'The Sisterhood' Reality Show Causing a Stir in the Christian Community
"The Sisterhood" has been documenting the lives of pastors' wives in the form of a reality television show which has caused various church leaders, gospel singers and prominent individuals to speak out about TLC's new groundbreaking series.
The show premiered Jan. 1 and focuses on five preachers' wives trying to balance life in Atlanta, Ga. According to TLC networks, "THE SISTERHOOD provides an honest, behind-the-scenes look into the struggles, triumphs and unique experiences that shape these bold women as they ditch their Sunday hats and morph into the dynamic and influential figures they have become and aim to be."
However, some church figures, like well-known gospel recording artist and Perfecting Faith Church Pastor Donnie McClurkin, have created dialogue for Twitter followers after expressing disapproval of the show.
"Why do we support such things like TLC's 'SISTERHOOD' showing the underbelly of 1st ladies, hurting the church image, giving God a bad name," McClurkin questioned over 100,000 Twitter followers. "I really wish ALL of Christiandom [sic] would do the same and boycott it. We have to defend the image of the KINGDOM! SPREAD THIS WORD."
However, well-known gospel music producer Kevin Bond seemed to use the show as an example of the wrong way to be a witness of Christian faith after watching cast member Tara Lewis speak about her Christianity to others.
"I pray we're not learning Tara's poor witnessing techniques," Bond tweeted to over 20,000 followers. "If so, few souls will be in your account!"
Amber Patrice Riley, Christian actress and singer who appeared on the television series "Glee," seemed fascinated with the reality television series after hearing about the controversy it was causing.
"Now about this reality show 'The Sisterhood,' what do you guys think? I haven't watched it, just want to hear what those who have think," she questioned over 700,000 people on Twitter.
Ivy Couch, the first lady of Emmanuel Tabernacle church led by her husband Pastor Mark Couch, was prepared for the backlash that she would receive from some viewers after appearing on the show. However, she told The Christian Post that the reality television series has the possibility to heal people.
"I think other Christians act like they don't have problems anymore once they become Christian. So it's really an opportunity for me to be transparent because I think that's how we help people heal," Couch told CP. "So I think He's using this reality show, it is going to be groundbreaking and we're going to upset a lot of people. But I do also think that we're going to bring a lot of people to know Him personally."