Hillsong Senior Pastor, Brian Houston has tendered an apology, following the perfunctory comments made by the head of the church’s London branch on the death of George Floyd.

In a sermon last Sunday, Gary Clarke, the UK pastor stated: “It’s a race issue, yes. For me, I don’t live in the United States. For me to be railing as a pastor about something that’s going on in another country, I’m not really sure that’s going to help anyone.”

The comments made by the pastor has sparked off worldwide criticisms, making Brian Houston to voice out on Instagram saying: “I was disappointed to learn today that comments were made by one of our pastors in last weekend’s UK online service which I’m sure he deeply regrets have caused hurt and offence, and for that I’m deeply sorry.

“Hillsong Church is opposed to racism and we believe black lives matter. The needless and tragic death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, and much deeper systemic issues towards African American people that his death has highlighted must lead to radical and permanent change. Racism must stop and prayer is that this moment in history will be a moment of lasting equality, transformation and change.”

However, Hillsong London Pastor, Clarke apologized in an Instagram post. 

He said: “I am deeply sorry for the offence caused from the message. I care deeply about all people and abhor any form of racism or oppression, and my language ignored that fact just like in America, racism in many forms exists widely here in the UK.”  

Even though the pastor has tendered an apology, his comments depicts profound issues in racism which is so typical it is often overlooked. The idea is that if it’s not in your own backyard, then it’s not your headache. The pastor’s apology will be valued, but impairment done to his reputation and church will continue to be noticed.