Destiny: The Life and Times of a Self-Made Apostle

Book excerpt: ' . . . a comprehensive, balanced and perceptive account' --Michael Grimshaw, NZ Listener 'This account by Massey University history professor Peter Lineham is fascinating, detailed and more nuanced than the media coverage Tamaki attracted. Lineham puts the ambitious church in context, nationally and internationally.' --Philip Matthews, Weekend Press While Destiny Church began in 1998, it rose to notoriety in 2004 with its 'Enough is Enough' march against what it deemed society's declining moral standards. Destiny and its leader Brian Tamaki have since become a significant - if controversial - presence in New Zealand's religious, political and Maori worlds. But what is Destiny? What does it stand for? Who are its followers? Destiny, written by respected commentator Peter Lineham, is the first full and independent account of the church and its personnel. With unprecedented access to its inner workings, including interviews with Bishop Brian Tamaki and other pastors, Lineham reveals the truth about the man and the movement, addressing the public's questions and fears, and delivering a fascinating picture of the organisation on the eve of launching its 'City of God'.