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 quick online search reveals a number of sites that are highly critical of the House of Prayer Christian Churches. A number of complainants allege that they had to donate all their belongings to the church. In some cases this even included the family home. Some even say that they were coerced into resigning their jobs, so as to be able to spend more time on matters pertaining to the church.
Another big bone of contention is that the church seems to break families apart. There are online witnesses that say their sons and daughters have joined the church only to drift away from the family. Some critics go as far as to say that the church threatened such young members and warned them to stay away from the negative influence of their families.
Some online critics say that they have approached the authorities and there are a few that even claim to have laid criminal charges. Thus far, however, nothing has come of these complaints. The authorities can only investigate if there are crimes committed. They are also very careful not to infringe upon the rights of individuals to associate with whomever they please and to become a member of any religion they choose.
The House of Prayer Christian Church has not responded to the attacks against it. They maintain that the church is a spiritual home for those that choose to be members. Nobody is forced to do anything against their will, although members are encouraged to pray regularly, to attend services and to become involved in mission work. There are also no shortages of glowing recommendations from church members.
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.
There can be no doubt that the House of Prayer has many enemies. Many of those criticising the church are previous members or they have family that are still members. The fact remains that there is not much that can be done when an adult willingly join a specific religious group.
Even a quick online search reveals a number of sites that are highly critical of the House of Prayer Christian Churches. A number of complainants allege that they had to donate all their belongings to the church. In some cases this even included the family home. Some even say that they were coerced into resigning their jobs, so as to be able to spend more time on matters pertaining to the church.
Another big bone of contention is that the church seems to break families apart. There are online witnesses that say their sons and daughters have joined the church only to drift away from the family. Some critics go as far as to say that the church threatened such young members and warned them to stay away from the negative influence of their families.
Some online critics say that they have approached the authorities and there are a few that even claim to have laid criminal charges. Thus far, however, nothing has come of these complaints. The authorities can only investigate if there are crimes committed. They are also very careful not to infringe upon the rights of individuals to associate with whomever they please and to become a member of any religion they choose.
The House of Prayer Christian Church has not responded to the attacks against it. They maintain that the church is a spiritual home for those that choose to be members. Nobody is forced to do anything against their will, although members are encouraged to pray regularly, to attend services and to become involved in mission work. There are also no shortages of glowing recommendations from church members.
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.
There can be no doubt that the House of Prayer has many enemies. Many of those criticising the church are previous members or they have family that are still members. The fact remains that there is not much that can be done when an adult willingly join a specific religious group.
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