–Teri (25)
– Married, mother of one

Born and raised in the Family–and so NOT ashamed of it!

No, I mean it! While I’m extremely saddened about everything that’s happened of late–my close friend being murdered for no good reason, Ricky brutally taking someone’s life and then taking his own, so many people taking this situation and using it to their own advantage, the media twisting and contorting the truth—this whole situation has strengthened my faith and belief in the Word and has made me so thankful for my upbringing in the Family like never before. And I think I can say the same for many Family members worldwide.

It baffles me that some of you who are attacking us so vehemently do not get the point or have completely forgotten what the scriptures have to say about persecution, not to speak of the numerous times we’ve come out on top and that the Lord has delivered us from attacks such as these. But then again, when I think about it, you are helping to fulfill scripture.

It increases my faith when verses I’ve memorized come to mind, such as: “Yea and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (2Tim.3:12)” Wait! Did that say “live godly"? –Hmmm … Interesting! We must be doing something right! (more…)

From Tim, second-generation member of The Family International

This whole situation really saddens me. It’s really hard to think about what has happened, as I knew both Ricky and Angela very well. I lived with Ricky for quite a while in WS, and worked with him. I considered him my friend. He was the type of person who valued his friends, and had something good to say about everyone. If you were having a bad day, and someone seriously bugged you, and he heard you say something about them, he would always interject something positive about the person. That’s just the way he was.

Ricky liked challenges. He was always learning new things, and was especially gifted in fixing electronic equipment. I admired his talents, since they were ones that I didn’t have. I had different talents and abilities, but whenever I didn’t know how to do something, he would help me out, and vise versa.

Ricky and I had a friendship that I considered strong. Even though we had different lives and friends, we enjoyed many of the same things. We both enjoyed sports. We were a great volleyball team together. We sometimes enjoyed biking and running on the beach. We did many things together that I was sad to lose when he left our home. But I was happy for him, that he was going on to do what he felt led to do on the mission field. I still remember the day he left. He was positive and happy.

I’m sharing this here, not just to honor Ricky’s memory, but also to explain how surprised I was to begin hearing later some of the things that he was saying, and that he didn’t even want to have contact with anyone from the Family, including those of us he used to live with, people who never did anything to hurt or harm him or anyone else, people who really loved him and Elixir a lot. It was hard to understand how people he had previously had many good times and wonderful memories with were now considered enemies, and that those experiences which were formerly good experiences were now being retold as being bad and abusive. I mean, come on! How does that happen?! One day you’re friends, and the next you’re enemies?! (more…)

From Beth Jordan, Bangalore, India

Many different emotions hit me when I heard the news of Ricky and Angela’s deaths. It was not an easy thing to hear or even understand why there are people in this world who kill and hurt. Things were not meant to be this way. Good, loving and caring people are not mean to be brutally killed and then mocked and maimed by those who care not for life.

I kept asking myself “Why? How could this happen? Why are there people today who make it their goal to destroy us and end our way of life?” I have heard their “reasons,” the accusations, the “stories” that they say happened and I thought “Let me ponder this and try and get some answers to these questions straight in my mind.”

So, I took a long walk yesterday, not in a park or through the city, but down the long Memory Lane of the last 26 years of my life. “Is it possible?” I wondered, “that I was surrounded my abusers, robots, and uncaring parents and never even noticed?”

So I walked … I can see it now … my mom teaching me when I was 2 years old. Well she was mainly teaching my 2 older brothers and older sister but I was a bright kid and I can see my mom’s face as bright and as happy as can be when I read the word “blue” on a flashcard that she was showing to my older brother. She was thrilled! I was thrilled that she was thrilled and that day was the beginning of many days of being taught to read so that by the time I was 3 I was reading books on my own. There were four of us—Joe, Jean and Simon and then came me—and what a family we were. Ah such memories! ….. (more…)

Name: Deepa Marie Daniels
Age: 19
Location: India

When I first heard the tragic news, I prayed for those involved, and then a thought came to my mind. How, why, do people do bad things, hurtful things? I thought, What was Ricky like five years before he committed a brutal murder and then took his own life, do you think in his wildest imagination he presumed that he would go so far off, that he would leave Earth that way?

Memories of childhood bedtime stories came to mind with Ricky (Davidito) as one of the main characters, I remembered my Mom and I looking at a “Now it can be shown” photo book, featuring pictures of Ricky as a child with his father. He looked so cute, so happy! Being our founder’s son, I held a special respect and admiration for him.

