Should he be allowed to start over?
Chris Reed, the former leader of MorningStar Ministries, is launching a new church called Jesus Revolution Church in South Carolina, just a month after resigning from his leadership role due to controversies. Reed stepped down following allegations of sexual abuse against a former MorningStar volunteer and his own admission of an inappropriate relationship with an ex-student. His decision to start a new congregation has drawn criticism, particularly after he posted an announcement on Facebook, which he later deleted due to negative feedback.
Andrew Bullard, a finance coach, shared the deleted post and voiced disappointment, highlighting a lack of accountability in church leadership. Bullard cited the need for higher standards in the charismatic church, especially in dealing with leaders who have faced serious allegations. Reed’s announcement described the new church as a miracle, signaling his intent to lead a congregation based on a vision he believes is crucial for the current times.
Reed resigned from MorningStar Ministries after taking over leadership from founder Rick Joyner just a year prior. While Reed expressed sadness over his departure, he stated that he needed to follow God’s calling, which he believes includes building an online model of house churches and starting a new church. Despite having no financial support at the time of his resignation, Reed remained committed to his plans.
MorningStar Ministries is now dealing with multiple lawsuits from men who allege they were sexually abused by former volunteer Erickson Douglas Lee when they were minors. The lawsuits also accuse several MorningStar officials of covering up instances of abuse, intensifying the scrutiny surrounding the ministry.
Rick Joyner, the founder of MorningStar, later criticized Reed for mishandling his position within the ministry, especially after learning of Reed’s inappropriate relationship with a former student. Joyner revealed that Reed and the student had initially downplayed the relationship, but evidence later suggested that it had been more physical than they admitted. Reed has denied some of the allegations but confessed to sending inappropriate texts.