes owns a lavish mansion in Fort Worth, Texas, purchased for $5.5 million, showcasing the wealth accumulated by those at the helm of Hillsong.
The Future of Hillsong
As Hillsong continues to navigate these turbulent waters, the revelations about its leaders’ extravagant lifestyles serve as a reminder of the complexities within large religious organizations. The juxtaposition of spiritual leadership and financial opulence raises important questions about accountability, transparency, and the true mission of the church. With ongoing investigations and a decline in donations, the future of Hillsong remains uncertain, leaving many to wonder how these developments will shape the church’s legacy moving forward.
