Eikerenkoetter II, Frederick I. (1935-)

Popularly known as "Rev. Ike," a metaphysical healing and prosperity consciousness teacher in the African American community. Rev. Ike was born June 1, 1935, in Ridgeland, South Carolina, and as a young man became a Baptist minister. After graduation from the American Bible College in Chicago in 1956 he served two years in the U.S. Army chaplain's corps. In 1958 he founded the United Church of Christ for All People but over the next few years came to the conclusion that the over-emphasis on other worldly rewards was wrong and began to search for a way to help parishioners, many of whom where quite poor, in the present world.

The answer to Eikerenkoetter's quest came from New Thought and especially from their understanding that healing and prosperity came from changing one's mental attitude. He moved to Boston in 1964 and open a Miracle Temple. Without closing work in Boston, he moved to New York City in 1966, and in 1969 he purchased a headquarters for his church, the United Church and Science of Living Institute and its outreach structure, the United Christian Evangelistic Association.

He developed a radio ministry and during the 1970s was on more than 80 stations nationwide. Along with Johnnie Coleman of Chicago, he became the leading voice of New Thought within the African American community nationally and developed strong support outside of the community. He became a controversial figure for advocating that members of the Black community spend their tie in changing their consciousness rather than concentrating upon social reform. The preacher was often a popular target of the press for his presentation of metaphysical affirmations in highly quotable, phrases, which his audience could easily remember.

Sources:

Eikerenkoetter, Frederick. Reverend Ike's Secrets of Health, Happiness, and Prosperity—For You. New York: Reverend Ike Prayer Tower, n.d.

Martin, William. "This Man Says He's the Divine Sweetheart of the Universe." Esquire (June 1974): 76-78, 140-43.