I have had mixed emotions about this whole situation, ranging from total shock and total sadness and somewhere in between there has also been, (due to my human nature) a fair bit of anger. Not anger directed at any one individual, but at the course of events, uncontrolled rhetoric and negative attitudes that have led up to this terrible tragedy. I have also had my times of questioning why and how something this terrible can happen. It just goes to show how your thoughts are real things and as the old saying goes “you are what you read” well– you are also what you think and say. “As a man thinks in his heart so is he” and “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks”. (Matthew 12:34b) All of you who had anything to do with fueling Ricky’s bitterness, condoning his attitudes and sympathizing with him, have taken part in his crime and had a grip on his knife.
(more…)

I was a young age when we left “The Family”—my parents myself and two brothers. I can’t quite recall all the details of why we left but we did. We continued to live in a similar manner as we did when we were members of “The Family”. We continued to live communally by faith and held many large gatherings (fellowships) which consisted of Family members and former Family members. These times of fellowship seemed to be pretty positive with everyone sharing a mutual faith and enjoying the company of one another. It was a time where those that were former members could enjoy the same fellowships and unity in worshiping God they had missed and most of them had done without ever since they had left “The Family”.

My parents decided to create a website which was initially designed to be a place where the users, both favorable and unfavorable to “The Family”, could express their views and thoughts towards “The Family”. My parents had become quite popular amongst almost anyone who was associated or formerly associated with “The Family” because of the active part they played with their fellowships, newsletter and website which was created to reach a broader number than had their newsletter. My parents assumed the neutral role towards both sides which caused a number of people from both circles to feel comfortable in their presence which in turn resulted in many visitors, as my parents had always been an open home and well liked by many.

It was about this era when I had started to experience the influence of those who were antagonistic towards “The Family”. As time elapsed and my association with the people of this nature continued, I too found myself growing more antagonistic until I found myself joining in on their conversations and attacking the belief system of “The Family” as well. A neutral could have asked me back then why I felt the negativity toward “The Family” and I would’ve given him/her a run down of reasons, none of which I had experienced first hand or had been shown proof that it had actually taken place, but rather had only been uttered by a convincing presenter.
(more…)

I’ve been thinking a lot over the last couple weeks about life and the meaning of it, trying to find some semblance of surety that my existence has counted for something. Because I could have been the innocent woman killed that night, and as things stand now I would have been awfully unprepared. Life isn’t something we can make bets on. It’s a privilege not a guarantee, here today and gone tomorrow, but when tomorrow comes I don’t plan on being ashamed with how I spent my life. I might have wasted the first half floating in lukewarm uncertainty, but I won’t take this attack on my faith and family any longer, enough of hiding my head in the sand and letting others take the rap for their convictions, if it’s the last thing I do, I will speak out.

This isn’t about Angela Smith, the victim, who I did not know, nor is it about Ricky Rodriguez who I met only once several years ago. I don’t feel it’s my place to try to make sense of what happened and why. This is about me and who I am.
(more…)

I’m not asking you to give up the lifestyle that you have chosen for yourself or to let go of all of your beliefs and to suddenly embrace mine. I’m not asking you to change careers or the way of life that you hold dear. In fact I’m not asking anything of you, so why can’t you give me the same respect?

My name is Connie Braaten, I’m 18 years old and I was born into The Family. I have lived in many countries and situations throughout the world and have never seen an abusive situation during all my time in The Family. However, during a time in my life that my family chose a part-time level of membership I was suddenly faced with the cold reality as to how the world really is. I saw my friends lie, steal, and hurt each other. I saw lives poured down the drain due to drugs and drinking. Even as young as I was I knew that wasn’t what I wanted, I knew I didn’t want to live for myself, always looking out for number one, not trusting anyone, and most of all, the fear that comes along with feeling like you’re all alone and that there is no one in whom you can truly confide.
(more…)

(Sent to Tiffany of Steph, Mexico, after hearing about Angela’s death.)
(Note: Posted with permission)

Dearest Tiff,

Happy New Year 2005! How are you? And your family? I’ve been thinking about you a lot especially recently after hearing about Angela.