I thought if he could do what he did, then what am I capable of. I took an honest look at my present life, one I treasure, hold dear, and make sacrifices to live. I wondered, Where will I be in five years, what will I be doing? And then it came clear, I will be where my choices take me, just as Ricky was where his choices took him, and all of us will be. God has given us the majesty of choice, the freedom to choose good or evil, love or hate. (more…)

From Ana Tabita Bianchini, 19 years old

In light of the recent tragedy, and how much coverage the Family International is being given, I would like to tell you a bit about myself and upbringing. Firstly, my condolences go out to the Family and friends of both Angela Smith and Ricky Rodriguez. The shock and sadness I felt upon hearing of this tragedy soon turned to feelings of revolt as I watched ex members of The Family influence the media and press with their distorted, untrue and murder-favoring stories, in their attempts to malign and destroy the Family which is the lifestyle I have chosen.

While to me there is no connection between the acts of a disturbed murderer and my early years, some who grew up in the Family and later left seem to believe that there is a very close connection with the way children are raised and educated in the Family, believing all Family-born youths to be the products of “abuses,” and therefore unstable.

My name is Ana Tabita Bianchini, I am 19 and was born in the Family International, and spent the first six years of my life in a Family community in Brazil. I have many happy memories of those years, from early learning experiences, performing, playing with friends, and just general happy childhood memories. At that time, after dedicating themselves to being missionaries for 9 years my parents decided to pursue another lifestyle, so I spent the rest of my childhood years living a “normal” life. (more…)

From Jacob Appleton

Well I’m not much of a writer as per se, but I felt compelled to write up a few comments & thoughts in regards to the recent murder of Angela, suicide of Ricky, & the consequent media hype that has taken place.

I’m a parent of three kids, but wasn’t born into the Family International as many my age were who I’ve met & work with. After living a life of drugs & experiencing all that the hippie era had to offer, my parents joined the Family International, feeling called to do something with their lives. I was five at the time, after which I traveled with my parents throughout India & Pakistan doing missionary & relief work wherever we could. After which I was invited to Thailand to further my experience & studies. I remained in Thailand & southeast Asia for the next 6 years where I met my wife, and since that time I have lived & worked with my family in many countries.

Yes, my friend, a charmed & beautiful life I live compared to many others who never have the opportunity to leave their hometown. I treasure the life I have chosen, & thank God even though it requires a certain amount of sacrifice, to see the smile on a child’s face being cheered up, makes it worth it all. (more…)

From Sara Appleton

My name is Sara Appleton, Swedish by nationality, 29 years old. I too have grown up in the missionary group called the Family. My husband and I have 3 children: Our oldest son, who is 8, is in 3rd grade, our 6 year old in first grade, and the youngest, just 3, is a bright and intelligent preschooler. Being that I feel our childhood, upbringing and now consequently my children’s wellbeing is being misconstrued and misrepresented, I can’t help but have a few words of my own on the topic.

I’m so sorry for those of you who feel in retrospect you had an inferior or ‘bad’ upbringing. Get this … I was raised in the same Family as you, and whattaya know, it was great. Different yes, but different doesn’t make something immoral, wrong or evil. Sure mistakes were made. Shall we get a little realistic about life? Maybe you’ve watched too many cartoons and fairy tales. So why should you ask everyone to take on your point of view as opposed to mine?

If you have such an urge to work with the under-privileged, abused and uneducated, turn around and look at the society which you are now glorifying as perfect. Such ‘concern’ could be going to constructive causes, such as the truly needy of the world, not those you seek to use to justify your choices. For goodness sake, grow some balls, stand on your own two feet, and learn to walk the path of life you’ve chosen to walk. Who the hell do you think you are to be the judge of my life, and to be a self-proclaimed what have you? There’s enough genuine abuse and gory horror stories of disturbed individuals in society at large to keep you busy till the end of time. Oh sorry, I forgot, you don’t believe that kind of stuff anymore. You live in the eternal now, with the exception of dissecting select distorted memories of the past to excuse the present. (more…)

From Mercy Langille, 26, Bangalore, India

“Yea, all that live Godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” That is the verse that came to me when I first heard about the slander that is being thrown at The Family. (we must be doing something right, or no one would be saying anything)

I am a second generation adult who was raised in The Family. I have been through a lot, I’ve seen a lot. I’ve experienced things people my age can only dream of. I am 26 years old and have lived in 8 different countries. Aside from bring a fulltime missionary (which I know I am called to be), I have chosen as my profession to be a teacher. I’ve worked with children of all ages, from babies to 12 year olds. I’ve studied Family child training techniques and I use them daily with the children that I teach. If there is anything I know, it’s how children are raised in The Family. I see it every day! Are they abused? Not from what I have ever seen. These children are loved and cared for in every way.

