Teast
Index of Cults and Religions
By the Staff of Watchman Fellowship, Inc.
Introduction
This Index contains brief definitions, descriptions or cross references on over 1,200 religious organizations and beliefs, as well as world religions (including Christianity) and related doctrines. Watchman Fellowship is a Christian apologetics and discernment ministry; thus, many references ("Jesus," "Gospel," "Christianity," etc.) contain definitions that reflect the beliefs of Watchman's staff. While Watchman Fellowship does not hold to the beliefs of non-Christian religions and doctrines, we also attempt to describe these beliefs factually, fairly and accurately. Readers are asked to assist in this effort by suggesting corrections or improvements.
This is by no means a complete list of cults and religions. Watchman Fellowship maintains over 10,000 files and a research library of over 25,000 books and periodicals on religions, cults, new religious movements and related teachings. The absence of a religious movement from this index does not mean that Watchman Fellowship endorses the organization.
How To Use This Index
Begin your search by clicking on the highlighted letter below that is the first letter of the term for which you are searching (or, if your browser will do so, perform a word search for the term). If the term is listed, it will be followed by a brief definition. Most of these definitions contain highlighted words that are linked to the definitions for those words; clicking on the highlighted word will take you directly to that definition.
#A"- #B- #C"- #D- #E - #F- #G- #H- #I- #J- #K- #L- #M- #N- #O- #P- #Q- #R- #S- #T- #U- #V- #W- #X- #Y- #Z
Some Definitions
By using the terms "cult," "occult," and "New Age," Watchman Fellowship is in no way implying that the followers or leaders are necessarily evil or immoral people. It simply means that such groups seem to promote doctrine or practices which may be considered outside the realm of historic Christianity.
By its primary dictionary definition, the term cult just means a system of religious beliefs or rituals. It is based on a farming term in Latin meaning cultivation. Sociologists and anthropologists sometimes use the term cult to describe religious structure or belief patterns with meanings (usually non-pejorative) unique to their disciplines. In modern usage, the term cult is often used by the general public to describe any religious group they view as strange or dangerous. Thus, cult can describe religious leaders or organizations that employ abusive, manipulative, or illegal control over their followers' lives. In addition to these usages, Christians generally have a doctrinal component to their use of the word. Cult in this sense, is a counterfeit or serious deviation from the doctrines of classical Christianity. Watchman Fellowship usually uses the term cult with a Christian or doctrinal definition in mind. In most cases the group claims to be Christian, but because of their aberrant beliefs on central doctrines of the faith (God, Jesus, and salvation), the organization is not considered by Watchman Fellowship to be part of orthodox, biblical Christianity.
The term, "occult" comes from the Latin occultus or "hidden."
Generally the word is used of secret or mysterious supernatural powers or magical, religious rituals. The word "occult" in this publication is used to describe any attempt to gain supernatural power or knowledge apart from the God of the Bible. Generally it refers to witchcraft, satanism, neo-paganism, or various forms of Psychic discernment (astrology, seances, palm reading, etc.).
New Age is a recent and developing belief system in North America encompassing thousands of autonomous (and sometime contradictory) beliefs, organizations, and events. Generally the New Age borrows its theology from pantheistic Eastern religions and its practices from 19th century Western occultism. The term "New Age" is used herein as an umbrella term to describe organizations which seem to exhibit one or more of the following beliefs: (1) All is one, all reality is part of the whole; (2) Everything is God and God is everything; (3) Man is God or a part of God; (4) Man never dies, but continues to live through reincarnation; (5) Man can create his own reality and/or values through transformed consciousness or altered states of consciousness.
Index of Cults and Religions
3H0: See Healthy, Happy, and Holy
.
7 Habits of Highly Effective People:
A book by Stephen Covey
Aaronic Order,
Maurice Glendenning, Murry, UT: Splinter group from LDSThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), founded in 1942 by Glendenning after he was excommunicated by the LDS Church for receiving and publishing revelations later known as the Levitical Writings.
Abaddon:
(Hebrew for "The Destroyer"; in Greek, Apollyon) A demon described in the Bible as "the angel of the bottomless pit" (Revelation 9:11).
