Los Angeles-based pastor Kathryn Krick is again facing accusations that her ministry resembles a cult, following viral videos of her book signing events in Texas where attendees were seen shaking and convulsing during prayer.
Krick, who leads Five-Fold Church (also known as 5F Church) in Los Angeles, has garnered a significant online following with over half a million Instagram followers and a growing presence on TikTok. Her supporters often share accounts of miraculous healings and spiritual deliverances attributed to her ministry.
The recent controversy emerged after Krick held events to promote her new book, "Ignite Revival." Footage shared from these gatherings depicted attendees falling to the ground, trembling, and appearing to convulse as Krick administered prayer and signed books. Krick shared one video on Instagram, writing, "How God moved in that bookstore among the people amazed us!" Supporters claimed individuals experienced healing from illnesses, emotional trauma, and spiritual oppression.
One attendee described the experience as life-changing, stating, "I will never forget how powerfully I was touched by the anointing at this book signing. I couldn’t stay on my feet as I stepped forward to have my book signed! So many were beautifully touched."
However, the dramatic physical reactions have drawn skepticism from some observers. One social media user questioned the nature of the manifestations, asking, "Whoa. A lot happening here. I’m just wondering, as a Christian who has received and seen a ton of healing, why with @apostlekathrynkrick do these people tremble and shake and seize? What’s so different about this specific healing vs others?"
Krick's ministry began approximately nine years ago as a small worship gathering after she moved to Los Angeles. She has previously spoken about struggling with insecurity while preaching, despite feeling a divine calling. Her rapid growth, largely fueled by social media, features short videos of her healing services that frequently garner millions of views.
She has credited her spiritual mentor, Tanzanian minister Prophet GeorDavie, with shaping her ministry and aiding her ability to perform faith healings and cast out demons. These claims, however, have become a focal point for criticism from other Christian leaders.
Bible teacher Mike Winger has publicly criticized Krick's ministry on Facebook, labeling her a "cult leader" who promotes "false teachings" and questionable spiritual practices. He has also questioned the support Krick receives from prominent Christian figures.
Pastor Chris Rosebrough has similarly accused Krick on YouTube of accepting an excessive level of admiration from followers, suggesting such devotion should be reserved solely for Jesus Christ.
Despite the criticism, Krick has stated on Instagram that opposition to her work stems from jealousy and misunderstanding, while her supporters maintain their belief in genuine encounters with the divine. As videos of the events continue to circulate, the debate over Krick's ministry persists, with supporters viewing the scenes as miraculous and critics expressing concern for vulnerable believers.