It seems like there's a lot to be learned from insular religious communities that have managed to survive many centuries without becoming outright cults or having spectacular schisms and crack-ups. I suspect part of the secret is not allowing single charismatic leaders/prophets to emerge? (Especially males interested in accumulating sexual conquests of young women LOL -- seems to be a common theme in cults). How do they handle individual authority and leadership in these communities?
Yes there's a lot to that. Although there are STILL sexual scandals rampant even in the anabaptist communities. I don't find this as a bad thing though, because any community or organization will have scandal. What I like to see is how open and receptive people are and if the majority of the group seems to be getting on well.
Your imagery is always so lovely. How cool that you met another Keturah!
Thanks!! Yes it is pretty cool!
It seems like there's a lot to be learned from insular religious communities that have managed to survive many centuries without becoming outright cults or having spectacular schisms and crack-ups. I suspect part of the secret is not allowing single charismatic leaders/prophets to emerge? (Especially males interested in accumulating sexual conquests of young women LOL -- seems to be a common theme in cults). How do they handle individual authority and leadership in these communities?
Yes there's a lot to that. Although there are STILL sexual scandals rampant even in the anabaptist communities. I don't find this as a bad thing though, because any community or organization will have scandal. What I like to see is how open and receptive people are and if the majority of the group seems to be getting on well.