This article recounts the disturbing events that transpired at Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in Jamaica, where Pastor Kevin Smith, driven by conspiracy theories and paranoia about COVID-19, persuaded church members to partake in a violent ritual. Smith's actions, influenced by his rapid ideological shifts and charismatic yet erratic preaching, culminated in the tragic death of congregant Taneka Gardner. His calls to dress in white and abandon cellphones highlight his controlling nature, leading some to believe in the necessity of violence for purification.
Smith had become obsessed with online conspiracy theories, his social media full of disinformation about the 'plandemic,' the impending collapse of the global economy, and health problems associated with 5G networks.
As congregants entered the church, Smith wrote the names of each person in a book. When Gardner walked through the doors, Smith turned to her.
Smith commanded people to dress in white, leave their cellphones at home, and rush to the church. 'THE ARK is Loading now!' he wrote.
She allegedly again replied, 'Yes.' Smith then handed a knife to a seventeen-year-old.
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