Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
User submission
72.6K
622.6K
Someone Collects Pics Of Preachers Wearing Expensive Designer Items To Show The Other Side Of Church
About 37% of Americans attend the church at least once per week, a recent study has shown. However, would this number decrease if they knew their pastors wore luxury brand sneakers that are worth thousands of dollars? A 29-year-old man named Tyler has set out to find an answer to this question. Tyler has created an Instagram account called PreachersNSneakers, calling out famous pastors for their liking of overly luxury goods, and it has reached over 66K followers in just a few weeks.
RELATED:
Ron Carpenter
“I’ve been really into buying and reselling sneakers for the past few years,” Tyler told Fashionista. “On the other side, I’m an evangelical Christian and am pretty ingrained in that culture. One Sunday I was looking for a song I really like by Elevation Worship, and I realized the lead singer was wearing a pair of Yeezy 750s. They’re pretty rare; they resell for 800 bucks or so. I thought I knew about pastor salaries — my wife works for a church — and so I was like, ‘This does not compute. How is this guy wearing these kicks?'”
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
John Gray
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
“Then I started looking into the pastor at Elevation, Steven Furtick, and I came across a video where he was wearing this pair of shattered backboard Jordan 1s, the orange and black colorway,” Tyler said. “That’s one of my holy grail shoes. I looked them up on StockX, and the last sale was for like 900 bucks. I started deep diving these megachurches and I realized there’s a lot of people out here wearing like the hypest outfits, the highest resell kicks in the game. I made a video for my personal Instagram, and people responded really well. At that point was like, maybe there’s some ongoing comedic factor here.”
Carl Lentz
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
He has had hundreds of church leaders, and people in ministry message him ‘Thank you, keep doing what you’re doing. It’s prompting a discussion around what leadership and stewardship look like within the church.'”I also have this whole other component of the secular, questioning or atheist community that are messaging me like, ‘Dude, this is hilarious. It’s crazy the money that these preachers make.'”
Rich Wilkerson
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
“Somebody called me a hypocrite today and said that I was causing disunity within the church,” he continued. “But I’ve been pretty intentional to leave it relatively open-ended. It can be read passive-aggressively, or it can be read like ‘Oh this dude’s just gassing this pastor up for having a sweet outfit.’ I had a Dallas-based pastor reach out to me and ask to be featured on the page yesterday.”
Chad Veach
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
When Tyler started the project, he never expected any of this multilayered discussion. “All I do is find pictures, look up the things that they’re wearing and then put out the current market price and let you decide what you feel about that, you know?”
Natalie Todd
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
But the biggest question here has to be about whether or not people think it’s inherently problematic for church leaders to own or post pictures of themselves in these uber-expensive shoes and clothes. “As somebody that has given money to my local church, personally I would be a little irritated if I saw the pastor step out in some fresh Yeezys. I would at least ask the question.”
John Gray
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
“The rebuttal to that is ‘Well, these megachurch guys are making major book sales or doing speaking tours,’ which is valid. I don’t fault any of them for making a lot of money. But I do think that you’re held to a different standard if you are leading a church that people are contributing money to and investing some amount of their trust in you to lead them spiritually. That’s a pretty heavy calling. I think you at least need to be aware of the optics of the things that you’re wearing.”
Julia Veach
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Another problem is that nobody can say for sure if these accessories and sneakers were gifts or not. “All I know is that you’re on the ‘gram wearing a $2,000 pair of boots. I can’t reconcile it. I can’t think of a meaningful explanation as to why you would feel 100% okay with wearing a pair of boots that probably the majority of your congregation could never afford. I am just here to say ‘Whoa, homie’s wearing $800 track pants.’ Y’all do with that what you want, you know?”
Erwin McManus
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
“I mean, I cannot stand here and say that you should never be wearing that. These guys like Carl Lentz and Chad Veach and Judah Smith, they probably have really wise mentors. And where I sit now I don’t understand it, but maybe there is an explanation behind it — I would love to hear it.”
Mack Brock
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
“It’d be one thing if they were to come out and explain, like, ‘this is why I bought this pair of Off-White Chicago 1s, because I feel strongly about how they’re made.’ If you could get a congregation to somehow agree that their money going to those $2,500 pair of kicks was good for the kingdom of God then I can’t have an argument with that. I definitely don’t want to say you should fund sweatshops. But I also think there’s got to be a balance between that and wearing Burberry sneakers.”
Chad Veach
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Tyler himself has never decided about what church to go to based on what the pastor wears. “That would be the most superficial way of choosing a church, in my opinion.”
Planet boom
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Chad Veach
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Steven Furtick
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Chad Veach
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Rich Wilkerson
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Chad Veach
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Judah Smith
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Keion Henderson
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Chris Brown
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Robert Madu
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Jimmy Rollins
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Rich Wilkerson
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
Levi Lusko
Image credits: preachersnsneakers
People had a lot to say about this
623Kviews
Share on Facebook
What do you think ?
Nate M 5 years ago (edited)
Did you know that you still support churches by paying takes (in the US)? As Mark Twain argued: "No church property is taxed and so the infidel and the atheist and the man without religion are taxed to make up the deficit in the public income thus caused."
Load More Replies...
Nate M 5 years ago (edited)
Because I believe that churches should be down to earth, humble, open and welcoming to all and everyone, I am totally for exposing this waste of money. Pastor actually means "shepherd" - not idol, cool speaker or shoe model. But these guys didn't get the message...
elfin 5 years ago
I had a friend who told me that her church had kicked a woman out because they did not approve of her behavior. Sexual, I think. So much for welcoming the sinner. Hell, so much for defining what is a sin.
Load More Replies...
Withnail 5 years ago (edited)
Should have called the page Sneachers. What's with this John Gray person and his butt ugly $5k sneakers?! After a quick Google search I see that this dude gifted his wife a $200,000 Lamborghini Urus after cheating on her. Lord have mercy, I sure am in the wrong line of business...
Wil Vanderheijden 5 years ago
You already got the "Lord have mercy" bit. Now you only need to buy some TV-time and do some "magical" healings on a few friends who know a bit of acting and you're well on your way.
Load More Replies...
Aahzmandus Pervect 5 years ago
I don't know whats uglier - those sneakers or the people wearing them.
Kjorn 5 years ago
WTF bought a 5k$+ for shoes? damn. my running shoes cost me 70$ and still mad about it.
tuzdayschild 5 years ago
I feel that if you have a job, you should be able buy whatever you want that you can afford. On the other hand, I feel that if you spend more than $200 on a pair of sneakers, you're a little brain damaged. Preacher or not.
Freya the Wanderer 5 years ago
The Bible says that you cannot serve God and Mammon. No question as to whom these crumbs really serve!
Load More Replies...
Freya the Wanderer 5 years ago
David, you are a member of a rare breed. Sadly, yours is a rare breed.
Load More Replies...
SierraBeetleD 5 years ago
Those are some of the ugliest shoes I think I've ever seen. God bless them!
Nikki D 5 years ago
So glad I'm not alone. Is this ugly chic or something?
Load More Replies...
Eunice Probert 5 years ago
Heh, none of them practices what they preach. Most organised religion is going to be corrupt because it is run by human beings. Thank the Goddess I'm a Pagan!
Trash Panda 5 years ago
F**k. Them. All. If that sounds harsh, it's meant to. Not a single one of the people has a pure intention. Too generalized a statement? Prove me wrong. I am a recovering Christian and have a pretty sound foundation in the Bible, enough to call b******t on all these charlatans. For you folk of faith, read Matthew 19:23-26 Each one of these "pastors" is a perfect example of the reason churches need to be taxed. can you imagine the size of the closets these people keep their shoes in? Not a one of them is living in a 2 bedroom walk up, keeping their head above water paycheck to paycheck. I'm all about going and making the $$ but not at the expense of a gullible "flock". I say again, F**k. Them. All.
Alicia Anderson 5 years ago
Matthew 19:23-26 is about rich people buying their way into heaven. It’s a very good portion of scripture but it doesn’t apply here. These “preachers” aren’t buying their way into heaven, they’re being terrible stewards of the money that is given. My current pastor is the exact opposite. I don’t even think he owns his own home! There are good pastors out there. They’re just few and far between. We gotta ask ourselves “is this what Christ is?” I can say, with confidence, “heck. No!”
Load More Replies...
Aidar Nurtakanov 5 years ago
1 - Check out George Carlin on religion on YouTube. 10-minute video sums up everything there is about religion. 2 - Why even go to church? do you really need someone to read you the Bible? Anything you need to do God-related is between you and God. No fancy-a*s intermediaries are needed.
Display Name 5 years ago
I love George Carlin. I highly recommend reading his book "Brain Droppings" if you haven't already.
Load More Replies... Hans 5 years ago
This must be a "only in america" thing. Where preachers are celebrities and style idols. (Seriously: who pays more than ca. 350 USD dollar for a pair of shoes, which is the upper ceiling for functional equipment in 99.9% of all cases, is regularly a fool. Usually, even sophisticated bycicling shows, work boots, artic equipment etc. runs below that, even most good sport shoes can be bought for about 150 USD if you do not insist on a specific design.)
RaroaRaroa 5 years ago
We have Brian Tamaki in NZ. Can't remember the name of his business (he calls it a church). Too many desperate people just flock to these people. I just don't understand how they can't see someone is getting rich off them who, if they really cared, would do it for no more than a reasonable income and invest the rest back into actually helping.
Load More Replies...
The Girl on Fire 5 years ago
Stuff like this makes me wonder how many "Christians" actually read their Bible and follow what Jesus said. Because Jesus definitely preached against this sort of thing.
Steve Mcnally 5 years ago
Who was it said “No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American public”?
Chris Miilu 5 years ago
Mencken. He also predicted that we would eventually elect a complete moron. If he were alive today, he would say "I told you so".
Load More Replies...
Martha Meyer 5 years ago
Most of these shoes are so ugly it hurts to even look at them. Then the price tag hurts even more!
AnnaB 5 years ago
These so-called 'Church Leaders' are nothing more than parasitical leeches who prey on the elderly, the lonely, the naive, and the brainwashed of our populace. They see a "sucker" and know exactly how to 'milk' their pathetic desperation. And the fact that they can declare themselves as 'churches' in order to evade paying taxes while amassing obscene amounts of money is the ultimate sin. The thing is, these vermin actually don't believe in the 'hereafter'. That's why they can be so unapologetically cutthroat. They don't believe they will ever have to pay for their egotistical gluttony - in this world or the next, so why should they remotely care about the gullible people they're duping?
WillemPenn 5 years ago
Matthew 6:19-21 -- “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
WillemPenn 5 years ago
LOL. "Christians." Don't even know the dang Bible.
Load More Replies...
Steve Mcnally 5 years ago
Religion began when the first scoundrel met the first fool. Voltaire
Alicia Anderson 5 years ago
These aren’t fundamentalists. They’re “prosperity gospel” “preachers”. Just utter c**p is more like it.
Load More Replies...
Steve Cruz 5 years ago
Then there are the mansions, exotic cars, extravagant trips, private airplanes... which ALL TAXPAYERS CHIP IN FOR. Tax-exemption for religion doesn't mean the tax burden evaporates, it is spread among all of us who pay taxes.
Tanya Playle 5 years ago
And it is all tax free. They might as well be Scientologists... it is all BS.
Mewton’s Third Paw 5 years ago
“The other side of church” - as if all sides aren’t completely full of s**t
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
Not just the church, religion is fraud. Fantasy creatures and a mentality of "if you're not one of us, you're a lesser thing". Religion only serves to bring small communities together to tear larger groups of people apart.
