South African Pastor Forces Congregation to Eat Grass for Spiritual Connection

In a perplexing and controversial episode, Pastor Lesego Daniel of Rabboni Centre Ministries in Garankuwa, north of Pretoria, has gained attention for instructing his followers to eat grass, claiming that it will bring them closer to God. The unorthodox methods employed by Pastor Daniel, which include stamping on congregants, have sparked widespread criticism, while some devout followers staunchly defend these unconventional practices.

Despite facing disapproval from thousands, members of the congregation maintain their allegiance to Pastor Daniel, who argues that humans can consume anything to sustain their bodies. Rosemary Phetha, a 21-year-old law student, claims that eating grass healed her sore throat that had persisted for over a year.

Another congregant, Doreen Kgatle, a 27-year-old stroke survivor, attests to gaining strength after following the pastor's directive to eat grass. However, photos posted on the ministry's Facebook page paint a stark contrast, depicting followers falling ill in the toilets, with women clutching their stomachs and men vomiting in the sink. 

The pastor's unconventional actions during the service have ignited a wave of online complaints, emphasizing the contentious nature of blending spirituality with unusual physical practices within the religious community.

Critics argue that such practices raise ethical concerns, questioning the impact on the well-being of followers and the appropriateness of a religious leader instructing people to engage in activities that could jeopardize their health. The images of congregants experiencing discomfort and illness further fuel the debate about the boundaries of religious practices and the potential exploitation of believers.

The controversy surrounding Pastor Daniel's methods highlights the ongoing tension between religious freedom, personal choice, and the responsibility of religious leaders to ensure the welfare of their congregants. As discussions unfold online and within the broader religious community, the case of Rabboni Centre Ministries prompts reflection on the limits and accountability of religious leaders in their pursuit of unconventional spiritual practices.