Peter Lineham: Massey University Emeritus Professor of religion on the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church ordering a pet cull

Kiwi members of a religious sect may have to chose between their faith and their pets.  The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has told followers to get rid of their animals after a young family member of leader, Bruce Hales, was attacked by a dog. Reportedly, many have already done so. Massey University religious studies expert, Peter Lineham, says members are being required to declare what they’ve done with pets at church meetings this month. "We can expect possibly some people who love their dogs more than God will leave the Brethren over this."  The church is refuting claims members have been told to euthanise their pets.   It says it’s simply restating its existing position on them, and says that members should re-home their pets without harm to a willing neighbour, colleague, or local animal shelter.   LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.