The religious group Lisa Webb’s family belonged to was shrouded in secrecy. Meetings were held in homes, leadership was murky, and finances were undisclosed. The group, known as the “Two by Twos,” kept the identities of sexual predators hidden from the world.
Recently, a surge in public allegations worldwide has prompted an FBI investigation and shed light on the sect. Survivors claim that leaders protected abusers by pressuring victims to forgive, failing to report abuse, and relocating predators to live with unsuspecting families.
Despite public condemnation of abuse by ministry leaders, many declined to speak with The Associated Press (AP).
Containers of lists and photographs from each location of “Two by Twos” conventions
organized by Pam Waltons are pictured at a library in Wailea, Hawaii.
| Photo Credit:
AP
Victims like Lisa Webb see strength in numbers as more survivors share their stories. Websites, hotlines, and social media pages have documented over 900 allegations against abusers in more than 30 countries. Despite some legal action, the sect has largely evaded consequences due to its decentralized nature and legal limitations.
Founded in 1897 in Ireland, the sect, also known as “The Way” or “The Truth,” spread as volunteer preachers lived among followers. While other organizations have paid settlements to abuse victims, the sect’s lack of assets complicates any legal action.
Abuse survivor Sheri Autrey’s story illustrates how the sect’s structure allowed predators to exploit vulnerable members. Despite efforts to report abuse, many victims faced resistance from sect leaders.
Cases like those of Americo Quispe and Ruben Mata highlight how abusers were moved between locations, evading justice. Sect leaders’ reluctance to report abuse and their focus on forgiveness rather than accountability perpetuated a culture of silence.
Former members like Jared Snyder reveal the sect’s culture of secrecy and pressure to overlook misdeeds. Gossip was discouraged, and members were expected to show mercy, even in the face of wrongdoing.
The recent death of overseer Dean Bruer exposed a history of abuse within the sect. Former members pressured sect leaders to address the issue, leading to an FBI investigation.
Despite calls for reform, some regional overseers have resisted implementing child abuse prevention policies, citing the New Testament as their only guide. The sect’s leaders continue to warn against criticism, emphasizing faith over accountability.
As the sect grapples with the fallout of abuse allegations, survivors like Sheri Autrey and Cynthia Liles are working to support victims and hold the sect accountable for its past actions.
Published – December 16, 2024 02:21 pm IST