Load More Replies...
Carol Emory 5 years ago
If your need to ask your congregation for a plane to spread the word, then you aren't a real pastor. Real pastors find a way to reach the masses that doesn't require your congregation spending millions on you. Real pastors fly coach, go to the smallest corners of the Earth instead of preaching in big expensive buildings, and live humbly amongst their congregation. When these "pastors" studied their Bible, they must've skipped over the part where it says people should steer away from wealth. If these "pastors" choose to ignore that part of the Bible...what other parts are they picking and choosing from the Bible to ignore.....
Augie Snyder 5 years ago
this is just one example of why i have a problem with organized religion. when i found out the pastor of the church where i was going was making a 6 figure salary and the church gives him 5K for an annual vacation and provides him a new car every two years, i decided i could worship better on my own. plus you go to church and tithe, then every sunday they ask you for more money to support this missionary and that missionary and it just never ends. if i had oodles of money it might be different.
Cindy Snow 5 years ago
If rather donate to pet shelters or homeless than give these hazards a dime!
Load More Replies... 
Maria Campbell 5 years ago
I don't even know who these people are, let alone know what the shoes are they wear.
Sage Jay 5 years ago
Why. The. Hell. Are churches not paying taxes? It's not education - it's conditioning people (especially children) to believe what you believe, with the threat of eternal damnation if you don't. There are a lot of compounds that register their buildings as 'places of worship' so that they don't have to pay taxes... honey, that's called tax evasion. And the government deems it appropriate to give religious people this right.
Shauna Mañana 5 years ago
It’s called PRIESTCRAFT. They are not true ‘leaders.’ They are totally in it for profit. Anybody remember the Bakkers (Jim and Tammy Faye)?
KT Trondsen 5 years ago (edited)
So shameful. False prophets much? Talk about working for Satan. if they truly walked the line with Jesus and God they would have refused such gifts, or sold them to help feed and take care of their flock. If they want to be ballers they should be in a different line of work.
Djaja Dikiy Tasijam 5 years ago
Well, Christians are sheep and sheep are supposed to be sheared, aren't we?
Petrika Bellovoda 5 years ago
In Murica church is the biggest business everrrrrrr, wake up people..... STOP giving free money to the church and the priests 🤬🤬🤬
Eric Mac Fadden 5 years ago
A good quality pair of sneakers costs around R$400,00 in Brazil. That cash is half of my monthly groceries. But the religious in here learned a lot with US preachers, they're the biggest scum in the country.
i0ana 5 years ago
Im pretty sure there are 500-3000$ sandals this day,too :)
Load More Replies...
Paula Marshall 5 years ago
So the person who wrote this is an Evangelical Christian. Still. LMAO
Karen Keener 5 years ago
At least I am not FORCED to support any of these people. Where's the one for politicians?
James Gallegos 5 years ago
Aside from the Air Jordans, those Yeezys are ugly as hell. Why anyone would spend that much money on those shoes! But I guess if you can flaunt that money from the sheep who follow you...
Susan Riley 5 years ago
Fools and their money are soon parted. People who go to church and donate are bigger suckers than they think they are. So glad to be atheist.
Great Panda Mamu 5 years ago
Not only that, but most of these are freaking ugly shoes! They are made and bought for the pure purpose of showing off the wealth.
Safy 5 years ago
I have to say that it has been a LONG time since priest and preachers lived a humble life with only the necessities. I remember the priest at my church had one of the first iPhones, and a super expensive car. But also... these shoes are so ugly. I'm sorry. I would never pay so much for an item of clothing, but even if I had all the money in the world, I wouldn't buy a single one of these. LOL
Tor Rolf Strøm 5 years ago
Well, what a bunch of sneaky a******s. It's a shame there's no hell, because these crooks could use a little stay there.
Reilly Beryll 5 years ago
I remember hearing about a mega church pastor asking for help to buy his seventh private jet or something. If you have the money that you earned from working, buy whatever the hell you want I guess. Just don’t take from the church. Do something good.
Pretty Pangolin 5 years ago
Yes, I think he was finally shamed out of it, but that may be wishful thinking on my part.
Load More Replies... Display Name 5 years ago
All churches are a business. I pity those who live to "serve" their imaginary friend.
Kera Tucker 5 years ago
They need those expensive shoes to walk up to those pearly gates and buy their way in after all the lies being told in religion. Yes, I'm an agnostic and proud!
Faulinei Shadowlord 5 years ago
As an american, I agree. Religion is poison.
Load More Replies... Elisabeth Bergbom 5 years ago
Will everyone please just not hate people for what they wear? If the preachers wear Gucci then fine, as long as they don't use the church money for that. What they use with their private money is up to them. Just because they help people in their job doesn't mean that they can't spend their private money like they want. And who knows if they bought it from the Gucci website where the price is the highest? What if they bought it at a garage sale? And y'all out there hating, sure if you're jealous cause that's too expensive for y'all but I'll tell ya what, if you didn't spend your time hating on other people on friggin Bored Panda then maybe you will be able to afford Gucci some day.
Brad Evans 5 years ago
Disgusting. The church in Vatican is the richest organization ever and when do you see them giving to the poor? This is all a giant scam.
Peko 5 years ago
The Vatican is hardly the richest organisation on Earth, besides, most of it's wealth is in assets that are difficult to liquidate and almost impossible to put a price on (how much is the Sistine Chapel actually worth?). They (well the Roman Catholic Church) also runs thousands of schools, hospitals and orphanages around the world.
Load More Replies...
Jason Doakes 5 years ago
Most of these look sooooo freaking ridiculous. They simply look up "most expensive sneakers" and hit "Buy". This shows how "mature" these scammers are and how stupid his congregation is. Not even Shkreli would wear these, and he's a textbook comic-book villain who spent 2 million for a WuTang Clan album.
Marnee DeRider 5 years ago
Anyone who pays that much for tennis shows better make sure: 1) It has a high and wide toebox to prevent deformed toes, 2) the soul should not be thicker at the heel than the tow, 3) The soul should not extend out wider than the foot - it promotes weak ankles, 4) the soul should flex at the ball of the foot where the foot naturally bends 5) the should should be very flexible, not hard plastic. But every expensive tennis show I've examined since my son was about 5 (24 years ago) met none or almost none of those conditions. So, anyone who buys a pair of these shoes is an extremely shallow person who is getting nothing for the money other than some perceived point of pride. I have no use for people who buy stuff for that reason. Buy shows for $50 that are GOOD for you and spend the rest on tunes or video games or charity or a vacation or SOMETHING, other than shoes that show up as shallow and mess with your body.
Eric Coltrane 5 years ago
Then there was the pastor in my area who bought his wife a $200,000 Lamborghini. He swore he didn't use church funds for the purchase. But did he use tax exempt funds? The congregation got upset at the local paper that revealed this information. This pastor also turned around and told the flock they needed to raise at least $250,000 towards a new roof for the church. That the funds weren't there because the previous pastor left the church in debt. It's not so much the preachers that are at fault it's those that support them.
SuperCoolDesigner 5 years ago
This has always stunned me. I was camping at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon a few summers ago with my family and some friends. The group campsite next to ours had a church group. They were very friendly, but mostly kept a distance from our rowdier group. The next morning their pastor rolls up in a Mercedes G Wagon. Those are the boxy old looking SUVs that Mercedes makes. They list at "starting from $124,500." The preacher's ride also had expensive aftermarket wheels and a custom paint job. Definitely looked like a man representing a simple carpenter should come rolling up in.
bunnygirl1081 5 years ago
Expensive sneakers aside, what is with the "haute" track wear? How is that the uniform of these guys? What demographic are they courting?
TheDivineMs.M 5 years ago
This irritates me and why I don't understand why mega churches . Putting that money into the church for a sound system, light show, coffee shop, bookstore, etc instead of into the community or charity seems very selfish to me.
We'llSee 5 years ago
The churches I've been a part of (not a lot in my life time) but my pastors were humble and giving to the point of doing without themselves if the need was there. Being a Christian myself, I believe, personally, we're all here to help each other, theres not one day that goes by that you can't help someone, in 100 different ways, I may not have much (when compared to these pastors above) but I would never want to have that kind of extravagance when clearly in every single city these men preach in there are plenty of people in true need and doing without, its unconscionable to me.
Non-New-Toni-An 5 years ago
If any of these guys' followers happened to actually meet Jesus (somehow!) they would probably shun him because he wasn't glam enough for them.
Louise Walrond 5 years ago
These guys are all phonies, get a grip people and don't give them another dime! There are real people who need real help open your eyes use your brains
Milan VulcanAres 5 years ago
Abrahmic religions Islam and Christianity.. They are worlds biggest reason for terrorism and mass propaganda caused assaults.. The sheikhs drink booze.. Khalifas rape people and then they stone gay people.. Pastors.. Well screw them paedophile rich maniacs.. Dharmic religions are not untouched thoygh still a bit saved.. Eastern ones are too stiff.. And then atheists are bunch of morons who just waste their divinity.. Just put a faith that there is someone who is just taking care of all of us.. He doesn't needs agents but just a try from us and only us
Tiffany Marie 5 years ago
This is a good post.. People need to wake up to this & realize most church leaders are about power, control & the money coming in. I was in a penacostal church for 9 years... I finally ran out of there!!! Its all bogus!!
John Bartholomew 5 years ago
America has had a long tradition of the ministry being a haven for freeloaders.Congregations dont care that their preacher is crooked because they deliver the messages they want to authenticate their crooked rotten lives.
Steve Mcnally 5 years ago
The first clergyman was the first rascal who met the first fool. Voltaire 1734
Peter Lundell 5 years ago
I want to see photos of the vast majority of preachers like me who struggle to pay basic bills and have to work another job to survive. Like most Bored Panda viewers, I'm indignant about these celebrity preachers. But is that all people look at? These jerks are the exception. Preachers are human and therefore imperfect like everyone else. But the other 99%--or at least 90-95%--are people who live far more frugal and humble lives as they genuinely live to benefit humanity.
Roberto Durante 5 years ago
Chad Veach Saint Laurent and Rolex, great humble taste, and how much do he give to homeless
Pretty Pangolin 5 years ago
Is he the one who smiles like he's getting an electric shock?
Load More Replies...
Pseudo Puppy 5 years ago
Anyone surprised by this - is incredibly naive. This "preacher profiting" has been the standard practice for *centuries* (if not, thousands of years)... :(
John Sampson 5 years ago
You know, if idiots want to throw money at these exploiters and still atttend their churches, let them, it's their hard-earned cash going to pad cushy life-styles. Religion sucks when ordinary folk do the sucking!
Origami Chik3n 5 years ago
In my country there was a scandal when a priest bought new Lexus SUV with donation money and promptly wrecked it while driving drunk. Religious community fiercely defended him because apparently if you work for church it's ok if you drive intoxicated after you drank too much of the blood of your god (which sounds like a properly barbaric thing to do if you ask me).
Elena Stefanova 5 years ago (edited)
I have never seen such a collection of ugly but damn expensive snickers. Forget the price, I would be ashamed to wear those on public. Regarding the "priests", I can't believe they tend to dress like that. First the money spend on shoes, second the total look. Shouldn't they be humble and wear cassocks? They look like rehearsing for rap battle.
