Pastor of Cross Point Church Pete Wilson resigns after 14 years, citing fatigue and brokenness as reasons

Pete Wilson, founding pastor of Cross Point Church in Nashville, announced that he is stepping down as senior pastor after 14 years. During his Sunday sermon, the 42-year-old told the congregation that he can no longer lead the church and stated that his resignation is for the best interest of Cross Point.

"Leaders who lead on empty don't lead well and for some time now I've been leading on empty. And so I believe that the best thing for me to do is to step aside from Cross Point and so I am officially resigning as the pastor of Cross Point Church," Wilson declared.

He went on to tell his flock that he needs their prayers.

"I really need your prayers and I need your support. We've said that this is a church where it's OK to not be okay, and I'm not okay. I'm tired. I'm broken, and I just need some rest," he continued.

Wilson has expressed his optimism for the future of Cross Point and stated that he trusts in the ability of the church elders and leaders to move the church forward.

The board elders said in a statement that Wilson's resignation was solely his decision. They indicated that they tried to persuade him not to resign but the pastor was truly determined to take a break.

Church members are still optimistic in light of Wilson's resignation. Sarah Patton, a member who began attending services in 2010, stated that she is shocked by the announcement but she still has high hopes for Cross Point's future.

"The church isn't built on Pete.The church is built on Jesus," Patton said.

Wilson started Cross Point Church in 2002 with the help of his wife, Brandi. The church started with a small group meeting at Gower Elementary in Bellevue. In 2013, it was named as one of the fastest growing churches in America with almost 7,500 people attending its services weekly.