Was I abused as a child raised in The Family? Certainly not! I was raised in a very loving environment. Though for several years my mom was single and had to raise 4 of us on her own, we never lacked for anything. We always had good food, warm clothes, comfortable beds, and she saw to it that we were educated properly. I’ve never attended public school a day in my life, yet I completed high school plus 3 college courses. I could read at the age of 2 and this started me on a lifelong love for books and I taught myself a lot that way. (more…)

Hi, my name is Marie Claire! I am a full time member of the Family International! I am 21 years old and have been born and raised in the family! I was born in New Delhi India and have lived in different countries throughout my life as a missionary such as Bangladesh, Italy, Spain, Romania and India!

My parents are missionaries in the Family as are my three brothers! I just wanted to give my side of the story about Family life I know a lot about the family I have been a member for 21 years I love my life and serving Jesus in the way that I do! I find that the family is an ideal place to be and I find great fulfillment in my work and I intend to do this for a great deal longer as long as there are people to be reached with the love of Jesus! There is no unemployment in our line of work!

I think more people should ask us the younger generation of the Family to tell our side about the Family international after all we are the ones in it, if we are getting abused and mistreated we should be the ones to ask, if our lives are so horrible than why not ask us about it? If I didn’t like it here I would leave! No one is forcing me to be here – I want to be I want to do what I am doing and I enjoy it! (more…)

I’m Zeke, 15, born and raised in the Family. I love my life, and I’m proud of the way I’ve been taught to live. When I first heard about all this, I was pretty surprised. But like many others, I guessed from the very beginning that our enemies would try to take advantage of this situation. Though it doesn’t surprise me, it does make me absolutely sick. I would like to know why they hate us so much that they are willing to use a situation like this to try to condemn people that had nothing to do with it.

I’m not even an adult yet, but it doesn’t take a college education to realise that our enemies are stooping pretty low. In all my life I have never been abused once. If I have ever been mistrreated, it was rare and never intentional. I know that there were abuses in the past, and so does everyone else. Everyone also knows that those offenses have been apologised for over and over again.

I made my final choice one year ago. I want the Family. Family life isn’t easy, it’s as much hard work as you can imagine. But hey, at least I’m not wasting all my time complaining about things that may or may not have even happened. Our detractors have a site that’s called “Moving On” and all they talk about on that site is the past. To describe it in one word, pathetic. Get over it!

Give me liberty or give me death! - Patrick Henry

Ezekiel Bruni is a second-generation member of The Family International

My name is Megumi Kawaguchi. I am 18 years old and am Japanese and have been living in Japan all my life. I am a second generation of The Family International. Yes, I have been raised here and I know no other life.

I can’t understand why this happening should suddenly make “us” and our lifestyle so wrong. I can’t understand why people would want to take our happy lives, and try to tell us and others otherwise.

I have grown up in The Family International and I have known the love of my parents, teachers, friends and my God for as long as I have lived. Never once have I been beaten, or abused in anyway…physically, mentally or otherwise.

We do have a lifestyle different from most people on this earth. We live to serve others and help people. That is the life I know and that I’ve grown up with.
No, I have never attended public school and I am proud to say that I have been home-schooled and have learned much that the average teenager cannot learn in a normal school. (more…)

Name: Kiyomi Ito
Age: 24
Location: Japan

To those who have heard of the recent incident, I pray that you will find the peace in your heart to respond to this sad event in the right manner, and not let any anger or prejudice hinder you from offering your support and sympathy to the loved ones of these who’ve met their untimely end. Perhaps it would also be a good time to ponder the effect each of us has on others, through our words and actions. –Whether our attitudes and the things we say reflect a positive stance in moving forward in life, or whether they reflect our seeking to place the blame and rationalize our own negativity.

