–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…)

Amêndoa Hopper, 27, second-generation member of the Family International, married to a spectacular national, with two
kids & one on the way!

I´m not known for my many words or eloquent speeches, therefore my purpose here is one-fold: To make my presence known to all those out there that I´m am here to stay, come rain come shine, whether encouraged or not by my former friends or personal family. By the Grace of God & His continual never-ending mercies, His Will be done!

I am determined, with all my heart & soul, to win this world for the Lord & raise my kids in the best way I possibly can—the way my parents raised me! And I know I will make mistakes & be less than perfect in this almost impossible mission, so I will not judge less I be judged! (more…)

From: Raquel
Age: 27
Location: Brazil

I’m not a very good writer and in another situation I’d probably decide to not write anything, but in light of the recent happenings and the things that have been said I came to the conclusion that if our apostates have a right to express their opinion and give us a piece of their mind then I should too.

I was born and raised in The Family International and, once of age, out of my own choice, decided to continue as a missionary and raise my family in it too. I have four kids, all of which are smart, outgoing, sociable kids. All their lives I’ve done my best to raise them in a loving atmosphere, where they get their needs met and are free from abuse. Let me tell you one thing, if I had any suspicion of abuse to either them or any other child in the Family I’d be out of here in a flash.

Why do I stick around? Besides for the fact that I love what I do, and I love the Lord with all my heart and all my other personal decisions, it’s because I know that the Family is the safest place for any child to grow up in. (more…)

Godfrey Thomson, 29, Mexico
(Second-generation member of the Family International)

I’ve really fed off of and have enjoyed reading what everyone has written here. It’s made me think back and reminisce on my childhood and life in general. It’s cool because every night my kids ask me to tell them stories about when I was a kid. It’s been so fun to remember! I hope I can give my kids the same upbringing and experiences I had.

When I think back on my childhood it brings a smile to my face. My life for the Lord in the Family has been amazing. There’s no way I can complain. I’ve lived in the most amazing places and houses and have done things that most people only dream about while they’re stuck at their nine to five dead-end jobs. All the cool people I was able to live with under the same roof. Learning from a wide variety of people with different backgrounds and experiences. Meeting all kinds of people, ranging from presidents of countries and famous celebrities to little fisherman on the Amazon river. I’ve had the privilege of being in recording studios from the age of eight. Singing and recording in several languages and so on. (more…)

By Alexandre Lima, 29, Brazil
(Active Member of the Family International)

I’ve been an active member of the Family for almost 3 years and fellowship with the Family Home in my city, where I participate in the Word classes and social events. Whenever we can, my girlfriend and I go to the Home for fellowship with our brothers and sisters.

I was told of the very sad situation that happened in January and I was very shocked, especially after hearing that so many lies were coming from former members of the second generation.

Since I’ve met the children and young people in the Family I’ve realized how special they are and what a wonderful upbringing they’ve had. The teaching that the parents in the Homes give to their children should serve as an example to any family in the world. It’s ridiculous to imply, much less accuse the Family of subjecting their children to any type of abuse. (more…)

By Anaik Alcasas, 29
Mother of one adorable son, United States
Second-generation member of the Family International

A few individuals have turned their vehicles toward some goal they believe will bring them satisfaction. But rather than taking the recommended route, they’ve decided to take a shortcut through a certain residential area. They also believe that the laws of the road don’t apply to them any more, and have decided they shouldn’t have to pay heed to speed limits, stoplights, or yield signs.

This residential area is teeming with children. There are babies and toddlers, young carefree kids, and trendy teenagers. Their parents are walking with them, holding the babies, leading the kids by the hand, shadowed by their teens. They’ve always expected to be safe where they live. They have a right to be safe.

