This week in Christian history: John Wesley rescued from fire, James MacDonald ousted
James MacDonald fired from church — Feb. 12, 2019
This week marks the anniversary of when James MacDonald, the founder and longtime leader of the Chicago, Illinois-area megachurch Harvest Bible Chapel, was removed from the pulpit.
In the days leading up to his dismissal, MacDonald was already facing highly publicized allegations that he had been engaged in financial misconduct and abusive behavior.
In an announcement made the day after MacDonald was fired, the church’s elders explained that their decision came sooner due to "highly inappropriate recorded comments" he had made that were played on the air of a local radio program.
"Given that and other conduct under consideration, in accordance with the procedures in our Bylaws, Pastor MacDonald was removed as Senior Pastor and as an Elder of the church for engaging in conduct that the Elders believe is contrary and harmful to the best interests of the church. His employment has been terminated from Harvest Bible Chapel, effective today, February 12, 2019," stated the elders.
"This decision was made with heavy hearts and much time spent in earnest prayer, followed by input from various trusted outside advisors."
