Dennis Leonard, founder and pastor of Heritage Christian Center in Denver, Colorado, is a polarizing and elusive figure. He has been called a pioneer and a chameleon, a philanthropist and a profiteer, a trusted counselor and a ruthless businessman.

From the senior pastor, who chased the almighty dollar and spent his evenings in bars before he was saved, to the former drug addict directing traffic in the parking lot, the church holds itself out as a place of forgiveness and healing. Heritage Christian Center is also a place where Bishop Dennis Leonard wears a Rolex and drives a Cadillac but won’t answer questions about the budget, families are urged to give to the church before they pay their bills, and good works stand in contrast to arrangements that financially benefit the church’s first family.

Bishop Dennis Leonard calls it a step of faith. Standing on stage under the bright lights, the pastor tells Heritage Christian Center members that if they give 10 percent of their income to the church, God will bless their families for generations to come. Show some patience, Leonard explains, and expect a turnaround in about 90 days.