The Shincheonji Church of Jesus, French Branch, has publicly challenged a recent Le Parisien news article, asserting that the report fundamentally misrepresents the organization's practices and belief system. The church argues that the article, which featured an anonymous former member's testimony, presented a highly selective and prejudiced portrayal of its religious community.
The disputed article, titled 'They Treated Us Like Animals,' characterized the church as a 'problematic evangelical group' and included allegations of restrictive practices. However, the church contends that its comprehensive written response to the journalist's pre-publication questions was reduced to merely two sentences, severely limiting its ability to provide context and balance.
Church representatives emphasized that their community operates on principles of voluntary participation and personal choice. Current members like Teresa and Axel shared testimonials highlighting positive personal transformations and spiritual growth within the church, directly contradicting the article's negative narrative.
The church specifically refuted claims regarding controlled personal relationships, information gathering, and member restrictions. They stressed that dating, marriage, and personal internet use remain individual decisions, not subject to institutional interference.
By challenging the article's claims, the Shincheonji Church seeks to combat potential stigmatization and protect religious freedom. The organization has called on media outlets to maintain ethical reporting standards, prioritizing comprehensive coverage, accurate representation, and respect for diverse religious experiences.