But someone has decided that, so long as the destination is “justice,” anyone who happens to be “in the way” must be volunteering for the profession of road kill. Others have even decided to treat this reckless driving like a sport, to publicize and–unbelievably–to justify the personal road-rage-style sentiments as certain people careen recklessly through what was once a quiet neighborhood. The safety of others doesn’t seem to matter any more, because “somewhere back there” in another time and place, an injustice occurred. (more…)

By: Elizabeth Amber M., 26, Chile
(Second-generation member of the Family International)

How can one defend a pre-meditated murder done in cold-blood? How can one slander a murder victim? How can someone who knows nothing about a situation write or speak about it without having done any research? How can someone who has never met me say they know how I feel or how my life is? What happened to freedom of speech where both sides of a story were printed and people were given a chance to choose what to believe instead of being told, where stories were based on evidence, not hearsay or rumor? How can a country that fought for religious freedom so easily deny that right to their own people? It’s beyond me.

I was born and raised in this amazing organization. I couldn’t have asked for a more exciting lifestyle than the one I received growing up traveling all over Europe, North, Central and South America. I have met and talked with people from over 100 countries. Listening to the types of lives they’ve lived has only convinced me further that I am living and working in the best group on Earth. I’ve had the opportunity to learn about so many things that many my age have never, and probably never will. I’m a well adjusted, secure, self-confident, independent individual and, thanks to the Family, I have a very wonderful, fulfilling and satisfying ministry and lifestyle that lets me explore and try out new things and opportunities. I have always felt loved by those I’ve lived with and have felt their care and concern daily in all that they’ve done to take care of me and make sure I had all I needed physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. What more could one ask for? (more…)

Maya Stone, 29, Texas.
Second-generation Family member.

To paraphrase a song by Toby Keith, “Proud to be an American” which expresses my feelings about the Family…

“I am proud to be, to be a member in this Family. I am proud to be in this Family where at least I know I’m free, and I won’t forget those who gave that right to me.”

My name is Maya Stone and I am 29 years old. I am a second generation Family Missionary who lives in Texas. I am happily married to Tim Stone (also a second generation Family member). We have been married for 8 years now, we have 4 lovely daughters, whom we love dearly and want to give the best of lives.

To give you a brief background, I am the 2nd child in a family of seven. I was born and raised in this Family. My beliefs are that of a Christian. My parents joined the Children of God in the 1970’s (more…)

From Joana Gonçalves, 25, Brazil.

I am appalled and saddened to hear (once again) allegations with no truthful foundation whatsoever, been stated against the Family International, accusing our group of being an unsafe and unsuitable place for children and young people to live and grow in, amongst other accusations. And as such, I would like to make my voice heard as one who has grown up in the Family and has experience a wonderful and privileged life with the many benefits of living in a group that’s sole purpose is to help its fellow man and to follow Jesus command to “Go into all the World and preach the Gospel to every creature” (Mark 16.15).

My name is Joana Gonçalves, I am 25 years old and Portuguese by birth. My parents joined the Family when I was a baby and since then have been part of the Family International working in Brazil and Portugal. Since I can remember my life has always been full of excitement and new experiences as we traveled to many different places telling people about God’s love and helping the lost and destitute. (more…)

From Gabriela DeLorenzo, 27, mother of three children, Europe.
(Second-generation member of the Family International)

He was the younger, “smarter” brother, the one his father had all the hopes of the family set on. But his older brother was often beaten up by his father, shunned and treated as if he didn’t care. He felt pressure to excel, to make his father proud, to be more than his brother.

She got married at 18—against her parent’s wishes—to someone they didn’t approve of. As a result, she was disowned and although they lived as literal neighbors, didn’t speak to each other for almost 10 years.

He comes from a broken home, where his parents pit him against each other. His mother couldn’t care less what he does, and wasn’t impressed when his picture was in the newspaper for helping underprivileged families. He was brutally beaten up as a teenager by a gang, and only survived the severe head wounds by a miracle. Again, his parents weren’t too concerned.
(more…)

Nina Moore, 29, North America.
(Second-generation member of the Family International.)

