EP 167 This Was Supposed The Place #7: From Church to Cult of Personality: Pastor Worship and the Idolatry of Leadership

What happens when a church stops being about community and starts revolving around one man? In this episode of Clemenz With a Z, I continue the “This Was Supposed to Be the Place” series by digging into the idolization of pastors—starting with Kip McKean in the ICOC, and then zooming out to the wider church culture where pastor worship, branding, and platform-building have taken center stage. I reflect on my own experiences, both in the church and beyond, and explore what happens when our faith is shaped more by charisma than by Christ. This one’s about power, presence, and what church could still be—if we’re brave enough to imagine it.

If you are a member, were a member, or know someone who was a part of the ICOC or ICC and would like to share your story about life in and out of the church, I’d love to hear from you. But also—if something from this episode hit home for you… if you’ve ever found yourself centering your faith around a pastor, a personality, a system… and you’re working your way through it—I’d love to hear your story too.

Maybe it’s time we talk about it together, out loud. You can reach me anytime at clemenzwithaz@gmail.com, or send me a DM on Instagram at the Clemenz With a Z podcast page.

If this episode resonated with you, please take a second to rate and review the show—it helps more people find these conversations and this space. And as always: I’m just a channel. I ain’t the source.

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Until next time, stay honest, stay grounded, and keep growing.
Peace.