The Church of England yesterday published its findings following an investigation into the safeguarding concerns raised about Mike Pilavachi. This found that there had been a pattern of spiritual, emotional and psychological abuse by him, as well as physically inappropriate relationships with young people.

We are deeply saddened and appalled to learn of those who have suffered abuse and harm from Mike and want to extend our prayers, love and concern for all who have been affected. We are grateful to those who courageously came forward and thank them for bringing this into the light.

We wish to be very clear that this kind of abusive behaviour should not be tolerated, particularly in the church and especially by those in leadership. The church should be a safe place and we are committed to making our small part of God’s Kingdom and the churches we work with, those sorts of safe environments.

How to get help?
If you have been personally affected by this news and would like to speak with someone connected to the investigation, you are able to do this by emailing safeguarding@stalbans.anglican.org or safeguarding@churchofengland.org.

We are confident that you will be heard and we understand that there is support and counselling available. Alternatively, you can call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 if you would like to speak to someone independent.

Safeguarding Concern?
Any safeguarding concerns regarding a ChristCentral church should first be raised with the church safeguarding team. Alternatively, or if you have any safeguarding concerns regarding ChristCentral, please contact safeguarding@christcentralchurches.org.

Finally, independent advice can be sort from thirtyone:eight by calling their Safeguarding Helpline on 0303 003 1111.