Even a rudimentary internet search will reveal several websites dedicated to the exposure of the House of Prayer Christian Church. There are even Twitter and Facebook groups dedicated to exposing the sect as evil, unchristian and cruel. In many cases those levelling the criticism were members of the House of Prayer at one time or family and friends of members.
One of the main themes of the criticisms levelled against the church is that it forces its members to donate all their possessions to the church, thereby leaving them utterly dependent upon the church. There are even some that say that certain members are required to quit their regular jobs. Once the members are totally dependent upon the church, they are easy to manipulate, or so the critics allege.
Many critics complain that the church aims to break up families. Young members are indoctrinated to believe that they must cast away their family and loved ones because the church can provide in all their needs. Parents have testified that their children cut off all contact once they become members of the church. Other parents say that their children have changed and that they suspect serious indoctrination.
Relentless critics have tried to convince the authorities to launch investigations into the House of Prayer Christian Church. Not much has been done thus far, however. The authorities have made it clear that they cannot and will not investigate a church unless there is reasonable proof that a crime or crimes have been committed. The voluntary donation of money and assets is not a crime.
On the official website of the House of Prayer the church say that it has a seminary and that the students and staff are expected to turn away from all worldly affairs. This is to allow them to channel all their energies into their own spiritual growth and to pursue the mission of the church. Critics say that this means that the students and staff may not own property or earn money in any manner.
The church has not responded to the attacks levelled against it, apart from publishing a number of glowing reports and letters from some of its members. The church also state that the only requirements of their members is that they spend as much time as possible in prayer and in attending services. Critics say that members are coerced to write positive reports.
Those defending the church point out that some of the criticism levelled against the church come perilously close to hate speech. Rude language and allegations bordering on slander are common. They maintain that this is a sure sign of envy and hatred and that most of the attacks are from disgruntled and envious previous members. Defenders of the church urge the public to see through these criticisms and to ignore unproven allegations.
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