This marks the second time CCC has restored Collier to ministry. In September 2025, Collier shared that he was “re-ordained as a Pastor and restored back into ministry officially by Dr. A.R. Bernard and Pastor Jamaal Bernard.” While it remains unclear why Collier required restoration, the former Hillsong Atlanta pastor said, “It was truly an emotional moment for me and for so many who have walked with me through an extremely challenging and difficult journey over the past five years.”
Sam Collier Tells Congregation He Is a ‘Heterosexual’
Before beginning his sermon, Jamaal Bernard told the congregation he needed to handle some “family business.”
Bernard then read a statement that had been emailed and posted online:
The Christian Church in America has struggled with two critical failures: the transition of leadership and the restoration of fallen leaders. Both have too often revealed a painful imbalance between grace and truth, leaving the Church vulnerable to charges of hypocrisy. In light of recent tabloid-style coverage that prioritizes scandal and spectacle over integrity, I am issuing this statement re-affirming CCC’s commitment to accountability, grace and the restorative power of Christ. Pastor Sam Collier came to CCC as an anointed and authentic, yet flawed human, quite some time after the divorce from his ex-wife. In spite of the recent publicity campaign we are committed to the healing process we began with Pastor Sam in 2024. We also remain committed to CCC’s Atlanta campus and are excited to unveil the pastoral leadership team that will guide our Atlanta family into 2026. We ask that you keep Pastor Sam and his family in your prayers during this time.
Collier was met with a standing ovation from CCC Atlanta’s small congregation as he joined Bernard on stage.
“I know there have been questions, and some of you have seen the stuff and whatnot,” Bernard said. “But in the climate that we are in, everything is judged. Me saying ‘Hello’ can be taken…[and] next thing you know it’s a whole situation.”
Without providing details, Bernard shared that they have been working with Collier slowly and told the popular Atlanta pastor that he has been missed. Bernard’s remarks were followed by shouts of, “We love you,” directed at Collier from the congregation.
“Well I’m still here,” Collier said as he addressed the church. “I just want to thank all of the messages that came through. The Instagrams, the emails, some of you all cursed me out in the DM—you’re like, ‘Get back to church now,’ and I just really appreciate it.”
“It has been two years of unexpected trial. You could not tell me I would still be here today navigating this.,” Collier continued. “Over the past two years, it’s been difficult because you have your integrity questioned. As of recently, your sexuality questioned, which has always been intact.”
Collier emphasized, “And will always remain intact. Heterosexual!”