I was really shocked by what happened to her and I felt great and deep sadness. All the memories from when I used to live with her and Andrew in Mexico came flooding back to me. It made me think about all of us who used to live together with her. I couldn’t believe it was her they were talking about. It really shook me.
(more…)

(Venezuelan Missionary to Romania of The Family)

I wanted to do something with my life. I knew I could make a difference. I saw selfishness, hate, and greed. I wanted to make the world a better place. But they told me I couldn’t. They told me I was a fool! That if I didn’t listen to their cajolery to give up the path I’d chosen that I was brainwashed, over sheltered, narrow & close-minded. I never thought of myself as such. All I wanted was to serve my God in peace. I’ve been down the seekers road. I’ve searched high and low for fulfillment, for purpose, for meaning. I knew there had to be more to this life than living for oneself.

Is it close-minded to find what you’ve been seeking, finding meaning and purpose… a goal; then focusing your all on achieving it, while ignoring all that would sidetrack you? To put everything into fulfilling your dreams, even if it means dismissing those who say it cannot be done, who say that “their way” is better, though you’ve tried “their way” and know where it leads. If closed mindedness means closing my mind off from the ravings of those who say I’m a fool for trying, that I should give up my philanthropic quest to share the happiness I know with those in need of cheer, of talking about my God of Love to those who don’t know Him, and living & working with likeminded individuals, giving up everything which ties me to the selfish world I’ve been liberated from, then Yes, I am closed minded! I believe… I know that I can make this world a better place. Even if all I’m able to help is the small part of the world I live in, with a kind word or deed!
(more…)

My name is Manuel Schot, 21 years old. I’ve had the honor & privilege of being a missionary with ‘The Family” my whole life. I’ve been to over 30 countries in 4 continents as a missionary, presently I’m living in Romania investing whatever skills I have and doing whatever I can to further the cause of Christ. As a missionary with “The Family”, I’m not forced or coerced in any way, nor do I feel subjected by condemnation to be here.

Throughout my life with ‘The Family” I’ve been involved in many ministries, worked with people on all levels of society. I have many friends and also members of my personal immediate family that have left “The Family”. Some have moved on in their lives and they haven’t gone on to being disgruntled, stooping to lying and speaking profanity about their former friends and caretakers and people who raised them in love and care. Instead they have made the most out of their lives and are very successful each in their own new profession giving credit to “The Family” for giving them insight into many spheres of life that most younger people of society at large simply haven’t had, and for individuals of “The Family’ who have raised them with integrity and taught them moral values which have helped them tremendously. I am still very much friends with many of my old friends who have chosen a different life.
(more…)

Nationality: Japanese
Age: 19
Country that I am living in: Japan
Marital status: single

After hearing the recent events I must say that shocking is a very mild way to describe the turn of events & though I’ve never met either of the people in the incident, both of them once lived & had the same goals in life as I do here in Japan. The thought of that was very disheartening to say the least. To me it was a saddening event that showed me all that comes from anger, bitterness & hate is nothing but sorrow & destruction. In this case death, and for what? No matter what his intentions were, there is no excuse to take a life. What I continue to puzzle about is why people would continue the bitterness & hate this event has brought. I would think that this sad event would speak for itself and show that bitterness & hate brings nothing right & just wastes so much, including time which is very important in my opinion.
(more…)

I have a question, which I hope will get answered: Why can’t people leave us alone? Why can’t we live our lives and you live yours instead of trying to make a living off us? Why can’t we do what we like to do, helping others, instead of people always questioning our lifestyle?

