Posted: 2024-7-16
Selena Gomez’s relationship with Hillsong Church has come to a crashing halt, mirroring the downfall of its celebrity pastor Carl Lentz. The singer, once a devoted member, has walked away, citing disillusionment and a desire to distance herself from the recent cheating scandal.
According to insiders, the 28-year-old singer feels “bitterly disillusioned” with the church. This disillusionment stems primarily from Carl Lentz’s public affair with designer Ranin Karim, which shattered the image of piety that Hillsong cultivated. Selena, once a close friend of Lentz and his wife Laura, no longer wants any association with the church.
The Lentz scandal wasn’t the sole reason for the split. Selena’s 2018 breakup with fellow Hillsong member Justin Bieber likely contributed to a growing sense of disconnect. Additionally, her relationship with church founders Brian Houston seems to have soured. Houston dismissed Lentz and his wife in November after the scandal erupted.
Sources close to Selena paint a picture of a once tight-knit group within Hillsong. Selena was reportedly “adoring” of Carl, forming a close bond with Brian, his daughter Laura, and even Justin Bieber. They were a team, but the cracks began to show, and now, Selena wants nothing to do with them.
Despite her disillusionment with Hillsong, the source emphasizes that Selena “considers herself a Christian.” Her faith remains strong, but her connection to God no longer requires the structure of Hillsong. Selena believes in a personal relationship with God, and the scandals at Hillsong seem to contradict that belief.
In the wake of the scandal, Carl Lentz entered an outpatient treatment facility for depression, anxiety, and pastoral burnout. He aims to heal and become a better person for his family. While acknowledging his mistakes, a source close to Lentz emphasizes that he harbors “no ill will towards the church.” He understands their need to take action.
Brian Houston, in a statement announcing the termination of Lentz’s tenure, acknowledges the “good work” Lentz did at Hillsong. However, the “ongoing discussions” and “breaches of trust” ultimately led to their separation. Houston expresses hope that after a period of restoration, Lentz can find a new path outside of Hillsong.
The story of Selena Gomez and Hillsong serves as a cautionary tale. It highlights the complexities of faith, celebrity, and the institutions that surround them. Selena’s journey reminds us that disillusionment can occur, but that personal faith can persevere even outside the confines of a particular church.