Belinda Crum 5 years ago
I'm sorry, but most of these overpriced shoes are ugly as hell. Even if I had the money, there's no way I'd pay that much for something that damn ugly.
ForkNBeans 5 years ago
I can see shelling out up to $200 for a good pair of kicks one is going to be wearing for a long time. It's these thieving criminals that make me sick. One pair is enough, but some of these jokers have closets full of kicks that cost 4 and 5 times that amount. Hypocrites. This is why I turned my back on 'religion' and these false prophets. Living like kings in palaces with every goodie afforded them and their families off the backs of their parishioners. Not to mention most of the old farts are trying to look 'hip' and they just look like old fools.
Kenny Kulbiski 5 years ago
Nothing new. Ever since humans started to worship something there's been some kind of religious authority with the same message. "(insert object of worship) wants you to give me (insert some kind of good stuff)."
JozeeMom 5 years ago
This just sad. Whether believer or not believer in God, believe in YOU and how precious YOU are. If believer, why you need a person to tell you how to have a relationship with God you believe created you and you give that person money to live better than YOU? If not believer you not better. You probably spend money on other thing that not help you in any way. Everyone have something they do that not smart decision.
Oscar Guerrero 5 years ago
Lots of these shoes are butt ugly anyways Good on you for calling them out!
Sergio Bicerra Descalzi 5 years ago
Here in my country have some preachers just like them, one of them even tried to buy a football team (the fans said a big NO)
William Morales 5 years ago
You shouldn't condemn churches over a few corrupt leaders. These people would be equally corrupt if they were in the business field, politics or in law enforcement. I think anything over 300 bucks is just misuse of church money. I don't go to any church, but I've been to a lot of good ones and a couple of not so good.
John Ashley 5 years ago
I call this the “LB Effect”… for Lenny Bruce, who said, “Never trust a preacher with more than two suits.”
BeesAreCool 5 years ago
uh, yeah, some pastors like wearing expensive shoes. how does this show "the other side of church"
Panda Baller 5 years ago
I believe in God but I don't believe in giving them my money. I am so salty when it comes to tithes. It's like they sell it to you and tell you its a tax deduction but for some it does help but I sure as hell ain't that rich to supporting some pastors newest YEEZYS.
Mbajunwa Charlemagne 5 years ago
lmfao it is only sneakers they can afford (laughs in african preachers private jets)
Ashley Johnston 8 months ago
Just stumbled across this after googling should pastors wear designer. I started following Dharius Daniels but felt a bit put off seeing him preach in a $3000 Amiri Jacket.
Marianna Geoffrey 1 year ago
I like Pastor Henderson preaching outfits, is one of the few I really admire, his style is simple but classy. There are a few things to consider when it comes to appropriate attire while preaching such as your audience, your age, and your attitude. Check him out at https://keionhenderson.com/
Don Davies 2 years ago
This is why we must be attentive and select only the best pastors and preachers available. For me, Keion Henderson, https://www.keionhenderson.com/about-us/, stands out as a black preacher on TV and in church; just give him a chance and you'll see what I mean.
Merriem Harris 3 years ago
Peopke it twisted. Jesus’s clothes were put in a gambling match. Walking around with a insincere image of humility that you wear for people to compliment you sounds more like the Pharisees to me. Just saying.
Ma1nguy 5 years ago
If I were a pastor my attire would be the way it is now, simple and modest. I don't do designer clothes or tennis shoes. If I have wealthy parishioners as congregants I'd politely refuse lavish gifts encouraging that they support the mission ministry, youth ministry and the homeless. God doesn't give me an abundance so I can live lavishly but so I can be a blessing to others in His Kingdom
Ma1nguy 5 years ago
If I were a pastor my attire would be simple and modest as it is now. If I had wealthy parishioners who wanted to gift me with $5K shoes, I'd encourage them to fund the homeless program that my church might sponsor. When God blesses me with an abundance, it is NOT to live a lavish opulent lifestyle but to be a blessing to those who through no fault of their own and struggling to stay above water. I've never own a private jet, what for? I'd continue to fly commercial as before.
Bubba Rainwater 5 years ago
I am a pastor. Today I wore khakis I bought at Goodwill and my shirt was from a neighbor’s garage sale. Shoes? Bass clearance rack. Even if these are gifts, I would be embarrassed if people thought I would wear $1000 shoes!
Joel Dillahunty 5 years ago
I once paid 55.00 for a pair of shoes and it took several trips to the store before it happen. Honestly, why would anyone come close to paying that much for shoes regardless of how you make a living. If they were politicians no one would say a word and they actually live off the people
Holly Delaney 5 years ago
I believe one of Christ’s values was to take care of the poor and be humble. Mission should come first. It pains me to see any pastor make the kind of money that can afford these expensive and totally unnecessary things. Feed the gingery, clothe the naked, don’t wear expensive things! I am ashamed pastors who think this is Christlike behavior.
Daniel Monaco 5 years ago
I'm fairly certain that regardless of your religious or nonreligious affiliation, we can all mostly agree that prosperity preachers are the f*****g worst.
Karin Morris 5 years ago
i have been to church a few times, I don't go to these disgusting mega churches. I find the ones that actually give back to the community and have plans in place to give their donations to the needy across the world. These people are disgusting, and if you are going to THEIR church than you are blind and stupid.
Nasren Jak 5 years ago
these scumbags not just hypocrites but also have quite bad fashion taste
Alexandru Barbu 5 years ago
Your pastor wear Gucci and on the other side people died because of lack of food in Africa
Russian Otaku 5 years ago
Geeze all these shoes are ugly as f**k. Heck just my military boots are better then all these and will last longer
grace koncsicsv 5 years ago
sad the pastors i know couldn't be on this list. they are some of the most humble guys i know. its always the humbles that get ignored. you never see a list of "we found a list of the most humble and best pastors" cause that wouldn't make sense. just so you know all know though, most pastors are NOT like this.
Anoinette Yeboah 5 years ago
Pulpit pimps. Scammers and schemers. Liars and fakers. Worldly, greedy and covetous. Your average jack legged preacher. This is reprehensible! Using people’s hard earned money for frivolous luxuries that their average members could never afford! Did you guys ever think about how church is supposed to be for widows and orphans which is synonymous with single mothers , orphans and elderly??! The guilty will not go unpunished. You’ll be held accountable. Get your house in order. Your reward awaits you.
David Partee 5 years ago
Most these sneakers are ugly AF. I'm good with a $20 pair, An indulgent pair would run me $50 (by indulgent I mean special boots required for work etc.) and no way I'd ever pay more than that. I'm not religious but pretty sure you're supposed to be a HUMBLE servant of God if that's your thing. I can't beleive people actually idolize these jokes, go to a nice small church that uses it's funds to help the community ( not saying these big ones do nothing but still)
Jacquie Stegeman 5 years ago
Meanwhile. Kids are walking the streets with c**p shoes on that you can see their socks through. Out dated hand me down clothing from a local clothing closet. Hungry, cold and just sad!!!
Mike James 5 years ago
I love how pastor wilkerson is throwing the devil horns for his picture rocking those $600 boots. (sarcastically speaking)
Rebecah Ozuna 5 years ago
Just because you can't afford something, it doesn't means that others shouldn't either.
Iulia Kelly 5 years ago
Just wondering. If I do a photo essay on my pastor friend and his family building churches and hospitals in South Sudan, will BP print it? I think it’s unlikely.
Philoslothical 5 years ago
You can post it on your own. Depending on how it is, it could make the front page.
Load More Replies...
Bored Lazy Lizzy 5 years ago
Was I the only one looking through this article just to find the most expensive??
comboplush 5 years ago
What's it with that Chad Veach pic where he is sitting contemplating in front of a window? It looks like one of those fake candid shots that are covert advertising. Would it be too far off to suspect that something like that might be going on here, too?
Lauren Lee 5 years ago
Nauseating. One day the governments that are in debt for trillions will realize how much taxable revenue they're missing out on
Hidden Memes 5 years ago
I betcha these shoes are very cheap material that wouldn't withstand normal circumstances.
Frank Enstein 5 years ago
I didn't even know they made trainers that cost that much? Why would anyone buy one for $1000, even if you're a millionaire, why would you spend that much on shoes- paying more than $50 on a pair of trainers seems like a bit of an "idiot tax" to me.
Natasha Williamson 5 years ago
What gets to me is that they are so branded. That brand not quality is of such importance. There might be one pair of shoes out of those I’ve seen that are WORTH the money spent on them. I’m sure there’s a lesson in that. The cost to make( or the actual cost of the shoe) versus the name you pay for is not the same. Seems wasteful and ignorant. As if they’ve not thought of what they purchase having meaning and value. It makes them appear to be surface not substance. It’s also a lesson in another way as well. Follow the leader or bowing to peer pressure. Not something that’s a quality of a leader. They all look in fashion-for the minute at least. It definantly would interfere with any message they give if I were there “flock”. It’s also a lesson in what success means for people. I’m not sure that’s an example I would want my children seeing of what success is. Wealth is what you can do and get done not what stuff you can buy.
Fbomb 5 years ago (edited)
The fact that preachers feel this is okay while millions of followers can't afford food or basic living conditions shows the amazing hypocrisy of organized religion. Over the course of history they have created or willingly allowed more war, strife and hardship then almost anything else is shocking. How organized religion hasn't been wiped from the earth is amazing. I have no issue with believing in something but the way most treat those that don't share the same beliefs is horrifying.
Deidre Leggett 5 years ago
My parents' pastor wears $1000 Christian LaBoutins. Yet, their church does very little for the community.
Cindy Snow 5 years ago
What a bunch of phony a*s hats. With bad taste. Id gather give money to pet and homeless shelters.
Brandon Bennett 5 years ago
While I can understand the feeling, I think its rather interesting that this guy says he feels pastors should be held to a different standard. Never hold anyone to a standard you are not willing to meet yourself, otherwise you are a hypocrite by definition. These megachurches are not real churches and anyone who thinks they are has clearly never actually studied what discipleship is.
Michèle Gyselinck 5 years ago
NOT all pastors wear expensive clothes or live high off the hog while congregants have trouble making ends meet. In my church people are not pressured in giving 10% of their income if they can't afford it. Funny that this seems to happen mostly in the States. And my pastor could probably not afford to buy shoes that cost a thousand bucks, when he's got four kids in school and he's still paying off his seminary debts.
Azure Adams 5 years ago
And congratulations to all you sheep people who follow these idiots and bought them all this s**t when you could have saved more money for yourself or your actual community rather than producing better looking snake oil scheisters.
Chidinma Iroezi Chikezie 5 years ago
For those who say the pastor should have sold the gift and donated the proceeds. Consider that they may not even know it's worth or value.
Chech Dasaus 5 years ago
I think there it's a place for expensive shoes. Like when there is a real benefit that comes with the price (like higher quality, unique usability etc.). But for a pastor to wear extremely expensive shoes that have no benefit at all other than an decadent desig or reputation, is just wrong.
Amy Pattie 5 years ago
Some of these shoes are quite normal prices. $300 is pretty standard. I mean, I got my podiatary-approved shoes for free third-hand, and they’ve been good for two years. Do people just not walk in their shoes or just never have joint problems?
d bradley 5 years ago
it's not just that the shoes cost so much, but that they don't even go with the outfits. especially the ones that are actually shown preaching in their outlandishly showy shoes. not a fan of the tax-evaders throwing money around that could be feeding God's children, but I'm less of a fan of anybody spending that money just to have better shoes than YOU have. guessing that their feet still stink
Iann Domingo2330 5 years ago
How can you look up on them as they preach and doing worldly things? how can you even believe them? even the hand sign of Rich Wilkerson (kiss of the devil) so misleading... be aware...
