Christian prayer website shut down by Washington state attorney general; Ordered to re-pay millions in prayer fees

An online Christian prayer site has been shut down by the Washington Attorney General, and the founder has been ordered to return the millions of dollars collected from consumers for prayers.

Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson said Seattle resident Benjamin Rogovy's Christian Prayer Center has violated the state's Consumer Protection Act by using deception to collect money for prayers. Rogovy has been ordered to return almost US$7.75 million to the 165,000 customers who paid for his services from 2011 to 2015, according to the Inquisitr.

In a news release, Ferguson said he will not tolerate of "unlawful businesses" who take advantage of people's faith or need in order to make money.

The Christian Prayer Center reportedly accepted prayer requests and told consumers that the request would be distributed to thousands of Christians. Customers were required to register on the website, fill up a prayer survey, and pay a fee which costs US$9 to US$35. Rogovy used false testimonials and fictitious religious leaders to convince customers to pay to have their request sent, the Associated Press reports.

Many customers had agreed to a nonrefundable monthly credit card charge without their knowledge. It was only when the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in Seattle began receiving multiple calls from angry consumers who wanted a refund that they found out about the company's operation. An investigation was launched an they were able to trace several of Rogovy's websites which also offer bogus services.

On Wednesday, a closed message was posted on the Christian Prayer Center.

"We thank you for all the prayers, and we cherish the opportunity to have created a place where Christians could meet to support each other," the message said.

Another online company called The Christian National Church, which is also owned by Rogovy, was also shut down by authorities. The said website sold online ordination services but also used false testimonials to lure in customers.

The Washington Attorney General's office will continue accepting complaints against the Christian Prayer Service until June 12. Those who paid for prayer services from Jul. 1, 2011 to June 30, 2015 will receive a refund from the company. By Apr. 8, affected customers will be able to receive instructions via email on how to file a complaint and claim their refund.