A church member has sparked online debate after revealing he was banned from officiating in his church for not contributing money toward his pastor’s birthday celebration.
The man, identified as @Ayibatonye01 on X (formerly Twitter), shared his ordeal on the platform, stating that he was asked to send money for the pastor’s birthday, but he chose not to, as the contribution was said to be voluntary.
Despite this, he was subsequently banned from officiating during the Sunday service, with the possibility of further punishments.
In his post, @Ayibatonye01 expressed frustration, highlighting the financial pressure placed on church members despite the claim that the contribution was optional. He said:
“Because I didn’t send money for papa’s birthday, I am banned from officiating this Sunday, and more punishment might be meted out, after you have said it’s a voluntary contribution. You aren’t even minding the financial capacity of some. Others have sent, but me, I will not send…”
The post quickly gained traction on social media, with several users weighing in on the situation. Some criticised the growing culture of financial expectations within churches, while others expressed disbelief at the incident.
Social Media Reactions:
– @AjeboDanny: “Nigerian pastors will not rest till they render all of you useless. You never see anything 😂”
– @Austeiin: “You can’t be serious with this tweet. This is a joke, right? Tell me it’s a joke, abeg.”
– @Aynoniii: “Church owners aren’t concerned about the problems of the masses. As long as your problems aren’t affecting your tithes and offerings, you’re okay.”
– @poshest_hope: “I won’t even lie, this attitude is becoming a norm in the church. They don’t even care how members are surviving in these tough times.”
