People are dropping like flies because of the investigation.
The International House of Prayer Kansas City (IHOPKC) has recently witnessed a series of leadership changes, marked by the resignation of IHOP University President David Sliker. This development comes in the wake of the ministry severing ties with its founder, Mike Bickle, who is currently under investigation for “serious allegations including sexual immorality.”
In an official statement released by the ministry, it was revealed that Sliker, after seven years of faithful service, has chosen to step down as President of IHOPU. The decision was described as mutual and in the best interest of both the IHOPKC community and Sliker’s family. Consequently, Sliker is also stepping down from the IHOPKC’s Executive Leadership Team with immediate effect.
Following these changes, the executive committee of IHOPKC’s Board of Directors, the Executive Leadership Team, and IHOPU’s leadership team unanimously appointed Matt Candler as the new President of IHOPU. The ministry expressed gratitude for continued prayers during this transitional period.
Sliker’s departure is part of a broader shakeup within IHOPKC, occurring approximately two weeks after the ministry officially cut ties with its founder, Mike Bickle. The separation was prompted by new information confirming inappropriate behavior on Bickle’s part, leading to a formal and permanent separation.
The leadership overhaul also saw the resignation of Executive Director Stuart Greaves, who stepped down from his role on the board of directors without a disclosed reason. Gen. Kurt Fuller assumed the management of the crisis, taking over from Greaves.
These changes follow the resignation of Brad Tebbutt, a leader at IHOP University, who left in December amid concerns raised by former staff members regarding past sexual misconduct allegations against him.
IHOPKC is currently undergoing an independent investigation into Bickle’s behavior, managed by the new leadership. A letter from Rosalee McNamara, an attorney hired by the ministry, emphasized her independence from any external influence in conducting the investigation.
Bickle, in a statement on December 12, confessed to past sinful misconduct over 20 years ago, expressing deep remorse for the pain, confusion, and division caused within the body of Christ. The confession followed allegations, including those from a woman identified as Jane Doe, who claimed inappropriate conduct spanning several years.
The ministry’s “Report on Initial Findings” in November acknowledged the credibility of some allegations, leading to Bickle stepping away from public ministry. While IHOPKC identified five of the eight women mentioned in the complaint, Bickle insisted on repentance but denied engaging in more intense sexual activities as suggested by some.
As IHOPKC undergoes a period of significant transformation, the community remains in prayer for healing and guidance during this challenging season.