I’m Leon and my wife is Pandita. We’ve been married for two years now, and are presently living in India where we’ve grown up all our lives in The Family. We currently are involved in various projects such as working with underprivileged children, personal counseling, organizing children’s event and corporate functions. I’ve lived and worked with people from all walks of life and I’ve learned to relate to them and what they go through, I’ve gone to disaster areas (such as the Orissa cyclone and the Gujurat earthquake) to offer help and moral support. I’ve had the opportunity to do things that other people wouldn’t have experienced. I feel fulfilled and satisfied knowing that I’m making a difference in someone else’s life. It’s a calling which is not for everyone and we understand that.
(more…)

Dear Reader,

I’d like to say for the record, that I had an excellent, albeit unique, upbringing. I have more good memories about my childhood then I have time to recall.

I have a very close knit family, all biologically related like many families I know. I am one of four sisters. And yep, I am the baby of the family. So, you can bet that I was well taken care of. I have wonderful parents, who love me very much. They personally made sure I was taken care of and provided for.

I am thankful to say that I’ve never been abused. I received what I feel was balanced discipline that taught me the three golden rules: Do no harm to others; Do no harm to self; Do no harm to property. I was also taught the importance of making my own choices in life, that I am the one who decides my own destiny. The freedom of choice is something I greatly value.
(more…)

My name is Kubota Kazuki, I’m 23 years old and I am living in Japan. I’m married and I have a beautiful baby boy! My wife and I were born and raised in the Family.

I have recently heard about the tragedy that took place in the states and my heart goes out to all of those who knew and loved Angela. I am quite shocked and angered at what happened and if there was anyone else that was involved in the murder, I pray that God will judge them accordingly.

There are some people who have left the Family who are blaming the Family for what Rick did, saying that the reason he killed her was because he was abused in the Family! I don’t believe that’s true! From what I’ve heard from people who have lived with him it seems that he was never abused and he was happy and had a good upbringing!
(more…)

I am not an eloquent writer nor do I possess great speaking skills but I want to stand up and speak for myself against the lies and accusations being said against my loved ones and me in the recent news and media.

After hearing the news of Rick and Angela’s deaths my reaction was one of shock which turned into sadness and compassion for the families, friends, and loved ones of these two. This must be a very difficult time for them all and I pray and hope that God will give them the strength to make it through this difficult time. I did not know either of them so I cannot tell you anything about them but in my opinion what Rick did was not something to be condoned but rather something to be appalled at. How anyone could take another’s life I will never understand because since I was a young child I have been taught that love is most important thing and that no matter what someone does to you, you should never hate, become bitter or use violence towards them but rather you should, love and forgive them and move on with your life. Below you will find my personal statement:
(more…)

My name is Michaela Flandoli, I’m 20 years old, live in Brazil and am a full-time member of the Family International. I never met Angela Smith or Ricky Rodriguez, but when I heard the shocking news I felt as if it was one of my sisters who had died. And yes, she was a sister, even though not in blood, for she gave most of her life for that which I’m giving mine: To give Jesus’ love to others. I couldn’t believe that someone who had had the upbringing that Ricky had, would commit such an atrocious act. It’s as clear as day that he had this “radical change” after he began fellowshipping with vocal unfavorable ex-members. Why can’t you leave those who choose to leave the Family International in peace? Let them build their lives without your “help” for you’ve done nothing but brought pain! Just because you’re not doing anything good with your life doesn’t mean you have to try to stop or harm those who are. If we were as bad as you say we are, why then you’d be full to overflowing with “recruits”.
(more…)

