By Teboho Moloi
HARRISMITH – A senior leader in the South African Council of Churches (SACC), Bishop Shadrack Moloi, has sounded the alarm over corruption in both government and the pulpit, warning that some ministers are exploiting churches for personal gain.
Moloi said certain pastors are “commercialising” religion, charging congregants thousands of rand for access, instead of serving communities.
At the same time, he revealed deep divisions within the SACC over the anti-corruption efforts of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“We are divided. Some believe the president is acting against corruption, while others say he is not doing enough,” Moloi said.
He stressed that corruption continues to devastate ordinary South Africans, leaving communities without basic services.
“People are stuck with dirty water, no electricity, poor roads and limited access to healthcare,” he said.
Moloi confirmed that the SACC has engaged national and provincial authorities — including in the Free State — in efforts to tackle corruption, citing weak church structures in the province as a challenge.
He added that the council plans further engagements with Ramaphosa as part of ongoing anti-corruption interventions.
On internal church matters, Moloi said there is mounting evidence that some ministers are failing in their duties.
“Some are turning the church into a business. Congregants are expected to pay R10 000 or even R20 000 just to be seen,” he said.
While the SACC has made recommendations to address the abuse, Moloi warned against state interference in religious institutions.
“We do not support government taking over the running of churches,” he said.
