Atlanta, CA — Creflo Dollar, a well-known pastor of the Atlanta-area World Changers Church International, is asking for at least $60 million in donations so that he can purchase a new luxury jet to “spread the gospel”. He has requested that 200,000 people commit to a donation of $300 or more.
He said that after those incidents, he “knew that it was time to begin to believe God for a new airplane.”
In the video, he has support from various parishioners, a pilot, a project manager and even the President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, encouraging all to donate so that Dollar’s church can purchase a new aircraft.
In soliciting the donations, there is also a message on his web site that reads: “We need your help to continue reaching a lost and dying world for the Lord Jesus Christ. Your love gift of any amount will be greatly appreciated.”
Why $60 million?
The jet that Dollar wants to purchase is called a GulfstreamG650, a twin-engine business jet that travels at up to 610 miles per hour. It can be equipped with a full kitchen and bar, and a variety of entertainment features including satellite phones and wireless Internet. The jet uses two Rolls-Royce BR725 engines.
It retails for more than $60 million, and is a very common choice amongst wealthy business men. Other owners of this jet include the founder of Nike, the CEO of Formula One, and the CEO of Wynn Resorts. Even Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, is on the waiting list for one.
Prosperity gospel
Dollar is known for, and has been criticized for, his style of teaching what is often referred to “prosperity gospel” – a religious doctrine that teaches that financial blessing is the will of God for Christians, and that faith, positive speech, and donations to Christian ministries will increase one’s wealth and health.
Past troubles with the law
In 2012, he was arrested for allegedly attacking and choking his teenage daughter, but he denied the charges and the charges were later dropped.