Mi nombre es Gabriela C. Memoli Alves y tengo 15 años, soy argentina, pero vivo en Brasil, en un hogar maravilloso lleno de gente que te ama y se preocupa por vos y tus necesidades, tanto fisicas como espirituales. La vida en la Familia es algo hermoso y debido a que vivimos en comunidad podemos disfrutar de la compania y apoyo de todos. Mi ministerio en los hogares que he vivido ha sido cuidar de niños, especialmente toddlers y la verdad es algo hermoso y re alentador ver sus avances y como aprenden ya desde pequeños a ser tan obedientes y educados, tambien siempre les han gustado mucho los “Laminas y Lemas”, “Apacienta mis corderos”, franelografos, etc…verdaderamente el material que la Familia produce es maravilloso, lleno de colores y todos con valiosas lecciones que sirven de por vida, y todos basados en la Palabra. Personalmente me gustaria que uno de esos apostatas viniera a una de mis aulas, seria, aparte de provechoso para su reaprendisaje de lo que es la Familia -visto que oviamente no lo tienen muy en claro- un ejemplo para todos ellos del buen comportamiento, la felicidad y amor que hay en el rostro de cada uno de nuestros niños.
(more…)

I find it difficult to understand that some of our former members who have left just can’t leave the past behind and go on with life. I don’t understand why they have to bend over backwards to try and make life difficult for us, who are still serving God as full-time, professional missionaries. I want to make it clear cut that I am proud to be part of this Family, (or Family International) and I am neither forced nor pressured to stay within The Family by any means.

What happened to Pete (or Rick) and Angela was a sad tragedy but had nothing to do with Mama or Peter…period. I was really sorry to hear of both their deaths, but I hate it when our apostates feed the public a pack of lies to the point of almost justifying Pete’s cruel act. I don’t know what you people have heard about the Family, but I’ll tell you one thing; I personally would rather be in ‘The Family’ at its very Worst than to be out there at its very Best. We’re happy doing what we do, serving God and preaching what we practice, so before these haters point the finger at us and try and make life miserable for us who are still sticking it out, look at your own youth, man! Wake up and smell the concrete. Your entire environment is filled with kids (not to mention underage) shooting, killing, hooked up on drugs, prostitution and almost every conceivable crime imaginable.
(more…)

“What use are we to society and mankind?”—A big question that stimulates us into action during our years of adolescence on up. “What is the purpose for our existence on earth?” As young people we search for a solidified and self-assuring stance and posture in life. We desire to feel assured and confident in the walk of life we commit ourselves to. And if we have searched hard but have not found the deal of appeal, then often in our lack of experience and exploration we flourish in frustration unnecessarily—if you can understand what I desire to express.

I am a second-generation young person at this present time. Yet despite the fact that I had been born and raised in the Family, there had come a certain period in time that I, too, had to find God. I grew up in the nurture and admonition of the Family doctrine, yet it was mainly only in mind until I came to a crossroads where I had to decide–Not because I was coerced or threatened by a physical entity–By all means, no. By being in the Family, I cannot deny that I was tremendously privileged to partake of the incomparable blessings I had at my fingertips, of which I would barter nothing for.
(more…)

I didn’t know Ricky or Angela personally, thus I am not able to say that Ricky was not abused, or make any statements about Angela’s personality and how she treated Ricky when he was growing up (though none of that changes the fact that he murdered her.). But I do know about life in the Family, and I do know what it’s like to grow up in the Family, what discipline is like in the Family, what rules are like in the Family, and I know what it is like to know that where I am is exactly where I belong.

My name is Masaya L. Rider, born on the 27th of July 1988. I was born and raised in Japan. I’ve been in the Family all my life. And throughout the 16 years of my life I have never once felt like I was ever neglected, unloved, used, or abused. Though at times I would blame my parents of such things when things didn’t turn out exactly my way, especially when I got to be 14-15 years old (“mom and dad don’t even care about me, why is it such a big deal for me to go to bed whenever I want?? I’m not a kid anymore!!”). In my heart, of course, I always knew and I still know that my parents love me and are doing what’s best for me.
(more…)

I first met Angela Smith several months ago, in the beginning of 2004. I only lived with her for a few short months before she moved on, but in that time she showed me how life was meant to be lived: she gave freely and generously of everything she had, loving those around her genuinely and unconditionally. Her constant cheerfulness and zest for living were contagious. She constantly went to great lengths to ensure the well-being and happiness of those she lived and worked with.

