by A popular Ugandan Church has broken the Guinness World Record for the longest applause after ecstatic members of the Phaneroo Ministries International clapped for a staggering 3 hours and 16 minutes nonstop.
The unprecedented three hours and sixteen minutes clapping expedition featured strict rules that included – clapping hands only with no vocal noise and stomping, no musical instruments, all phones in silent mode and no bathroom breaks.
Also, sound levels had to be maintained at 80 decibels for the duration of attempt and, in case one needed a pint of water or some soda, someone would be assigned to them, holding a bottle to their mouth, as they sipped the drink, clapping.
This unprecedented achievement dubbed “Clap for Jesus” took place on July 30 at the UMA multipurpose hall as Phaneroo Ministries marked their 9th anniversary.
Phaneroo, known in Uganda for their vibrant and energetic gatherings, brought together thousands of enthusiastic attendees from all corners of Kampala as many watched by the sidelines.
Photos across social media show a rather weary congregation in various stages of clapping, others seated in the hall while others sprawled outside on the lawn, heads bowed.
The Guinness World Record adjudicators, who actually attended the event, appeared to confirm that Phaneroo had set a new record.
Apostle Grace Lubega, the leader of Phaneroo Ministries said that this historic achievement was a testament to the indomitable spirit of Phaneroo and its dedicated followers.
“It underscores the organisation’s ability to bring together people from diverse backgrounds under a shared sense of purpose, forging bonds that transcend borders and barriers,” he said.
“Beyond the celebration and jubilation, this remarkable feat is a powerful symbol of unity and solidarity in a world that often seems fractured. Phaneroo’s breaking of the Guinness World Record for the longest applause serves as a reminder that when people come together with a common vision and unwavering commitment, they can achieve the extraordinary.”
Source: citizen.digital
Editor’s note: On their website, Phaneroo says it is a dynamic, life transforming and generational impacting ministry with a vision to transform nations and the entire world with the Word of God. Phaneroo is is led by Apostle Grace Lubega, a former banker, and has its roots in Afro-Stone fellowship (a fellowship at Makerere University that brought together Christians from the two on campus halls of residence, Africa Hall for the Ladies and Livingstone Hall for the Gents). Phaneroo has a presence in over fifty institutions of learning in almost every area in the country, but has also spread beyond Uganda to Rwanda, the US, the UK, Burundi, Kenya, South Sudan, Malaysia and Congo.
Asked why his ministry was so attached to young people, Lubega said: “The campus stage is the most wasted, where many of them have lost the values of Christianity. So Phaneroo is there to solve the problem.”
However, there has been discussion in Uganda over its “questionable doctrine, conduct, and morals” and cult characteristics. It is alleged that the movement teaches that Christians do not need to repent since they are not sinners and that followers don’t fall sick or die because they are gods. Its is also heavy on the prosperity gospel, teaching that Christians should not be poor.
On September 30th, 2019, the Africa Center for Apologetics Research (ACFAR) wrote in a letter to Veracity Fount: “(Phaneroo) has become a challenge to the understanding and appreciation of Christianity in Uganda. Young people are moving away from their traditional churches in droves. Parents are concerned about the change in belief and behavior of their children who have been involved with Phaneroo. Christian leaders ask questions: what is this “Phaneroo?” What does it teach? How can we help our children understand its teachings? If our children are involved in the movement, how can we help them see the potential dangers of being associated with such a group?”
In their own defence, Phaneroo Ministries said the allegations levelled against them are untrue and based on rumours and misrepresentations.