Maggie Collins 5 years ago
Yeah I'm an atheist also after watching what goes on in the churches. Not just the way money is gathered and spent but other atrocious behavior. I wish it wasn't so and if people have faith that is wonderful, however, they can worship in their homes and help their neighbors and friends instead of giving money to people like the ones seen on television and in giant churches driving $100,000 cars. But "special" places for these "special" people.
sharron lynn parsons 5 years ago
Perhaps many priests are much worse, that's for another post !!!
Jesi Braswell 5 years ago
I get needing a quality pair or shoes, preachers would be on their feet and walking around a bunch (ideally)... but ...
Just a Purpler 5 years ago
Oof that's embarrassing, hopefully these preachers will come across this and take it to heart! Not that I'm against people having money, but seriously those kinds of shoes are more than unnecessary
Felicia Dale 5 years ago
"Tyler himself has never decided about what church to go to based on what the pastor wears. “That would be the most superficial way of choosing a church, in my opinion.” It would totally matter to me what a person who represents themselves as God's ambassador is wearing. I get loving good footwear- not a problem with that at all- but when you represent yourself as a spiritual leader and choose to wear things that would feed or clothe dozens of people I think your priorities are seriously skewed.
Vincent Jay 5 years ago
Just looking at some of these fops, I can't see them as humble men of God. They're too self-absorbed in their looks to be spiritual........... in my humble opinion.
lakitha tolbert 5 years ago
It’s interesting how whenever people tell the truth about something others want to accuse them of “dis-unity”, as if people had ever been united in something. Dude, we were never together! How someone gonna cause “dis-unity” to people who weren’t together to begin with?
Monika Soffronow 5 years ago
Priests were fat when most people did not have enough to eat, now they are slim fashion icons when a lot of not so well off people are obese and poor. Can someone please remind me of the bible verse that states that preachers, nuns, etc, are morally obliged to drive BMW or Mercedes SUVs. Mind control is Good Business.
Wim Cossement 5 years ago
Bad tast in ugly and expensive shoes... And religious morons, wake the f**k up! They and their fake gods don't give a f**k about your lives...
Ronald Copenhagen 5 years ago
Now do how members of Congress are millionaires on a salary that doesn’t support it which we are forced to pay.....
max mustermann 5 years ago
that the church sometimes treats the money ambiguously is out of the question! but these examples are great b******t! the prices that are shown on the screenshoots do not even begin to speak of reality. biggest deviation here "air jordan 1 retro high" presented with 1,099$ but you can buy this new without problems for 135$. just to "hype" this handicapped website, to write such false propaganda here is asocial..
Ohio Hands 5 years ago
Its important to remember that the *majority* of American church-goes do not belong to these ridiculous mega-churches, but instead belong to small churches that often pay their pastor's a very meager amount. I'm extremely leery of mega churches not only because of lavish c**p like this but because their "preaching" is often extremely watered down and their knowledge of scripture in context is pitiful, they are often leading their flock very astray.
Florence Hastings 5 years ago
You ask if the number of people who attend church would decline if they knew what the pastors sallery was; I think it would depend on why they were attending church. A message is a message no matter who gives it or what they’re wearing.
Fixin'Ta 5 years ago
As a Christian (I'm talking the actual "Jesus-follower" type, not just someone who culturally identifies as such), this kind of thing makes me sick. This is not what faith in Christ is about. It's not what "take up your cross and follow Me" is about. None of us is without sin, and I -- living a comfortable, upper-middle class life -- am guilty in my own small ways of not being as generous as I could be. But for someone to call themselves a shepherd of the flock (that's what "pastor" means), to supposedly be representing Jesus to their congregations and to the people outside of the church ... this kind of conspicuous consumption, this absolutely heretical "prosperity gospel" schtick, is disgusting. For all of you who are not Christian believers ... this isn't what my faith is about. It's not what Jesus is about. I'm sorry there are so-called believers who think it is.
Nosfentor 5 years ago
Why would you worship a god that condones eternal torture for finite crimes?
Load More Replies... 
luna murgana 5 years ago
this "pastors" know what they´r doing. They have very clear they are not on Gods side. The problem is the people who follows them, admire them and belive all the lies they say. They do beileve in them for just one simply reason: They do not read the bible!! yup, the bible is full of statements against people like this wolves! I will mention just one as an example: 1 john 3:17 "But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?" so, do you really think this "pastors" doesn´t know there is people in need in their "churches"? and even that they live as millionaries? I repeat, the problem is the people who follows them
Blake Leonard 5 years ago
As a Christian (Roman Catholic), these people make me sick. These Pharisees ought to read Luke 6:46 and Matthew 19:24 before they instruct others to give money to fund their Lamborghinis and mansions under the pretence they are with God. (For anyone of other faiths/none - two things: 1) Anyone who would turn you out because you take guidance from Mecca, Canterbury or Jerusalem instead of St Peter's Basilica cannot call himself a Christian - see Nostra Aetate, which says that "...it is contrary to the mind of Christ to discriminate against, show hatred towards or harass any person or people on the basis of colour, race, religion, and condition of life." 2) Luke 6:46: "Why do you call me "Lord, Lord" and not do as I say?" Matthew 19:24: "Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." - Blake.
Nosfentor 5 years ago
The bible is wholly immoral and disgusting. Stop preaching your garbage here.
Load More Replies...
Noel Benavente 5 years ago
i prefer to wear my $35 sneakers, they look so much better than many of those. I mean, the Balenciaga are awful, really.
Jordan Bahnub 5 years ago
50% of the comments: hOlD mY bEeR imma go start a religious debate real quick BRB Other 50%: dayum those r some ugly a*s shoes XD
Tamera Gardner 5 years ago
I’m a Christian and I’m ashamed of what I’ve seen here. Please know that there are more struggling preachers living on very small salaries than there are the kind that are represented here.
Rebecah Ozuna 5 years ago
And the paupers will always envy the rich........ I don't envy, i admire anybody that has gotten their lives on the road to success. Love seeing the riches' homes and got nothing to 'hate' them for. Accept your destiny.
Manfred Leong 5 years ago
well... Luke 6:38 says "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your lap." That's probably how the preachers justify their extravagance and luxury. Just google Kong Hee from City Harvest Church in Singapore.
Darryl Le Roux 5 years ago
To be fair, many - if not all - on the list are authors and musicians coupled with their pastoral duties. I am 100% against the prosperity Gospel, but I think this is slightly misleading. If anyone knows John MacArthur. He exposed the Charismatic Church throughout his ministry, digging down against the prosperity watered down Gospel. He gets a $500K annual salary from his church and ministry.
Ivan Wahl 5 years ago
This is the church. This is the steeple. Open the doors and see all the sheeple. STOP, GIVING YOUR MONEY TO THESE PHONIES. Do you really want to help your fellow man? Donate to a local charity that actually does something, like a food pantry or food kitchen. Maybe a homeless shelter or foster a child, there are many great causes without giving money to a pastor that buys a $200,000.00 Lamborghini for his wife, but didn't use "church money", or televangelist Jesse Duplantis who says that God told him he needs a new jet, and not just any jet but a $54 million Dassault Falcon 7X. That of course would be a bargain compared to the $65 million Gulfstream G650 jet that God wants Pastor Creflo Dollar to have, anything else wouldn't be good enough for the pastor and his lovely wife Taffi who also own a couple of Rolls Royce's and multiple multi-million dollar homes Next time I talk to God I'm going to ask if it's o.k. if I buy the brand name paper towels, no Yeezys, but that's just me.
Afini Shakur 5 years ago
DISCOVER YOUR FULL POTENTIAL.WALK YOUR OWN PATH.BREAK AWAY FROM THE SYSTEM.JOIN THE ILLUMINATI AND SAY YES TO YOUR DREAMS. WHATSAPP +17576565934 TO BOOK FOR INITIATION.YOUR TIME IS LIMITEDNL.
Free Scotland 5 years ago
I’m not against religion but I am against people who use religion as a front for abuse. Shoes over $200? Nope, that’s someone’s contribution to the church you just spent. I was dirt floor poor growing up and my mom would give the little she had. Our MO pastors had minimal luxuries, not like these parasites on here. These people make me sick.
Liz Mosby 5 years ago
As a Christian, this makes me dry heave.. This is exactly why I don't like many of the churches out there.. This is why I have zero respect for the Pope and anyone who says they're leaders in religion who have large amounts of money while there are still many ppl who have nothing.. It's ppl like this that make ppl run the other way.. Jesus actually flipped out on ppl like that, taking money for their own benefit, in his name.. So anyone who values shoes that much, can't tell me or anyone else how I should be as a person.. I don't feel ppl who or what to believe, and I am not going to hear it from an idiot that pays that much for a pair of shoes. Some ugly shoes at that.. I miss the 90s..
Sierra Hall 5 years ago
My dad has been preaching for years. The church took up donation for him, no salary, nothing more. My dad would literally buy his suits from goodwill. These guys are all for show.
Grace Koncsics 5 years ago
it sucks that these guys are the ones marching around the world spreading hypocrisy and making other Christians and pastors look like gussied up fools and lying morons while sweet, down to earth, humble pastors who work day and night for their churches, community and the world are largely ignored. for those of you who don't know any of these lovely men and woman that's sad cause they are awesome people with great senses of humor, a humble way of life and great things to share.
Frdm2be! 5 years ago
As a Christian this is wrong on all levels. I don’t align myself with these charlatans. I give locally and know how it’s being used, I never support radio/tv panhandlers.
Charlotte Ireland 5 years ago
I agree with the point of the postings - with only one exception - the golf shoes/sneakers. Anytime you play a sport the equipment is kind of expensive and just under $300 for golf shoes isn't that ridiculous. Also depends if they were a gift.
Rachel Waller 5 years ago
Didn't Jesus state numerous times that it is harder for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God?
Rene Patat 5 years ago
My oldest child is a Pastor. He has ONE say a week he can spend time with his family, unless there are folks in the hospital, folks passing away and such, then he has no time!!! You people make nasty remarks about these Pastors, well, wake up every morning, smell the coffee as you run out of the door to pull together meetings for the church, events to plan to have a place for the teens, also inner city, to have a meal on Saturday nights and a great place for YOUR children to grab a little piece of God to sustain your child until your teen can go back again for more because YOU WANT TO GRIPE ABOUT MEN WHO DEVOTE NEARLY EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF EVERY SINGLE DAY WHILE YOU SIT ON YOUR CAN, NOT KNOWING IF YOUR CHILD IS SAFE OR EVEN ALIVE, FOR THAT MATTER. These men care more for your child than you do!!! How pathetic of all of you!!! Then there are 5 worship services, 6 elements of workers to welcome everyone from infants to the elderly and they have to oversee every single person.
Rene Patat 5 years ago
Ron Carpenter was the Pastor of Redemption Outreach in Greenville, SC. Ron deserves to wear whatever he desires! I detest the fact that it's fine you work, maybe, 9-5, 3 days a week then golf the 4th day and do absolutely NOTHING until the following week, rinse and repeat!!! Your bonuses are FAR more than this TRUE man of God will ever see!!! He lives by FAITH! His job never allows a day off or if he has one, it's usually playing basketball with inner city children, the only opportunity those children may have to learn the first thing about God, they sure don't get it at home. For Pastor Ron, those basketball games with those children isn't a game at all, it's planting seeds of hope for those children. Pastor Ron will buy a houses for families long before he buys his shoes!!! How dare you people judge this UNMEASURABLY LOVING MAN!!! I am also a minister as is my oldest son! I speak at times and NEVER ask for a dime!!! I AM NOT FINISHED!!!