When I first heard news of the recent events, I couldn’t believe it. How could anyone be so demented, filled with such hatred to end such a wonderful life? How could one such as Ricky Rodriguez, who had been brought up in an atmosphere filled with nothing but love and the best of care, commit such a violent and horrific crime?

But I was even more shocked and disgusted still, to find that some were actually advocating and supporting his actions, saying that she “deserved it” and that it was “too bad he only got one.” To those who voiced these opinions: what if he had, and it had been one of your parents, siblings or friends who remain in the Family? Would they too “deserve it?”
(more…)

(23 years old, currently residing in Japan‚ A.K.A. Sam)

I am proud of my upbringing. I thank God every day that He chose me, (out of all the billions of people living on this corrupt and decaying planet) to be born and raised in The Family. It still amazes me every time I think about all the thrills and adventures I’ve experienced so far during my life as a full-time missionary and ambassador of the King of the universe. My life hasn’t been devoid of hardships, difficulties, and moments of extreme depression, I’ve had close brushes with death and the number of accidents that resulted in unsightly scars are many, but as I reflect on all the battles I’ve fought over the years –whether they were physical, emotional, psychological, or spiritual ones – I can only affirm with unwavering conviction that the only reason why I was able to find the inner strength to persevere and overcome the obstacles every time was because of my deep faith in God, love for His unfailing word, and the habits of unceasing and fervent prayer.–all of which were instilled in me ever since I was born.
(more…)

I dream the dreams the world says are impossible
I do the things the world says cannot be done
I hear the voice the world says has been silenced
I run the race the world says cannot be run

I believe in things the world considers insane
I love the ones the world has given up hope on
I believe my King is coming to reign
And with His coming a new day will dawn

Who are you? You might ask.
What is it that you do?
Whose voice is it that you hear?
What races have you been through?
(more…)

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Juliana Connolly; I am a fulltime member of The Family International.

Although words cannot fully express how horribly tragic the murder and suicide of Angela Smith and Richard Rodriguez, respectively, has been, it is terrifying to see how the entities we expect to provide us with truthful accounts, based on facts and evidence have distorted this story so far out of proportion, that not even by taking back every word could they ever rectify the harm that has been done.

I find the sad lack of facts, and the incredibly large amount of irrational, sensationalism found in recent newspaper articles and television shows, alarming. While most respected academics consider the tales of ex-members and apostates to be little more than “private mythologies”, and viewpoints which have become distorted with time, it is almost humorous how some journalists will take these statements as if they were some factual account by God himself, and be willing to risk any and all measure of logic, reason, and journalistic ethic, to publish such comments and opinions.
(more…)

My name is Alisa. I am a Second Generation member of the Family International. I am married and have four wonderful children who will also have the privilege of being raised in the Family.

I was aghast and sadden by the events that took place concerning Ricky and Angela. I didn’t know either personally but I don’t think it takes a rocket scientist to come to the conclusion that for one human to take the life of another human is INEXCUSEABLE! I cannot tell you about what either Ricky and Angela were like, but I can tell you about me and my life and you can choose if I, a second generation family member that “could be potential Manson family” material (according to certain deluded apostates) is abused, deluded or in danger of going off my nut.
(more…)

I am a human being; like you. Just as you, I was born in an environment that I did not choose. I was drawn in with lines I could not see when a small child. By the time I realized there was a definite boundary that I could not cross I resented it. I was the typical rebellious young boy. I choose not to obey in most scenarios. I had a strong will. The world was full of fun that was always for the next age bracket. Was that similar to you? Perhaps, but maybe one difference. I was born in a closely knit group that sprung as The Children of God in the Hippie era and morphed into The Family of Love in the ‘80’s. It was the only life I knew. I lived in a small commune in Hong Kong.

Some people question their childhood. I never questioned mine much; until last week when I read some articles written of us by the University of Alberta’s professor of sociology, Stephen Kent.
(more…)

Name: Sho Miyazawa
Age: 15
Country: Japan
Ministry: Student.