How one can choose to malign the victim and instead victimize the murderer is beyond me. No justification or psychobabble can excuse the tragic events of an innocent life snuffed out before her time and the grief caused to her family. I find it hard to comprehend the perception of some individuals who adamantly maintain that their upbringing in the Family is to blame for every disappointment, misfortune and hardship in their lives. Several of my friends and members of my family have chosen a different lifestyle than the one in which we were raised, and they are secure, well-adjusted individuals, successfully working towards their personal goals in life. Why should the few who choose to live in the miseries of their past, be it real or imagined, be heard any more than those of us who are satisfied with our lives? (more…)

My name is Leika Ito. I am 21 years old and live in Japan. Never heard of me? Well, I have no claims to my name. I am just one of many who have grown up in the ‘Family International’ and have chosen to dedicate my life to this cause in which I firmly believe.

I’ve decided to write in response to those who have accused us all (which would include myself) of being “abused” and caught in a “dangerous and harmful” environment. How they can be so presumptuous as to know all about my life, I haven’t the faintest idea. However, as they feel so free to air their one-sided opinions, I feel it only fair to reply with my own. (more…)

What I think.

My name is Marina Akiyama, and living in The Family of Japan, and I just want to tell you of my life in the Family International (The Family). I was born and grew up in this Family throughout my whole 20 years of life. And so I can truly say that The Family is not what our apostates claim it to be, it fact it is the complete opposite, in my perspective. I know The Family as loving, considerate people who only want to serve Jesus and to win the world for Him and His Kingdom. And we young people have been taught since we were a lot younger about the Lord, the Word and other spiritual and physical truths.

And I’ve known my parents to be always loving in their communication and actions towards us of my family, and others and have only corrected us in a kind, loving and Godly, real Christian-like way. There has never been any abuses whatsoever that I have been a witness of in this Family. Of the first generation adults that I have met and know, they are the best shepherds, teachers and counselors I have ever known, and could trust. All of who are fully dedicated to Jesus and His work and teaching us of the younger generation to learn to do the same. And for that I am thankful. For they have certainly taught me a lot that has made me what I am and will become in the future of this Family—an elite soldier of Christ and fully dedicated to Him. (more…)

By Reuben John Ford Ambat, 18
Bangalore, India.

It’s funny how some people think they can speak for you, but I’ve got news for some of these vocal vindictive apostates….YOU CAN’T!!! I have lived all my 18 years in the Family as an FD member and I have never once been abused, or seen anyone been abused in any shape or form. I have parents and teachers that love me. So I take offence to the very vocal apostates that sweepingly state that “we in the Family” have been abused. Who are you to speak for me and for the other 1,800 young people that are still members of the Family International? Hello we have brains!!! We can think for ourselves…we don’t need you as our spokes people. Who are you to question whether we want to stay in the Family or not? If we want to do something good with our lives and if we are winning the world for Jesus, you don’t have to be jealous and start making up crap that never happened. Stop blaming people. Come on help us, we need as many people as we can to reach this messed up world. Can’t you guys grow up??? You guys are adults now, you’re not playing with toy cars and wearing diapers anymore. Can you stop squawking and whining about what happened in the past, over 20 years ago? Forget the things which are behind and look towards the things that are before. If you were to just read your Bible you would know. I feel bad for you guys that have turned your back on the Lord, I love you guys and I have nothing against you, but can you just go on with your lives, do something useful, if not for the Lord then at least for humanity? (more…)

From: Yoko Kamiyama (a.k.a. Sunny)

I’m living in Japan. I met the Family International in April 1999 and started to work with these wonderful people since 2000. I officially joined this Family as a full-time missionary almost two years ago. As you see, I’m not second generation. I don’t have a long history in this Family, but I can still say that I’ve found the best place to live my life fully as a Christian with the most loving people. Now I’m 25 years old and I’ve been happy to serve the Lord as a member of this organization. Although the shocking news about Ricky and Angela brought me sorrow, it hasn’t shaken my conviction.

I was raised up in an average Japanese family. I had had good parents and friends as well as a good education. (Now I prefer quality home schooling like we have though!) I was a potential college student so many people thought I would be a “successful” woman in the future. (Ha!) However, now I belong to The Family International as a simple missionary (I work as a translator & teacher/caregiver as well). I left everything behind to be a part of this Christian group. Why? NOT because someone forced me to do so, but because I saw all kinds of beautiful samples of Jesus’ genuine love among the Family members and desired to be like one of them. I was amazed and touched by their love for the Lord, their love for others, their children’s purest smiles, young members’ shining eyes, and peace of their spirits. Everything I saw among them made me understand the great love of Christ. Also many of the children and young people I met were very talented and smart and knowledgeable as well as happy and healthy, which impressed me a lot. And all the adults and parents were thoughtful and sacrificial as well as very young in heart. All of the Family members-both first & second generation- were a living miracle in my eyes and they changed my life. Today, I’m so thankful for everyone who helped me to find true happiness in Jesus. It’s such a privilege to serve the Lord in this Family International. (more…)

Maria Nelson, 24, India

Hi! My name is Maria Nelson. I’m 24 yrs old, from Chile, but now live in Bombay, India, and have been living here for the last six years of my life. (Which have been great years, by the way.)

