Steve Irwin a Born-Again Christian
Netlore Archive: Email rumor claims 'Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin became a born-again Christian shortly before his death in September 2006
Description: Email rumor
Circulating since: Sep 2006
Status: False
Analysis: See below
Email example contributed by P. Gill, 17 September 2006:
|
Subject: Good News |
Comments: "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray while shooting an underwater documentary off the Great Barrier Reef on September 4, 2006. Within days, rumors were circulating among churchgoers to the effect that Irwin had stepped forward to become a born-again Christian two-and-a-half weeks before the tragic event, joining his wife Terri as a member of the fold.
However, according to a statement released by Kings Christian Church in Queensland, where the conversion supposedly took place, the rumor was unfounded.
The rumor was also disavowed by Creation Ministries International, on whose home page the erroneous report first appeared and whose name has appeared in email versions of the rumor.
"We would urge Christians not to be involved in circulating the R.R. email or any other unconfirmed reports," reads a statement on Creation Ministries International's Web site. "It is, ultimately, a matter between Steve Irwin and His Creator — and if the event did occur, then since Terri Irwin is a believer, she will be highly motivated to let the world know. Until and unless that happens (which would be joyful news indeed) we would suggest that any such rumours should not be passed on."
To date, Terri Irwin has issued no public statements on the matter.
Sources and further reading:
How an Email on Steve's Salvation Became Gospel
Sunshine Coast Daily, 26 September 2006Christians Fed to Lyings: Irwin No Convert
Sydney Morning Herald, 22 September 2006Crocodile Hunter - Those Conversion Accounts - Are They True?
Creation Ministies International, September 2006Steve Irwin Official Response
Kings Christian Church, 14 September 2006
Last updated: 09/22/06