Old Greenwich, CT: Esotericmagic, teachings of Aleister Crowley
Abode of the Message,
Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, New Lebanon, NY: Sufism, alchemy, dowsing, meditation to lead to "inner attunement," ative American spirituality, sweat lodge
Academy for Guided Imagery,
Martin L. Rossman & David E. Bresler, Mill Valley, CA: Healing by altered states of consciousness, imagery training (i.e., visualization), hypnosis and magic
Evanston, IL: Organization founded in 1956 to explore psychic occurrences and metaphysica experiences while evaluating the growing interest in occult phenomena in Christian churches. See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship, Spiritualism, Divination
Actualism:
New Age teaching based on panentheism, according to which all human beings possess the divine Christ-consciousness and are united with the Mother-Father-Creator God.
See Acupuncture
Chinese system of healing using needles or hand pressure (acupressure) applied to certain points on the body, traditionally believed to balance the
yin and yang energies in the body by opening blocked meridians (apexes in the pathways). Once the
chakras (key points or intersections) are open, the chi or energy, supposedly can then flow through the body bringing all things into harmony. While some limited physical effects (mostly anesthetic) can be attributed to this practice, these effects have scientific, physiological explanations totally unrelated to the mystical explanation, which derives from TaoismSee [[#Holistic|Holistic Health]Profile
available.
Adams, Dennis,
Mt. Shasta, CA: New Age, man is God.
Adelphi Organization,
Dallas, TX: New Age teachings on Atlantis, karma, seven planes of existence. See Stelle Group
Adeptco,
Chuck McDonald, Omaha, NE: Yoga, crystals, reincarnation, karma and Kabbalah teachings.
Advanced Organization of Los Angeles (AOLA):
Promotes Scientology philosophy.
Advanced Systems, Inc.:
See Zen Master Rama
Widespread trans-denominational movement inspired by William Miller's prediction that Jesus' "advent" (return) would take place in 1844. Even after the Great Disappointment (the date's failure), many people in the movement continued to believe. Some suggested revised chronologies and new dates, eventually forming groups such as the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Others, notably Hiram Edson and Ellen G. White, suggested that the 1844 date was accurate but that a heavenly (thus invisible) event had taken place. Their teachings became the basis of Seventh-day Adventism, which eventually spawned its own offshoots, including Armstrongism and the Branch Davidians
Aesthetic Realism Foundation,
Eli Seigel, New York: Happiness can be achieved through the harmony of opposites, e.g., realizing and accepting that the world is both beautiful and horrific (see Taoism). Educators have criticized the Foundation after public school teachers in New York introduced the philosophy into high school English, biology, and art courses.
Aetherius Society,
Sir George King: Clairvoyance, karma, reincarnation, psychometry, Great White Brotherhood, UFO, alchemy, occult secrets of Jesus, mantras
Affective Education:
Also called value-free, or non-directive, education. Influenced by the philosophy of Carl Rogers, affective education programs attempt to facilitate the emotional development of children in order to enhance the learning process, particularly focusing on self-esteem. This contrasts with traditional educational paradigms that focus on cognitive, or intellectual, practices such as reading, writing, and arithmetic. Affective education has become particularly influential in drug awareness programs for youth.
Agasha Temple of Wisdom,
William Eisen, Los Angeles, CA: Universal consciousness of god, reincarnation, occult pyramidology, Ascended Masters
Agnosticism:
The claim (denied by Romans 1:18–20) that one has no knowledge of God or the origin of the universe. Some agnostics make the claim on a personal level, while allowing that such knowledge may exist but has never been known by themselves. Others assert that such knowledge cannot be had by anyone. Agnostics avoid the charge of dogmatic atheism by acknowledging the theoretical possibility of God's existence. Yet virtually all live as if the non-existence of God was an established fact, and are thus practical atheists
Agon Buddhism:
Sect of BuddhismUses the Agon Sutras as scriptures.
Agyeman, Jaramogi Abebe:
See Pan African Orthodox Christian Church
Ahmadiyya Movement:
Sect of Islam following the teachings of Ahmad (1835-1908), an Indian Muslim; most followers in the US are black, Indian, or Pakistani.
AION:
Magic, runes, goddess worship
Term used in theosophy designating an alleged library that exists on the astral plane containing all the thoughts, actions, and events of mankind. Mystics, through altered states of consciousness, tune into this library for information.
