US pastor, who called congregation ‘poor, broken, broken and disgusting’ for not buying him a luxury watch, apologizes | US News

A US pastor who said his congregation was “poor, broken, broken and disgusted” for not buying him the luxury watch he wanted has issued an apology.

Carlton Funderburke, senior pastor at Church at the Well in Kansas City, Missouri, issued an apology for his “indefensible” comment.

A video clip of his sermon from August 7, in which he berated his church members for not “honoring” him with a Movado watch has gone viral on TikTok.

“This is how I know you’re still poor, broken, broken and disgusted, because of how you honored me,” he said.

“I’m not worth your McDonald’s money? I’m not worth your Red Lobster’s money? I’m not worth your St John Knits – you can’t buy it anyway. I don’t deserve you Louis Vuitton?

“I’m not worthy of your Prada? I’m not worthy of your Gucci?” He went on a rampage in the nearly 1-minute clip.

“And you all know I asked for one last year. This was all the way in August and I still haven’t received it,” he said.

“You all say nothing. Let me knock on the door and talk to my cheap sons and daughters.”

Many in the comments condemned Mr. Funderburke for preaching about materialism.

“It will be my last day in his church,” one commenter wrote.

Another said: “I will leave quickly and loudly, oh no sir.

Another wrote: “I missed the bible about Movado watches.”

In his apology, the pastor said: “While there is context behind the content of the clip, none of it is sufficient to explain the hurt and suffering caused by my words.

“I’ve spoken to people to whom I am accountable and have received their correction and guidance,” he said.

“I also personally apologized to our church, who extended their love and support to me.”