It Served A Purpose - Conversation with Eric from Los Angeles (pt III)

Eric tells us about leaving the organization.  He explains the concept of being shunned by the members of the ICOC as he began to transition away from the church.  After being a way from the church he began to live life on his terms.  It during his time as a former member that  Eric’s wife got invited to a bible talk.  Eric explains to us his reaction to this.  Eric mentions that when he left the church, he experienced some harships and he equated those hardshlps with leaving the church.  The church taught him that if he left, he would be punished by God somehow.  It wasn’t until 15 years after leaving that Eric began to process what happened.  Eric found it difficult to admit that he was in a cult, but after some time, he has forgiven himself.

In this episode, Eric speaks about ICOC members attempting or commiting suicide.  In 2006, former ICOC member Niall MacMahon died by suicide.  The ICOC was never found to be legally responsible for the death of Mr. MacMahon.  However, Mr. MacMahon’s brother insists that the ICOC had undue influence over his brother and thus blames the church for the tragic event.  Naill MacMahon’s story can be found in the link below: https://www.religionnewsblog.com/18477/international-churches-of-christ

Jenny Hunter is a former member of the ICOC.  At one point she contimplated suicide as the pressure of being in such an organization became overwhelming.  Her story can be found in the link below:
https://www.washingtonian.com/2008/07/01/unanswered-prayers-the-story-of-one-woman-leaving-the-international-church-of-christ/

If you or anyone you know is contimplating suicide, understand that help is avalable.  Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or use the following link:https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org