Carl Lentz, the one-time pastor to pop star Justin Bieber and pastor of Hillsong's New York City location has been fired by the church.

In a statement posted online, Hillson founder and Global Senior Pastor, Brian Houston, says that Lentz's employment has been terminated by the church. "This action was not taken lightly and was done in the best interests of everyone, including Pastor Carl."

The decision was made, Houston says, "following ongoing discussions in relation to leadership issues and breaches of trust, plus a recent revelation of moral failures."

Further specifics were not given in the statement and Houston says "It would not be appropriate for us to go into detail about the events that led to this decision. Our focus at this time is to honour God and pastorally care for our East Coast church community as well as the Lentz family."

Lentz, 41, has been at the New York City location since it started in 2010, along with Joel Houston, son of Brian Houston. Lentz is well known for running in circles with famous people, including having a close relationship with Bieber. The Canadian pop star even lived with Lentz for a short time in 2014.

Lentz has been quiet on his usually active social media platforms since the start of September and has not issued any statements at this time.

"We thank Pastors Carl and Laura for the way they have served faithfully and sacrificially since the start of Hillsong NYC and for contributing so significantly to the countless lives that have been transformed for Jesus Christ through this ministry," Houston's statement says.

"They have a heart for people and we are confident that after a time of rest and restoration, God will use Carl in another way outside of Hillsong church. In terminating his tenure, we in no way want to diminish the good work he did here."