Mariela A. Marte Santana 5 years ago
They can not be called pastors, they only promote the theory of prosperity. Thanks to people like them who use the name of God in vain there are many spiritually lost beings. So sad.
Hannah Dobbins 5 years ago
I may be in the wrong, but just because a preacher has nice shoes, doesn't mean he "stole tithe from the church." Maybe he had another job or something like that and paid for it out of pocket. If it's a nice church, especially, the building and updating of the church probably came from tithe. Tithe is given to help the church... maybe they paid for their shoes out-of-pocket by themselves.
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
No, these preachers don't have other jobs. A lot of churches believe that the pastor should dedicate themselves entirely to the church and not spend time on worldly pursuits like money. And these mega-churches feed on that lifestyle and their congregations.
Load More Replies... 
John Montgomery 5 years ago
The problem is they are supposed be humble and helping their flock. Any clergy of any kind who makes more than 100,000 per member of their family is lying and likely know they are scamming people.
Load More Replies...
JozeeMom 5 years ago
We had Mormon neighbor. Very nice man who would help anyone and we love him very much. But he was also liar and alcoholic who would lie to get money to drink with. Wife took daughter and left him because he lie and drink. He would invite us to his house when the Mormon girls came to do their study with him because he say unmarried women can't be in same place alone with men. I don't understand this because always two girls come.
Load More Replies... 
Nosfentor 5 years ago
Or they are disgusting crooks who love to leech off good citizens.
Load More Replies...
Nosfentor 5 years ago
There is no archaeological evidence whatsoever that demonstrates the israelites were ever in Egypt. Your religious beliefs on history are lies.
Load More Replies... Nosfentor 5 years ago
Some people purchased them before they got that expensive. Use your head.
Load More Replies...
Nosfentor 5 years ago
You'd probably bend over for jesus, you inbred prick.
Load More Replies...
xiaomiao 5 years ago
Serioysly dont think it's obscene to preach sharing and charity of any excess, asking for donations and tithes to fund this? Anyway politicians and preachers dontvgive themselves huge salaries always but the church or their campaign or someone looking for favor gifts them clothing, cars, trips, etc.
Load More Replies... Nate M 5 years ago (edited)
Did you know that you still support churches by paying takes (in the US)? As Mark Twain argued: "No church property is taxed and so the infidel and the atheist and the man without religion are taxed to make up the deficit in the public income thus caused."
Load More Replies... Nate M 5 years ago (edited)
Because I believe that churches should be down to earth, humble, open and welcoming to all and everyone, I am totally for exposing this waste of money. Pastor actually means "shepherd" - not idol, cool speaker or shoe model. But these guys didn't get the message...
elfin 5 years ago
I had a friend who told me that her church had kicked a woman out because they did not approve of her behavior. Sexual, I think. So much for welcoming the sinner. Hell, so much for defining what is a sin.
Load More Replies... Withnail 5 years ago (edited)
Should have called the page Sneachers. What's with this John Gray person and his butt ugly $5k sneakers?! After a quick Google search I see that this dude gifted his wife a $200,000 Lamborghini Urus after cheating on her. Lord have mercy, I sure am in the wrong line of business...
Wil Vanderheijden 5 years ago
You already got the "Lord have mercy" bit. Now you only need to buy some TV-time and do some "magical" healings on a few friends who know a bit of acting and you're well on your way.
Load More Replies... Aahzmandus Pervect 5 years ago
I don't know whats uglier - those sneakers or the people wearing them.
Kjorn 5 years ago
WTF bought a 5k$+ for shoes? damn. my running shoes cost me 70$ and still mad about it.
tuzdayschild 5 years ago
I feel that if you have a job, you should be able buy whatever you want that you can afford. On the other hand, I feel that if you spend more than $200 on a pair of sneakers, you're a little brain damaged. Preacher or not.
Freya the Wanderer 5 years ago
The Bible says that you cannot serve God and Mammon. No question as to whom these crumbs really serve!
Load More Replies... Freya the Wanderer 5 years ago
David, you are a member of a rare breed. Sadly, yours is a rare breed.
Load More Replies... SierraBeetleD 5 years ago
Those are some of the ugliest shoes I think I've ever seen. God bless them!
Nikki D 5 years ago
So glad I'm not alone. Is this ugly chic or something?
Load More Replies... Eunice Probert 5 years ago
Heh, none of them practices what they preach. Most organised religion is going to be corrupt because it is run by human beings. Thank the Goddess I'm a Pagan!
Trash Panda 5 years ago
F**k. Them. All. If that sounds harsh, it's meant to. Not a single one of the people has a pure intention. Too generalized a statement? Prove me wrong. I am a recovering Christian and have a pretty sound foundation in the Bible, enough to call b******t on all these charlatans. For you folk of faith, read Matthew 19:23-26 Each one of these "pastors" is a perfect example of the reason churches need to be taxed. can you imagine the size of the closets these people keep their shoes in? Not a one of them is living in a 2 bedroom walk up, keeping their head above water paycheck to paycheck. I'm all about going and making the $$ but not at the expense of a gullible "flock". I say again, F**k. Them. All.
Alicia Anderson 5 years ago
Matthew 19:23-26 is about rich people buying their way into heaven. It’s a very good portion of scripture but it doesn’t apply here. These “preachers” aren’t buying their way into heaven, they’re being terrible stewards of the money that is given. My current pastor is the exact opposite. I don’t even think he owns his own home! There are good pastors out there. They’re just few and far between. We gotta ask ourselves “is this what Christ is?” I can say, with confidence, “heck. No!”
Load More Replies... Aidar Nurtakanov 5 years ago
1 - Check out George Carlin on religion on YouTube. 10-minute video sums up everything there is about religion. 2 - Why even go to church? do you really need someone to read you the Bible? Anything you need to do God-related is between you and God. No fancy-a*s intermediaries are needed.
Display Name 5 years ago
I love George Carlin. I highly recommend reading his book "Brain Droppings" if you haven't already.
Load More Replies... Hans 5 years ago
This must be a "only in america" thing. Where preachers are celebrities and style idols. (Seriously: who pays more than ca. 350 USD dollar for a pair of shoes, which is the upper ceiling for functional equipment in 99.9% of all cases, is regularly a fool. Usually, even sophisticated bycicling shows, work boots, artic equipment etc. runs below that, even most good sport shoes can be bought for about 150 USD if you do not insist on a specific design.)
RaroaRaroa 5 years ago
We have Brian Tamaki in NZ. Can't remember the name of his business (he calls it a church). Too many desperate people just flock to these people. I just don't understand how they can't see someone is getting rich off them who, if they really cared, would do it for no more than a reasonable income and invest the rest back into actually helping.
Load More Replies... The Girl on Fire 5 years ago
Stuff like this makes me wonder how many "Christians" actually read their Bible and follow what Jesus said. Because Jesus definitely preached against this sort of thing.
Steve Mcnally 5 years ago
Who was it said “No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American public”?
Chris Miilu 5 years ago
Mencken. He also predicted that we would eventually elect a complete moron. If he were alive today, he would say "I told you so".
Load More Replies... Martha Meyer 5 years ago
Most of these shoes are so ugly it hurts to even look at them. Then the price tag hurts even more!
AnnaB 5 years ago
These so-called 'Church Leaders' are nothing more than parasitical leeches who prey on the elderly, the lonely, the naive, and the brainwashed of our populace. They see a "sucker" and know exactly how to 'milk' their pathetic desperation. And the fact that they can declare themselves as 'churches' in order to evade paying taxes while amassing obscene amounts of money is the ultimate sin. The thing is, these vermin actually don't believe in the 'hereafter'. That's why they can be so unapologetically cutthroat. They don't believe they will ever have to pay for their egotistical gluttony - in this world or the next, so why should they remotely care about the gullible people they're duping?
WillemPenn 5 years ago
Matthew 6:19-21 -- “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
WillemPenn 5 years ago
LOL. "Christians." Don't even know the dang Bible.
Load More Replies... Steve Mcnally 5 years ago
Religion began when the first scoundrel met the first fool. Voltaire
Alicia Anderson 5 years ago
These aren’t fundamentalists. They’re “prosperity gospel” “preachers”. Just utter c**p is more like it.
Load More Replies... Steve Cruz 5 years ago
Then there are the mansions, exotic cars, extravagant trips, private airplanes... which ALL TAXPAYERS CHIP IN FOR. Tax-exemption for religion doesn't mean the tax burden evaporates, it is spread among all of us who pay taxes.
Tanya Playle 5 years ago
And it is all tax free. They might as well be Scientologists... it is all BS.
Mewton’s Third Paw 5 years ago
“The other side of church” - as if all sides aren’t completely full of s**t
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
Not just the church, religion is fraud. Fantasy creatures and a mentality of "if you're not one of us, you're a lesser thing". Religion only serves to bring small communities together to tear larger groups of people apart.
Load More Replies... Carol Emory 5 years ago
If your need to ask your congregation for a plane to spread the word, then you aren't a real pastor. Real pastors find a way to reach the masses that doesn't require your congregation spending millions on you. Real pastors fly coach, go to the smallest corners of the Earth instead of preaching in big expensive buildings, and live humbly amongst their congregation. When these "pastors" studied their Bible, they must've skipped over the part where it says people should steer away from wealth. If these "pastors" choose to ignore that part of the Bible...what other parts are they picking and choosing from the Bible to ignore.....
Augie Snyder 5 years ago
this is just one example of why i have a problem with organized religion. when i found out the pastor of the church where i was going was making a 6 figure salary and the church gives him 5K for an annual vacation and provides him a new car every two years, i decided i could worship better on my own. plus you go to church and tithe, then every sunday they ask you for more money to support this missionary and that missionary and it just never ends. if i had oodles of money it might be different.
Cindy Snow 5 years ago
If rather donate to pet shelters or homeless than give these hazards a dime!
Load More Replies... Maria Campbell 5 years ago
I don't even know who these people are, let alone know what the shoes are they wear.
Sage Jay 5 years ago
Why. The. Hell. Are churches not paying taxes? It's not education - it's conditioning people (especially children) to believe what you believe, with the threat of eternal damnation if you don't. There are a lot of compounds that register their buildings as 'places of worship' so that they don't have to pay taxes... honey, that's called tax evasion. And the government deems it appropriate to give religious people this right.
Shauna Mañana 5 years ago
It’s called PRIESTCRAFT. They are not true ‘leaders.’ They are totally in it for profit. Anybody remember the Bakkers (Jim and Tammy Faye)?
KT Trondsen 5 years ago (edited)
So shameful. False prophets much? Talk about working for Satan. if they truly walked the line with Jesus and God they would have refused such gifts, or sold them to help feed and take care of their flock. If they want to be ballers they should be in a different line of work.
Djaja Dikiy Tasijam 5 years ago
Well, Christians are sheep and sheep are supposed to be sheared, aren't we?
