Founder and presiding pastor of Salvation Ministries David Ibiyeomie has sparked widespread reactions online after issuing strict guidelines on conduct during church services.
In a video shared on social media the cleric cautioned worshippers against chewing gum drinking water and using mobile phones while in church. He stressed that such behaviours were inappropriate and showed a lack of reverence in the house of God.
Addressing his congregation Pastor Ibiyeomie said members should avoid chewing gum describing it as disrespectful and urged those who need to drink water to step outside the church auditorium. He also advised against using phones during service insisting that worshippers should remain fully focused.
He further stated that such actions were indecent and added that well known Nigerian pastors including Enoch Adeboye and David Oyedepo do not engage in similar practices while on the altar.
His comments quickly generated mixed reactions across social media platforms. Some users supported his call for discipline and reverence in worship spaces arguing that people should show more respect in religious gatherings.
Others however questioned the practicality of the directives especially in cases involving health conditions or the use of smartphones for Bible reading and note taking. Critics argued that modern church services often require flexibility especially with digital tools widely used by congregants.
Salvation Ministries headquartered in Port Harcourt Rivers State remains one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal churches with a significant national and international following.
The debate continues online as worshippers and observers weigh issues of discipline reverence and practicality in modern day church practices.
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