This statement is addressed to those who are blinded by hate to the point they attempt to destroy the lifestyle that has raised them with love & care. I was born in the Family in 1989, April 28. I have six younger brothers and sisters whom I love dearly. I lived in Japan for most of my life but I have also been to other countries.

The reason my parents went to different countries with seven young children was to share the joy they found in their savior with those who had never heard his name. I also the privilege & joy of going on two missionary expeditions to the needy nation of India. When you, our apostates claim that the children & younger generation of the Family lack the comfort of being emotionally cared for, I can say to you that nothing can be farther from the truth.
(more…)

(From a second-generation member of the Family International)

My name is Esther Stevens, I am 31 and I was born in the Family. I am married and I have five children. Besides home-care and taking care of my children I work on a board that offers counsel to parents in the care of their children as well as organizing camps, activities and events for children.

I am very thankful to my Family up-bringing that enables me to perform the services I provide for others. I had a very happy childhood, my parents were excellent care-givers and loved us greatly as well as provided us with excellent training in reaching out to others less fortunate than ourselves. While we weren’t always affluent in a materialistic sense we never lacked for love and security, and in this we were a close family, amidst our “greater Family”. Even though now three out of the seven of us children (that is my brothers and sisters) have chosen different vocations other than Family missionary membership we still have very loving and caring relations even though we haven’t all pursued the same life-calling and vocations.
(more…)

Shock is an adequate word to describe the feelings that ran through me as I pondered the recent developments. There were moments of silence and grief for both people who lost their lives, but the time has now come to speak up.

Have I had a perfect life? No. Have I had a great life? Yes.

As any good Christian should, we have been taught to turn the other cheek. For a long time I have smiled at our detractors, and those with bitterness toward the Family, as they ranted and raved at what they see as its faults and shortcomings, evils and the skeletons in our closet.

I have read through apology after apology that we as the Family have given for those incidents that have caused trauma and grief. No one denies that things have happened, and no one denies that rules have since been put into place to protect all minors from things happening again. Most of us have been fortunate to be raised in a society where any sort of abuses were the rare exception, not the norm.
(more…)

I almost decided not to write this. For one thing, I’m not intellectual or eloquent. I think there are a lot of people who could—and probably will—express these sentiments better than I can. But my heart and my conscience will not let me sit silently by while a few bitter people slander those that I love, throw spiteful accusations at my Family, and demean my beliefs and chosen way of life.

I’m not going to elaborate on the recent tragedy and what I think of the cruel and hateful way it has been taken advantage of by those who seek to destroy the Family and those in it. It’s too sad, too absurd to even be contemplated. I can only pray that all those who hear of it will have the dignity to accept the truth and the intelligence to disregard the vile slander of those motivated by bitterness and hate.
(more…)

From Joanna K., second-generation member of the Family International

I can’t help but loathe the way you try to manipulate my ability to choose freely. I believe everyone has a choice as to their belief and their lifestyle, and I choose to live this unorthodox lifestyle not because I am coerced to. My name is Joanna K. and all my life I’ve been in the Family by both choice and by heritage.

My parents are both Christian missionaries belonging to The Family International which accounts for my unique upbringing. Now you may shelf my story with “She’s been in the Family all her life, which means she is naïve and sheltered.” Well, maybe I haven’t experienced what it’s like to live a secular life, but my closest friends that have been in The Family have left, 3 of which are my brothers and sister. They are all pretty much opposed to the Family lifestyle and always try to persuade me to leave. But when I see them trying to make a living and that they are unsatisfied about their secular life it makes me realize the luxury I have to be truly happy. I know this happiness only comes from serving the Lord. And what better place can I serve the Lord? –The Family! (more…)

Hello, my name is Makoto Habaguchi, Age 21, Japan.

I would like to say, that I am blessed to have been born and raised in such a wonderful, caring, understanding environment, as The Family.