I’ve been born and brought up in the Family, and not a day goes by where I can look back and say, “Boy, I regret that,” or “What a horrible upbringing!” —Which is something that seems to be quoted by some that have left. It’s just so sad, because the fact is, all those I have met, (that have been born and brought up in The Family and are in The Family now, as well as close friends of mine that have left), have only had good things to say about their childhood. If anything, they always seem to look back on those days as days of Heaven, ha!

One thing I’ve noticed that is a bit odd, is that some who have left all of sudden decide to switch their story to how bad their childhood was, all this abuse, (which is one thing I’ve never seen in my 24 years in The Family by the way). —Whereas before leaving, they never had anything negative to say about their upbringing. Something is wrong with the picture. My opinion is GET OFF THOSE WEBSITES! They tear your spirit down and make you into someone you DON’T want to be! Just look at the evidence. (more…)

By Elaina M. McNair, 18 years

Opinions. Everyone’s got one, and it seems that many exercise their right to broadcast them, with a vengeance.

I wouldn’t be writing this if it weren’t for the bizarre and downright alarming opinions that have been voiced recently. I generally consider myself a benign, non-confrontational person … but some of the allegations and false generalizations which are being leveled against our group, and hence my little family, and myself, make me just a little bit hopping mad. Whatever happened to good old fashioned morals? I’ve been hearing people say murder and suicide are justifiable, some even go so far as to say called for. And other people are listening to them. For obvious reasons, this frightens me beyond measure.

Here’s how I figure: If people with disturbed frames of mind such as the above are permitted to put their ideas out for the general public to mull over, perhaps I could add what I think, for whatever it’s worth. (more…)

(Sent to Michaela F. Rieli, Brazil, by Martin Puckey (19), USA, former second generation member of The Family International)
(Note: Posted with permission)

First of all, let me apologize for the nerve I apparently struck. And that is not sarcastic in any way. I could have and should have chosen my tone a bit more tactfully but I want you to know that I in no way whatsoever was attempting to knock you or the Family. Like I said, I have no regrets or bitterness or ill will towards the Family in any way whatsoever. I was brought up in a community full of love and kindness and with people who truly cared about me. Yes, like you said, you can see bad in just about anything if you choose to focus on it, but I am not decieved into thinking that the few occasions where things weren’t as great as they could have been were any worse then the experiences which everybody has at times in their childhood.

Nobody has a perfect childhood, and the good parts completely overtake the bad in my opinion. I have very fond memories of my upbringing and my decision to no longer be in the Family was not prompted by hatred or ill will, merely a realization that it wasn’t for me and I wanted more [by which I mean different things] out of life. I feel that as long as I am living my life in the right frame of mind, and I am not harming anyone, but trying to make the lives of people I meet just a little better for having known me, then I am still cool with God. I believe that in order for people to respect me and my decisions, I must first respect them and theirs. So I do not think that the way I think and what I believe is right for anybody but myself. Everyone has a right to their own life and I am not going to discriminate. I am proud of you and your choices. (more…)

From a female second-generation adult
22 year old

As I begin writing this I would like to state first and foremost that I’m truly sorry both for the loss of innocent life and for the repercussions that have thus ensued. Human life is valuable and no one should undermine it by taking another’s life or their own for that matter.

While reading the facts resulting in, and following this tragedy, I was moved to write something in the Family’s defense so that whoever chooses to be open, and truly wants to understand the truth will hear both sides of the story and be able to come to his own conclusions thereafter. I too was born and brought up in the Family and I would like to say that aside from the fact that life hasn’t always been perfect, I would NOT, given the opportunity, take back anything or choose to be born under more ‘ideal’ circumstances. The homes I’ve lived in have always been havens of peace, love and joy. (more…)

From Nic (26)

I would like to take some time here to express my thoughts and opinions on the recent happenings following the tragic event that has occurred. I would like to address this specifically to those who are inclined to only believe or listen to the handful of negative former members and apostates (I say “handful” because ‘believe it or not’ there is a much larger group of former members who have truly moved on with their lives and who lead productive lives in society to whom I would like to sincerely and highly commend! All I can say to those is God bless you, we are truly praying for you!) who so openly spout off their pontificated and embellished accusations regarding their; and thus mine as well, supposed “evil, perverted, and abusive upbringing”. Then they go so far as to attribute the recent acts of hatred and violence to the Family and the way we were raised.

