A CHARITY watchdog has launched an investigation into a church in Ballymena after a "concern" was raised.
The Charity Commission said Green Pastures Church had last week "made it aware of some internal governance issues".
It comes after reports that Pastor Jeff Wright, church founder and leader, stood down at the weekend.
This followed eight senior members of the church’s executive committee resigning.
According to the Belfast Telegraph, an e-mail from the members said: "It is our understanding that the lead pastor has formally informed the board and spiritual oversight that he intends to disregard the process they put in place and that he will be returning to his duties tomorrow (Tuesday, April 26).
"In good conscience we can no longer sustain, endorse or prolong this situation.
"It is therefore with the heaviest and most sorrowful of hearts that each of us intend to tender our resignations to the board from our duties and employment with Green Pastures Church".
Following that, Pastor Wright is understood to have told the congregation on Sunday of his intention to step aside.
The Charity Commission said it was last week made "aware of some internal governance issues".
"The Commission is continuing to work with the charity and can confirm that a concern about the charity, Green Pastures, The People’s Church (NIC101855), has been opened.
"No further comment will be provided while the investigation is ongoing".
