Elevation Church’s Shift: Steven Furtick Sells to New Ownership Group

Elevation Church’s Shift: Steven Furtick Sells to New Ownership Group

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Christian community, Steven Furtick, the founder and senior pastor of Elevation Church, has announced that the mega-church has been sold to a new ownership group. The sale marks a significant shift in the church’s leadership and future direction, as well as raising questions about the evolving relationship between faith and business.

The announcement, which was made public on January 5, 2025, came as a surprise to many within the congregation and to followers of Furtick’s ministry worldwide. For years, Elevation Church, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been one of the largest and most influential Protestant churches in the United States, with multiple campuses across the nation and millions of followers globally. Its modern approach to worship, blending cutting-edge technology, music, and inspirational preaching, has made it a model for contemporary churches around the world.

Steven Furtick, who founded Elevation Church in 2006, has been a central figure in both the church’s growth and the rise of the “megachurch” movement. His dynamic preaching style, combined with his ability to connect with younger generations, turned Elevation Church into a cultural phenomenon. His books, online content, and social media presence made him one of the most recognized pastors in the world.

The sale, however, signals a shift in Furtick’s vision for the church. According to sources close to the deal, the church has been acquired by a group of prominent American investors with significant experience in both business and religious ministries. The identity of the new ownership group has not been fully disclosed, though reports suggest that it includes a mix of well-known figures from the corporate world and faith-based nonprofit organizations.

In a statement, Furtick explained the decision, saying, “This is a new chapter for Elevation Church. While my personal role and vision for the church have been central to its growth, I believe it is time for Elevation to move in a new direction. The new ownership group brings fresh ideas and the financial backing to take Elevation to the next level.”

The sale has raised questions about the long-term impact on Elevation’s ministries and the congregation. Critics have expressed concerns that the shift in leadership might lead to changes in the church’s core mission, potentially focusing more on profit-driven initiatives rather than spiritual growth. Others worry that the move might distance the church from its founding values of community and accessibility.

However, supporters of the deal argue that the financial resources and business acumen brought by the new owners could help expand Elevation Church’s global reach and further solidify its position as a leader in the modern Christian church landscape. The new ownership group is reportedly committed to maintaining Furtick’s vision while expanding on his efforts, particularly through the integration of advanced technology, media, and global outreach programs.

In his announcement, Furtick emphasized that while he would no longer be in charge of the day-to-day operations, he would continue to be involved in the church’s ministry and provide guidance in his capacity as a spiritual leader. “I am still here,” Furtick said. “This church is still my heart. The only thing that’s changing is who is steering the ship.”

As the news of the sale continues to spread, congregants of Elevation Church and members of the broader religious community will be closely watching to see how the new ownership group navigates this transition and what the future holds for one of the most influential churches in the world.