Concern as Tanzania’s Pentecostal Council Condemns Use of Prayer Aids in Controversy

By Adonis Byemelwa

The Pentecostal Churches Council of Tanzania (CPCT) has made headlines with a decisive statement condemning the use of prayer aids by certain religious leaders. This announcement was made in the presence of Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa at the climax of the CPCT Bishops’ Council meeting, which took place at the Miyuji Bible College auditorium in Dodoma on July 19, 2024.

Dr. Baraka Kihoza, CPCT Secretary General, expressed the council’s disapproval of religious leaders who use items such as anointing oil, holy water, cakes, cloths, salt, and soil during their services. “Tanzanians should recognize that these leaders are not true Pentecostals,” Dr. Kihoza asserted. “They contradict the principles of Pentecostalism, which is based on faith in the name of Jesus Christ, not on physical items.”

Dr. Kihoza explained that these leaders misuse biblical scriptures to profit from selling spiritual services. “These leaders are exploiting the faith of believers for commercial purposes. They are using biblical scriptures out of context to justify their actions,” he said. He emphasized that true Pentecostal faith focuses on miracles and healing through Jesus Christ alone, not through material items.

The CPCT’s announcement comes against the backdrop of increasing scrutiny over the commercialization of spiritual services. Recent investigations have revealed that some church leaders are profiting significantly from the sale of prayer aids.

These include anointing oils, holy water, and prayer cloths, which are sold at high prices, imposing financial burdens on their followers. Reports indicate that some leaders are charging up to Sh10,000 for a bottle of prayer water, Sh20,000 for anointing oil, and Sh30,000 to Sh60,000 for prayer cloths.

Dr. Barnabas Mtokambali, Chairman of CPCT, highlighted the need for transparency and adherence to Pentecostal values. “Our faith is founded on the word of God, not on material items. We must uphold the integrity of our beliefs and ensure that spiritual services are not commercialized,” he said.

The situation has been further complicated by the controversial figure of Diana Bundala from Mwanza, also known as Zumarid. Bundala has attracted significant attention for her provocative claims and actions. She refers to herself as “God under the sun” and has been vocal in her criticism of Jesus Christ. Her church, which was previously shut down due to controversy, has made a comeback, drawing attention for its unorthodox practices.

Bundala claims to have had a divine encounter in heaven where she met Abraham and Joshua. She describes seeing golden skyscrapers and engaging in a one-on-one conversation with God. These claims have sparked outrage and debate, with critics questioning the legitimacy of her revelations. Bundala’s church has faced accusations of exploiting her followers with these extravagant claims. Her return has further fueled controversy and raised questions about her credibility.

The commercialization of spiritual services and the rise of controversial figures like Bundala have raised concerns among social analysts and religious scholars. There are growing fears that the integrity of religious faith is being undermined by leaders who exploit their followers for financial gain. Reports have emerged of individuals being coerced into giving up their possessions, including land and savings, in exchange for spiritual blessings promised by these leaders.

During a recent prayer service, a witness described how congregants were encouraged to bring their goods as offerings. “I was told to bring my capital to the altar to receive more blessings,” said one attendee. “This is part of my savings, which I hope will bring me prosperity.” The witness noted that many were convinced that their contributions would lead to significant financial returns, highlighting the pressure exerted on followers by these leaders.

The CPCT’s statement has been met with a mix of support and skepticism. Some view it as a necessary step to curb the exploitation of believers, while others question whether it will be enough to address the broader issues within the religious community. The CPCT’s call for adherence to Pentecostal values and rejection of materialistic practices has been endorsed by many within the faith community who believe in maintaining the purity of their beliefs.

Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, who attended the CPCT meeting, reassured the public that the upcoming local government and general elections in 2025 would be conducted fairly. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and religious institutions in addressing societal challenges.

“We appreciate the support of religious institutions in advancing national development,” Majaliwa said. “They play a crucial role in addressing issues such as poverty, poor education, and health. We must continue to work together to achieve our common goals.”

Majaliwa also urged Tanzanians to register for the upcoming elections and to participate actively in the democratic process. “It is important for citizens to engage in the electoral process and ensure that their voices are heard,” he said.

The controversy surrounding figures like Diana Bundala and the commercialization of spiritual services highlights the need for vigilance and accountability in religious practices. As the CPCT continues to advocate for the principles of Pentecostalism, there is a growing call for greater oversight and regulation of religious activities to prevent exploitation and maintain the integrity of faith.

The CPCT’s statement represents a significant response to the growing concerns about the misuse of prayer aids and the rise of controversial religious leaders. The call for adherence to core Pentecostal values and the rejection of materialistic practices reflects a broader effort to ensure that spiritual services remain genuine and aligned with established religious principles. The situation with Diana Bundala and similar figures underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the religious community in navigating the complex intersection of faith, commerce, and credibility.