Beneath this seemingly ordinary facade lies an extraordinary story. This is Hillsong Melbourne East. Hillsong is more than just a church. It is a global movement. Hillsong began in 1983 in Baulkham Hills. Brian Houston and his wife Bobbie Houston founded it as Hills Christian Life Centre.
Hillsong’s journey is one of remarkable growth. It attracts people with its contemporary worship music. Its popularity has made Hillsong a global brand. But its history also includes controversies.
Let’s step back to 1977. Brian Houston’s father Frank Houston founded Sydney Christian Life Centre. It was a neo-Pentecostal megachurch. Brian and Bobbie Houston started Hills Christian Life Centre in 1983. Both churches were part of the Australian Christian Churches.
Hills Christian Life Centre grew quickly in the 1980s and 1990s. Young people liked its modern music. The church also planted churches in other countries. In 1992, it started London Christian Life Centre. Later it was named Hillsong London. In 1997, Hills Christian Life Centre moved to Norwest Business Park.
In 1999, Hills Christian Life Centre merged with Sydney Christian Life Centre. This happened after Frank Houston was exposed as a paedophile. Brian Houston became the senior pastor of both churches. In 2001, the church was renamed Hillsong Church.
Hillsong continued to expand in the 21st century. It established churches in Russia, South Africa, and the United States. In 2018, Hillsong left the Australian Christian Churches. It became an autonomous denomination. This allowed Hillsong to ordain its pastors in Australia.
In October 2020, Hillsong bought Festival Hall in Melbourne. It became the home of Hillsong Church Melbourne City. Festival Hall is an iconic music venue. Hillsong renovated it for church services and community events.
Hillsong’s reach is impressive. In 2022, it had 38 churches in Australia. It had 150000 members in 30 countries. Hillsong measures online attendees too. They average 444000 per weekend.
Hillsong is known for its music. Hillsong Worship, Hillsong United, and Hillsong Young & Free are popular groups. They have many musical hits. Hillsong has produced over 40 albums. These albums have sold over 11 million copies.
The church has various ministries. These include Hillsong Kids, Hillsong Youth, and Hillsong Sisterhood. Hillsong CityCare offers community services. Hillsong International Leadership College trains leaders.
Brian Houston stepped down as global senior pastor in 2022. This followed an investigation into his behaviour with women. Phil and Lucinda Dooley took over as global senior pastors. Hillsong has faced controversies. These include financial issues and its stance on homosexuality. Despite these challenges, Hillsong continues to be a significant global presence.
Hillsong Melbourne East is part of this story. It is a local church that embraces its city. It seeks to share the love and hope of God. It offers Sunday services at 9.30 am, 11.30 am, and 5 pm. A Spanish translation is available at the 11.30 am service.
So, as you stand here remember Hillsong’s journey. It is a story of growth, music, and global impact. It is a story still unfolding.