Six inexplicably popular TV ministers will be getting a close look from Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley. Combed-over faith healer Benny Hinn, the impeccably groomed, ironically named Creflo Dollar and rare bird female minister, Joyce Meyer are all on Grassley's list.

Also receiving letters from the Senator were: Kenneth and Gloria Copeland of Kenneth Copeland Ministries, Bishop Eddie Long of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church and Randy and Paula White of the Without Walls International Church.

Of the inquiry, Grassley stated, "I don't want to conclude that there's a problem, but I have an obligation to donors and the taxpayers to find out more. People who donated should have their money spent as intended and in adherence with the tax code."

I must confess I am a semi-compulsive addict of these programs and will sit for hours just soaking up their manipulative broadcasts. My personal favorite TV charlatan is Robert Tilton of Success-N-Life, who despite having been repeatedly, public discredited still find followers out there amongst the weak and the vulnerable.

Further details on these purveyors of the prosperity gospel via The Guardian.

UPDATE: More as of this morning from the AP. Details on exactly where this investigation should go, disclosure requirements for these types of non-denominational mega-churches and comments from some who are critical of the Grassley probe.

-- MDT

Labels: Chuck Grassley, Televangelists