CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – Elevation Church, a prominent megachurch based in Charlotte, North Carolina, has announced its decision to sever ties with the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), one of the largest Protestant denominations in the United States. The church, known for its popular music and charismatic pastor, sent a letter to the SBC’s executive committee and the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, informing them of its immediate withdrawal from the SBC.

The letter, which was subsequently published by Baptist Press, an official SBC publication, stated that Elevation Church had chosen not to make a public announcement regarding its decision. Instead, they emphasized their dedication to spreading the love of Jesus and expressed that they had too much work to do in reaching out to the world. However, they did mention that if the SBC’s Credentials Committee made their decision public, Elevation Church would respond with a copy of their withdrawal letter to any inquiries.

While Elevation Church did not provide a specific reason for their departure after more than two decades of affiliation with the SBC, recent controversies surrounding the ordination of female pastors within the convention may have played a role. Earlier this year, several congregations, including the prominent Saddleback Church, were expelled from the SBC due to their inclusion of female pastors, a practice that goes against the SBC’s statement of faith, which stipulates that only men can hold pastoral office.

Holly Furtick, the wife of Elevation’s pastor Steven Furtick, is described as a church co-founder and regularly delivers sermons. Some influential SBC leaders, such as seminary President Albert “Al” Mohler, adhere to the belief that women should not preach during worship services, citing biblical teachings.

According to data submitted by Elevation Church to the SBC, the megachurch boasts an average weekly attendance of 10,185 people and received $103 million in donations in 2021. The church had also contributed $10,000 to the SBC’s Cooperative Program. Additionally, a recent study revealed that Elevation Church is one of four megachurches whose music dominates the contemporary worship music market.

The departure of Elevation Church is a significant development for the already declining SBC, which has experienced a continuous decrease in membership and baptism numbers over the past decade. In 2022 alone, the SBC lost nearly half a million members, and the total membership has dropped from 16.3 million in 2006 to 13.2 million in 2022. Elevation Church’s exit, along with other notable departures, is likely to exacerbate these challenges for the SBC.

Despite withdrawing from the SBC, Elevation Church has expressed its intention to continue partnering with Southern Baptist churches. Chunks Corbett, a leader at Elevation, stated in the letter that the church’s decision to disaffiliate does not diminish their support and prayers for the ministries and mission work of other Southern Baptist churches.

Los Angeles, California – The Catholic community is in shock today following the tragic news of the murder of Bishop David O’Connell. Bishop O’Connell, who was the auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, was gunned down in his office at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown LA Monday evening.

According to witnesses, the assailant entered the bishop’s office just before 7 pm, carrying a handgun. He fired several shots at Bishop O’Connell, who was seated behind his desk. The bishop was rushed to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead a short time later.

The police have launched an investigation into the killing, and the motive for the attack is still unclear. There is currently no information on the identity of the suspect or suspects involved in the murder.

The news of Bishop O’Connell’s death has shocked the Catholic community in LA and beyond. He was known for his dedication to social justice issues and his commitment to helping the less fortunate. He was also a respected theologian and scholar, known for his insightful writings on Catholic theology.

Many members of the Catholic community have expressed their grief and condolences following the news of Bishop O’Connell’s death. Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles issued a statement saying, “I am deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic death of Bishop David O’Connell. He was a man of great faith and a tireless advocate for justice and peace. His loss is a profound loss for our community and for the Church.”

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has announced that a memorial service will be held for Bishop O’Connell in the coming days. In the meantime, members of the Catholic community are coming together to pray for his soul and to offer support to one another during this difficult time.

This is not the first time that a Catholic bishop has been the victim of violence in the United States. In 2019, Bishop Michael McGovern of the Diocese of Belleville, Illinois, was assaulted in his home by an intruder. He survived the attack but sustained serious injuries.

The killing of Bishop O’Connell is a tragic reminder of the violence that continues to plague our society. It is also a reminder of the risks that religious leaders face in their work. Despite the dangers, however, many clergy members continue to dedicate their lives to serving their communities and promoting peace and justice.

The investigation into the murder of Bishop O’Connell is ongoing, and the police are urging anyone with information about the attack to come forward. In the meantime, the Catholic community in LA and beyond is mourning the loss of a beloved leader and praying for peace and healing in the wake of this tragedy.