Israel United in Christ Inc.

Overview

Israel United in Christ Inc. is a U.S. nonprofit organization known for its affiliation with the Black Hebrew Israelite movement. It was established in 2003 by Bishop Nathanyel Ben Israel (formerly Nathaniel Ray) and operates as a splinter group from the Israeli School of Universal Practical Knowledge[1][3].

Mission and Activities

The organization describes itself as "An Organized Nation uniting our people destroyed from colonialism and slavery." They preach that "Negroes, Hispanics and Native Americans, You ARE the Children of ISRAEL. We made God angry, and he put us into slavery. It's time to come back to God"[1]. They aim to spread their religious teachings globally, claiming to have numerous locations across the United States and internationally[1].

Israel United in Christ is involved in proclaiming their version of Christianity and has been known to engage in controversial outreach efforts. One notable example is their attempt to recruit General Butt Naked, a former Liberian warlord known for human rights abuses, indicating their unconventional approach to expansion[3].

Controversies and Ideologies

IUIC has been criticized for promoting antisemitic rhetoric. Their leaders have referred to Jews as "fake Jews" and "the devil," viewing them as adversaries[1][3]. Additionally, they hold discriminatory views towards the LGBTQ+ community, labeling them as "sinners"[3]. These ideologies align with some extremist factions within the broader Black Hebrew Israelite movement[1].

Structure and Status

Israel United in Christ Inc. is registered as a 501(c)(3) organization, with donations being tax-deductible[2]. As a nonprofit, it aims to preach the Gospel and provide charitable relief[4]. However, it lacks a detailed profile on prominent charity review platforms due to the absence of necessary accountability and financial data[2].

Leadership

The organization is led by Bishop Nathanyel Ben Israel, and Steven Comas is listed among its leadership as of recent data[4]. Despite its growth and international presence, IUIC remains a subject of concern due to its outspoken and divisive beliefs[1][3].

[1] https://www.adl.org/resources/backgrounder/extremist-sects-within-black-hebrew-israelite-movement [2] https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/200516499 [3] https://www.splcenter.org/resources/hate-watch/courting-butt-naked-israel-united-christ-attempts-recruit-former-cannibal-and-leader/ [4] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/20-0516499 [5] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/israel-united-in-christ,200516499/