I’m Nina Moore, a 29 year old mother of three and a member of the Family International. I home school my children. They have school five days a week. As a mother I am very concerned about every aspect of their lives, emotional, educational, spiritual and social. My whole life revolves around my children. I spend hours planning their school. I have almost no time to myself, as my children are my life. I have organized a Kids Club where, once a week all my friends with children get together and have Bible studies, games, activities, sports and more. My children are part of the local community soccer league. They have a lot of friends, birthday and dress up parties and do all the normal things kids enjoy doing. I am on the Childcare and Parenting board in the Family where we have board meetings to discuss how we can meet the needs of our children.

My eldest daughter, who is eight years old doesn’t even know what “sex” is. She thinks you get pregnant by getting married. (more…)

By Regi Roselle, 28, second-generation member of the Family International.

A year and a half ago I sent my immediate family an email announcing the birth of our second daughter, and a photo. Most responded with the usual congratulations and well wishes. My brother’s reply however, read:

Regina,
You work for Zerby, a mentally damaged and damaging woman. I don’t consider you my sister. With future births, please leave me off your emailing list.

Daniel

* * *

It wasn’t always like this. Daniel and I were born 18 months apart and spent much of our lives as each others’ shadow–like most siblings I suppose. I looked up to him as my smart big brother with incredible imagination. He was always doing something creative: exploring, dressing up as famous characters, or building something. He seemed to make friends so easily. I wanted so much to be like him. (more…)

Veronica Giordano Mackinnon
26 years old

I’ve been in the Family since I was four. I personally consider my life a privileged one. I’ve lived in seven different countries and visited more. I’ve learned 4 languages and live a full life where I feel fulfilled and happy. I wouldn’t trade this life I have for any other.

One of the first things that came to my mind when I heard of the deaths of Ricky and Angela and the outrageous accusations our detractors are coming up with was how proud I am to be in the Family, how thankful I am to Maria and Peter and, of course, Father David, for making this Family what it is, for taking it always forward with the humility and courage to change things when they didn’t work anymore. That’s one of the things that makes us different.
(more…)

By Leila E., 28 years old, second-generation member of the Family International.

I think every parent, when they have their first child, looks back on the way they were raised, and they make decisions regarding how they will apply what they’ve gone through in their own life to how they will raise their child. You look at the happy times, the fun times, you look at the experiences you remember as pleasant, even the things that weren’t so fun, but were necessary in making you who you are today, and you want to bring those things to life in your own child. You also look at the things that hurt you, things you disliked and you swear you’ll never let those things happen to your child.

In the Family today, I would venture to say that close to 80% of the children are third generation children. They are our children, those of us who were raised in the Family, and who were the “victims” of a lot of what the Family has been accused of for the last 20 or 30 years. What I’d like to know is why our detractors are still harping on the same issues, when we’ve all grown up. We’re adults now, and so, no, we don’t need to be rescued. We have children now, and we intend on raising those children as best as we possibly can. (more…)

Nora Mullen, 25, Africa
Second-generation member of the Family International

Words fail me when I try to describe my feelings about this whole tragedy and succeeding barrage of negative slander in the media. All I can say is please listen to those of us who are really here in the Family today and who have our heads screwed on straight—not some foul-mouthed, vindictive and violently-inclined group of bitter people. Is that too much to ask? I know that the media always tends to gleefully gobble up the dirty, dark, and juicy, and smear it in front of our faces, but don’t you ever wonder if there is another side to the story? Let me clue you in a little on my side of the story…

I was privileged to be born into the Family by wonderful parents who have loved, cared for and given me a WONDERFUL 25 years of life! I have lived in 9 countries spanning 5 continents and visited at least that many or more. I speak 3 languages, and feel I have received a well-rounded great education—and what’s better, I’m still learning all the time! I’ve lived in Africa for the past 5 years, including traveling all over the place and heading up daring missions into war-torn countries—and I love it!

