Pastor Bob Coy's Media Teachings Removed From Calvary Chapel Website Due to 'Malicious Use,' 'Vicious Rumors'
The media teachings of megachurch pastor Bob Coy have been removed from Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale's official website following his recent resignation, after some apparently misused the content and started "vicious rumors" online.
"Unfortunately, not everyone, during circumstances like these comes to the website with a heart to learn more about the Bible. We've discerned the need to guard against those who would inappropriately misuse this content when time and space is needed for the Coy family to properly heal," Calvary's Web pastor, Dan Hickling, said in a message on Monday.
"Unfortunately, we have already witnessed the malicious use of Pastor Bob's images and vicious rumors on-line that can only run contrary to our hope for restoration. With that in mind, we have taken the precaution to suspend access to his teaching content for now," he added.
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Calvary officials announced on Sunday that Coy, 58, had resigned after "confessing to a moral failing." The Florida megachurch, one of the largest and fastest growing churches in America, noted that the pastor confessed his failings to the leadership team last Thursday, before announcing his resignation.
"On April 3, 2014, Bob Coy resigned as senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, effective immediately, after confessing to a moral failing in his life which disqualifies him from continuing his leadership role at the church he has led since its founding in 1985. The media ministry of the Active Word that distributes his Bible teachings through radio, television and digital media has also been suspended," the church announced.
"Pastor Bob will be focusing his full attention on his personal relationship with God and with his family. The governing board of the church is providing counselors and ministers who will help guide him through the process of full repentance, cleansing and restoration," it continued.
Hickling described Coy's teachings as "full of truth and challenge and opportunity to grow," and stated that for many people, including himself, life would be "entirely different if we didn't come in contact with this ministry."
While not providing further details behind the supposed misuse of content and rumors being spread, Hickling asked readers for patience as Calvary seeks "God's wisdom and guidance on how to best restore the content that we know He has used and can continue to use to make disciples."
He added that despite the removal of some media content, the website remains committed to live streaming weekly Wednesday night and weekend services.
