Author's Purpose
This website has been created with the aim of providing a hub of information regarding the ICC. I have added links and documents to this website in hopes of providing essential information about the ICC. This website was inspired by a university research project, in which I aimed to collect and publish narratives from people who previously joined, and are currently in, the ICC. While each person's experience is unique, countless individuals have faced disillusionment, rejection, or hurt within a religious community. It is a sad reality, but it's important to acknowledge that there is strength in solidarity. By reaching out and connecting with others who have walked a similar path to one another, I aim to show that there is hope for healing and renewal, and we are not alone in our experiences. Furthermore, all of the writing on this website is either original or found from other websites where individuals experienced the ICC in some way, shape, or form.
Author's Statement
Drawing the distinction between joining a cult and being part of a religious group can be increasingly difficult. On this website, I aim to compile information that increases awareness of an ongoing cult that has infiltrated many university campuses in the United States and around the world. The International Church of Christ (ICC) is a religious group that targets college students, especially those from minority races and low socioeconomic backgrounds, in hopes of making “Disciples of Christ.” What the members of the group do not mention when evangelizing, however, are the manipulative tactics used by this organization to recruit college students into their new-age Christianity. Some of the tactics used by this organization include deception, manipulation, financial coercion, secrecy, and psychological harm. Through the creation of this website, I hope to bring to light the experiences of former members and share the experiences of current ICC members. In doing so, I also hope to highlight the differences between the ICC’s interpretation of “Christianity” and the widely accepted traditional Christian experience, to help readers better understand the difference between a cult and a safe and healthy religious experience.
Final Note
Lastly, I would like to include that this website focuses on the more dangerous side of the ICC church. It is also important to note that not every person who is a part of this church has malicious intent. In every congregation, there are individuals with different backgrounds, beliefs, and personalities that may conflict with one another. While some may disappoint or hurt us, there are also many members in the church who embody kindness, compassion, and genuine goodwill. It's important to remember that no institution or community is perfect. Just like any other group of people, churches can sometimes fall short of our expectations or ideals. However, this does not negate or diminish the negative experiences that many people have had with the ICC, and the hurt that people experience after leaving the church. It is the very hurt that many people have experienced that has motivated me to create this website. Above all, I want each website viewer to realize that they are not alone in their experience and to provide the resources needed so that one can decide for themselves if the ICC is the right church. If you find yourself questioning whether or not the ICC is a good fit for you, follow your intuition and do not ignore the red flags that you may have experienced during your recruitment phase.