Tony Alamo, leader of this group, has been imprisoned by authorities for alleged illegal activities. Teaches traditional Christianity is dead. Former followers have reported deplorable living conditions, mind control, and slave labor. Operates Music Square Church in TN, Holiness Tabernacle in Dyer, AR, and End Times Book is the publishing arm.
Alan Shawn Feinstein Association,
Cranston, RI: UFOs, contactee.
Aleph: Alliance for Jewish Renewal,
Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, Philadelphia, PA: Combines Chassidic Judaism, Native American spirituality, Eastern mysticism, A Course in Miracles, and New Age practices. Emphasizes combining syncretistic spirituality and psychology.
Aletheia Psycho-Physical Foundation, Jack Schwarz, Ashland, OR: New Age seminars on the inner-self, paraconsciousness, meditation and visualization
All-One-God-Faith, Emanuel H. Bronner, Escondido, CA: Sells Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap, which claims to clean both body and soul. The soap is widely available in health-food stores. Teaches (like Process Theology) that God is continually recreating Himself. God desires all nations and religions to unite in an "All-One-God-Faith" on Spaceship Earth. This unification will come about through following 13 precepts and 20 directives revealed to Bronner by God.
All Souls Unitarian Church,
John Wolf, Tulsa, OK: See Unitarian-Universalist Association for similar theological perspective.
All Ways Free, Madison, WI: New Age periodical.
Allah: Arabic, Muslim name for God; see Islam. Allegro, John: Wrote The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross.
Alphabiotic New Life Center,
Dallas, TX: #New"ZNew Age seminars on one's divine being, Ramtha, yoga and channeling
Alphasonic International, Los Angeles, CA: Company specializing in tapes with subliminal messages
Alternative Medicine:
See Holistic Health
Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America: See [[#Mon-Ka|Mon-Ka Retreat…]
Ambassador University, Big Sandy, TX: Now defunct Liberal arts and religious institution founded by Herbert Armstrong. See Armstrongism
Ambassadors For Christ, Tustin, CA: See Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for similar theological perspective.
Ameba, San Francisco, CA: Paganism, promotes the teachings of Aleister Crowley, Celtic rituals
American Academy of Dissident Sciences, Culver City, CA: Studying a wide array of conspiracy theories, the Academy focuses on UFOs and the Illuminati
American Association of Ayurvedic Medicine,
Fairfield, IA: Holistic health association founded by Deepak Chopra while he followed the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (see Ayurvedic medicine; Transcendental Meditation).
American Babaji Yoga Sangam,
New York, NY: Hinduism-based philosophy, yoga
Americ an Constitution Committee: Political organization of the Unification Church
American Fellowship Services: Splinter group of The Way International
American Foundation for the Science of Creative Intelligence: A branch of Transcendental Meditation
American Gnostic Church,
Daeva Ares Animo: Paganism, Kabbalah rituals, Egyptian magic, Satanism rituals of Anton LaVey, Gnostic Mass.
American Holistic Nurses Association, Amherst, MA: Trains medical nurses to use therapeutic touch and meditation with patients.
American Imagery Institute Milwaukee, WI: New Age teachings on visualization, astral projection
American Leadership College, Inc. Osceola, IA: New Age occult teachings on trance healings, mediumship, self-realization dreams.
American Pie and the Armageddon Bible Prophecy Home Page: The pop song American Pie, which prophesies the destruction of America, was foretold in the Song of Moses in Deuteronomy 32. See Apocalypse
American Society for Psychical Research, Simon Newcomb, New York, NY: ESP, out-of-body experiences, mediums, parapsychology, psychokinesis
American Study Group, UT: Defunct splinter group from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) that used the Book of Mormon and the teachings of LDS leaders to speculate on end-time events.
American West Publishers, Tehachapi, CA: UFOs cosmic laws of balance. Publishes the Phoenix Journal
American Zen Center: Zen Buddhism, shamanism, Sufism
AMOM: See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek
AMOOKOS: Occult, magic, some Hinduism, man is already a master.