I was never abused. I have never, ever seen any one abused in The Family. (more…)

My name is Gina Wilson, 29 yrs.,– status (FM). I am glad to have this forum in which to comment on such a sad and shocking situation because I think it is one of those times we are forced to reflect on what life means and what our beliefs are. I didn’t know either Angela or Ricky personally, yet I am feeling the effects of these events. What I do know is that our spiritual life is the most personal thing we have. It is ourselves as an individual spirit before our Creator.

Every person is in a different stage of development spiritually, and God sees us each separately, never comparing us one with another. Our conscience is our guide; a gift given to speak to us. We know deep down of each little choice we make whether it is in line with our conscience and we have peace, or we are justifying something for our own self-satisfaction. This is true of every tiny decision we face, constant tests big and small: and only God sees and shares this process with us. This is life, and no one gets away from it. (more…)

From Tamar Villalobos, 25 years old
Location: Brazil

To all of you who are intent on saving us “abused Family children.” I really didn’t know what to write about, at first I thought I should write about the difference in our lives, and then I thought I’d write and tell you off and now I am just going to write about the facts and you decide which side to believe in. I was born and raised in the Family; I am 25 years old and the 3rd of a family of six. I am from Venezuela and my name is Tamar Villalobos. (more…)

My name is Gisela Leda Barbosa (Gigi), I am 32 years old. I know the Family for 8 years. I am in the Family for 5 years of my life – which are truly the best ones ever! I am Brazilian. I am very happy that the Family is preaching the gospel in every continent – that’s why I was reached at the first place. The Family is fully obeying Jesus’ commandment to go into all the World and preach the gospel to every creature. (more…)

By Gabriel Morales, 25 years old
Currently in Colombia

Well the thing that would culminate my life, the thing that would crown my existence, would be to die for my faith. I don’t think there is a better way to prove our point, than to let our enemies prove that when you step out of God’s will, which is determined in the Bible and all the word that we have in the Family, then you leave your life open to all the negative forces that exist in this world. I was born in the Family and left for 7 years, trust me, I’ve had both sides and I have tested the way of life and the way of death. I have really clear which side I have chosen. (more…)

(From Vas, 32, second-generation member of the Family International)

Hey Daniel Roselle. Remember me? Vas.

We had a lot of fun together at “Sizzlers” in California, in 93 & 94.

I seem to be remembering a certain song that we recorded together & that you wrote a rap break to. It was just a rough & not an official Family production. And you technically still own the rights to the following lyrics:

Judge Marquevich is gonna get killed
And when he goes to hell he’s gonna get billed
All the wrong he’s done all the bad he’s said
Will not be forgotten when he’s up & dead
God up in heaven is gonna look down below
Saying Marquevich I told you so
When you’re walkin down the street you better watch your back
Cuz I’m the Almighty & I take no flak
You’d better be careful cuz you’re gonna die
Cuz you’re sticking your finger in My eye
You think it’s fun to screw around with God
Well I’m telling you man you’re gonna feel His rod.

(more…)

By Rima Parker
Age: 26
Country: Nigeria

I can’t get over the fact that there are people out there who are wasting their lives living in the past and holding on to so many grudges and ‘injustices’. Can they really be happy wallowing in their memories – or selective memories dare I say – of a life which to them is past? Are they not capable of moving on and letting bygones be bygones?

I work as a member of the Family International in Nigeria, West Africa, where we facilitate and manage free health care programs that bring free medical attention and life-altering surgery to thousands of rural dwellers and set up vocational training courses and schools for the handicapped, orphans, the underprivileged and many others. (more…)

From Steve Martin, 26, second generation member of the Family.

I want to express my thoughts on the murder of Angela Smith and suicide of Ricky Rodriguez. I knew her, never met him. I was shocked, angry at first and sad; nothing prepares you for this type of news. We live in a society where these atrocities are way too common, still hearing it’s happened to someone you know is different, I’m glad they are both in a better place now.

I don’t usually take the time to express myself in writing as I have other hobbies I prefer. I don’t blog, participate in forums or online discussions and generally avoid personal correspondence, but these events call for an exception to my general dislike of composition. There has been too much published in newsprint, TV and online that is opposite of what I know to be true and what I live for.