Petrika Bellovoda 5 years ago
In Murica church is the biggest business everrrrrrr, wake up people..... STOP giving free money to the church and the priests 🤬🤬🤬
Eric Mac Fadden 5 years ago
A good quality pair of sneakers costs around R$400,00 in Brazil. That cash is half of my monthly groceries. But the religious in here learned a lot with US preachers, they're the biggest scum in the country.
i0ana 5 years ago
Im pretty sure there are 500-3000$ sandals this day,too :)
Load More Replies... Paula Marshall 5 years ago
So the person who wrote this is an Evangelical Christian. Still. LMAO
Karen Keener 5 years ago
At least I am not FORCED to support any of these people. Where's the one for politicians?
James Gallegos 5 years ago
Aside from the Air Jordans, those Yeezys are ugly as hell. Why anyone would spend that much money on those shoes! But I guess if you can flaunt that money from the sheep who follow you...
Susan Riley 5 years ago
Fools and their money are soon parted. People who go to church and donate are bigger suckers than they think they are. So glad to be atheist.
Great Panda Mamu 5 years ago
Not only that, but most of these are freaking ugly shoes! They are made and bought for the pure purpose of showing off the wealth.
Safy 5 years ago
I have to say that it has been a LONG time since priest and preachers lived a humble life with only the necessities. I remember the priest at my church had one of the first iPhones, and a super expensive car. But also... these shoes are so ugly. I'm sorry. I would never pay so much for an item of clothing, but even if I had all the money in the world, I wouldn't buy a single one of these. LOL
Tor Rolf Strøm 5 years ago
Well, what a bunch of sneaky a******s. It's a shame there's no hell, because these crooks could use a little stay there.
Reilly Beryll 5 years ago
I remember hearing about a mega church pastor asking for help to buy his seventh private jet or something. If you have the money that you earned from working, buy whatever the hell you want I guess. Just don’t take from the church. Do something good.
Pretty Pangolin 5 years ago
Yes, I think he was finally shamed out of it, but that may be wishful thinking on my part.
Load More Replies... Display Name 5 years ago
All churches are a business. I pity those who live to "serve" their imaginary friend.
Kera Tucker 5 years ago
They need those expensive shoes to walk up to those pearly gates and buy their way in after all the lies being told in religion. Yes, I'm an agnostic and proud!
Faulinei Shadowlord 5 years ago
As an american, I agree. Religion is poison.
Load More Replies... Elisabeth Bergbom 5 years ago
Will everyone please just not hate people for what they wear? If the preachers wear Gucci then fine, as long as they don't use the church money for that. What they use with their private money is up to them. Just because they help people in their job doesn't mean that they can't spend their private money like they want. And who knows if they bought it from the Gucci website where the price is the highest? What if they bought it at a garage sale? And y'all out there hating, sure if you're jealous cause that's too expensive for y'all but I'll tell ya what, if you didn't spend your time hating on other people on friggin Bored Panda then maybe you will be able to afford Gucci some day.
Brad Evans 5 years ago
Disgusting. The church in Vatican is the richest organization ever and when do you see them giving to the poor? This is all a giant scam.
Peko 5 years ago
The Vatican is hardly the richest organisation on Earth, besides, most of it's wealth is in assets that are difficult to liquidate and almost impossible to put a price on (how much is the Sistine Chapel actually worth?). They (well the Roman Catholic Church) also runs thousands of schools, hospitals and orphanages around the world.
Load More Replies... Jason Doakes 5 years ago
Most of these look sooooo freaking ridiculous. They simply look up "most expensive sneakers" and hit "Buy". This shows how "mature" these scammers are and how stupid his congregation is. Not even Shkreli would wear these, and he's a textbook comic-book villain who spent 2 million for a WuTang Clan album.
Marnee DeRider 5 years ago
Anyone who pays that much for tennis shows better make sure: 1) It has a high and wide toebox to prevent deformed toes, 2) the soul should not be thicker at the heel than the tow, 3) The soul should not extend out wider than the foot - it promotes weak ankles, 4) the soul should flex at the ball of the foot where the foot naturally bends 5) the should should be very flexible, not hard plastic. But every expensive tennis show I've examined since my son was about 5 (24 years ago) met none or almost none of those conditions. So, anyone who buys a pair of these shoes is an extremely shallow person who is getting nothing for the money other than some perceived point of pride. I have no use for people who buy stuff for that reason. Buy shows for $50 that are GOOD for you and spend the rest on tunes or video games or charity or a vacation or SOMETHING, other than shoes that show up as shallow and mess with your body.
Eric Coltrane 5 years ago
Then there was the pastor in my area who bought his wife a $200,000 Lamborghini. He swore he didn't use church funds for the purchase. But did he use tax exempt funds? The congregation got upset at the local paper that revealed this information. This pastor also turned around and told the flock they needed to raise at least $250,000 towards a new roof for the church. That the funds weren't there because the previous pastor left the church in debt. It's not so much the preachers that are at fault it's those that support them.
SuperCoolDesigner 5 years ago
This has always stunned me. I was camping at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon a few summers ago with my family and some friends. The group campsite next to ours had a church group. They were very friendly, but mostly kept a distance from our rowdier group. The next morning their pastor rolls up in a Mercedes G Wagon. Those are the boxy old looking SUVs that Mercedes makes. They list at "starting from $124,500." The preacher's ride also had expensive aftermarket wheels and a custom paint job. Definitely looked like a man representing a simple carpenter should come rolling up in.
bunnygirl1081 5 years ago
Expensive sneakers aside, what is with the "haute" track wear? How is that the uniform of these guys? What demographic are they courting?
TheDivineMs.M 5 years ago
This irritates me and why I don't understand why mega churches . Putting that money into the church for a sound system, light show, coffee shop, bookstore, etc instead of into the community or charity seems very selfish to me.
We'llSee 5 years ago
The churches I've been a part of (not a lot in my life time) but my pastors were humble and giving to the point of doing without themselves if the need was there. Being a Christian myself, I believe, personally, we're all here to help each other, theres not one day that goes by that you can't help someone, in 100 different ways, I may not have much (when compared to these pastors above) but I would never want to have that kind of extravagance when clearly in every single city these men preach in there are plenty of people in true need and doing without, its unconscionable to me.
Non-New-Toni-An 5 years ago
If any of these guys' followers happened to actually meet Jesus (somehow!) they would probably shun him because he wasn't glam enough for them.
Louise Walrond 5 years ago
These guys are all phonies, get a grip people and don't give them another dime! There are real people who need real help open your eyes use your brains
Milan VulcanAres 5 years ago
Abrahmic religions Islam and Christianity.. They are worlds biggest reason for terrorism and mass propaganda caused assaults.. The sheikhs drink booze.. Khalifas rape people and then they stone gay people.. Pastors.. Well screw them paedophile rich maniacs.. Dharmic religions are not untouched thoygh still a bit saved.. Eastern ones are too stiff.. And then atheists are bunch of morons who just waste their divinity.. Just put a faith that there is someone who is just taking care of all of us.. He doesn't needs agents but just a try from us and only us
Tiffany Marie 5 years ago
This is a good post.. People need to wake up to this & realize most church leaders are about power, control & the money coming in. I was in a penacostal church for 9 years... I finally ran out of there!!! Its all bogus!!
John Bartholomew 5 years ago
America has had a long tradition of the ministry being a haven for freeloaders.Congregations dont care that their preacher is crooked because they deliver the messages they want to authenticate their crooked rotten lives.
Steve Mcnally 5 years ago
The first clergyman was the first rascal who met the first fool. Voltaire 1734
Peter Lundell 5 years ago
I want to see photos of the vast majority of preachers like me who struggle to pay basic bills and have to work another job to survive. Like most Bored Panda viewers, I'm indignant about these celebrity preachers. But is that all people look at? These jerks are the exception. Preachers are human and therefore imperfect like everyone else. But the other 99%--or at least 90-95%--are people who live far more frugal and humble lives as they genuinely live to benefit humanity.
Roberto Durante 5 years ago
Chad Veach Saint Laurent and Rolex, great humble taste, and how much do he give to homeless
Pretty Pangolin 5 years ago
Is he the one who smiles like he's getting an electric shock?
Load More Replies... Pseudo Puppy 5 years ago
Anyone surprised by this - is incredibly naive. This "preacher profiting" has been the standard practice for *centuries* (if not, thousands of years)... :(
John Sampson 5 years ago
You know, if idiots want to throw money at these exploiters and still atttend their churches, let them, it's their hard-earned cash going to pad cushy life-styles. Religion sucks when ordinary folk do the sucking!
Origami Chik3n 5 years ago
In my country there was a scandal when a priest bought new Lexus SUV with donation money and promptly wrecked it while driving drunk. Religious community fiercely defended him because apparently if you work for church it's ok if you drive intoxicated after you drank too much of the blood of your god (which sounds like a properly barbaric thing to do if you ask me).
Elena Stefanova 5 years ago (edited)
I have never seen such a collection of ugly but damn expensive snickers. Forget the price, I would be ashamed to wear those on public. Regarding the "priests", I can't believe they tend to dress like that. First the money spend on shoes, second the total look. Shouldn't they be humble and wear cassocks? They look like rehearsing for rap battle.
Belinda Crum 5 years ago
I'm sorry, but most of these overpriced shoes are ugly as hell. Even if I had the money, there's no way I'd pay that much for something that damn ugly.
ForkNBeans 5 years ago
I can see shelling out up to $200 for a good pair of kicks one is going to be wearing for a long time. It's these thieving criminals that make me sick. One pair is enough, but some of these jokers have closets full of kicks that cost 4 and 5 times that amount. Hypocrites. This is why I turned my back on 'religion' and these false prophets. Living like kings in palaces with every goodie afforded them and their families off the backs of their parishioners. Not to mention most of the old farts are trying to look 'hip' and they just look like old fools.
Kenny Kulbiski 5 years ago
Nothing new. Ever since humans started to worship something there's been some kind of religious authority with the same message. "(insert object of worship) wants you to give me (insert some kind of good stuff)."
JozeeMom 5 years ago
This just sad. Whether believer or not believer in God, believe in YOU and how precious YOU are. If believer, why you need a person to tell you how to have a relationship with God you believe created you and you give that person money to live better than YOU? If not believer you not better. You probably spend money on other thing that not help you in any way. Everyone have something they do that not smart decision.
Oscar Guerrero 5 years ago
Lots of these shoes are butt ugly anyways Good on you for calling them out!
Sergio Bicerra Descalzi 5 years ago
Here in my country have some preachers just like them, one of them even tried to buy a football team (the fans said a big NO)
William Morales 5 years ago
You shouldn't condemn churches over a few corrupt leaders. These people would be equally corrupt if they were in the business field, politics or in law enforcement. I think anything over 300 bucks is just misuse of church money. I don't go to any church, but I've been to a lot of good ones and a couple of not so good.
John Ashley 5 years ago
I call this the “LB Effect”… for Lenny Bruce, who said, “Never trust a preacher with more than two suits.”
BeesAreCool 5 years ago
uh, yeah, some pastors like wearing expensive shoes. how does this show "the other side of church"
Panda Baller 5 years ago
I believe in God but I don't believe in giving them my money. I am so salty when it comes to tithes. It's like they sell it to you and tell you its a tax deduction but for some it does help but I sure as hell ain't that rich to supporting some pastors newest YEEZYS.
Mbajunwa Charlemagne 5 years ago
lmfao it is only sneakers they can afford (laughs in african preachers private jets)
Ashley Johnston 8 months ago
Just stumbled across this after googling should pastors wear designer. I started following Dharius Daniels but felt a bit put off seeing him preach in a $3000 Amiri Jacket.