AMORC: See Rosicrucian Order
Anchor of Golden Light, Dorothy and Henry Leon, Grants Pass, OR: UFOs, Ascended Masters, Kabbalah mysticism, alchemy, numerology Publishes the Anchor of Golden Light newsletter.
Ancient Wisdom Connection, N. Myrtle Beach, SC: New Age channeling, numerology and belief in "Lord Sananda," who is an incarnation of Jesus
Anglo-Israelism: See British Israelism
Animal Magnetism: See Mesmerism
Anthropomancy: A form of divination based on psychic readings of the entrails of a human who has been ritualistically sacrificed.
Anthroposophic Society, Rudolf Steiner, Hudson, NY: Similar to the Chicago organization (below), possibly affiliated.
Apostasy: From the Greek word apostasis, meaning "rebellion," and the Latin word apostasia, meaning "abandonment," the term apostasy refers to a renunciation of the Christian faith. The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society applies the label apostate to former Jehovah's Witnesses, who are then shunned by all Witnesses in good standing.
Apostle: From the Greek word apostolos, meaning "messenger," the term apostle refers to those leaders of the early Christian church who were chosen by Jesus. The criteria for being an apostle was 1) the individual was personally chosen by Christ; and 2) the individual must have personally seen Christ. Members of the top two quorums of leadership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints claim the title today.
Apostolic Overcoming Holiness of God, Inc., Birmingham, AL: Pentecostal church, stresses the oneness of God while accepting the Triune Being of the Godhead. Salvation depends upon baptism, tarrying to receive the Holy Spirit, and holiness. Publishes The People's Mouthpiece magazine.
Apostolic United Brethren: See Corporation of the Presiding Elder of the Apostolic United Brethren
Applewhite, Marshall: See Heaven's Gate
Aquarian Academy, Robert E. Birdsong, Eureka, CA: Jesus only an avatar of the Cosmic Christ, of the Great White Brotherhood of Light. Man's purpose is to reach the transcendental plane, release from the wheel of fate, astral projection, meditation, cosmic truths.
Aquarian Age Teaching, Ruby Focus, Sedona, AZ: Discover the God within, the Father-Mother god, Atlantis, Christ-consciousness
Aquarian Church of Universal Service,
Paul Shockley, Portland, OR: Teaches cosmic awareness but with no specific doctrine. Similar to Unitarian-Universalist
The Aquarian Conspiracy,
Marilyn Ferguson: A book documenting and advocating the widespread growth of the New Age movement.
Aquarian Educational Group,
Torkom Saraydarian, Sedona, AZ: Astrology, moon festivals, use the Bhagavad-Gita, Jesus only an avatarPublishes the Fiery Synthesis magazine.
Aquarian Foundation, Keith Milton Rhinehart, Seattle, WA: Universalism, yoga, spiritism, Theosophy-based philosophy.
Aquarian Minyan,
Berkeley, CA: Jewish group, yoga, mysticism
Aquarian Perspectives Inter Planetary Mission,
Montgomery, AL: UFO group, receives messages from Futron and the Rainbow Star Legionnaires.
Aquarian Tabernacle Church, Index, WA: Paganism, worship of Mother Earth, goddess worship, sun and moon festival, magicPublishes the Panegyria newsletter.
Arcana Workshop,
Manhattan Beach, CA: Meditation, Great Invocation, moon festivals. Based on the teachings of Alice Bailey (see Arcane School). Publishes the Thoughtline newsletter.
Arete Truth Center,
Paul Lachlan Peck, Las Vegas, NV: New Age, metaphysics, teaches balancing the body, mind and spirit.
Arguelles, Jose: New Ager who staged the Harmonic Convergence
Arizona Light, Phoenix, AZ: New Age periodical.
Arizona Metaphysical Society, Frank Alper, Phoenix, AZ: New Age seminars on rebirthing, astral projection, channeling, karma, reincarnation, and crystals
Arizona Network News, Scottsdale, AZ: New Age periodical.
Arm of the Lord, Warren, OH: Teaches that it is a satanic idea to invite Jesus into "one's life."
Armageddon Time Ark Base Operation, O.T. Nodrog, Weslaco, TX: UFO group, channels messages from outer dimensional forces.
