During this season of learning and growth, we as a leadership team are both reexamining situations from the past and looking into those recently brought to our attention. This effort is very important and necessary, especially in areas where pastoral abuse may have taken place.
In early February 2026, we were made aware of an accusation from 2008-2009 involving Ben Armstrong and a former BSSM student. This incident would've taken place prior to a known moral failure in 2009, for which Ben publicly repented, was removed from ministry, and walked through a multi-year healing and restoration process. This process bore the fruit of repentance, which is still evident today.
Currently, Ben and Heather's connection and family is very strong, as is their connection and trust with us. We deeply value their ministry with us. We have no reports or accusations of Ben being inappropriate with anyone else since the moral failure 16 years ago. Regardless, we take all allegations and concerns reported to us seriously.
This is being addressed with fresh eyes, as our leadership team listens to this additional account and revisits our previous process, not only to speak to current allegations but also to add strength to how we pastor going forward.
We are taking time to reflect, seek counsel, and learn how we can more fully walk in truth, accountability, compassion, and restoration. We are reviewing this with a more informed understanding of appropriate interactions and relationships between leaders and congregants, and the power dynamics and resulting responsibilities that may factor into these interactions. We are also reviewing our processes and pastoral care to ensure our response to victims reflects compassion, integrity, and support.
Our priority is to ensure a safe, respectful, powerful and supportive environment for everyone, and we are committed to thoroughness and integrity as this new way forward continues.
Sincerely,
Bethel Leadership Team
Founded in 1954 and previously a part of the Assemblies of God, Bethel Church is a non-denominational church in Redding, California with a congregation of almost 10,000 people (including members, regular attendees, students, and children) in a city of approximately 91,000. To learn more about Bethel, we invite you to read our statement of faith and core values, discover our weekend service times, and listen to recent messages.
January 25, 2026
An important letter of reflection and repentance from Bill, Kris, and Dann on behalf of the Bethel Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
February 3, 2025
A statement from Bethel Church Leadership to Bethel Alumni regarding Shawn Bolz.
July 15, 2022
On Wednesday, July 13, 2022, Beni Johnson, beloved wife and Co-Senior Leader to Bill Johnson, passed away surrounded by family and friends after a prolonged battle with cancer.