Christ Penelope, a controversial pastor from Limpopo, South Africa, became widely known for an unusual and shocking healing ritual involving his followers. During the ritual, he reportedly sits on a follower’s head and releases gas into the person’s face, claiming that the Holy Spirit enters through the nose. The bizarre practice quickly attracted attention online.

According to reports, Penelope has defended the ritual as a demonstration of God’s power and faith. While many people reacted with disbelief, criticism and ridicule, some of his followers reportedly continued to support him and were willing to wait for months for an opportunity to see the pastor and participate in his services.

The pastor has also faced controversy over other unusual practices associated with his church. Reports have previously linked him to rituals involving condom lubricant, while another incident allegedly involved congregants being encouraged to eat a snake that he claimed was extinct. These episodes added to the growing public fascination surrounding his ministry.

Despite the intense criticism, the story highlights how unconventional religious practices can attract both devoted followers and widespread public scrutiny. Penelope’s unusual rituals have sparked debates about faith, religious authority, manipulation and the boundaries of spiritual practices, making him one of the more controversial religious figures to attract attention in South Africa.