Former IHOPKC Staff File Paperwork To Launch New Church

Former IHOPKC Staff File Paperwork To Launch New Church

Former leaders of the International House of Prayer Kansas City (IHOPKC) have filed paperwork to establish a new church, Sanctuary Church. Isaac Bennett, Morgan Bennett, and Matt Candler submitted articles of incorporation on April 18, according to investigative reporter Julie Roys. The Bennetts were pastors at IHOPKC’s Forerunner Church, and Candler was president of IHOP University. Both organizations have been closed following multiple sexual abuse allegations against IHOPKC founder Mike Bickle. An IHOPKC attorney had previously suggested the ministry was reorganizing to limit liability.

The filing comes amid ongoing scrutiny of IHOPKC, which has faced numerous allegations of mishandling abuse cases. In leaked audio from an April 15 meeting, Candler stated that IHOPKC was beginning to wind down. Isaac Bennett argued that dissolving the organization would reduce its liability, noting that “we’re the people to sue at the end of the day.” He also mentioned that unresolved allegations could lead to demands for restitution.

In an April 17 press release, IHOPKC announced it would “wind down many of the ministry and training expressions.” The statement cited “financial and personnel losses,” a “volatile environment,” and a “vast need for reform.” The following day, the Bennetts and Candler filed paperwork for Sanctuary Church. The move was framed as a transition, with Isaac Bennett telling congregants at Forerunner Church’s final service that the ministry would “move forward with a new start.”

Sanctuary Church’s incorporation documents list the former IHOPKC leaders as its incorporators. The new church is expected to continue some of the ministry’s work, though details remain limited. The transition has been described as a process that will “last a few months,” with plans for a “robust” ministry expression in the fall.

The actions of former IHOPKC leaders raise questions about the future of the ministry and its legacy. As the organization restructures, the focus remains on legal and financial considerations, as well as the ongoing impact of past allegations. The new church’s role in continuing or changing the ministry’s direction remains to be seen.

The situation underscores the complexity of navigating legal and ethical responsibilities in religious leadership. As the Bible reminds us, justice, mercy, and humble service are essential in how communities are led and cared for. Micah 6:8 calls for these qualities, offering a framework for how organizations and individuals should approach their responsibilities.

Source: Read the original report