Armstrong, Garner Ted: Son of Herbert W. Armstrong who formed his own rival Armstrongism splinter group, the Garner Ted Armstrong Evangelistic Association. See Church of God, International
Armstrong, Herbert W.: See Armstrongism, Worldwide Church of God
Arn Draiocht Fein, P.E.I. Bonewits, Nyack, NY: Paganism, Druids, polytheism, nature worship. Publishes News from the Mother Grove newsletter.
Aromatherapy Seminars, Los Angeles, CA: Holistic Healing therapy, oils healing the psyche. See Aromatherapy.
Arunachala Ashram, Bhagavan Sri Ramana: Hinduism -based philosophy, also called Maharshi Center, Inc.
Aryan Nations Church,
Hayden Lake, ID: A neo-Nazi paramilitary organization in the Christian Identity movement that preaches against all non-Caucasian groups. The Order, an Aryan Nations break-off group, killed Alan Berg, a Jewish radio personality in Denver, in 1984. The Aryan Nations received national notice in 1992 when the wife of member Randy Weaver was killed in a shootout with the FBI in Ruby Ridge, ID.
As It Is: See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Asatru Free Assembly, Denair, CA: Paganism, worships Odin as Father-god, Frigga as Mother-god and Nerthus as Mother-Earth. Publishes The Runestone newsletter.
Ascended Master Teaching Foundation,
Mt. Shasta, CA: Occult, part of the I AM movement, Great White Brotherhood, similar to Theosophy
Ascended Masters School of Light, Toni Moltzan, Carrollton, TX: New Age, channeling, Ascended Masters including Jesus, universal consciousness.
Ascension Week Enterprises, Santa Fe, NM: New Age, Channeling, reaching out to children with New Age programs.
ASCENT Foundation,
Larry Jensen, Sedona, AZ: New Age enlightenment, similar to Silva Mind Control, est, and Lifespring
Asheville Meditation Center, Asheville, NC: New Age, achieving man's divine nature, transcendence.
Assemblies of the Called Out Ones of "Yah," Sam Surratt, Milan, TX: Sacred Name movement
Assemblies of Yahweh,
Jacob Meyer, Bethel, PA: Publishes The Sacred Name Broadcaster magazine. See Sacred Name movement
Assemblies of Yahweh (7th day), Cisco, TX: See Sacred Name movement
Assembly of Scientific Astrologers,
George Cardinal, LeGrosoplin, MO: Esoteric astrology, karma and reincarnation
Assembly of Yahweh, Holt, MI: Founded in 1930, perhaps the oldest of the Sacred Name groups in America. Sabbatarianism Publishes The Faith
Assembly of YHW Yoshua, Pueblo, CO: Sacred Name movement
Associated Readers of Tarot International, Carbondale, IL: Tarot form of divination, Celtic rituals
Associates for Scriptural Knowledge, Ernest L. Martin, Portland, OR: Anti-denominational group whose Associates study doctrine through a Home Study Course. Teaches universalism, i.e., that all people will be saved (although not all will experience the first resurrection and live in Christ's millennial kingdom), and the Sacred Name doctrine (Martin claims that the name Yahweh was removed from the Bible by Jerome). Martin was fired by the Foundation for Biblical Research (an Armstrongism splinter group in Alhambra, CA) in 1984 for espousing these doctrines. Publishes a "restored" Bible called The Manuscript Version of the Bible, and The ASK Communicator.
Association for Christian Development, Kenneth Westby Auburn, WA: Armstrongism splinter group.
Association for Past-Life Research and Therapies, Inc. Riverside, CA: New Age, reincarnation and astrology
Association for the Understanding of Man, Austin, TX: New Age, channeling, psychic reading, altered states of consciousness
Association of Unity Churches: The denominational structure affiliated with the Unity School of Christianity
Association Sananda & Sanat Kumara, Mt. Shasta, CA: New Age, channeling Christ-consciousness teachings.
Astara, Robert & Evelyn Chaney: New Age, spiritism, yogaPublishes Voice of Astara
Astro Computing Services, San Diego, CA: Astrology
Astrology: An ancient fatalistic system of divination using the position of the planets, moon and sun in the twelve Zodiac positions at the moment of one's birth to gain occult or hidden knowledge of the future.
Profile available.