Marianna Geoffrey 1 year ago
I like Pastor Henderson preaching outfits, is one of the few I really admire, his style is simple but classy. There are a few things to consider when it comes to appropriate attire while preaching such as your audience, your age, and your attitude. Check him out at https://keionhenderson.com/
Don Davies 2 years ago
This is why we must be attentive and select only the best pastors and preachers available. For me, Keion Henderson, https://www.keionhenderson.com/about-us/, stands out as a black preacher on TV and in church; just give him a chance and you'll see what I mean.
Merriem Harris 3 years ago
Peopke it twisted. Jesus’s clothes were put in a gambling match. Walking around with a insincere image of humility that you wear for people to compliment you sounds more like the Pharisees to me. Just saying.
Ma1nguy 5 years ago
If I were a pastor my attire would be the way it is now, simple and modest. I don't do designer clothes or tennis shoes. If I have wealthy parishioners as congregants I'd politely refuse lavish gifts encouraging that they support the mission ministry, youth ministry and the homeless. God doesn't give me an abundance so I can live lavishly but so I can be a blessing to others in His Kingdom
Ma1nguy 5 years ago
If I were a pastor my attire would be simple and modest as it is now. If I had wealthy parishioners who wanted to gift me with $5K shoes, I'd encourage them to fund the homeless program that my church might sponsor. When God blesses me with an abundance, it is NOT to live a lavish opulent lifestyle but to be a blessing to those who through no fault of their own and struggling to stay above water. I've never own a private jet, what for? I'd continue to fly commercial as before.
Bubba Rainwater 5 years ago
I am a pastor. Today I wore khakis I bought at Goodwill and my shirt was from a neighbor’s garage sale. Shoes? Bass clearance rack. Even if these are gifts, I would be embarrassed if people thought I would wear $1000 shoes!
Joel Dillahunty 5 years ago
I once paid 55.00 for a pair of shoes and it took several trips to the store before it happen. Honestly, why would anyone come close to paying that much for shoes regardless of how you make a living. If they were politicians no one would say a word and they actually live off the people
Holly Delaney 5 years ago
I believe one of Christ’s values was to take care of the poor and be humble. Mission should come first. It pains me to see any pastor make the kind of money that can afford these expensive and totally unnecessary things. Feed the gingery, clothe the naked, don’t wear expensive things! I am ashamed pastors who think this is Christlike behavior.
Daniel Monaco 5 years ago
I'm fairly certain that regardless of your religious or nonreligious affiliation, we can all mostly agree that prosperity preachers are the f*****g worst.
Karin Morris 5 years ago
i have been to church a few times, I don't go to these disgusting mega churches. I find the ones that actually give back to the community and have plans in place to give their donations to the needy across the world. These people are disgusting, and if you are going to THEIR church than you are blind and stupid.
Nasren Jak 5 years ago
these scumbags not just hypocrites but also have quite bad fashion taste
Alexandru Barbu 5 years ago
Your pastor wear Gucci and on the other side people died because of lack of food in Africa
Russian Otaku 5 years ago
Geeze all these shoes are ugly as f**k. Heck just my military boots are better then all these and will last longer
grace koncsicsv 5 years ago
sad the pastors i know couldn't be on this list. they are some of the most humble guys i know. its always the humbles that get ignored. you never see a list of "we found a list of the most humble and best pastors" cause that wouldn't make sense. just so you know all know though, most pastors are NOT like this.
Anoinette Yeboah 5 years ago
Pulpit pimps. Scammers and schemers. Liars and fakers. Worldly, greedy and covetous. Your average jack legged preacher. This is reprehensible! Using people’s hard earned money for frivolous luxuries that their average members could never afford! Did you guys ever think about how church is supposed to be for widows and orphans which is synonymous with single mothers , orphans and elderly??! The guilty will not go unpunished. You’ll be held accountable. Get your house in order. Your reward awaits you.
David Partee 5 years ago
Most these sneakers are ugly AF. I'm good with a $20 pair, An indulgent pair would run me $50 (by indulgent I mean special boots required for work etc.) and no way I'd ever pay more than that. I'm not religious but pretty sure you're supposed to be a HUMBLE servant of God if that's your thing. I can't beleive people actually idolize these jokes, go to a nice small church that uses it's funds to help the community ( not saying these big ones do nothing but still)
Jacquie Stegeman 5 years ago
Meanwhile. Kids are walking the streets with c**p shoes on that you can see their socks through. Out dated hand me down clothing from a local clothing closet. Hungry, cold and just sad!!!
Mike James 5 years ago
I love how pastor wilkerson is throwing the devil horns for his picture rocking those $600 boots. (sarcastically speaking)
Rebecah Ozuna 5 years ago
Just because you can't afford something, it doesn't means that others shouldn't either.
Iulia Kelly 5 years ago
Just wondering. If I do a photo essay on my pastor friend and his family building churches and hospitals in South Sudan, will BP print it? I think it’s unlikely.
Philoslothical 5 years ago
You can post it on your own. Depending on how it is, it could make the front page.
Load More Replies... Bored Lazy Lizzy 5 years ago
Was I the only one looking through this article just to find the most expensive??
comboplush 5 years ago
What's it with that Chad Veach pic where he is sitting contemplating in front of a window? It looks like one of those fake candid shots that are covert advertising. Would it be too far off to suspect that something like that might be going on here, too?
Lauren Lee 5 years ago
Nauseating. One day the governments that are in debt for trillions will realize how much taxable revenue they're missing out on
Hidden Memes 5 years ago
I betcha these shoes are very cheap material that wouldn't withstand normal circumstances.
Frank Enstein 5 years ago
I didn't even know they made trainers that cost that much? Why would anyone buy one for $1000, even if you're a millionaire, why would you spend that much on shoes- paying more than $50 on a pair of trainers seems like a bit of an "idiot tax" to me.
Natasha Williamson 5 years ago
What gets to me is that they are so branded. That brand not quality is of such importance. There might be one pair of shoes out of those I’ve seen that are WORTH the money spent on them. I’m sure there’s a lesson in that. The cost to make( or the actual cost of the shoe) versus the name you pay for is not the same. Seems wasteful and ignorant. As if they’ve not thought of what they purchase having meaning and value. It makes them appear to be surface not substance. It’s also a lesson in another way as well. Follow the leader or bowing to peer pressure. Not something that’s a quality of a leader. They all look in fashion-for the minute at least. It definantly would interfere with any message they give if I were there “flock”. It’s also a lesson in what success means for people. I’m not sure that’s an example I would want my children seeing of what success is. Wealth is what you can do and get done not what stuff you can buy.
Fbomb 5 years ago (edited)
The fact that preachers feel this is okay while millions of followers can't afford food or basic living conditions shows the amazing hypocrisy of organized religion. Over the course of history they have created or willingly allowed more war, strife and hardship then almost anything else is shocking. How organized religion hasn't been wiped from the earth is amazing. I have no issue with believing in something but the way most treat those that don't share the same beliefs is horrifying.
Deidre Leggett 5 years ago
My parents' pastor wears $1000 Christian LaBoutins. Yet, their church does very little for the community.
Cindy Snow 5 years ago
What a bunch of phony a*s hats. With bad taste. Id gather give money to pet and homeless shelters.
Brandon Bennett 5 years ago
While I can understand the feeling, I think its rather interesting that this guy says he feels pastors should be held to a different standard. Never hold anyone to a standard you are not willing to meet yourself, otherwise you are a hypocrite by definition. These megachurches are not real churches and anyone who thinks they are has clearly never actually studied what discipleship is.
Michèle Gyselinck 5 years ago
NOT all pastors wear expensive clothes or live high off the hog while congregants have trouble making ends meet. In my church people are not pressured in giving 10% of their income if they can't afford it. Funny that this seems to happen mostly in the States. And my pastor could probably not afford to buy shoes that cost a thousand bucks, when he's got four kids in school and he's still paying off his seminary debts.
Azure Adams 5 years ago
And congratulations to all you sheep people who follow these idiots and bought them all this s**t when you could have saved more money for yourself or your actual community rather than producing better looking snake oil scheisters.
Chidinma Iroezi Chikezie 5 years ago
For those who say the pastor should have sold the gift and donated the proceeds. Consider that they may not even know it's worth or value.
Chech Dasaus 5 years ago
I think there it's a place for expensive shoes. Like when there is a real benefit that comes with the price (like higher quality, unique usability etc.). But for a pastor to wear extremely expensive shoes that have no benefit at all other than an decadent desig or reputation, is just wrong.
Amy Pattie 5 years ago
Some of these shoes are quite normal prices. $300 is pretty standard. I mean, I got my podiatary-approved shoes for free third-hand, and they’ve been good for two years. Do people just not walk in their shoes or just never have joint problems?
d bradley 5 years ago
it's not just that the shoes cost so much, but that they don't even go with the outfits. especially the ones that are actually shown preaching in their outlandishly showy shoes. not a fan of the tax-evaders throwing money around that could be feeding God's children, but I'm less of a fan of anybody spending that money just to have better shoes than YOU have. guessing that their feet still stink
Iann Domingo2330 5 years ago
How can you look up on them as they preach and doing worldly things? how can you even believe them? even the hand sign of Rich Wilkerson (kiss of the devil) so misleading... be aware...
Maggie Collins 5 years ago
Yeah I'm an atheist also after watching what goes on in the churches. Not just the way money is gathered and spent but other atrocious behavior. I wish it wasn't so and if people have faith that is wonderful, however, they can worship in their homes and help their neighbors and friends instead of giving money to people like the ones seen on television and in giant churches driving $100,000 cars. But "special" places for these "special" people.
sharron lynn parsons 5 years ago
Perhaps many priests are much worse, that's for another post !!!
Jesi Braswell 5 years ago
I get needing a quality pair or shoes, preachers would be on their feet and walking around a bunch (ideally)... but ...
Just a Purpler 5 years ago
Oof that's embarrassing, hopefully these preachers will come across this and take it to heart! Not that I'm against people having money, but seriously those kinds of shoes are more than unnecessary
Felicia Dale 5 years ago
"Tyler himself has never decided about what church to go to based on what the pastor wears. “That would be the most superficial way of choosing a church, in my opinion.” It would totally matter to me what a person who represents themselves as God's ambassador is wearing. I get loving good footwear- not a problem with that at all- but when you represent yourself as a spiritual leader and choose to wear things that would feed or clothe dozens of people I think your priorities are seriously skewed.
Vincent Jay 5 years ago
Just looking at some of these fops, I can't see them as humble men of God. They're too self-absorbed in their looks to be spiritual........... in my humble opinion.
lakitha tolbert 5 years ago
It’s interesting how whenever people tell the truth about something others want to accuse them of “dis-unity”, as if people had ever been united in something. Dude, we were never together! How someone gonna cause “dis-unity” to people who weren’t together to begin with?
Monika Soffronow 5 years ago
Priests were fat when most people did not have enough to eat, now they are slim fashion icons when a lot of not so well off people are obese and poor. Can someone please remind me of the bible verse that states that preachers, nuns, etc, are morally obliged to drive BMW or Mercedes SUVs. Mind control is Good Business.
Wim Cossement 5 years ago
Bad tast in ugly and expensive shoes... And religious morons, wake the f**k up! They and their fake gods don't give a f**k about your lives...
Ronald Copenhagen 5 years ago
Now do how members of Congress are millionaires on a salary that doesn’t support it which we are forced to pay.....
max mustermann 5 years ago
that the church sometimes treats the money ambiguously is out of the question! but these examples are great b******t! the prices that are shown on the screenshoots do not even begin to speak of reality. biggest deviation here "air jordan 1 retro high" presented with 1,099$ but you can buy this new without problems for 135$. just to "hype" this handicapped website, to write such false propaganda here is asocial..
