Online Attacks Against HOPCC Continue Unabated

By Mollie Burton


Religion has always been a dangerous topic and many people feel very strongly about their belief systems. There are numerous sects that operate all over the world and many of them are seen as radical. It is no wonder that much criticism is levelled at such sects. They are accused of leading their members astray, of deviating from the true teachings of the scriptures and even of misleading their members. HOPCC is one of those churches that are criticised regularly, sometimes even viciously.

Even a rudimentary online search quickly reveals that there is no shortage of complaints about and criticism of the House of Prayer Christian Churches. There are many critics that allege that they have become members of this church, only to be coerced into donating all their worldly possessions to the church, including their homes and cars. Some were even required to stop working at regular jobs so that they can dedicate more time to the church.

Some parents accuse the church of breaking up their families. They say that the Hope of Prayer make extravagant promises to youngsters on both a spiritual and material level. A number of parents allege that their children have been forbidden contact with their families. Other parents say that their children have stopped their studies or quit their jobs after joining the church.

Some of the people that have related their experiences with the church say that they have laid complaints to various authorities. However, according to them, the authorities are hesitant to act in a decisive manner. The right to enjoy freedom of association is an inalienable right and formal steps can only be instituted if there is clear evidence of a crime being committed.

It seems as if the House of Prayer Christian Church prefer to ignore the allegations made against them. The church maintains that it is Christian church that holds the core values of the gospel very dear. Their members are encouraged to spend as much time as possible attending services, prayer meetings and outreach programs. The church is also actively involved in missionary work.

The church is quite clear on one matter however. They unequivocally state that the staff and students at their seminary are expected to lead austere lives that are free from worldly matters and thoughts. Instead, they are to strive towards spiritual growth and they have to pour all their energies into the missions of the church. Some may argue that such a policy means getting rid of all their material possessions.

When reading some of the commentary on those sites dedicated to exposing the House of Prayer Christian Church as evil one cannot help but thinking that the writers of those comments are extremely angry. Some writers make wide sweeping comments and they even attach individuals connected to the church. Such material should be avoided by balanced individuals that know that a vitriolic attack is often not to be trusted.

Whether or not the House of Prayer is misleading its members or not is certainly not clear from the material that is available online. However, people have the right to decide for themselves and even to make choices that seem ill informed to others. Nobody can be forced to become or remain a member at any organization where they are not happy.




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