Behind the Bastards Part One: The Holy Rollers Sex Cult
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Nov 28, 2023 This podcast episode explores Oregon's first sex cult, the Holy Rollers. They discuss the desire to join a sex cult and share a story about the recruitment process. They delve into the rise of cult leader Edmund Crefield and the disturbing perception of the cult. The story of Samson Levens, a former logger who joined the cult, is also explored. The misogynistic portrayal of the cult leader and the rational decisions made by women within the cult are discussed.
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From Salvation Army Recruit To Radical Preacher
- Edmund Creffield migrated from the Salvation Army to form his own radical ministry in Oregon.
- His charisma and preaching style made him popular despite organizational conflicts.
Physical Worship As A Manipulation Tool
- Creffield's services induced prolonged ecstatic experiences of rolling, singing, and exhaustion.
- Those physical practices likely produced altered states that increased followers' suggestibility.
Scarcity And Direct Divine Access
- Creffield offered direct conversation with God and created scarcity by limiting spots on the "holy roll."
- That urgent promise amplified followers' motivation to join and comply.