Written by Renee Trauger
Pushing through the throng of weary pilgrims, Renita at last reached the altar. She had sacrificed much to come here and this was her final hope. Her knees ached from the long journey, and she had barely eaten in days. Kneeling carefully, her gaze lifted to the reliquary containing the bones of Saint Rosalina, her lips moving in a silent, desperate prayer. Her fingers clutched the small cloth bundle tied at her waist, that contained a small carved wooden toy, worn smooth by her son’s small, feverish hands. She pressed it to her heart, as if willing the saint to hear her plea and save her only child.
Several centuries after Renita and thousands like her made the journey to this church located on a mountain in Italy, a British geologist discovered these “sainted” bones were not even human, but belonged to the none other than a goat. As we read stories like this today, it seems remarkable to us that people would place their faith in a dusty pile of bones. But in reality, even today there are those who take advantage of desperate individuals who are seeking for something or someone to fulfill their hopes.
Churches are traditionally viewed as places of hope, comfort, and spirituality. However, some exploit this trust and use faith as a tool for manipulation and financial gain. Religious scams often target vulnerable individuals—those facing economic hardship, emotional distress, or personal crises—by promising spiritual blessings in exchange for money.
One common tactic is the prosperity gospel, a belief that donations and faith will be rewarded with health, wealth, or success. This doctrine preys on people’s desperation, especially during economic downturns or natural disasters. Followers are told that their financial contributions will grow into divine rewards. In reality, this often benefits only the religious leaders, who live in luxury while their congregants remain in poverty.
Another method of exploitation is through affinity fraud, where scammers use shared religious beliefs to gain trust before promoting fraudulent investment opportunities. Because the victim trusts the scammer as a fellow believer, they are more likely to overlook red flags. These affinity scams have led to devastating financial losses in various religious communities.
Paying for prayers or spiritual favors is another scheme. Some religious groups solicit donations in exchange for blessings, miracles, or access to heaven. These offers often come with emotional manipulation—suggesting that failure to give could result in divine punishment or missed blessings. Similarly, as in the case of Renita from 12th century B.C., the sale or promotion of false relics or holy objects claimed to have miraculous powers has long been a tactic to exploit the devout. These items are marketed as possessing healing or protective properties, with no evidence to support their authenticity or efficacy.
The rise of celebrity pastors is presently prominent as we see those who gain fame and build personal empires from tithes and donations, often using social media and other platforms. The promise of shared gains in health, wealth, or divine power is often dangled before the faithful to ensure loyalty and continued giving.
These scams are dangerous not only financially but also for the emotional and physical harm they inflict. Victims often experience stress, guilt, and shame for being deceived. Even though these unfortunate scams take place, we should still realize the importance of true Christian giving. Scripture emphasizes generosity as an act of worship and trust in God, not in institutions or individuals. Jesus Himself warned about false teachers and wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15). He also praised the widow who gave sacrificially with her whole heart (Mark 12:41–44). Giving is ultimately about obedience to God, and we cannot let fear or cynicism harden our hearts or keep us from living out our faith through it.
Sadly, it’s no wonder people everywhere are cynical of churches and religious organizations. It’s true that many of them only seek their own gain. At the Church of God, we not only preach but practice the Bible’s teachings, Christian giving being one of them. Our desire is to help hearts serve God and make it to heaven, where our true reward will come. Today, believe there are genuine Christians and seek a fellowship with them and with God. Then you can truly have lasting hope.