This is a “News With Nicola” story.
Evangelist Benny Hinn has hit 50 years in ministry and is inviting supporters to join him for an “exciting, historic evening” to celebrate the milestone. The event’s promotional materials promise “an unforgettable evening of sparkling ambiance” with featured guest CeCe Winans and other surprise guests.
The longtime charismatic faith healer’s half-a-century career has been plagued by controversy after controversy after controversy.
Only in recent years does it seem that Hinn has sought to positively address critics and show remorse or repentance for some of his wayward teachings, specifically a prosperity gospel purporting that God trades blessings for cash. However, despite proclaiming in 2019 that “the gospel is not for sale” and that he thinks God finds it offensive for him to ask supporters for $1,000, Hinn was documented just a few years later allegedly backsliding on his apparent repudiation of the prosperity gospel.
Hinn, currently going through a second divorce from his first wife, made waves in the 1990s with his faith-healing events — some of which were revealed to be staged.
He’s also known for this…whatever that is.
Then, there was the whole alleged affair with Paula White, another prosperity preacher who’s come up in recent years after she vouched for President Donald Trump’s questionable Christian faith during the 2016 presidential election — and even called on “Angels from Africa” to help him win re-election in 2020…to no avail.
Despite his questionable prosperity gospel teachings, the legitimacy of his miracle healings, and financial practices, Benny Hinn has maintained a loyal following.
Apparently, some of those supporters are willing to pay upwards of $1,000 to celebrate with Hinn and hear him reminisce about his 50 years in ministry.
According to the event ticketing site, Hinn will celebrate his ministry milestone in December at The Bowden in Keller, Texas. The venue has space to seat 550 guests. Hinn’s anniversary event has been reserved for 535 guest seats — and if all guests reserve the Platinum ticket experience, that translates to $535,000 in nonrefundable purchases.
The Platinum ticket purchase, which does not include lodging or travel expenses, offers perks like premier table seating, a private reception with Hinn, a gourmet meal, and complimentary parking, among other benefits.
Supporters can also purchase Gold and Silver tickets for $500 and $250, respectively.
“You have been with me all these years, and it just won’t be complete unless you’re there,” Hinn told supporters in a recent newsletter.
Celebrated gospel artist CeCe Winans, described by Hinn as a “dear friend,” is scheduled to provide the praise and worship experience.
“I want to sit with you and share story after story of everything God has done over the last 50 years,” Hinn said.