Joel and Ellen Cave, Founders of Glow Church, Step Down Amid Personal Challenges
The founders of Australia’s Glow Church, Joel and Ellen Cave, have chosen to step back from their pastoral roles following their recent separation after more than two decades of marriage. This decision was confirmed by the church’s administration.
Glow Church Chairman, Dave Weatherall, revealed that Ellen Cave initiated the separation, clarifying that it was unrelated to any “moral failure or infidelity.” According to Weatherall, the board’s decision for the Caves to step back was based on “some very recent information” and personal challenges that the couple faced. Weatherall emphasized, “This is not a result of moral failure or infidelity.”
Joel Cave is currently undergoing “medical and pastoral recovery,” although details of his medical condition have not been disclosed. Weatherall assured that Joel, Ellen, and their children remain integral to the church community, surrounded by support and prayers.
Weatherall requested respect for the family’s privacy during this period, stating, “We ask for prayer, understanding, and respect for the privacy of Joel, Ellen, the children, and the Cave Family.”
Established in 2013, Glow Church rapidly expanded into a multisite megachurch renowned for its vibrant young-adult congregation and innovative worship style. Joel Cave previously described their approach to ministry, noting the use of “cutting edge screens lighting and sound” to engage people effectively. “Most people spend all day looking at screens and we use them because it helps people connect with our messages,” he told the Gold Coast Bulletin.
Originally, Glow Church had several locations across Australia. However, in 2024, those outside the Gold Coast became independent churches as part of a strategic move for greater autonomy.
In light of the separation, Weatherall highlighted the church’s commitment to supporting the Caves, aiming for eventual restoration. He stated, “The Board has taken this step with careful consideration and prayer, prioritizing our Senior Pastors wellbeing and the health of the church community.”
He encouraged the congregation to remember the values of grace and hope, stating, “Let us remember that the same grace and hope we preach is the grace that sustains and restores us all.”
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
