The shadowy world of the “Two by Twos” sect is unraveling as survivors rally to unveil decades of alleged abuse, driving an FBI investigation.
At a Glance
- The “Two by Twos” sect faces FBI investigation over child abuse allegations.
- Victims document abuses in over 30 countries, revealing the sect’s secretive operations.
- Missing formal structure has shielded the sect legally, fostering a culture of cover-ups.
- Survivors demand accountability, sparking national and international awareness.
The Shrouded History of the “Two by Twos”
The “Two by Twos,” founded in Ireland in 1897 by William Irvine, presents itself as a community of faith-based devotional gatherings. This belief-driven group, however, masks a concerning lack of organization. The absence of a centralized leadership or financial accountability has historically helped the sect escape regulatory oversight. With recent FBI involvement, prompted by an onslaught of survivor testimonies, the sect is scrutinized over systemic child sexual abuses that have remained unchecked for years.
Victims report a complex inner culture that prioritizes discretion and forgiveness at the cost of justice. Allegedly, perpetrators within the sect were often relocated instead of being reported, facilitating continued wrongdoing under different jurisdictions. Initial inquiries reveal over 900 abusers documented worldwide by brave individuals using online platforms to share their harrowing experiences.
FBI investigating 2×2 religious sect operating in Bay Area following alleged child sex abuse https://t.co/ukPLD1rfaO pic.twitter.com/o75Y5n8wWK
— ABC7 News (@abc7newsbayarea) June 14, 2024
Unmasking the Culture of Silence
Hidden leadership and opaque financial dealings, standard in sect operations, have created fertile ground for misconduct. The FBI aims to dismantle these walls of secrecy, urging victims to come forward and add to an already staggering list of accusations. Despite the gravity of revelations, sect leadership has been hesitant to implement child safety measures. Some leaders face allegations of direct interference with investigations and evidence tampering, compromising justice further.
“You have this mindset that they are angels in your home. They can do no wrong, so you don’t have any kind of wall up, It was just the perfect storm created, the perfect recipe for this kind of behavior,” Lisa Webb, a survivor, says.
Many analyzed cases persist unresolved due to the sect’s elusive structure. However, influential testimonies from survivors like Sheri Autrey have catalyzed a push for accepting responsibility.
“I would have to explain, explicitly, what happened, and I was in no way prepared for that,” Autrey reflected, highlighting the trauma rooted in unveiling these long-standing injustices.
Survivors Speaking Out
The resolve of survivors couldn’t be stronger. Their bravery has led to an avalanche of allegations and a demand for justice. Dedicated efforts by individuals like Cynthia Liles have resulted in more than a thousand abuse cases being reported to the FBI. Still, sect overseers deny the scale of abuse and remain opposed to comprehensive protective reforms. Amidst growing attention, the sect is compelled to navigate an uncomfortable path toward transparency for the first time in its history.
“I’m not guilty. Again, I like to get that – make that clear. I would love to know how the jury found that I knowingly did this,” said Raymond Zwiefelhofer, a member of the 2×2 Church who was found to possess child sexual abuse material.
The FBI continues to encourage anyone affected to share their stories, hoping these courageous disclosures will facilitate further action and justice for survivors. Those within the sect contending with malign leadership are called to connect with authorities, ensuring no stone is left unturned. It is a stark reminder of the power of truth and unity as believers strive for reform and healing.
