Reverend Eastwood Anaba, the founder of Eastwood Anaba Ministries, voiced concerns in a recently leaked YouTube video on the pervasive focus on entertainment in churches, asserting that it compromises the fundamental intent of worship.
Reverend Anaba highlights the dependency on musical elements and performances in churches, stating, “If you take away all the music and entertainment, many of our churches will die. The entertainment in our churches is sometimes too much, overshadowing the true essence of worship.”
He criticises the trend of extended musical sessions during conventions, where pastors are invited to speak, emphasising the need for a shift in focus from entertainment to the spiritual needs of congregants.
Drawing comparisons with other establishments like kiosks, mosques, lorry stations, and chop bars, Reverend Anaba underscores the clear purpose each serves without compromising its core function.
He questions why churches, unlike “chop bars,” often prioritise entertainment over their primary purpose of spiritual guidance and healing.
Reverend Anaba advocates for a return to the fundamental purpose of the church, emphasising healing and salvation over mere entertainment.
He challenges pastors to prioritise addressing the spiritual needs of their congregants rather than delivering captivating sermons solely for the purpose of offering collection.
While the exact date of the sermon remains unclear, there is speculation that the video may spark a debate leading to potential reforms within the church’s practices.
Some argue that music and entertainment play a crucial role in psychological and spiritual healing, adding complexity to the ongoing discussion about the balance between entertainment and the core mission of churches.