South Africa recently got hit by a spate of sensational headlines highlighting the scourge of unscrupulous pastors and church leaders who’ve been abusing their discretion and subjecting congregants to appalling, in-humane abuses. Some of the incidents include the consumption of grass; snakes; rodents and petrol, as per an article in ‘Destiny Connect’. Yet what is the cause of these incidents, where congregants seek faith so desperately that they subject themselves to the consumption of snakes?
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL), is extending its reach to these churches that have come under the spotlight for their unorthodox practices by launching an investigation for the above mentioned incidents. Religious practices aren’t prohibited per se, it is how they are enacted and implemented which raises not only eyebrows, but also raises public concern. Enter the CRL, who intend on providing legal structure for religious institutions as per a report in ‘The Star’ publication.
The Constitution in Section 31 makes provision for ‘Cultural, religious and linguistic communities’ – which in turn grants persons the right to enjoy their culture and practice their religion. However these rights are being abused, and mal-administrated by ‘bogus’ and dubious pastors and or church leaders who therefore are not acting in good faith. In another article by ‘News 24’ it is reported that the SA Council of Churches (SACC) in alleviating the scourge of these dubious practices, has called for basic certification of pastors. It is also interesting to note that the issue of questionable church practices isn’t unique to South Africa, these practices are also prevalent in other jurisdictions such as Nigeria, and the USA where they’ve been reports of notorious cult practices.
Churches and places of religious worship have traditionally been known as sanctuaries where the poor and those in need of spiritual awakening could worship in peace. Churches have also been said to provide support structures for the community, and speak out against injustices – for instance the role churches played in the apartheid era. It is therefore tragic to witness such unreasonable acts and practices under the umbrella of the church. With legal structures and councils overlooking and monitoring these practices, it is hoped that the church will once more be restored as a place of worship, and not one of fame; notoriety; glamour and abuse of congregants.
*Sources Destiny Connect ‘Questionable churches to be investigated’
The Star
News24
The 1996 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa
