Fake cancer preacher admits porn addiction
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Lied about having cancer: Michael Guglielmucci (Google)
The father of a Christian preacher who falsely claimed to have cancer says anyone who gave money to his son will be able to get it back.
Michael Guglielmucci faked having a terminal form of leukemia for two years while preaching to the Planetshakers group in Melbourne and Adelaide.
It is believed he received a number of donations for treatment for his fake illness, and even released a music single titled Healer.
His father, Daniel Guglielmucci, a founder of the Edge Church at Reynella, faced reporters this morning.
He said his son was a sinner who must seek repentance, and might need to be sent overseas for treatment in a specialised clinic.
He said the church and his son are taking legal advice about the situation.
He then read a statement from his son to a packed congregation.
In the statement, Michael Guglielmucci said he had been addicted to adult pornography for 16 years, apologised to those he had misled, and promised restitution.
Michael Guglielmucci has been stood down by the Australian Christian Churches, formerly known as Assemblies of God.
The Australian Christian Churches is investigating the incident and says it is still deciding what form of discipline it will take.
Mr Guglielmucci's lawyer says the preacher is receiving psychiatric treatment in Adelaide.
