Often Feel Lost and Alone
 

My parents were members of Worldwide Church of God when I was born (1966); therefore, I was raised under the WCG doctrines. I grew up in a small town that was inundated with WCG members. So many of our neighbors/friends were members of WCG. That was fine. 

I attended Imperial Schools, which was a horrifying experience. My memories of 1st grade are gut wrenching. I remember being spanked in front of the class because I had to go to the bathroom. Another time, I raised my hand to tell the teacher that I was sick and she kept saying, "I'll be there in a minute." She was getting very impatient with me. Well, by the time she got to me I threw up on her book. She became irate and told me how bad I was and sent me to the corner until my mother was notified. After the illness passed (a couple days), I returned to school and she made me use the same workbook that I had vomited on! She had us so scared of our parents, that I never reported this to them. 

A couple years later, I transferred to "public schools"--oh, teachers were so nice and the kids had so much freedom! That was my first taste of what life could be like away from WCG. However, I never felt like I truly fit in. I was unable to participate in birthday parties, Christmas parties, valentines parties, etc. I desperately tried to be like everyone else, but was held back. Now, as an adult, I often feel lost and alone. I have a hard time making friends, but so desperately want them. I'm on my second marriage (the first fell apart because I was incapable of affection--something the "church" never taught nor encouraged parents to show), although I do have one son from my first marriage. My current husband is older than I am, attends church (alone) each Sunday, and is so caring and compassionate--all the things I needed as a child and need now.

I would love to talk to someone in this organization. I would like to channel my anger/fear of God, so that I can learn to trust and believe in Him.

By Brianna - Child survivor of WCG
December 1, 2003


Comforting Words About the True God (true statements that show how God really sees His children)

It's Hard to Get Close to God After Being in an Abusive Group

Articles For Those Who Were Emotionally and Spiritually Abused

Back to Stories and Testimonies From Child Survivors