Summary
The article discusses young people feeling pressured to donate money to an emerging church, the London International Christian Church. Several students reported feeling isolated after joining and alleged that church members asked for financial information and pressured them into making donations. The church denies these allegations, stating that donations should be voluntary.
Key Facts
- The London International Christian Church (ICC) is a non-denominational church with a global network of over 130 churches.
- Young members reported feeling pressured to donate money they couldn't afford.
- Some students felt isolated after joining, moving into church-organized living arrangements.
- Allegations include asking for private financial information and encouraging recruitment of other students.
- The church should follow the Code of Fundraising Practice, which bans undue pressure for donations.
- The London ICC claims its teachings insist donations are voluntary and not coerced.
- Students joined when they were between 19 and 22 years old and said they felt vulnerable at university.
- The church aims to reach 400 members by the end of 2025.
