Francis Salva
Age 18
Second generation Family member

It saddens me that folks that where once our friends and part of our Fellowship have taken on such negative views and become so bitter and hateful towards us. I just don’t know what to think about the ones that have taken it upon themselves to attack us through their accusations and in some cases lies which seem to always be aimed at first generation Family members. I am angry that they have the nerve to even suggest that my Dad and Mom are child abusers. Listen, every one that has met or knows my Parents are impressed by their missionary work and have to admit that they are good Christians that have a strong and very real love for God. Jesus said, “If ye love Me, keep My commandments,” Jn. 14:15. Those of the first generation in The Family have done the will of God and His work at great personal sacrifice. If you think of that it is easy to see that they must truly love the Lord and be his Children. That’s what being a Christian is all about, Loving God; not just with your words but by deeds of love, by doing the job He has given you to do, and loving our fellow men as ourselves. That, I believe, is the passion or every Family member, first and second generation alike.

I have two older brothers who after doing missionary work in Brazil for two year decided that they wanted to pursue something different with their lives. I would just like to say that even after being away for three years they still love The Family International. They still often talk about the fun things they did and the missionary work they where a part of while in The Family. They actually brag about it to their friends, “Oh yea, I lived in Brazil for two year I was involved in volunteer missionary work.” I am glad (but not surprised) that the majority by far of folks who where in The Family International but for different reasons decided to leave have very positive things to say and good memories of their time as a member of The Family. That should make anyone think twice before believing the accusations and stories from our apostates and the muck that they are feeding the media. Jesus said, “A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit:", Mat. 7:18. I challenge any one to visit our communities and see the work we do and the way we live with an open mind and heart and decide for themselves.