Transfer Order Sparks Fresh Controversy At Bethany Prayer House; Both Sides To Present Case Before ASP

Proddatur – Andhra Pradesh: A fresh chapter in the long-running ‘Trust–Society’ dispute unfolded at Bethany Prayer House on Sunday when Pastor Solomon reportedly commenced ministry based on a transfer order issued by the ‘Trust’ management, leading to objections from the present Pastor K.M. Ephraim and intervention by police. The situation prompted authorities to summon representatives of both sides to the Proddatur One Town Police Station, where they were advised to appear before ASP Vibhu Krishna with relevant documents for further examination of their respective claims.

• Worship begins amid ongoing administrative dispute

According to information available, Pastor Solomon arrived at Bethany Prayer House on Sunday morning and began conducting ministry at around 8:15 a.m., citing an official transfer order issued by the ‘Trust’ administration.

Speaking on the matter, Solomon stated that he had been formally transferred to Bethany Prayer House by the ‘Trust’ management and had commenced ministry in accordance with the transfer order issued to him.

The development comes against the backdrop of an ongoing dispute between representatives of the ‘Trust’ and the ‘Society’ regarding administrative authority over church-related affairs.

• Objections raised over transfer order

The situation reportedly became contentious about an hour after the commencement of the service.

Pastor K.M. Ephraim, who is presently associated with the ministry at the Prayer House, questioned the legal authority of the transfer order and expressed reservations regarding its validity.

As differing claims emerged, police personnel deployed at the church intervened and facilitated discussions involving representatives and pastors associated with both the ‘Trust’ and the ‘Society’.

• Police refer matter to ASP

Both Solomon and Ephraim stated that police officials advised them to appear before the ASP with all relevant legal and administrative documents.

Speaking to Before It’s News, One Town Sub-Inspector Srinivasulu confirmed that both sides had been asked to present their official records before ASP Vibhu Krishna on Monday for further examination of the transfer-related dispute.

He stated that police deployment at the church was a preventive measure intended to maintain peace and avoid any untoward incidents.

According to police, the objective was to prevent escalation and ensure that law and order was maintained while the matter is examined through appropriate channels.

• Believers express concern over Sunday disruption

Many believers expressed disappointment that the dispute affected regular Sunday worship activities.

Several worshippers observed that conducting ministry under police presence was itself distressing and said that churches should remain places of prayer, fellowship, and spiritual encouragement rather than arenas of prolonged administrative conflict.

Some believers felt that worshippers should not have had to return home disappointed on a Sunday, while others argued that authorities acted with caution to prevent tensions from escalating further.

There were also voices emphasizing that the dispute should be resolved through lawful and peaceful means without affecting the spiritual lives of ordinary believers.

• Believers call for preservation of worship amid dispute

Several senior believers lamented that, for the first time in the church’s history, regular Sunday worship was affected, leaving many believers disappointed and concerned about the future. While acknowledging the police efforts to prevent any untoward incidents, some believers expressed the view that arrangements could have been made to ensure that the worship service continued uninterrupted while the dispute was addressed separately. They said the primary focus should have been on safeguarding the spiritual needs of worshippers, many of whom had gathered for Sunday fellowship and prayer. 

• Growing desire for peace and reconciliation

Amid the continuing legal and administrative disagreement, believers from different backgrounds expressed a common desire for peace, reconciliation, and restoration of brotherly love within the church community.

Many noted that years of litigation, police deployments, and public disputes have placed emotional and spiritual strain on ordinary worshippers who simply desire uninterrupted fellowship and worship.

Believers said they are praying that all outstanding issues will be resolved peacefully through legal processes and mutual understanding, allowing church ministry to continue in an atmosphere marked by faith, unity, respect, and Christian love.

• Both sides confident of their legal position

Sources associated with both the ‘Trust’ and the ‘Society’ expressed confidence in the strength of their respective legal claims and administrative authority.

According to those familiar with the matter, representatives from both sides are expected to appear before the ASP along with their legal experts and advocates, carrying relevant court orders, organizational records, and other supporting documents to substantiate their positions.

Both camps maintain that the law supports their respective claims and are hopeful that a clearer understanding of the matter will emerge once all documents are examined by the authorities.

Until then, the dispute remains unresolved, with believers closely watching developments and hoping for a peaceful, lawful, and lasting resolution that safeguards both the spiritual atmosphere of the church and the interests of the congregation without the need for the intervention of police in future. 

(Source: IAIJ/BIN/DPJB)