The way in which televangelists exploit the finances of congregation members was the focal point of a discourse discussion that took place on 4 March as part of the nineteenth US Woordfees. However, this discourse moved away from a typical discussion format, and embodied the structure of a church service.
The panel included Louw Barnardt, founder and Managing Director at OutsourcedCFO, Dion Forster, Theology lecturer and Francois van Niekerk, Theology author and pastor. Both of these panelists come from similar socio-economic backgrounds, which might have had an influence on the objectivity of the talk.
The discourse, which unpacked the way in which Mammon influences spirituality, was facilitated by Theo Geyser, an intellectual who is currently studying towards his PhD in Theology.
A short video opened the talk which showed the materialistic nature of televangelism and how some pastors misuse their positions as religious leaders to exploit the finances of their congregations.
It also showed how such pastors preach that what is sown financially will be reaped spiritually.
Herman Kleinhans, a popular Afrikaans folk singer, gave a performance at the discourse of his song, Mammon. He stated that he never would have imagined that he’d play his music in a church environment, as his songs are not gospel songs.
He said he was, however, able to see the great relevance of how his song illustrates the manipulation of money in all factions of society, including religion.
Ross Michaels with Herman Kleinhans, a popular Afrikaans folk singer who gave a performance of his song, Mammon. PHOTO: Cally Ballack
The discourse panelists also made mention of the fact that Stellenbosch is one of the most unequal towns in the world, and used the Steinhoff scandal as an example.
“How do we structure a society in Stellenbosch in which everyone can flourish?” asked Forster of the panel, after explaining the role money has in the town.
“It touched me deeply, it touched into my wounds. As much as I want and appreciate financial security, my deep hunger is spiritual guidance.
“I can’t believe I have a tear in my eye, but this is what the discourse has done to me,” said Gabriele Kritzinger, attendee of the discourse.
– Cally Ballack and Ross Michaels.
(This article has been edited for quality purposes.)