Latest from Elle Hardy
The Global Rise of Narco-Pentecostalism
Brazilian prosperity theology has made it possible for pastors and their congregants to be “involved in the drug trade and human trafficking, even in prostitution, and yet still see themselves as loyal and steadfast Christians,” Chesnut says, even if outsiders see “great contradictions in slinging an AK-47 across your shoulder after you've attended church.”
In Tragedy’s Wake, Kenya Grapples With How To Combat Dangerous Cults
In what has become known as the Shakahola Massacre, Paul Mackenzie is alleged to have forced his Kenyan congregants to fast to death so that they could meet Jesus. Over 400 deaths have been confirmed, prompting a rethink of the boundaries of church and state.
The Religious Zealot Presiding Over Ethiopia’s Five Conflicts
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed touts himself as a divinely ordained emperor destined to lead his nation to greatness, even as he plunges it into multiple bloody conflicts.