Église de Jésus-Christ
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The Église de Jésus-Christ (EJC) is an independent Christian church that was established by Pastor Banyanga and a fellow co-worker in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since 2002, the church had a membership of 1800 with 11 churches which are mostly situated in remote and inaccessible mountain villages near the city of Goma.
Faith and beliefs of the Église de Jésus-Christ
- Holy Spirit: The EJC believe that speaking in tongues is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit and that one does not immediately begin speaking in tongues during a prayer[1].
- Church & Godhead: The EJC believe that there is only one true God and that they are the only true church in which one can be saved. They oppose celebrating Christmas and other related festivals that "mingle the sacred with the worldly"
- Bible: The EJC believe that the Bible is the only solution to their faith and that it is the basis for all beliefs.
- Sabbath: Sabbath services are held from 9am to 4pm without any lunch period or short breaks. The EJC observes the Sabbath by grace - however no one is allowed to leave during services.
- Holy Communion: Their members add a little oil in order to minimize burning while baking. The EJC use 1 jar of grape juice (pure) and 1 unleavened bread only.
- Feetwashing: The EJC believe that one cannot be saved if their feet are not washed. “Mutual” feetwashing is practiced frequently among their members (rather than the “one-way” feetwashing that Jesus performed to His disciples).
- Baptism: The EJC baptize their members in the name of Jesus Christ and in "living water" with full immersion and facing upwards.
- Marriage: Polygamy is not permitted[2]. Any extramarital affairs are immediately excommunicated. They believe that contraception is unbiblical.