EP 154 We Were In a Cult? Ruthanna and Davis’ Story

For the first time in the We Were In a Cult? series, I’m sitting down with a married couple who both experienced the pressures of purity culture, mission work, and the relentless push toward marriage inside the International Churches of Christ. In this episode, they share how dating was never about personal connection—it was about proving your spirituality and being deemed "worthy" to move forward. We dive into the concept of "weasel dates," the expectation to fast-track relationships toward marriage, and the exhaustion that came with constantly trying to meet the church’s demands. From mission team burnout to the cult-like language of being "souled out," this conversation is a raw, unfiltered look at what happens when a church controls every aspect of your personal life—including who you love and when. Listen now to hear their powerful story.

If you are a member, were a member, or know someone who was a member of the ICOC or the ICC and would like to share your story of your life in and out of the church and help us maybe get closer to answering the question "we were in a cult?", and maybe find some healing please contact me via email at clemenzwithaz@gmail.com or you can DM via Instagram at the "Clemenz With a "Z" podcast" Instagram page. 

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