PASTOR MACKENZI:

Paul Mackenzie was a controversial figure in Kenya, known as the man behind Kilifi's cult church. He was the founder of the Finger of God Church, a religious organization based in Kilifi, a town on the coast of Kenya. The church was known for its extreme practices and beliefs, and many people referred to it as a "cult church." Mackenzie was a charismatic preacher, and some of his followers believed that he had supernatural powers, including the ability to heal the sick and perform miracles.

The Finger of God Church was founded in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity in Kilifi and the surrounding areas. The church attracted a diverse group of people, including poor and marginalized individuals, who were drawn to the church's message of hope and salvation. However, the church also faced criticism from many quarters, including other religious leaders, who saw its practices as extreme and unorthodox.

One of the most controversial practices of the Finger of God Church was the use of "holy water" as a cure for various ailments. Mackenzie claimed that the water had healing powers and could cure diseases such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and diabetes. Many of his followers believed in the power of the holy water and would drink it regularly or use it to bathe or wash their clothes.

However, the use of holy water was just one of the many controversial practices of the church. Mackenzie was known for his strict rules and regulations, and he expected his followers to follow them without question. The church had a strict dress code, and women were required to wear long dresses and cover their heads with a scarf or veil. Men were also required to dress modestly and wear long trousers and shirts.

In addition to the strict dress code, the Finger of God Church also had strict rules about food and diet. Mackenzie prohibited his followers from eating pork, shellfish, and other foods that he considered unclean. He also encouraged his followers to fast regularly and abstain from sex outside of marriage.

The strict rules and regulations of the church were not the only controversial aspects of the Finger of God Church. There were also reports of physical and psychological abuse of church members, including children. Some former members of the church reported that Mackenzie and other church leaders would beat and humiliate members who did not follow the church's rules or questioned its practices.

The church's practices and beliefs came under scrutiny from the Kenyan government in 2019. The government closed down the church and arrested Mackenzie and several other church leaders on charges of human trafficking and child abuse. The authorities accused the church of recruiting vulnerable children and adults and subjecting them to forced labor and other forms of exploitation.

Mackenzie and the other church leaders were held in custody while awaiting trial. However, in September 2020, Mackenzie died in custody, sparking controversy and raising questions about the circumstances of his death. Some of his followers claimed that he had been killed, while others suggested that he had died of natural causes.

The controversy surrounding Mackenzie's death highlighted the complex issues surrounding cults and their leaders. Cults can be incredibly persuasive, attracting vulnerable individuals who are searching for meaning or belonging. Cult leaders like Mackenzie often have a magnetic personality and can use their charisma to manipulate and control their followers.

The case of the Finger of God Church also highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse. The Kenyan government's actions to shut down the church and arrest its leaders send a clear message that such practices will not be tolerated in the country.

In conclusion, Paul Mackenzie was a controversial figure in Kenya, known as the man behind Kilifi's cult church. The Finger of God Church, which he founded, was known for its extreme practices and beliefs, including the use of holy water as a cure for various