In saying the above I am not in any way trying to imply that the Family is perfect but I do invite any of you who are to go ahead and “cast the first stone”. The Family is made up of people who are after all “only human” but their biggest desire is to give their all to the Lord and to love and serve Him, as well as love and serve others to the best of their abilities in hopes of making the world around us a better place. Does that sound so weird or perverted to you? (more…)

I am the type of person who would generally prefer to “let things lie,” and keep away from too much controversy. I like to be free to do what I feel is best with my life, and I try to respect others’ choices as well. But after the tragic recent events that took place, I feel compelled to say something, to “let my voice be heard.”
I am appalled at what happened—it goes beyond the wildest things I could have imagined. And I am appalled that some people would seek to twist it to their advantage, or try to somehow justify or minimize the horror of the crime.

A young man brutally murdered a defenseless woman. And not just any woman. This was someone he’d known and lived around most of his life, a very close friend of his family’s, someone whom even he (who had already stooped to almost unbelievable levels) had never thought of defaming. While no premeditated and cold-bloodedly executed murder could possibly be defended, it seems that surely what we are in the presence of reached a separate level altogether in senseless cruelty and perversion. I can only assume (and indeed, hope) that Ricky was an extremely deranged and mentally ill young man—someone who would have been more at his place in a medical institution where he could have received professional help than walking the streets.

I never met Ricky. When I was in Eastern Europe for a while in 1998-1999, I met a number of people who’d known him, and/or had been around him during the time he spent there. While there were certainly some indications that he seemed a bit disturbed, and a number of things he did or said at the time raised eyebrows and questions, surely nobody could have ever imagined that he would eventually fall to such depths of homicidal psychosis. (more…)

My name is David Olinger I’m 17 living in Miami Florida. I’m here because of the crazed bantering of a few ex-members who refuse to get on with their life! I have two family members out of the family and plenty of friends that are out of the Family, and most of them are very happy with their lives now. My older brother was in a rather crazy teen combo when my family was in Chile. He was even put on silence restriction for a month. My parents have apologized many times to him for that. Though that didn’t stop him from getting on with his life, his so called “underdeveloped Family schooling". He made it though college with an A average. My other older brother and his friend went in for GED, and guess what? They scored one of the highest scores in the history of the school. (more…)

My name is Elisabeth Mooney, or Lisa, and I’m 23 yrs old.

I am writing in response to accusations that I’ve heard about the Family International.

I was born and raised in the Family and am proud to be a member of it to this day. It is a privilege and honor for me. I feel privileged to have been raised with the love and care of my parents and others, who taught me and took care of me, the godly heritage that they gave me, the good education, the things they taught me – to love God and my neighbor as myself, to help those in need and to try to live like Jesus would. I grew up seeing my parents live as missionaries, preaching the gospel, helping others and living by faith. I have seen the Lord take excellent care of us. I’ve come to know the Lord on a personal level. I’ve had a wonderful upbringing that I wouldn’t trade for anything. (more…)

By Rachel, 11 years old

Stop putting me in a box (and sticking the “Brainwashed and abused, handle with care” label on me!)

My name is Rachel. I am 11 years old. (I’m turning 12 in February). I was born and am being raised in the Family International. I was shocked at the news of Ricky and Angela’s deaths. I did not know Ricky personally, but I did know Angela. I remember a sweet, dedicated woman, always ready to give a helping hand. I admired her very much. It was a very sad thing that turned Ricky to killing someone he knew and loved as a child.

But tell me this; if someone that you knew absolutely nothing at all about grew up being a Catholic, or a Jew, or a Hindu, or a Muslim, became extremely bitter about their childhood, and morbidly killed a member of that organization and then took his own life, would you set out to slander, take the children away from their parents, and eventually destroy the entire group of thousands just because one member hated it? Is that right? (more…)

Here are my thoughts that I wanted to post here on the site. By the way, thank you and God bless you for your time and sacrifice in making this possible. My name is Jasper McCollum. I’m an SGA member of The Family International residing in the United States.

