Chris Tomlin Co-writer Ed Cash Part of a Prosperity Gospel Cult
- Updated Dec 15, 2015
Wayne “Pops” Jolley leads The Gathering International, a group of followers who submit to Jolley’s directives no matter what.
According to Christianity Today, Jolley’s followers believe he is a prophet and give him gifts and money in exchange for his blessing.
He tells his followers that congregations with church boards are led by demons.
“That’s why we don’t have boards,” he told his followers in a sermon posted to the Gathering’s website. “We just don’t. … I am criticized for that. I am looked down upon for that. And I am called a cult leader. I really don’t care.”
Well-known Christian music songwriter Ed Cash, who has collaborated with Chris Tomlin, is also part of The Gathering, and leads worship for Saturday night services.
Although many like Cash are invested in The Gathering, others have come out saying that Jolley took their money and ruined their lives.
“It is only a matter of time until judgment comes,” Jolley told his followers in response to these accusations. “And that judgment will fall and fall hard upon that person.”
Jolley also teaches that any gift given to the spiritual father (Jolley) will be repaid doubly.
In some instances, former members reported that Jolley asked them to cut ties with their families who weren’t in The Gathering International. He also asked them for their passwords to their computers.
A 2008 tax return showed that Jolley’s ministry took in about $442,000 and spent only $20,000 on radio broadcasts. No money has been sent overseas.
In 2013, the Jolleys’ salary was $161,540. They also have a $20,250 housing allowance.
Publication date: December 15, 2015