Seems that the majority of those who would know best – those who have either been members of the Family International and those who have studied us have not been given a fair chance to be heard. (more…)

(From a second-generation former member)

My name is Mark Elder and I’m 32, or was it 31. Oh well, I’m getting senile before my time. I guess I wanted to put my two cents in on what happened with David [Ricky Rodrigues].

A quick history: I left the Family when I was 19 and rejoined for a year when I was 28 and then left again and ended up spending another month in Sara and Alf’s home a few months later before finally moving on for good. Most people who knew me in the Family would say that I was a nice guy as well, and would probably have good things to say about me, aside from my leaving the Family.

I used to consider myself a good person too. But in the course of my life I’ve learned a lot about human nature, from others, and a great deal from myself. I know what it’s like to go from being the Family’s most ardent supporter, to feeling hate and bitterness towards the Family to the point of wanting to take action against it. (more…)

From Pandita Gil, 27, mother of three.

I was born into this wonderful missionary group of believers, known as “The Family International.” I wanted to address this to those of you who may know little or nothing about our missionary group (since my friends don’t need an explanation and our enemies don’t want to believe it anyway).

My name is Pandita Gil, though in the Family I’ve been Sharon since I was 14, which was when I made the decision to apply myself to my missionary training. When I was 17 I told myself that no matter what, I wanted to dedicate my life to serving the Lord full time. I’m now 27 years old and I don’t regret having made that choice in life. By the way, I have three beautiful and priceless possessions here on Earth, and those are my children. God’s entrusted them into our care, and we ensure that they grow up in a substantial and spiritually healthy environment. They are smart, cute, loving and active kids. I love them dearly and I pray that I can continue to give them a godly heritage and upbringing in this wonderful Family.
(more…)

My name is Angelina Lloyd. I’m 27 years old, was born and raised in the Family International and am a current member. Seeing all that has transpired in the last few weeks, the deaths of Ricky Rodriguez and Angela Smith, and the way the media has chosen to report about it, has been very difficult. It’s especially been hard having to read and hear some of the absurd things being said by people I once considered my closest friends, but who are now trying to destroy everything I’ve lived and worked for my entire life.

I’ve had so many wonderful experiences in my life. I grew up in South America, as that was the mission field of choice for my parents. I’m the youngest of four children, and we were always treated with love. Just like anyone else growing up, there were some things I didn’t like, but looking back, if there were hurts or disappointments, it wasn’t because of abuse. It was just part of growing up.

My parents greatly loved and cared for us and did their very best to give us the best education possible, not only scholastically, but also in daily living, in the things that I now see are of much greater value than text book schooling. Sure, at times I had some teachers that I didn’t particularly like, and I did grow up with some children who teased me, but it was nothing compared to what most kids in secular society have to face. (more…)

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

My name is Katrina Dove, daughter of Paul & Terry Theophilus. I am 36 years old & have been in the Family International since the age of 6. I consider my self a child of the Family; in fact I often say I grew up with the Family. I am the proud mother of 8 children & have been a Family teacher since the age of 21 & before that for three years an assistant teacher. I have taught Family kids in Japan, Brazil, the USA, East Europe & more… I can also cook, sew, organize children’s show troupes, & have a few other talents for which I give the fact that I grew up in the Family credit, including the gift of being able to adapt to many different types of cultures.

I feel the need to contribute to the voices that I’m sure will speak up for the Family, Mama, Peter, & all we hold dear. (I started to write this before the new site www.myconclutions.com was set up, & now I am proud to say that there are many).
(more…)

My name is Michele Dawn, I am 28 years old. I was born and raised in “The Family”. I have a wonderful, sweet daughter Anisha Ryann who is now 5 years old. I have lived in a number of countries during my years growing up in “The Family”. One of the main ministries I have been involved in has been the care of our precious Children.