The Family has thought me, the most important values in life, as a Christian!

Right at the very moment, I am involved in English Discussion Groups called L.O.V.E. Held for many University Students who study English, for a chance to use their English, and see how far they can express themselves.

Many of a time at these Discussions, we would discuss about their future, and the many problems Japan faces with its youth. The Problem with the Youth in Japan doesn’t come from lack of food or money! But because they lack affection and love, family bonds, and a home life.
(more…)

Call me “sheltered” if you must, but don’t dare to call me “abused”. I have known nothing but a life of love, safety and security in the Family. Grown up in India, Pakistan the Middle East, tasted and seen a variety of cultures and backgrounds, learned to relate to many walks of life and peoples, and experienced a whole lot more than the average person my age. I’ve seen enough of the world to know what it’s like “out there”, and have in all good conscience chosen my way of life.

I moved to Thailand of my own accord to pursue a relationship with another member of the Family, and have gotten involved with the work here in Thailand. I have been part of a cultural project in Thailand, worked as a teacher in Family centers, organized households and kitchens, been on a pioneer team to start a new work in the Northeast of Thailand, and have had 2 kids on top of it.
(more…)

(From a second-generation member of the Family International)

To the reader:

My name is Bernadine Wolford. I’m an American citizen, thirty-two years of age, born and raised in The Family International, a Christian organization that has been recently highlighted in the media.

I have recently read about the deaths of both Angela Smith and Ricky Rodriguez via the Internet. To say the least, I am furious to hear that someone I met on several occasions (while he visited in Moscow, the second and third times when he lived in Hungary) and regarded as a decent young man could be so enraged with hate to actually stoop to such a low level and kill someone who was his friend in the past. The fact that Ricky put on a pretense and wanted to meet Angela supposedly on a “friendship outing” with the intent of later on stabbing her is absolutely horrific—I can not imagine why any person in their right mind could justify this horrible crime! Now over a week later to hear the twisted, distorted version of the so-called “truth”, calling it a “crime of passion”? It just doesn’t settle well and is even more reason for my writing this. Certain individuals (namely detractors of our Christian group) are bent on destroying our group, saying that Ricky did it because he was abused by Angela Smith, concocting lies that “she was Ricky’s nanny” is so far from the actual truth about his past.
(more…)

I’m 21, born in the Family and have lived around 19 years of my life in the Family and would have it no other way!!

Growing up in the Family is like a dream life, a life free from the many terrors, hardships and cruelties that children through to teenagers go through while growing up in more secular surroundings. I was brought up with the nurture and love of my parents and other care-givers who did all they could to ensure that I and the other children that I grew up with had healthy mental and physical surroundings.

So you want to say that being raised in the Family was like me growing up in a harmful and abusive environment? HA that’s almost funny, but I wouldn’t give up my day job to become a comedian if I were you. The sad part about it is that if you aren’t trying to be funny and you’re actually saying it seriously, well all that means to me is one of two things. Either you’re: a) suffering from major memory failure and distortion of past events, (and if you are, I would suggest you see someone about it, as opposed to making up fictional alibis to sulk in and to try to get sympathy from others. Instead why not try growing up and getting on with your life.) or: b) you don’t have a life, so you have made it your aim to cut down, accuse and abuse those who do at all cost, even if it means stooping to a level so low that you fabricate lies and fraudulent tales.
(more…)

To those it concerns,

My name is Seiko I am 22 years old. I am a mother of one. I’ve had the privilege of being raised in the Family by loving parents and wonderful caregivers. From the age of 16 to 21, together with my parents I was in Sri Lanka to minister to the poor and needy. We believe that Love is the most important thing, and what better way to express Love than through our actions.
(more…)

About myself:

Name: Angelina Rieli
Age: 26
Ministry: Secretary
Countries lived in: Brazil, U.S.A., Turkey, Slovakia, Hungary
Countries visited: Mexico, Greece, Romania, Ukraine, Poland, Bosnia, Montenegro, Croatia, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, France, England
Some of the things I’ve most enjoyed doing:

