Join us on our podcast each weekday for an interesting story, well told, from Charisma News. Listen at charismapodcastnetwork.com.
Brutal death threats poured in after news broke members of Word of Life Christian Church allegedly bludgeoned a teen to death, but there was a catch: People were harassing the wrong church.
Word of Life also happens to be the name of an Assemblies of God church about an hour away from the cult-like congregation charged in the teen's murder.
The misunderstanding resulted in hate mail and death threats toward AG pastor Randy Czyz.
"The Word of Life Christian Church in New Hartford, New York, where this senseless tragedy occurred, is not and has never been affiliated with the Assemblies of God," AG General Superintendent George O. Wood says. "It is unfortunate that so many were quick to direct their anger and threats towards an Assemblies of God church staff and congregation who have done so much good for their community."
At the church in New Hartford, Bruce and Deborah Leonard allegedly bludgeoned their son Lucas to death with the help of four fellow church members.
Their other son, Christopher Leonard, narrowly escaped with his life.
He described being beaten with "a black cord about four feet long," folded once or twice. The teen says he was struck "Everywhere except my head."
For a limited time, we are extending our celebration of the 40th anniversary of Charisma. As a special offer, you can get 40 issues of Charisma magazine for only $40!
NEW - Life in the Spirit is your Spirit-filled teaching guide. Encounter the Holy Spirit, hear God speak to you, and enjoy timeless teachings on love, mercy and forgiveness. LEARN MORE!