The appalling Murder of Angela and the consequent suicide of Ricky Rodriguez both shocked and disturbed me. There are 2 main things that disturb me most, first of all the loss of life as I believe life is precious; second and perhaps most disturbing is what followed: That there are those who will stoop to such low levels as to try and blame a murder on the victim; and excusing the one who committed the murder. I am sorry but that is just inconceivable. Those who say these things have an agenda and only one thing on their mind and that is to try and destroy what Angela lived for and what I am still living for. Their accusations against the Family has caused me to look back at my life in “The Family” and see it for what it really is, I have reflected on my upbringing and experiences in the Family. When I looked back this is what I saw: (more…)

From Gabriel Glaser (age 25), South Africa

I’m a second generation member of the Family, and like most people I was shocked and saddened to hear of Angela’s murder and Ricky’s subsequent suicide. Unfortunately I have to say most people, as I’ve seen articles and internet postings that not only condone this vicious murder, but go on to call for more! In my book anyone who can coldly praise a murderer and say that they wish he had managed to kill even more is about as sick as they come, and these are the same people who are now gleefully sending you their malicious slander.

I know their supposedly “true life stories” are shocking, and I realize that this is a juicy story that is just too good to miss, but I want to give you the opportunity to hear the other side as well. (more…)

My name is David Van Nynatten. I’m 27 years old and I was born in the Family. I am a musician and artist. I live in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

I have grown weary of hearing people speak evil of things I know to be pure, therefore I am compelled to write in response.

Many of my friends and fellow missionaries have written in response to the accusations made by, I’d say, somewhat unhappy, former members of The Family. Some of these admit to have gone through some rough times in the past as do the previously mentioned former members. In their writings many state similar views on how they were not adversely affected by past unjust treatment, but instead consider that they’d been strengthened and have had their character positively built by it all, and consequently hold no grudges.

I guess I can start by asking, what about all the others, literally hundreds, who can honestly say that nothing of the sort really ever happened to them? (more…)

Tiago Sant’Ana, 26 anos, Brazil

I was astonished at the news of Angela’s murder followed by Ricky’s suicide and to learn that it was a premeditated crime. It’s even more horrifying and astonishing to see that there are those in the media trying to explain such barbarism, as if there were some kind of reasonable or logical excuse for such a horrendous act, blaming the Family International for what happened, with sensationalist and biased articles with no regard whatsoever for the truth. These draw their information from people whose avowed goal is to slander and destroy our way of life. I hope that greed and the quest for ratings have not grown to the point of overshadowing truth and dignity.

I am “born and raised” in The Family International, and I’m proud of it. Unfortunately, there are few in the world that have the privilege of having a childhood as happy as that which my and friends and I experienced. Few can say, without a shadow of doubt, that they grew up with the assurance that their parents, teachers and those around them loved them and did all they could to assure their well-being and happiness. We were surrounded by people willing to do anything to help us have a happy childhood. I grew up with that privileged certainty.

(more…)

My name is Knight. My parents are Arthur and Becky of ‘King Arthur’s nights’ notoriety. Born in London, UK, in 1975, I am one of many ‘fruits’ of the Family and our controversial FFing practice. I am 29 years old.

I’ve lived in 10 countries throughout my life, and traveled to over 40. I speak some Russian, Spanish, English and pieces of other languages. I have six brothers and sisters who have also been raised in the Family. My two brothers are no longer members of the Family, but have moved on and have found their niche in secular life. I love them dearly, respect their decisions and wish them luck. They are my brothers in flesh and spirit and always will be! My parents, sisters and I remain in the Family. Two are in India, one is in the US and one in the Middle East. They are angels and saints working, living and toiling in their lives for the Lord on the mission field. Some have families of their own. I have the utmost respect and admiration for them.

