Biography of father divine

American religious leader (c.

Biography of father divine

1876–1965)

For the album by Mike Ladd, see Father Divine (album).

Father Divine (c. 1876 – September 10, 1965), also known as Reverend M. J. Divine, was an American spiritual leader^[2] from about 1907 until his death in 1965.

His full self-given name was Reverend Major Jealous Divine, and he was also known as "the Messenger" early in his life. He founded the International Peace Mission movement, formed its doctrine and oversaw its growth from a small and predominantly black congregation into a multiracial and international church.

Many consider him to be a cult leader since he claimed to be God.^[3]

Life and career

Prior to 1912: Early life and original name

Little is known about Father Divine's early life, or even his real given name.

Father Divine and the peace movement he started did not keep many records. Father Divine declined several offers to write his biography, saying tha