Los Angeles-based pastor Kathryn Krick is addressing accusations that her ministry, Five-Fold Church (5F Church), operates like a cult, a label she strongly rejects. The controversy re-emerged following the viral spread of videos from a recent book signing in Texas, which showed attendees exhibiting intense physical reactions, including shaking and collapsing, as Krick prayed over them.
These clips gained significant traction on social media, drawing both support and criticism. While some viewers interpreted the reactions as demonstrations of divine power, others questioned the practices and suggested an unhealthy level of devotion to the pastor. In response, Krick stated that her ministry has always been centered on Christian principles and individuals' encounters with God, not on herself.
"My heart has always been to point people to Jesus," Krick said in a statement. "I have never desired to build a platform around myself, but to see people encounter the love, freedom, healing, and power of God." She argued that labeling the church a "cult" without understanding its congregation or practices is unfair to the thousands who freely choose to participate.
Krick, 35, has cultivated a large online presence through videos featuring faith healings, deliverance ministry, and worship services. Her social media accounts have garnered hundreds of thousands of followers, with clips of worshippers falling or trembling during prayer frequently accumulating millions of views.
However, the ministry has also drawn public criticism from some prominent Christian commentators. Bible teacher Mike Winger has labeled Krick a "cult leader" and challenged her teachings, while pastor Chris Rosebrough has expressed concern that some followers may be directing admiration towards Krick that should be reserved for Jesus.
Supporters of Krick's ministry have shared personal testimonies, citing spiritual healing, freedom from addiction, emotional restoration, and renewed faith as evidence of the ministry's positive impact. "The fruit of this ministry is people being set free from oppression, receiving healing, being transformed by the power of God, growing closer to Jesus, and walking in the abundant life He has promised," Krick stated.
Krick also drew a parallel between current criticisms and historical instances where spiritual movements have been misunderstood. "I welcome honest questions and respectful conversations," she said. "My prayer is that people would look beyond headlines and see the countless lives that are being changed by Jesus. All glory belongs to Him."
The debate surrounding Krick and 5F Church continues to divide opinions within the Christian community and among social media users, with supporters viewing the services as authentic spiritual experiences and critics remaining skeptical of the ministry's methods.