Churches must face corruption demons — SACC president Sipuka
'We have witnessed pastors living in mansions while congregations struggle in poverty, church leaders demanding 'seed offerings' that promise miracles that never materialise, denominational officials who misappropriate funds meant for community development and churches that become family businesses rather than houses of worship.
'The prosperity gospel, which promises material wealth in exchange for financial contributions, has become a form of spiritual extortion that preys on the desperation of the poor.'
If the church calls for action against corrupt individuals in government and business, it must also apply to clergy who engage in corruption, he said.
The SACC is the biggest forum for churches in the country, with its members including the Catholic, Methodist, Grace Bible, Gereformeerde Kerk in Suid Afrika, Dutch Reformed, Presbyterian and Baptist churches.
Sipuka said any suggestion for a different treatment for churches when dealing with corruption would be nothing less than clericalism, which unconsciously promotes the use of clerical status for selfish reasons.
'Worldwide, the church is regarded as a moral authority, and when it is also corrupt, its role as a beacon of goodness is discredited, and people's hope in the church to overcome the cancer of corruption is eroded.'
He said the church's role in combating corruption is not optional; it is prophetic.
Churches' financial records should be transparent, their governance structures accountable and lifestyles consistent with preachings.
'We must speak boldly against corruption, regardless of who is involved.'
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