Straitway Truth Ministry

Straitway Truth Ministry, also known as Straitway Truth Ministries and Straitway Ministries, is a Black Hebrew Israelites religious group based in Lafayette, Tennessee that preaches biblical literalism.[1] Led by Pastor Charles Dowell, Straitway describes itself as "a nation of Hebrew Israelites who are commandment keepers; obedient to Yah (God) & our savior, Jesus the Christ."[2]

Straitway operates around a dozen chapters around the United States and encourages members to live together in isolated communities.[3] The group has been accused of being a cult and has faced allegations of abuse and financial exploitation.[4]

Straitway counts several former professional American football players, including former National Football League Pro Bowl selections Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and Robert Mathis, as members.[5]

  1. ^ Kahler, Kalyn (July 14, 2020). "Pray for Kabeer, Chapter I: The School Play, the Minister of Defense and the Fall of a Hero". Sports Illustrated.
  2. ^ Porter Tilley, Jenny; Sarah Nelson (June 29, 2024). "Where is Bryson Muir? What to know about missing Indiana teen, police investigation". Indianapolis Star.
  3. ^ Kahler, Kalyn (July 4, 2024). "Ex-Colts DL Daniel Muir arrested after missing son found safe". ESPN.
  4. ^ Kahler, Kalyn (July 15, 2020). "Pray for Kabeer, Chapter II: The Pastor, the 'Cult' and Its Troubled Past". Sports Illustrated.
  5. ^ Kahler, Kalyn (July 16, 2020). "Pray for Kabeer, Chapter III: The Followers, the Courtroom Drama and the Next Chapter". Sports Illustrated.