Cult Creates Doubt in the Minds of Jamaicans

Since the death of the notorious cult leader of the Pathways International Restoration and Kingdom Ministries, Kevin Smith, doubt has swirled in the minds of many Jamaicans regarding religious groupings. CVM Live examined the legalities surrounding churches with cult-like practices and the views of one church leader who says cults and churches are more alike than different.

The Pathways International and Kingdom Ministries have left many Jamaicans with lingering questions and many uncertainties. CVM Live spoke with Reverend Peter Espeut who is dean of studies at the Mico Theological Seminary.

There is growing ambivalence among Jamaicans, in accepting the church, traditionally viewed as a place of worship, as distinct from an organization with novel beliefs and practices, known as a cult.

Reverend Espeut also pointed out that his own catholic beliefs could be considered a cult-like practice, this as the holy communion which symbolizes the physical body of Jesus Christ. He says this latest exposure of deceased cult leader Kevin Smith will not sway persons away from well-grounded Christians.

He further explains that though every citizen is entitled to freedom of religion, individuals must go through the correct channels in establishing their religious organization.

More in this CVM Live story from Javine Mclean: