Rony Tan, founder of Singapore’s Lighthouse Evangelism Church, is in hot water for his recent “jokes” about Buddhism — among then, the suggestion that one might follow Buddhism thanks to demonic forces. The country’s Ministry of Home Affairs has stated that “Pastor Tan’s comments were highly inappropriate and unacceptable as they trivialized and insulted the beliefs of Buddhists and Taoists. “They can also give rise to tension and conflict between the Buddhist/Taoist and Christian communities.”

Tan, for his part, has now stated on the Church’s website that he recognizes that his comments were “wrong” and offensive.” A smart move, if only because such defamation is considered a punishable offense in Singapore. (Frankly, it the move seems as calculated as Tan’s onstage conversations seem scripted.) But the fact remains: an apology was called for, and, in this case, delivered.

So what did “Pastor Tony” say? Here’s are three videos with Tan’s divisive comments on Buddhism and “false religions” in general.

Have comments of your own? Please share them. Perhaps we can help those who might be given to believing what Tan is saying that, in fact, there’s nothing demonic about those who practice in a way so different from his.

We recently got an email from film director Tony Kerns, about his new film, A Month of Hungry Ghosts:

“Hello Horse – I found your site a few months back and have been wanting to send you some info about my indy documentary film A MONTH OF HUNGRY GHOSTS.  The film documents an entire seventh lunar month in Singapore in 2005 and captures many events and angles pertaining to hungry ghosts practices in Singapore.  It’s getting a small theatrical release in Singapore this August and I hope to get it into some film festivals next year.  I thought you might be interested in this project.  We captured a lot of interesting things throughout the shoot.  The site has more info, pics, trailers, teasers and my production “blog” about the shoot along with updates on screenings.  Please check it out if you get a chance. Thanks!”

Definitely, Tony. It looks TOTALLY cool. Let’s hope it gets around like it should.

Fellow Worst Horses can check it out here.