Founder and presiding pastor David Ibiyeomie has generated reactions online after advising church members to avoid chewing gum, drinking water, and using mobile phones during worship services.
The cleric made the remarks while addressing his congregation during a church service, stressing the importance of maintaining reverence and proper conduct inside the house of God.
In a video that surfaced online on Tuesday, Ibiyeomie criticised the habit of chewing gum during service, saying worshippers should behave respectfully while in church.
“I direct a warning to all members… nobody comes to church during service and be chewing gum. People chew gum and drop it on the floor, and sometimes others mistakenly step on it. It is not neat, it is not ethical, it is not decent,” he said.
He further warned worshippers to desist from chewing gum in church, stressing that such behaviour is inappropriate in a sacred environment.
“Stop chewing gum in church, you are not a goat. If you want to chew gum, do it at home or after service. If you want to keep your mouth fresh, use mouthwash. Gum chewing is not necessary in church,” he added.
The pastor also criticised the habit of disposing chewing gum improperly within the auditorium, describing it as careless and disrespectful to the environment.
Turning to the issue of drinking water during services, he discouraged the practice, insisting that worshippers should step outside if they need to drink.
“Don’t drink water in church. If you want to drink water, go outside. You are in the presence of God,” he said.
He referenced traditions in some Christian denominations, stating that such practices are uncommon in more liturgical settings.
“Have you seen a Catholic priest drink water on the altar? No. If you have been to Anglican churches, you won’t see that either,” he noted, contrasting them with what he described as Pentecostal practices.
He further said that respected Nigerian pastors such as Enoch Adeboye and David Oyedepo do not drink water while ministering on the altar.
“You won’t see Adeboye drink water on the altar, you won’t see Oyedepo drink water on the altar. Those things are not decent,” he added.
Ibiyeomie also advised members to avoid using mobile phones during service, urging full attention and discipline during worship.
About the Author
