The Archbishop of Canterbury has commented on an investigation into safeguarding concerns related to a Watford pastor for the first time.
On Tuesday (May 16), Archbishop Justin Welby gave his "full support" to the independent Church of England probe into concerns relating to Soul Survivor Watford co-leader Rev Canon Mike Pilavachi.
The Watford church, in Greycaine Road, has emphasised that Mr Pilavachi is not under criminal investigation and Hertfordshire Constabulary have confirmed they are not looking into it.
- More recent allegations surface in church safeguarding probe
- Soul Survivor: Police 'monitoring' Mike Pilavachi investigation
- Company invoiced as verge 'ruined by lorry driver' set for repair
Archbishop Welby said: “I am deeply conscious of the impact that reports concerning Soul Survivor and Mike Pilavachi continue to have on many people.
“The investigation, which is being led by safeguarding professionals from the National Safeguarding Team and the Diocese of St Albans, is independent from Soul Survivor and has my full support.
“The investigation is prioritising the wellbeing of everyone concerned, and I am confident they are treating all who are involved in the investigation and everything that has been shared with the utmost care and sensitivity.”
He added: “I cannot comment any further at this stage while the investigation is ongoing, but I know how profoundly painful this is. I would like to assure anyone who has been affected by this situation of my ongoing prayers.
“For some that will be from their direct involvement, for others this is bringing to the surface past experiences from their own lives. Please continue to support and pray for one another, as we remind each other of the love of Christ which never fails.”
When Mr Pilavachi first “stepped back” from all ministry, the investigation was described as being into "non-recent safeguarding concerns". At the end of April, the church confirmed “more recent allegations” had come to light since it began.
In a statement on April 30, Soul Survivor senior pastor Andy Croft said: “We cannot comment on an ongoing investigation, though we can say that more recent allegations have come to light.”
As well as Soul Survivor Watford, Mr Pilavachi also set up the Soul Survivor Christian youth festival.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article