Dear Editor,

I wish to register my concern regarding Prophetess Daniella Smith’s decision to feature Grace Hamilton, popularly known as Spice, on the promotional flyer for a Christian conference titled Ruth & Boaz.

Let me be clear: My objection is not to Hamilton attending the event. Anyone is welcome to hear the word of God. My concern is that her image is being used publicly on flyers and social media to invite her fans, shifting the focus from Christ to celebrity. Scripture warns, “For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God” (John 12:43). Christian-based conferences should exalt Christ, not human fame.

The theme of Ruth and Boaz is sacred. Ruth left behind her past to embrace the God of Israel, declaring, “Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God” (Ruth 1:16). Boaz, a man of integrity, became her kinsman-redeemer, symbolising Christ’s redeeming love (Ruth 3:11). To associate this holy narrative with worldly promotion risks confusing the sacred with the secular. As scripture reminds us, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14).

Some argue that Hamilton’s popularity could draw thousands into the Church. Yet the
Bible teaches, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). True conversion is the work of the Holy Spirit, not celebrity influence. Numbers do not equal salvation.

Christians are now being labelled hypocrites for speaking out. But the word reminds us, “If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world…the world hates you” (John 15:19). Criticism is inevitable when you stand for truth, but silence in the face of error is not an option.

I urge the organisers to reconsider the use of Hamilton’s image in promotion. She should be free to attend if she wishes, but let the flyer and publicity exalt Christ alone. The ‘Ruth & Boaz’ theme deserves reverence, not contradiction.

Janet Bramwell

Minister of religion

Berea Seventh-day Christian Church

janetbramwell.jb@gmail.com