Controversial megachurch pastor Mark Driscoll has officially launched his new church in Scottsdale, Arizona. An unofficial meet was held at the venue on Easter Sunday.
A protester was reportedly outside The Trinity Church holding sign accusing Driscoll of being egotistical and power-hungry.
The 45 year old pastor has been mired in controversy since Mars Hill Church members accused him of mismanaging funds, racketeering, and abuse of power, claims Driscoll have labelled as "false and malicious" and called for their complete dismissal.
It was also reported that Driscoll had earlier agreed to a plan a restoration at Mars Hill Church, which he founded, but later alleged that forces came against him there, and that God led him to plant a new church somewhere else.
During the church's first service at 9 a.m., there were around 160 cars seen in the Trinity Church's parking lot, and later that day during the second service at 10:45 am, around 170 cars were reportedly seen attending.
A reporter was also present and requested to talk to Driscoll, but was denied the permission to do so.
In his first official sermon at the new location, Driscoll talked about the story of Jonah, in reference to his own journey leading up to the opening of the church.