My parents raised our gang on the road, after living and working closely with Dad and Maria for a couple years in the 70s. During and after the RNR, they served the Family in a ‘Visiting Shepherd’ capacity. During that time we traveled Europe for approximately three years, and then transferred to Peru for two years or so. We moved again to India where I lived for six years, then to Argentina for three years. I then moved to the US for three years, Russia for about one year and have been working behind the scenes since 1997. I’m currently working in an administrational Home as a Handyman. I have an awesome girlfriend. I couldn’t be happier or more fulfilled.

(more…)

By Benjamin Van Nynatten –Rio, Brazil

This will be brief, I promise. I wouldn’t subject anyone to my writing if there was any other way around it, but extreme circumstances require extreme measures so please bear with me, just a little, while I attempt to express my thoughts on this issue.

I will not try to impress you with my style or choice of words, as that would just not be possible even if I sat here all night. Actually, the reason I am writing this is because after reading over the many postings on this site, I can’t wait to get my name on the list as well. If someone is throwing mud at you, well, I want some thrown at me too! If we’re being slandered and lied about, they can’t forget me! And I heard something about a tidal wave that’s coming for us, well hey, I brought my swim trunks just in case. Whatever it is, I’m having a part in it! I’m here to stand by each of you to the end, I’m proud to be counted in the company of the elite.

My name is Benjamin Van Nynatten, and I am 29 years old. I guess this means I was raised at about exactly the same time and, I suppose, in similar surroundings and the environment some claim was abusive and detrimental. It’s been said a thousand times and I want it on my record that personally I was never abused or mistreated in any way during all my years in the Family– my whole life, really. Not only that, but I can say with conviction that I never saw anyone else suffer any sort of maltreatment in all the communities I’ve lived in. (more…)

I’m a Family-born 29 yr. old, third oldest of a family of nine children and now husband to a precious wife and father of two kids, ages two and four. I’m so thankful that I can raise my family in The Family. I’m so thankful that my parents made the decision to live out their faith in The Family. It isn’t easy to raise kids, (much less nine of them!) and I know that one factor that helped my parents raise us to be happy, adjusted children, was because of the privileged environment that exists in The Family, where we can raise our kids in a healthy, safe atmosphere amid all the negative attitudes and detrimental input via the media and questionable Hollywood role models that parents the world over have to fight against if they want their kids to have values that reflect their chosen faith.

I’ve chosen my faith and I want to past it on to my kids; the third generation of Family members, because I’m very pleased with my parents’ attitudes and behavior, they are pleased with mine and I consider that an important part of the heritage that I want to give my own children. My wife just recently met and joined The Family, and she is also very pleased with the Family ambience where we can put our Christian beliefs into practice. It’s not news to anyone that society at large and any of its institutions offer from little to zero support when you try to live by the standards of your religious beliefs.– And anyone who’s a parent knows that support is imperative when it comes to the trying task of raising a family. I believe in the Family and that it is the best place I could choose to raise my kids. (more…)

By Samuel David Smith, 25; Spanish nationality, fulltime missionary with the Family International in S. Africa

To whom it may concern:

I remember I had a nice life.

Moving around with my parents as a child, being missionaries in the Family. It was fun. I was a bright child, alert and aware of my surroundings. Having being born and raised till an early age of 4 in the WS Family, I was taught to read when I was two years of age. By the time I was 3, I knew 200 verses from the Bible. Now, when I go to get my dental checkups, I can smile at the doctor who tells me I had some very considerate parents that took such good care of me and didn’t give me junk food or sweets that would rot my teeth. Indeed I was blessed. When I was older and moved out of WS, I went around singing to make people happy, songs about Jesus and how much he loved them. I remember they’d cry and ask for more. Then we’d sing them more songs and they’d smile. It felt so nice to make people happy.

Then it happened. We found out that we couldn’t be missionaries any more. We didn’t get told why, just that we were not going to be missionaries anymore. I couldn’t believe it. My mom couldn’t believe it. My dad couldn’t believe it. They couldn’t understand it. We went to visit my grandparents and didn’t unpack our suitcases in one whole year, waiting for a letter, telling us we could be in the Family again. That happened when I was 11 years old.