Astrology and Psychic News, N. Hollywood, CA: New Age periodical.
Atlantic Pagan Council: Association of East Coast pagan covens, magic, moon festivals, paganismPublishes the Atlantic Pagan Council Amateur Publishers' Association newsletter.
Atman: A term used in Hinduism referring to the eternal or real self and sometimes refering to the principle of life in all things.
Aum Supreme Truth: See Aum Shinri Kyo
Author Services, Inc.: Promotes Scientology philosophy.
Avanta Network, Palo Alto, CA: New Age, works by Virginia Satir promoted, positive and negative energies.
Avatar, Flagstaff, AZ: New Age seminars similar to est and Lifespring, enables participant to have conscious shift of beliefs.
Awake! Magazine published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Awareness Research Foundation, Inc., North Miami, FL: Astrology, Atlantis, UFOs, ESP and Lord Sananda.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Center, Pearl Miller, Reno, NV: Eastern mysticism, meditation, homeopathy
Baba, Sai: Indian guru, Hinduism, meditation, Kundalini yoga.
Bear Tribe Medicine Society, Spokane, WA: Native American spirituality, Mother Earth, medicine wheel, moon ceremonies.
The Beatles: A highly influential rock-and-roll group from the 1960s. In 1966 they became involved in Transcendental Meditation; later both John Lennon and George Harrison repudiated TM. Harrison then became a devotee of ISKCON and recorded his hit single "My Sweet Lord" as a devotion to Lord KrishnaThe Beatles are widely credited with increasing the popularity of Eastern religions in the United States.
Bell, Art: Popular late-night radio talk show host. While his Coast to Coast weeknight broadcast and Dreamland weekend broadcast focus on a wide array of New Age and occult issues, as well as many conspiracy theories, one of the most common subjects discussed by guests on the program is UFOs.
Bermuda Triangle: Geographically, the Triangle composes the southwestern quadrant of the North Atlantic, with apexes in Bermuda, Puerto Rico, and in the Gulf of Mexico west of Florida. Some people involved in the occult and UFO studies believe the Triangle is a supernaturally dangerous area, with many ships and airplanes disappearing in the Triangle in the 20th century.
Bernard, David:
A well-known Oneness Pentecostal writer and speaker.
Bet Hashem – The House of YHWH, New Haven, IN: Sacred Name, man is the offspring of light, conversion is the union with the light.
Beth El Shaddai, Dick Amos, Plano, TX: Dual Covenant doctrine, denies Jesus is God.
Beth HaShem, Jacob Hawkins, Odessa, TX: Sacred name, Sabbatarianism, keeps Old Testament feasts and laws for salvation. Publishes The Prophetic Watchman newsletter.
Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh: Though this Indian guru is deceased, many followers still practice his unique form of Hindu philosophy and sexual yoga system to gain enlightenment.
Bhakti Yoga: Type of yoga or spiritual exercise involving devotion to a guru
Bible Believers, Inc.: See Branham, William
Bible Code, Michael Drosnin: Bestselling 1997 book teaches that prophecies are hidden in a complex network of letters and words within the Old Testament. Drosnin claims that he attempted to warn Israeli leader Yitzak Rabin of his impending assassination based on a prediction in the biblical code. The theory is a form of numerology and has some associations with the Jewish occultism of the Kabbalah
Bible Speaks, The: Former name of Greater Grace World Outreach
Bible Talks:
Home and campus group studies sponsored by the International Churches of Christ
Bible Way Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ:
Oneness Pentecostalism denomination.
Bible Way Publications,
Ft. Lauderdale, FL: Bible Students group.
Biblical Church of God,
Santa Cruz, CA: Armstrongism splinter group.
Biblical Research Centers: Regional centers for The Way International
Bind: See Spell
Bioenergy: New Age practice of healing. Balances the life-energy by opening blocked meridians (see acupuncture).
BioEnergetic Synchronization Techniques: New Age method using the body's life force to heal itself.
Biofeedback: The use of EEG (electroencephalographic) feeback instruments to monitor brain waves and skin resistance with the goal of modification of brain waves. Participants can learn to control heart rates or generate brain wave activity (alpha, beta, and delta) at will to induce altered states of consciousnessEnhances the capacity for relaxation and/or inducing meditative states and physiological control similar to that in yoga and Zen
Biointegration, Ross Algelo, Dallas, TX: New Age, body alignment, yoga, reflexology, rebirthing
Bio-Magnetics: New Age, the realigning of magnetic fields allegedly surrounding the body.