The Time Cometh
Lyrics and music: Jasper McCollum
[Inspired by: Jn. 15:20; 16:2, 2Thes. 2:1, Rev. 20:4]

Verse 1:
I picked up the paper today
as I read what it had to say;
attacks on my faith,
articles clearly filled with hate.
The words jumped off the page
and hit me sqaure in the face
as I prayed to a God of grace
the hour was not too late.
You know what clearly came to mind
as I read line after line
a verse on constant rewind
coming to life before my own eyes!

Chorus: [Jesus speaking]
The day will come when they kill ya
and think they’ve fulfilled the will of the One whoes blood was spilled for the sins of the world.
They’ll put you out of their holy place
as they mock you and spit in your face
what they’ve done to Me, they’ll do to you, because they believed not the love of the truth they’ll be blinded by strong delusion, justifications for what they have done as they hide from the light of the sun but they’ll never be gone from My love.

Verse 2:
So I flipped on CNN
taken with shock once again
How can they can take such a horrible thing twist it and use it for their own ends?
awful lies rung in my ears
my religious freedoms were smeared
as the whole thing was clearly geared
and the conclusions drawn were steered.
What they fail to see is that their aim
is pointing right in God’s face
as they fire round after round
thinking to bring His children down

Repeat Chorus

Verse 3:
As the life left her on the floor
she looked into the eyes of her Lord
as she heard these precious words;
“Blessed in my sight is the death of my girl.”
And I saw the souls of them that were slain, who would not deny their faith beheaded for His holy name and they lived again and with God they reigned.

Jasper McCollum is a second-generation member of The Family International

Why are religious minorities often demonized by the news media?

Why? Well, for many reasons and one of then is that it makes good ratings – right? People want to hear about religious fanatics, terrorist, evil cultist, satanic sects and on it goes. They don’t want to know about peace loving people who live together in love and harmony – NO that’s boring. “I’d rather come home from work, pull out a beer and hear about bad people who do evil things to children. Then they get shot down because the abused children grew up and finally got a chance to make justice”. Yeah, that sounds like a story that would sell.

It kind of reminds me of the inquisition: People burning on the stake because they thought and acted different than the vast majority. Does the news media play the role the Catholic Church did back then? Do they look at both sides of the coin? Are they consulting unbiased sociologists and psychologist that have studied the Family International? Or do they rather crucify us because “we’re weird” enough? (more…)

Hi! I’m Angela. To start with, I guess I have a little different story; I joined The Family just over 10 years ago when I was 19 years old. I had a 9 month old little boy when I joined. All things considered, there’s no telling how our lives would be now had I not made that decision. Believe it or not, Daniel Roselle was the first person in the Family that I met and what an impression he had on me, he was roughly my age so I could relate. I was intrigued with this “happiness” that this group of Christians possessed.

Before that first meeting I had been in a relationship with my now husband who had grown up in the Family but was out at the time…when he told me that he wanted to rejoin, me just a few months pregnant, I was shocked none-the-less. (more…)

My name is Helena Steiner, I’m 16 and I’ve spent my whole life in the family. My mom home schooled me and my 8 brothers and sisters. I’ve had an excellent life and could wish for nothing more. My parents love me and take very good care of me. I’ve never, in any way, been abused, nor has anyone I have ever known or lived with. It is an offence to me that we (the Family) have been accused of “brain washing”, “hypnotizing people to join” and all the other stupid things they accuse us of. Are you trying to say that I am a “mindless, brainwashed zombie who can’t think for herself”? Who has been so “indoctrinated” that I don’t realize that I am actually getting abused, without even realizing it. Wow! The things you think you know about my life are amazing, seeing as you have never met me nor do you know the facts about my upbringing. You seem to think that just because the disgruntled members who have left our Family present you with so-called “facts” that that’s the way it is, not bothering to see the other side of the story and ask some of the people who are still here, and happy here! I for one will never back down on what I believe is the truth, I have found that truth here in the Family! I have not only heard of it or seen it from afar, I have lived in it for over 16 years! I am happy here, I do not wish for any other life, and I am certainly not a “mindless-brainwashed-zombie”… no, no one “persuaded” me to write this, I did it of my own initiative, to help combat the lies that are being thrown at me, my friends and my family! May God forgive you for the part you have had to play in spreading these lies!

