EP 107 We Were In a Cult? Justine’s Story

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses body shaming, anorexia, and mentions sexual abuse allegations.

Hey everyone!  I got another episode here for the "We Were In a Cult?" Series here on the Clemenz With a "Z" podcast. Today, we dive deep into a compelling and often heartbreaking topic with our episode titled "We Were In a Cult?" Our guest this week is a brave former member of the International Churches of Christ (ICOC) Justine who grew up under our church's stringent control.

In this episode, we explore the profound impact of living in an environment where conformity was not just encouraged but enforced. Our guest shares her personal journey, revealing how the church's oppressive standards dictated her appearance and personality, going so far as to demand she re-dye her pink hair before her baptism to appear "godly."

More than just a spiritual authority, the church acted as a surrogate parent, often overshadowing the influence and guidance of her actual parents. This dynamic further intensified the pressure to conform and exacerbated the struggles she faced as she navigated her identity.

This discussion sheds light on the severe consequences of such control, including her struggles with mental health and anorexia. Join us as we uncover the emotional and psychological toll of her life in the ICOC and her courageous path to healing and self-acceptance.

Tune in and be inspired by this powerful story of resilience and the quest for true identity and freedom.

Justine is actively involved in the lawsuits against the ICOC and the ICC, supporting survivors in writing their plaintiff statements. She has also co-founded a nonprofit with Chele Roland called Free2B, which helps survivors of spiritual abuse find the resources they need to process their experiences in high-control groups. If you are a victim, you can reach out to Justine or Chele through the Free2B website: www.free2b.org.

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. 

As always, thank you for your continued support and if you like what you hear please rate and review!  If you don't remember, I'm just a channel, I ain't the source.

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Peace!