BioPsciences Institute, Minneapolis, MN: Astrology
Black Mass: A ritual in Satanism that attempts to negate or profane the Catholic Mass. Black candles are used and Catholic prayers recited backwards. Allegedly, the communion is occasionally performed using human blood and flesh.
Black Muslim: Generic term referring to Nation of Islam and related groups.
Black Christian Nationalist Movement: See Pan African Orthodox Christian Church
Blavatsky, Madame Helena Petrovna: Founder of Theosophy
Blessed Be: A common greeting used among Wiccans to invoke or wish happiness and well-being.
Blue Lotus, Wilmot, WI: New Age periodical.
Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, Eknath Easwaran, Petaluma, CA: Hindu philosophy, meditation, uses the Bhagavad-Gita
Blue Rose Ministry, Robert Short, Joshua Tree, CA: UFOs, messages from the "space brothers," channelingPublishes the Solar Space-Letter
Blue Star, Mary Thunder, West Point, TX: New Age, sweat lodge, channeling, Spiritual University.
Body, Mind and Soul: Houston, TX: New Age periodical.
Body, Mind and Spirit: Providence, RI: New Age magazine.
Book of Changes:
See I Ching
Book of Shadows: A journal for recording occult activities.
Bookmark, Santa Clarita, CA: Christian Science splinter group.
Borderland Science Research Foundation
Garberville, CA: Alchemy, dowsing, UFOs, astrology
Boston Church of Christ:
See International Churches of Christ
Brinkley, Dannion: As chronicled in his bestseller Saved by the Light, Brinkley allegedly underwent a near-death experience after being struck by lightning. He teaches people to perform "life reviews" to enhance their perception of life and death and to find their life missions. He operates a hospice organization called Compassion in Action / The Twilight Brigade.
Brotherhood and Order of the Pleroma, Richard Duc de Palatine, Sherman Oaks, CA: New Age revival of Gnosticism, God and man are the same being.
Brotherhood of Eternal Truth, New Albany, IN: Spiritualism, astrology, [[#Atlantis|Atlantis, channeling, magic, past life regressionAlso known as Center of Light and Life.
Brotherhood of Seth, Ellsworth, ME: Paganism, homosexual or homophilic magic, teachings of Aleister Crowley
Brotherhood of the Followers of the Present Jesus, Ann and Peter Meyer, San Diego, CA: Alchemy, Christ-consciousness in each person, channeling and clairvoyance
Brotherhood of the White Temple, Inc., M. Doreal, Castle Rock, CO: New Age/occult metaphysical teachings, soul illumination, three planes of existence.
The Bruderhof Community: A communal society started in Germany in the 1920s and based on the sixteenth-century Moravian Anabaptist sect of Jacob Hutter, which was part of the Radical Reformation. The group is also called the Society of Brothers and the Hutterian Brethren. The basic theology of the group is Protestant but, according to former members and other critics, the group exercises inappropriate control over the members and practices shunning and other forms of spiritual abuse
Buddha's Universal Church, San Francisco, CA: Similar to Buddhism in theology.
Builders, Norman Paulsen, Oasis, NV: New Age, Christ-consciousness, meditation, Father-Mother God, enlightenment.
Builders of the Adytum, Paul Foster Case, Los Angeles, CA: Occult, Kabbalah, Tarot, spiritual alchemy, [[#Esoteric|esotericastrology
Burning Man Festival, Black Rock Desert, NV: An annual festival celebrating neo-paganism and Satanism The name comes from the culmination of the festival, in which a wooden man with outstretched arms (resembling a crucifix) is burned by the crowd.
Buzzworm:
New Age /environmental periodical.
C.O.B.U.: See Church of Bible Understanding.
Cabalah: See Kabbalah.
Caelum Moor, Arlington, TX: Private park (now closed) containing menhirs (large upright stones) similar to those found at Stonehenge. Newspaper reports claim trespassers have used the site for pagan ceremonies. See Stonehenge
CAN:
See Cult Awareness Network
Canfield, Jack: New Age education author, editor of popular Chicken Soup books. Very influential in the public school arena.
