As I reflect on the recent tragic events involving the murder of Angela Smith at the hands of Ricky Rodriguez (and Ricky’s own suicide) I can’t help but wonder how long the public can continue to ignore the ironic contradiction, which lies within the purported purpose and existence of the anti-cult movement?

Let’s take a look, for instance, at the classic image of the “dangerous sect” that the anti-cult movement has drummed into us; a movement of abusive, potentially harmful and blindly convinced brainwashed, demented fanatics who will use any and all means toward the furthering of their cause, including abduction, “brainwashing,” violence and even suicide. Is this sounding familiar?

Let me ask you, can you think of any one movement, which has fit most of these criteria? I can only think of one right now, the anti-cult movement itself! Of course, we would never consider this movement a “sect,” oh no… they have the highly distinguished “privilege” of being known as “secular.” (I know… it’s really not that fair, but belief in God sets you at a disadvantage in today’s society)

And yet, upon hearing of many of the postings and statements made by detractors and apostates, I can’t help but notice the almost “apocalyptic-sounding” fanaticism within their tone and content, to the extent of literally condoning an act of cold-blooded murder. Don’t you think an ignorant and poorly informed observer could easily confuse such frenzied statements as belonging to some movement of “religious fanatics?”
Consider the facts of the crime committed by Ricky … premeditated, cold-blooded murder followed by suicide, a “Bin-Laden-style” videotape. These are quite clearly the workings of someone who had lost all reason thanks to the blinding effect of a destructive ideal.

Now, it’s not that I’m opposed to all forms of fervour for ones cause and if the task of the anti-cult movement were simply to inform and present constructive criticism, this would be perfectly acceptable. But, what could possibly be the driving force behind an anti-cult movement other than hatred, vindictiveness, intolerance, and a desire to destroy those with opposing views? After all, if all “cults” were to disappear, than there would be no need for an anti-cult cult. So, in effect, the sole purpose and driving force behind this “cult” is hatred and destruction. Thus, it seems to me, that this “cult” (the anti-cult movement) has all the potential to be, and in fact has proven its self to be, a truly dangerous and menacing movement!
No doubt, the “victims” of the anti-cult “cult” will justify their own involvement in this cruel deed saying; “we have done evil that good may come.” No doubt, this was also the same logic once employed by the “holy inquisitors.”

Unfortunately the media is now being duped into assimilating the twisted logic of this extremist faction as if it where truly an educated and reputable source and in such moments of frenzy it seems (sadly) as if the public is ready to toss all principles of fairness, equality and impartial analyses to the wind.

They say, “yes he killed, but he was abused?” Well, if you had asked him about 5 years ago he likely would’ve said “of course not.” “Oh,” you say, “but that was when he was under the influence of the cult.” Well no… that was before he fell under the influence of the anti-cult “cult”… (see?)
Now, I know that all this business of cults and sects can get mighty confusing, and you might not be too sure who’s the hero or the villain of our story anymore. (I can’t say I blame you.) Who to believe?

So if you’re looking for something that’ll tip the balance, I might suggest you come visit and/or stay with us yourself and check us out. Our life is an open book. Come and see! However, if you don’t think you’ll have the courage or the time to do that, than you ought to at least go through the trouble of finding out what some of the greatest scholars and experts on religion have had to say about us before making up your mind. And remember that a quick judgment (with no further investigation on the matter) is an easy way to find closure, but I ask you to consider the many who could be harmed through your support or tolerance of injustice.

I myself was a victim of just such injustice at the hands of the Argentine authorities in 1993, when I was violently separated from my parents for three months, placed in an institution and subjected to every form of examination imaginable. (Thanks to the lies propagated by anti-cultists.) I would hate to see my own children subjected to the same.

Written by Steve, 23 (Argentina)