Kenneth Copeland, an 87-year-old televangelist known for his Christian nationalist views, recently stirred up controversy by leading a fervent prayer against the LGBTQ+ community during the Rescue America Tour, a Christian evangelical political program.
In a broadcast, Copeland beseeched God to oversee “school board elections, judges, sheriffs, mayors, city managers, and college presidents,” declaring, “Those that refuse to hold to your will, remove them and put someone in there that will.” He went on to pray against what he called “the homosexual lesbian spirits that are trying to ruin our children and ruin this nation.”
During his passionate plea, Copeland lamented the “majoring on perversion instead of the peace of God,” targeting those he claims are fighting against “little babies” and “perverted ideas.” He declared, “We break the power of the homosexual lesbian spirits!” in a dramatic tone, suggesting they are “under our feet” as believers.
This isn’t Copeland’s first brush with controversy. He previously made headlines for insisting on in-person worship during COVID-19 lockdowns, claiming that Jesus had given Trump immunity from the virus, despite the fact that Trump contracted it while in office. He even boasted that he could heal followers through television.
With a net worth bolstered by his church’s wealth, Copeland lives in a lavish $6.3 million mansion and flies around in a $20 million private jet. His opulent lifestyle has drawn criticism, particularly after comedian John Oliver lambasted him on Last Week Tonight for his tax-exempt fortune.
In 2021, Copeland faced allegations of sexual abuse from former adult film star Madyson Marquette, adding to his controversial reputation in the religious sphere.