Mike Pilavachi investigated over 'non-recent safeguarding concerns'

Mike Pilavachi founded Soul Survivor in 1993. Soul Survivor/Facebook

An investigation is being carried out into "non-recent safeguarding concerns" relating to Soul Survivor founder Mike Pilavachi. 

The "difficult news" of the investigation was shared in two statements read out during the services at Soul Survivor Watford on Sunday. 

Pilavachi has agreed to step back from all ministry while the investigation is carried out. 

The statements stressed that it was not a criminal investigation. 

"We would like to stress that the police are not involved; this is not a criminal investigation and Mike has not been suspended. It is also not currently a clergy disciplinary matter," the first of the statements said. 

It continued, "We really appreciate your prayers for all those involved at this very difficult time and we do ask, for the sake of all those involved, that you do not speculate or discuss this more widely, including on social media while the process runs its course. This is to be fair to everyone involved."

Soul Survivor said it was working closely with the Diocese of St Albans and that the investigation was being carried out by the Church of England according to the House of Bishops guidelines. 

No date was given for the conclusion of the investigation. 

Rev Andy Croft, Senior Pastor of Soul Survivor Watford, has stepped back from his role as chair of the church's trustees while the investigation is carried out "due to his close personal relationship with Mike". 

Acting chair David Mitchell told the congregation that the concerns "currently relate to matters which occurred a considerable time ago". 

"Nothing should be inferred from Mike stepping back; this is perfectly normal following the start of an investigation that has not reached a conclusion," he said.

"We mutually agreed this was the best step because of the importance of correct procedures being followed." 

He ended, "We understand this may be very difficult information to absorb," before adding, "We are going to keep our focus on Jesus and what he is calling us to do."

Anyone with safeguarding concerns relating to these statements can contact Jeremy Hirst at the Diocesan Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@stalbans.anglican.org or Ian Bowles or Anthony Clarke at the National Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@churchofengland.org. 

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Anxious wait for pastor prosecuted for preaching outside hospital
Anxious wait for pastor prosecuted for preaching outside hospital

A retired pastor who was prosecuted after preaching a sermon outside a hospital in Northern Ireland faces an anxious wait to find out the verdict in his case. 

Why Raye is right to choose a Bible app over Instagram
Why Raye is right to choose a Bible app over Instagram

In a world obsessed with being seen, heard and validated online, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Raye has made a refreshingly countercultural decision: stepping away from social media and leaning into Scripture instead.

Over 10,000 sign petition in support of church fighting outreach ban
Over 10,000 sign petition in support of church fighting outreach ban

The church has the support of Reform leader Nigel Farage.

Christian private school blames Labour's VAT raid as it weighs up closure
Christian private school blames Labour's VAT raid as it weighs up closure

Labour's policy has been described as "ideological vandalism".