FBIM: The Disney World of Churches

Oh, happy day in Milwaukee. Looks like Pastor Rolex’s dream of using American Idol to reach the masses (i.e., buy Escalades) is becoming a reality. Or so he posts on his blog.

Those that have been at Faith Builders, know that we are about winning souls to Jesus! But especially lately, it’s like heaven has been opened as well as the hearts of people! This past Sunday between the two churches, we had just under a hundred to people come to the altar to receive Christ as their Savior! This was  just our regular service, nothing planned like a production or a  guest speaker. I’m telling you, all you have to do is get your lost loved ones to the house of God and God will meet them there…it’s awesome! The Bible says that all of heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents! So every time we go after souls and they find the saving knowledge of Jesus, it’s like we’re throwing a party in heaven…hallelujah! I’m very excited about this year…the year of unprecedented victory and souls! love ya Pastor

I wonder how many came to the services because of Danny Gokey? You can even get directions to the church on the Fox 6 website.

Since I’m sure we’ll be seeing a bit of Faith Builders on Tuesday night, how about a sneak preview?

At this point, you might be wondering what Faith Builders International Ministries is like, you know, in the flesh. (Of course, we already know they preach the gospel of American Idol.) Hell, I’m kind of curious, too. 

When you wish upon a star…

I love, love, love the internet. 

Let’s check out some delightful images found on the interwebs, shall we? I believe these were taken circa 2006-2007.

 

Oh look. Here is where you buy the jewelry and whatever else is sold. DVDs?

I am super curious about the costume, makeup and set budget for this place. These are from a show they did at the Beloit location. The Xceller8 Teen Ministry is big into Christian hip hop. Several of the members perform and have their own musical acts. 

They even have PYROTECHNICS!!!

Costumes and dress-up aren’t just for the teen ministries. Oh hellz no. FBIM seems to host a fair amount of costume parties. Here are a couple of photos from the 80s Party, one of Pastor Robin Pruitt and one of someone named Pastor Kevin, who is/was a big part of Xceller8.

If you’re thinking that looks kind of androgynous, you’re going to love this next batch taken from an FBIM Pajama Party! Me thinks we must find out about their policy on uh, gender-bending? (FYI, Pastor Robin is the only one not in drag.)

I think this is from a different show, but Pastor Kevin still has killer legs.

The Style Ministries / Women’s Conference is big into dressing up, too.

As well as your garden-variety church fashion show…

As I mentioned before, a lot of the teen ministry is big into music. I’m think these guys perform at the youth functions? They’re referred to as both the Backstreet Boyz and Gangstas For Christ.

And here is some kid’s self-released CD. Prosperity gospel must be taught to the new generation!

Two words. Thug. Hug. Or was it God’s Thug? Oh well. Same thing.

Son of Pastor Rolex is also active within the church. I believe his Michael Jackson-esque costume was part of the Heartbreak Hotel / Hotel Hallelujah revue. (Hey, I said this was Disney World, goddamnit. They’ve even got Captain EO.)

But also feels just as comfortable when performing in blackface. (Taken at the 2006 Xcellar8 camp “Wild ‘n’ Out For Jesus”)

The ministers also feel comfortable in a variety of costumes, not just drag. This may have been from an event called Urban Explosion.

As with a lot of churches, dancing goes on. There was a lot of dancing going on during 80s night. And french-rolling, obviously.

And a lot of dancing at other events, too. Hmmm…I think this guy looks familiar.

Sorry, no photos of Gokey in drag, just wire-framed glasses.