Destiny Church - Definition and Overview

In New Zealand

The Destiny Church was originally founded as City Church Auckland in 1998 by Brian Tamaki, an evangelist preacher. It initially had a membership of 20 people, but within two years, had grown to 300 members and had adopted the name "Destiny Church". Destiny TV, a television ministry, was launched in 2001. Destiny now has twenty churches, located throughout New Zealand and in Brisbane, Australia.

The Destiny Church has been active in campaigning for what it sees as literal interpretations of Biblical moral codes, particularly for the "sanctity of marriage between a husband and wife". In 2004, it attracted considerable criticism for its protest against a bill creating civil unions (which include the possibility of unions between same-sex couples). This protest involved male members of the church in black shirts marching through the streets of Wellington. This was characterised by some as being similar to a Nazi Party rally.

Members of Destiny Church formed the political party Destiny New Zealand in 2003. That year, Tamaki predicted that his church would rule New Zealand by 2008. However, recent polls show Destiny New Zealand's support at only 0.5%—well below the 5% threshold needed to enter Parliament without an electorate MP.

• Official website (http://www.destinychurch.org.nz/)
• Is Destiny destined to rule? (from Rick Ross) (http://www.rickross.com/reference/destiny_churches/destiny_churches4.html)
• Parody website (http://www.densitychurch.org)

In the United States

The Destiny Church is a church in Oklahoma, USA.

• Official website (http://www.destinychurch.com/)