• Attending my best friend’s wedding
• Attending one of my best friend’s deliveries
• Caring for my godchildren and niece
• Collecting frogs
• Debating with my friends
• Dinner out with my parents whenever I visit
• Experiencing and learning so many different aspects of my secretarial ministry
• Hearing from my siblings and friends about my nieces, nephew and godchildren

(more…)

Age: 19
Location: Japan

I have been born and brought up in The Family and I, like many others, was shocked and appalled when I heard the news about Ricky Rodriguez and how he had murdered Angela Smith in cold blood. This was not a spur of the moment thing that he did when he was overcome with rage as some of our apostates would have you believe, but this was a premeditated murder that Ricky had carefully planned out beforehand and carried out on this poor, innocent, unsuspecting woman.

Why would he do such a thing? What would drive this seemingly normal man to carry out this vicious act of terror? Was it his upbringing in the family? Was it the way his parents loved and cared for him and provided his every need? Or was this act of violence in direct consequence of his contact with those whose goal it is to destroy, defeat and overthrow The Family? I think the answer is obviously the latter.
(more…)

From Celeste DiMattina

The setting of this tragic happening vaguely reminds me of a movie I once saw… I won’t get into critiquing the movie itself and the morals and message therein (seeing as I did not agree with them), but the sick feeling I had for days after watching that movie is almost as bad as the feeling I experienced at receiving news of Angela and Ricky’s deaths. – Probably because I knew the movie was fictional whereas I knew both Angela and Ricky and could not believe I had actually read that notice correctly.

It just didn’t seem right, and it still doesn’t! Angela was such a loving person! There’s no way anyone would want to kill her. And as for Ricky, though I knew he had turned sour and antagonistic over the years after leaving the Family, murder and homicide was the last thing I would have expected any young person raised in the Family to do.

My name is Celeste DiMattina, I’m 26 and was born and raised in the Family. I haven’t lived my entire life in the Family though. When I was a young teen I took a “break” for a few years. At the time I lived with my dad (who is no longer a Family member – though he is one of the thousands who are just fine moving on in life) but as soon as I realized what I was missing – the fun, excitement, happiness, contentment, enthusiasm, joy, peace, etc. (I don’t think I could do the subject justice and the list would go on and on) – from not being in a Family Home and around Family members, I realized I had to get back to the Family as soon as I could. It wasn’t easy to rejoin actually, contrary to what some might say of our recruiting techniques, but I look at it as a time in which I was able to see both sides of the fence and make a concrete decision of just what I wanted to do with my life.
(more…)

My name is Christian Fahren.

I’d like to respond to this very tragic incident that happened to Ricky and Angela.

This is a totally honest account of my 24 years of upbringing in the Family:

I was born in the Family and received the most wonderful upbringing I could ever have - with wonderful parents, academic teachers, people who cared about me and did the best they could for my education and moral support. I have had numerous opportunities to express my individuality and talents in performing arts, vocational training, etc.

I have had the wonderful opportunity to have lived and visited various countries with the support of my fellow hard-working missionaries whose life goal is to spread the Gospel of Jesus and bring hope, joy, happiness in place of sorrow, support, etc., to the people in the countries that God has called them to.
(more…)

By Saskia Smith

In a statement written several years before this tragedy by the since-deceased Ricky Rodriguez in which he aired threats of physical violence against his personal family, he is quoted as saying that he held all those members of the Family eighteen and older responsible for the environment in which he was raised and had since grown to detest.

But responsible, I ask, for what?

I am five years Ricky’s junior, and raised in the Family since my parents joined the movement in the early 1980’s. I was reared in the standard fashion of Family childcare at that time. I lived in many different communal settings in various countries and in the charge of a wide assortment of caregivers and teachers in the group. I would like to state that I have never suffered any type of abuse.
(more…)

Arnhem 20 January