Merchants of Miracles

The popularity of the American style born again Christianity in the Congo has proven to be an intriguing topic by film director Gilles Remiche. Charismatic prophets who claim to be able to cure illnesses and achieve material wealth are running the congregations in Kinshasa. Their promises attract many desperate Congolese to their churches. After all, in a country without hope, torn apart by war, poverty and disease, it seems that everyone is on the lookout for a miracle.

Scenes

Power of Gospel, the Congo
In this clip, prophet Osby Ntumba is seen preaching to people in the Kinshasa streets. He talks about the positive influence of the Gospel on the African Public of the Congo and it’s inhabitants.
Congolese prophet Denis Lessie Prophet and reverend Denis Lessie, nicknamed Prophet of Nations, is followed on his way to a church where he will give blessings to the people attending. In this clip he’s also being interviewed about his work for a tv show.
Public ceremony by Congolese prophet
This clip contains images of prophet Sikatenda of the Church of the Living God preaching to a crowd in the Congo. The crowd is cheering and praying as the prophet brings across his message.
Buying a blessing
Here, we see a service in the Bethel Church in the Congo. The reverend is leading the ceremony and the followers are asked to give financial compensation.
Prophet Denis Lessie about power
Famous prophet Denis Lessie talks about his power and his wishes to become even more powerful.
AIDS patient not cured by prayers
A young woman, suffering from AIDS, visits the doctor in order to get the results from her HIV test. She has been praying and received blessings at her church, she hopes she’s been cured from the disease.
Federation of Congolese Christian Leaders
At the Federation of Congolese Christian Leaders, headed by prophet Denis Lessie, vice president Azarias Ruberwa gives a speech.