Let's Talk About Sects The Order of St Charbel
Mar 13, 2018
Claire Ashman, a former member of the Order of St. Charbel and author of "Lessons from a Cult Survivor," shares her gripping personal journey. She discusses the psychological tactics leaders use to manipulate followers and the challenges of leaving a cult. Ashman highlights the emotional and practical hurdles of breaking free and the empowering journey toward independence. The conversation also touches on the disturbing dynamics within cults, including abuse and the impact on young girls, offering insight into resilience and the importance of recognizing harmful situations.
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Leader's Comfortable Life Amid Followers' Hardship
- Cam lived in a large house while followers endured caravans and harsh conditions at Camberwara.
- Pilgrims gathered monthly for "Atonement Day" where Cam delivered messages and claimed visions on the 13th.
Protect Financial Independence
- Pooling members' money and vows of poverty centralise control and reduce exit options.
- Do secure independent finances and retain access to funds before committing to communal orders.
The Seesaw Of Belief And Doubt
- Members often experience constant cognitive dissonance: outward piety hides internal doubt.
- That seesaw between intuition and indoctrination makes leaving emotionally fraught.
