Global megachurch network Hillsong Church is continuing to experience a reduction in its international footprint, following the departure of its affiliated congregation in Russia, according to recent reporting.
The church formerly known as Hillsong Moscow-along with its related ministry in St. Petersburg-has officially separated from the Hillsong global network and has rebranded as Legacy Church. The transition marks the latest chapter in a broader pattern of downsizing and disaffiliation across Hillsong's once-expansive international network.
Local pastors Vadim and Anna Feshchenko, who now lead Legacy Church, indicated that the decision followed a season of prayer, reflection, and discernment. The congregation is now operating independently, with updated governance structures and leadership oversight distinct from Hillsong Global. References to the Russian church have been removed from Hillsong's official website and international directory.
The Russian exit comes amid increasingly strict regulations governing foreign-affiliated religious organizations in the country, as well as ongoing challenges facing Hillsong worldwide. Over the past several years, the church has undergone significant restructuring following leadership scandals, internal governance reforms, and the departure or rebranding of multiple international campuses.
In the United States and Europe, several former Hillsong churches-including prominent locations in major cities-have similarly chosen to disaffiliate, opting instead to pursue independent ministry identities. Collectively, these moves reflect a shift away from the centralized global model that fueled Hillsong's rapid expansion during the 1990s and 2000s.
Once regarded as one of the most influential global church brands-particularly through its internationally recognized worship music-Hillsong now finds itself navigating a period of consolidation and recalibration. Church leaders have previously acknowledged the need for reform, accountability, and a renewed focus on local church health following years of controversy and organizational upheaval.
While Hillsong remains active in several regions, the departure of its Russian congregation underscores the ongoing contraction of the network and raises further questions about the future shape and scale of the global ministry.