Ohio Hands 5 years ago
Its important to remember that the *majority* of American church-goes do not belong to these ridiculous mega-churches, but instead belong to small churches that often pay their pastor's a very meager amount. I'm extremely leery of mega churches not only because of lavish c**p like this but because their "preaching" is often extremely watered down and their knowledge of scripture in context is pitiful, they are often leading their flock very astray.
Florence Hastings 5 years ago
You ask if the number of people who attend church would decline if they knew what the pastors sallery was; I think it would depend on why they were attending church. A message is a message no matter who gives it or what they’re wearing.
Fixin'Ta 5 years ago
As a Christian (I'm talking the actual "Jesus-follower" type, not just someone who culturally identifies as such), this kind of thing makes me sick. This is not what faith in Christ is about. It's not what "take up your cross and follow Me" is about. None of us is without sin, and I -- living a comfortable, upper-middle class life -- am guilty in my own small ways of not being as generous as I could be. But for someone to call themselves a shepherd of the flock (that's what "pastor" means), to supposedly be representing Jesus to their congregations and to the people outside of the church ... this kind of conspicuous consumption, this absolutely heretical "prosperity gospel" schtick, is disgusting. For all of you who are not Christian believers ... this isn't what my faith is about. It's not what Jesus is about. I'm sorry there are so-called believers who think it is.
Nosfentor 5 years ago
Why would you worship a god that condones eternal torture for finite crimes?
Load More Replies... luna murgana 5 years ago
this "pastors" know what they´r doing. They have very clear they are not on Gods side. The problem is the people who follows them, admire them and belive all the lies they say. They do beileve in them for just one simply reason: They do not read the bible!! yup, the bible is full of statements against people like this wolves! I will mention just one as an example: 1 john 3:17 "But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?" so, do you really think this "pastors" doesn´t know there is people in need in their "churches"? and even that they live as millionaries? I repeat, the problem is the people who follows them
Blake Leonard 5 years ago
As a Christian (Roman Catholic), these people make me sick. These Pharisees ought to read Luke 6:46 and Matthew 19:24 before they instruct others to give money to fund their Lamborghinis and mansions under the pretence they are with God. (For anyone of other faiths/none - two things: 1) Anyone who would turn you out because you take guidance from Mecca, Canterbury or Jerusalem instead of St Peter's Basilica cannot call himself a Christian - see Nostra Aetate, which says that "...it is contrary to the mind of Christ to discriminate against, show hatred towards or harass any person or people on the basis of colour, race, religion, and condition of life." 2) Luke 6:46: "Why do you call me "Lord, Lord" and not do as I say?" Matthew 19:24: "Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." - Blake.
Nosfentor 5 years ago
The bible is wholly immoral and disgusting. Stop preaching your garbage here.
Load More Replies... Noel Benavente 5 years ago
i prefer to wear my $35 sneakers, they look so much better than many of those. I mean, the Balenciaga are awful, really.
Jordan Bahnub 5 years ago
50% of the comments: hOlD mY bEeR imma go start a religious debate real quick BRB Other 50%: dayum those r some ugly a*s shoes XD
Tamera Gardner 5 years ago
I’m a Christian and I’m ashamed of what I’ve seen here. Please know that there are more struggling preachers living on very small salaries than there are the kind that are represented here.
Rebecah Ozuna 5 years ago
And the paupers will always envy the rich........ I don't envy, i admire anybody that has gotten their lives on the road to success. Love seeing the riches' homes and got nothing to 'hate' them for. Accept your destiny.
Manfred Leong 5 years ago
well... Luke 6:38 says "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your lap." That's probably how the preachers justify their extravagance and luxury. Just google Kong Hee from City Harvest Church in Singapore.
Darryl Le Roux 5 years ago
To be fair, many - if not all - on the list are authors and musicians coupled with their pastoral duties. I am 100% against the prosperity Gospel, but I think this is slightly misleading. If anyone knows John MacArthur. He exposed the Charismatic Church throughout his ministry, digging down against the prosperity watered down Gospel. He gets a $500K annual salary from his church and ministry.
Ivan Wahl 5 years ago
This is the church. This is the steeple. Open the doors and see all the sheeple. STOP, GIVING YOUR MONEY TO THESE PHONIES. Do you really want to help your fellow man? Donate to a local charity that actually does something, like a food pantry or food kitchen. Maybe a homeless shelter or foster a child, there are many great causes without giving money to a pastor that buys a $200,000.00 Lamborghini for his wife, but didn't use "church money", or televangelist Jesse Duplantis who says that God told him he needs a new jet, and not just any jet but a $54 million Dassault Falcon 7X. That of course would be a bargain compared to the $65 million Gulfstream G650 jet that God wants Pastor Creflo Dollar to have, anything else wouldn't be good enough for the pastor and his lovely wife Taffi who also own a couple of Rolls Royce's and multiple multi-million dollar homes Next time I talk to God I'm going to ask if it's o.k. if I buy the brand name paper towels, no Yeezys, but that's just me.
Afini Shakur 5 years ago
DISCOVER YOUR FULL POTENTIAL.WALK YOUR OWN PATH.BREAK AWAY FROM THE SYSTEM.JOIN THE ILLUMINATI AND SAY YES TO YOUR DREAMS. WHATSAPP +17576565934 TO BOOK FOR INITIATION.YOUR TIME IS LIMITEDNL.
Free Scotland 5 years ago
I’m not against religion but I am against people who use religion as a front for abuse. Shoes over $200? Nope, that’s someone’s contribution to the church you just spent. I was dirt floor poor growing up and my mom would give the little she had. Our MO pastors had minimal luxuries, not like these parasites on here. These people make me sick.
Liz Mosby 5 years ago
As a Christian, this makes me dry heave.. This is exactly why I don't like many of the churches out there.. This is why I have zero respect for the Pope and anyone who says they're leaders in religion who have large amounts of money while there are still many ppl who have nothing.. It's ppl like this that make ppl run the other way.. Jesus actually flipped out on ppl like that, taking money for their own benefit, in his name.. So anyone who values shoes that much, can't tell me or anyone else how I should be as a person.. I don't feel ppl who or what to believe, and I am not going to hear it from an idiot that pays that much for a pair of shoes. Some ugly shoes at that.. I miss the 90s..
Sierra Hall 5 years ago
My dad has been preaching for years. The church took up donation for him, no salary, nothing more. My dad would literally buy his suits from goodwill. These guys are all for show.
Grace Koncsics 5 years ago
it sucks that these guys are the ones marching around the world spreading hypocrisy and making other Christians and pastors look like gussied up fools and lying morons while sweet, down to earth, humble pastors who work day and night for their churches, community and the world are largely ignored. for those of you who don't know any of these lovely men and woman that's sad cause they are awesome people with great senses of humor, a humble way of life and great things to share.
Frdm2be! 5 years ago
As a Christian this is wrong on all levels. I don’t align myself with these charlatans. I give locally and know how it’s being used, I never support radio/tv panhandlers.
Charlotte Ireland 5 years ago
I agree with the point of the postings - with only one exception - the golf shoes/sneakers. Anytime you play a sport the equipment is kind of expensive and just under $300 for golf shoes isn't that ridiculous. Also depends if they were a gift.
Rachel Waller 5 years ago
Didn't Jesus state numerous times that it is harder for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God?
Rene Patat 5 years ago
My oldest child is a Pastor. He has ONE say a week he can spend time with his family, unless there are folks in the hospital, folks passing away and such, then he has no time!!! You people make nasty remarks about these Pastors, well, wake up every morning, smell the coffee as you run out of the door to pull together meetings for the church, events to plan to have a place for the teens, also inner city, to have a meal on Saturday nights and a great place for YOUR children to grab a little piece of God to sustain your child until your teen can go back again for more because YOU WANT TO GRIPE ABOUT MEN WHO DEVOTE NEARLY EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF EVERY SINGLE DAY WHILE YOU SIT ON YOUR CAN, NOT KNOWING IF YOUR CHILD IS SAFE OR EVEN ALIVE, FOR THAT MATTER. These men care more for your child than you do!!! How pathetic of all of you!!! Then there are 5 worship services, 6 elements of workers to welcome everyone from infants to the elderly and they have to oversee every single person.
Rene Patat 5 years ago
Ron Carpenter was the Pastor of Redemption Outreach in Greenville, SC. Ron deserves to wear whatever he desires! I detest the fact that it's fine you work, maybe, 9-5, 3 days a week then golf the 4th day and do absolutely NOTHING until the following week, rinse and repeat!!! Your bonuses are FAR more than this TRUE man of God will ever see!!! He lives by FAITH! His job never allows a day off or if he has one, it's usually playing basketball with inner city children, the only opportunity those children may have to learn the first thing about God, they sure don't get it at home. For Pastor Ron, those basketball games with those children isn't a game at all, it's planting seeds of hope for those children. Pastor Ron will buy a houses for families long before he buys his shoes!!! How dare you people judge this UNMEASURABLY LOVING MAN!!! I am also a minister as is my oldest son! I speak at times and NEVER ask for a dime!!! I AM NOT FINISHED!!!
Mariela A. Marte Santana 5 years ago
They can not be called pastors, they only promote the theory of prosperity. Thanks to people like them who use the name of God in vain there are many spiritually lost beings. So sad.
Hannah Dobbins 5 years ago
I may be in the wrong, but just because a preacher has nice shoes, doesn't mean he "stole tithe from the church." Maybe he had another job or something like that and paid for it out of pocket. If it's a nice church, especially, the building and updating of the church probably came from tithe. Tithe is given to help the church... maybe they paid for their shoes out-of-pocket by themselves.
Daniel (ShadowDrakken) 5 years ago
No, these preachers don't have other jobs. A lot of churches believe that the pastor should dedicate themselves entirely to the church and not spend time on worldly pursuits like money. And these mega-churches feed on that lifestyle and their congregations.
Load More Replies... John Montgomery 5 years ago
The problem is they are supposed be humble and helping their flock. Any clergy of any kind who makes more than 100,000 per member of their family is lying and likely know they are scamming people.
Load More Replies... JozeeMom 5 years ago
We had Mormon neighbor. Very nice man who would help anyone and we love him very much. But he was also liar and alcoholic who would lie to get money to drink with. Wife took daughter and left him because he lie and drink. He would invite us to his house when the Mormon girls came to do their study with him because he say unmarried women can't be in same place alone with men. I don't understand this because always two girls come.
Load More Replies... Nosfentor 5 years ago
Or they are disgusting crooks who love to leech off good citizens.
Load More Replies... Nosfentor 5 years ago
There is no archaeological evidence whatsoever that demonstrates the israelites were ever in Egypt. Your religious beliefs on history are lies.
Load More Replies... Nosfentor 5 years ago
Some people purchased them before they got that expensive. Use your head.
Load More Replies... Nosfentor 5 years ago
You'd probably bend over for jesus, you inbred prick.
Load More Replies... xiaomiao 5 years ago
Serioysly dont think it's obscene to preach sharing and charity of any excess, asking for donations and tithes to fund this? Anyway politicians and preachers dontvgive themselves huge salaries always but the church or their campaign or someone looking for favor gifts them clothing, cars, trips, etc.
Load More Replies...
Related on Bored Panda
313
422