Jehovah's Witnesses, Legal, Brazil, Legionaries of Christ, Book Review, 764
Correio: Former Jehovah's Witnesses prepare lawsuit against religious organization in Brazil
"Former members of Jehovah's Witnesses are gathering documents to sue the religious organization in Brazil, accusing it of practices such as covering up cases of pedophilia, pressuring people to avoid higher education, public humiliation and what they call "inducing suicide" — referring to the prohibition of blood transfusions, even in life-threatening situations. The lawsuit, which could include up to 28 dissidents, seeks compensation for moral damages. The information was released in a report by UOL.
Among the main complaints is the practice of ostracism, which forces believers to cut ties with family and friends who leave the religion. This policy led Norway to cancel the church's registration in the country in 2021, a fact that inspired Brazilian dissidents to seek similar measures here. "It's as if I had been buried alive," says Ester Lopes Bueno, 42, who has not spoken to her family since leaving the church in 2019.
Reports of sexual abuse are also common among former members. Psychologist Lucas Vasconcelos, 24, claims he was molested at age 15 by a church leader who made him drunk until he lost consciousness. When he woke up, he says he found marks of abuse on his body. Journalism student Mirela Costa, 25, reports having been sexually abused at ages 10 and 12 by two church members and says she was not treated as a victim. "The second time, they asked me if I wasn't in love with the abuser," she says.
The organization, in turn, denies the accusations. In a statement, it stated that it considers sexual abuse "a malicious and repugnant act" and that it complies with the law by reporting cases to the authorities. Regarding ostracism, it argues that "followers should limit contact with the person who is removed from the congregation." Regarding the prohibition of blood transfusions, spokesman Laércio Ninelli highlighted that the practice is based on "biblical instruction" and has been recognized as a right by the Supreme Federal Court (STF).
Another point of conflict is the devaluation of higher education. The organization discourages believers from attending college, claiming that this could expose them to "moral and spiritual dangers." Lara Prado, 27, who left the church at 23, regrets not having followed her dream of studying history or journalism. "I lost everyone I knew. And, most of all, I lost my mother. She is alive, but she treats me as if I were dead," she says.
The lawsuit is also expected to address the ban on blood transfusions, which the dissidents call "inducing suicide." Jacira Araújo, 72, showed a notarized document in which she renounces the procedure. "I have legalized my death in a notarized document. This is a sacrifice of life," she said. Ninelli countered, stating that refusing a transfusion is a guaranteed right and that the church does not induce suicide.
The organization maintains its position, stating that the accusations come from "people making false and slanderous statements." Meanwhile, former members remain mobilized, seeking justice and reparations for the impacts they claim to have suffered."
"From Ireland to Australia: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Kevin O'Sullivan discusses his literary journey, from A Good Boy to Cheaper than Therapy, sharing insights on storytelling, psychology, resilience, and the power of reclaiming one's narrative through writing.
Kevin O'Sullivan is a writer of remarkable depth and honesty, a storyteller who weaves together personal history, psychological insight, and an unflinching curiosity about the human experience. His work spans poetry, memoir, and fiction, each piece infused with a profound understanding of the resilience of the human spirit. Born and raised in Ireland, Kevin's journey has taken him across continents—from the strict confines of a religious order to the liberating landscapes of Australia, where he now calls home.
His memoir A Good Boy (Atelier Books, 2022) is an extraordinary account of survival, self-discovery, and the courage to break free from an oppressive past. In it, he recounts his early years in the Legionaries of Christ and his eventual escape, a story that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His forthcoming second volume, Cheaper than Therapy, promises to be just as compelling, chronicling the formative years that shaped his path as a psychologist and writer.
Beyond his literary pursuits, Kevin has spent decades as a clinical and forensic psychologist, bringing the same depth of empathy and understanding to his therapeutic work as he does to his writing. His insight into the human psyche, shaped by both personal trials and professional expertise, makes his reflections on belief, resilience, and identity especially compelling."
"'764/ is a global cult of online predators — many are teenagers targeting vulnerable children. They coerce minors to self-harm and have even plotted acts of mass violence. Police are struggling to contain what's being called a growing terror threat."
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