Grammy-award winning artist Israel Houghton says he has not been fired from Lakewood Church after his divorce and much-ballyhooed new relationship.
Rather, the popular artist is on “indefinite leave.”
“We can confirm that Israel is on indefinite leave, but it is important to clarify that we still consider Israel to be a part of the Lakewood family and that his employment has not been terminated,” the church said in a statement.
“I truly love @joelosteen & my gracious Lakewood family,” Houghton posted to Facebook.
Houghton, who had been the worship leader, came under public criticism after announcing his divorce, telling fans “he failed and sinned” in his marriage.
READ: Israel Houghton Announces Divorce, Says He ‘Failed and Sinned’ In His Marriage
He later defended his relationship with new girlfriend Adrienne Bailon, maintaining they did not begin to date until after Houghton’s divorce was finalized.