Helena Steiner is a second-generation member of The Family International

(From Andrew “Vee” De Bezenac, 30, second-generation member of the Family International)

To the editors of news agencies, in regards to the death of Angela Smith and suicide of Ricky Rodriguez.
From Andrew De Bezenac, age 30.
Member of the missionary group “The Family International”

I trust that your broadcasting station takes great measures to ensure that what you report is factual, which is why I would like to take this opportunity balance out what may be broadcast regarding the death of Angela and the suicide of Ricky in placing the blame on our missionary group, The Family International.

It’s clear that failing to present the view of our approx. 1800+ current member youth would be like trusting Sadam Hussein to be your only source in obtaining a true account of President Bush’s childhood. Knowing Angela Smith shortly before she was murdered in cold blood, continues to grieve my heart, as she was one of the last people on earth deserving of such a grievous end. She is worthy of great respect for her life of love in helping others, and in not being besmirched by accusations of those who can’t truly say they have ever known either Angela or Ricky well. (more…)

By Laureen Maden, 18, fulltime member of the Family International

How does one turn so strongly on the ones they once loved, and by whom they were loved in return? Our lifestyle is one that requires a lot, a lot of hard work, perseverance, love, faith, and the list goes on. There are some that simply can’t or don’t want to pay such a high price, and thus search for what they left behind in terms of spiritual riches in other places, trying to satisfy the emptiness they experience by all different means – but sad to say, some never find what they are looking for. As explained so well in 2 Thessalonians 2:10,11- “And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish: because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” (more…)

My name is Leilani J. Stevens. I was born in Bangladesh, 1988, and have been living in The Family my whole life. Since my 7th birthday I have been living in Ukraine with my parents. We established a charitable work in the Kiev area where we lived, of ministering to old folks, orphans, Chernobyl victims, bringing in humanitarian aid, etc. For as far back as I can remember, I have participated in shows and programs for these types of people, as well as special Christmas, Easter or other holiday shows for hospitals, schools and summer camps. My earliest memories are from living in a large “combo” in Belgium with about 100 residents. I remember the schedule being very organized, being in a group of children my age and having a wonderful, fun teacher who would go out of her way to make sure we had everything we needed and were well cared for. (more…)

My name is Christopher Pair. I am a fulltime member of The Family Intl. and have been one all 19 years of my life. I write this letter in regards to the recent violent murder of Angela Smith followed by the suicide of Ricky Rodriguez. Although this unpleasant incident has not affected me personally to the extent that it has some of my friends, as I did not personally know Smith or Rodriguez, I am writing this as a testimony for The Family Intl. and as my stand against the accusations of those that oppose/avidly fight this organization in the media war that has followed their deaths.

There have been accusations against the Family on many different fronts, however one that seems to come to the fore more often than most is our care for our children. We have been through many court cases on this subject in many different countries around the world. However we have won every single court case and The Family has proved to be a safe environment to raise children. Unfortunately our apostates have again brought up these accusations suggesting that it was because of Rodriguez’ childhood in The Family that he committed this crime. (more…)

My name is Silas and I am 27 years old. I grew up in Switzerland like any other kid. In 1988 when I was 10 my mom got to know the Family and shortly after we joined. It was no small change for me but this change was the best thing that could have happened to me, because my life was enriched with an extended family and with people that cared about me. I quickly came to appreciate this new life.

When I was 18 I left the Family and for 4 years I worked, had a relationship and traveled but only came to appreciate the life I had in the Family even more. I realized, what we have in the Family is what people in normal society miss. They hope for the love and the support we have and most of all, for a purpose in life.

Now that I am back in the Family for 5 years, I know without any doubt that this is the best place in the World for me. I am living a life of challenge, learning and change, but most of all I am happy to know that I live in a surrounding that is full of love and with a people of common goals and meaning. (more…)

From Michael Watson, 25 years old

Dear All those who believe in Good over evil, Truth over lies, Love over hate, and Right over wrong.

I am a product of the Family International. I was raised and educated in the Family. I grew up in an idealistic environment, around people who wanted to change things for the better. Throughout my life I read the writings of one (David Berg) who questioned our modern day society and reasoned to find a better way to live with more love and respect for mankind, as well as to be proactive in helping our fellow man.

I was raised with an instinctive feeling that Good will always triumph over evil, and because of this belief I am writing this letter. I have a sincere innate belief that Good will, in the end, prevail and that all the negative slander, accusations and mud slinging will NOT win, but the true simple acts of love for humanity will speak loudest, and that a group called the ‘Family’ and their members who work hour after hour, who give their life, health, wealth to a simple cause of love for others will not be slandered and crushed by mere ‘hearsay’ and all kinds of negativity. (more…)