Time went by. I stopped being home schooled. I went to a public school where the teachers didn’t know what to do with me because I was too young to be in the equivalent grade for my education, and just dropped me into grade 6, instead of 8. The home schooling that my mom gave me in the Family was excellent. More time went by. I eventually grew into a young adult, and continued with my life. I was 21. I had two professions: I was a cook, and I was finishing my degree in Industrial electronics. I was happy. I had friends, I had a car, and I was a famous dancer. (more…)

By David, 25, England.

It’s hard to find the words to write in a moment such as the one we are living together now. In a time when our emotions, lives, and values seem to have been attacked and soiled, not by Ricky, but by those who are trying to use the tragedy surrounding his end to accomplish their purpose, I was thinking to myself today, “what exactly are they after?” “they do not seem to be satisfied by apology over the hurt (if any) caused, etc…, and why do they not want in any way, shape or form to discuss things, but rather seem set on causing as much pain, suffering, abuse, (yes, that word) to anyone who seems to have found happiness in something that they could not find?” As a Christian, many verses come to mind, and many an example of things that I’m sure others have already formulated in better ways than I could. In a way, I feel anger towards these who could cause so much pain to so many innocent lives, but then almost instantly, it is replaced by sadness. I pray that somehow, all will come to terms with God and themselves, and hence, end this unnecessary agony, both in their lives and ours.

Though I was born in the Family, I spent many a year as a TSer, and lived alone with my mother, brother and sister. We were home schooled, and, to be honest, lonely. I missed the other children I used to live with. I missed doing school with them, I missed the baseball games, I missed exploring the forest, I missed always having “auntie so-and-so” or “uncle so-and-so” there in case I hurt myself, always including me in everything they did. I missed the trips into the Alps (I lived in France), the “uncle” who taught us how to fill our Bibles with cross references, and I missed going out with my friends for cake on my birthday. Living alone in a flat, I would often think back and wonder why we were no longer with those that I to this day consider my brothers and sisters. (more…)

By Sam Doehler
Age 28, father of two

Well, you say that I was abused, and that all, or most of the children within the Family have been at some point or another. But I can’t help but wonder how could you possibly know whether or not I had ever been abused, unless you had been there, or been the one to do so yourself.

But do I suppose though that, if I sit here and think long enough, I could come up with some instances. Such as having to eat liver and brussel sprouts all in one meal. I mean, just eating one of those dishes for dinner would be cruelty, but having to eating both for the same meal would fall under abuse. But you couldn’t be talking about that, because many “normal” people do the same thing to their children!

Perhaps you’re talking about having to sit down for up to four hours a day for the sole purpose of learning how to read, and write, instead of being able to play with my hand-me-down, handmade bow and arrow. Just having to leave the bow and arrow outside was something no aspiring Robin Hood should be asked to do. I mean what if I was jumped by Sir Guy, on my way to the bathroom. That alone is harsh unloving behavior on the part of my overseers. But to be made to sit there and study for something that would never help me out in Sherwood Forest and thus decrease my chances of survival, could be viewed as abuse. But you couldn’t be talking about that either, because many “normal” people do the same thing to their children! (more…)

My name is Maria Doehler, I am 27 years old, and very happily married to a unique and totally incoercible man. We have 2 kids and are expecting our third in July.

We are here in the Family because we are fully convinced that it is the place where both we and our children will be the happiest and have the best chance at a full and happy life.

My kids are my biggest concern and probably the greatest motivation I have. I love the Family and know so many amazing people within its fellowship, but if I felt that remaining in the Family would endanger our children I would be out of here so fast!

I have a question for Daniel and the rest of our second generation apostates, are you parents? Do you really understand the love of a parent? When our kids were born it’s hard to describe the fierce love I felt for them, and I know Sam (my husband) felt it too. We would do anything we could to help them be happy and successful in life. We are not perfect, nor will you be when you become a parent, but we sure are trying. (more…)