Always Travelling

There is a sensationalist article in the Aussie news today about how the Prime Minister met with representatives of the Exclusive Brethren (actually, he met with one subsect, the more extreme Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren, so named after the line of leadership). Of course I had no idea who they were so I looked them up, and they look like a bunch of looneys (I'm obviously not putting on my politically sensitive hat here!). But of course, that makes them very interesting! Some choice bits from the wikipedia piece:

The Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren believe that God's principle of unity is achieved by separating from and excluding that which is evil. As a result, open conduits of communication such as television, radio, mobile phones and the internet are banned.

The Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren reserve all social activities for those with whom they celebrate the Lord's Supper. Such activities include eating, drinking and entertainment, as well as club and professional memberships, directorships, shares and health insurance. Eating in restaurants and staying at hotels are also avoided.

In the case where someone chooses to leave the Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren or is excommunicated by the fellowship, their parents, siblings, spouse and even children 'withdraw' or disassociate themselves from them. This process allows for no social, domestic or church contact from church members, something which may not always be voluntary, especially in the case of children.

It looks like the 'Exclusive Brethren' split from the 'Open Brethren' after a clash of personalities and the Exclusive Brethren as a group have been led further away from normality by a succession of leaders. I have a distinct memory of a primary school friend talking about how her Aunt was a member of a Christian group that didn't allow television, and I thought it was really extreme at the time (I was about 10 years old). I am always surprised when I hear about another religious group, these niche sects/networks seem to pop up out of the woodwork - with a different take on things, and different set of requirements on members, and a different tale of leaders and things that have happened in the past.

posted by Nic  # 3:52 PM