Cantillation Research Foundation,< John Diamond, Valley Cottage, NY: New Age, pantheism, All is God, All is Mother.
CARP:
See Collegiate Association for the Research of Principles
Castaneda, Carlos:
New Age author of The Teachings of Don Juan series. He helped popularize [[#NatAm|Native Americanshamanism, the hallucinogenic peyote, and New Age occultism
Castle Rising,
Denver, CO: Paganism, magic, psychic impressions, moon festivals, crystals Publishes the Castle Rising newsletter.
Catholicism:
See Roman Catholicism
CAUSA:
Organization affiliated with the Unification Church
Celtic Christianity:
Augustine of Canterbury evangelized England in the late 6th ? early 7th centuries. His work was later taken by Patrick to Ireland, who is largely credited with establishing the Celtic church. Celtic Christianity was heavily influenced by the Roman Catholic Church, to which it was allied, although many individuals claim a greater reverence for nature in the Celtic tradition. Differences in practice within the Celtic church were gradually eradicated during the Middle Ages as the Roman papacy asserted its authority over Ireland. Modern groups that claim to revive Celtic Christianity are frequently a mixture of Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, with few legitimate ties to the early Celtic church. Nonetheless, these groups should not be confused with neo-pagan groups that also claim to be Celtic.
Center for Action and Contemplation, Albuquerque, NM: Yoga, Enneagram workshops.
Center for Advanced Communication and Training, Carrollton, TX: New Age, hypnosis, Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Center for Alternate Realities,
Durango, CO: Metaphysics, crystals, shamanism, runes, Tarot Cards, guided meditation, palm reading
Center for Personal and Planetary Empowerment,
Austin, TX: New Age, meditation, alchemy
Center For Spiritual Awareness,
Roy Eugene Davis, Lakemont, GA: New Age, enlightenment, man's higher self, cosmic-consciousness.
Center for Studies on New Religions,
Massimo Introvigne, Torino, Italy: Introvigne studies new and alternative religious groups. He and his work, which is frequently supportive of new religions, are often used by alternative religious groups to support their activities when pursuing governmental recognition.
Center for Wisdom Spirituality,
Paradise, PA: UniversalismPublishes the Interconnections newsletter.
Center for World Networking,
Soguel, CA: UFO, psychic, yoga, Universal Energy.
The Centers Network:
See est
Centre de Recherche sur l'Energie Humaine Universelle (CREHU): See Spiritual Human Yoga
Centric, Houston, TX: New Age periodical.
Champaign-Urbana Church of Christ:
Member, International Churches of Christ
Chapel of Prayer,
Eleanor Button, Houston, TX: Psychic readings, channeling, crystals, astrology, self-healing meditation
Cheetham, John:
See Great Lakes Society for Biblical Research
Chicago Bible Students,
Chicago, IL: Largest and best known of the independent "Bible student" groups. Reprints the early writings of Watchtower Bible and Tract Society founder Charles Taze Russell, including Divine Plan of the Ages.
Children of God:
See The Family (Children of God)
Chinmaya International Foundation,
Swami Chinmayananda, Piercy, CA: Eastern mysticism, yoga, meditationPublishes the MU News
Chinmoy, Sri:
Hindu philosophy, meditation
Chinook Learning Center,
Fritz and Vivienne Hull, Clinton, WA: Native American Earth-Spirit philosophy, shamanism, meditation, called one of the most important New Age centers.
Chiromancy:
See Palm Reading
Chiropractic Medicine:
A holistic health practice whereby practitioners use a form of manipulative therapy to treat musculoskeletal problems. While many chiropractors are not engaging in alternative religious activities via their practice, critics claim that some chiropractors engage in chiropractic medicine in accordance with the Taoist principle of facilitating the flow of chi
Choice Experience, A,
Jerry Stocking, Chetek, WI: New Age, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, "other-than-consciousness" techniques.
Choosing Light,
Mill Valley, CA: New Age, meditation, telepathic communication from Higher Dimension Guides and teachers.
Christ Cathedral for Divine Abundance,
Alexius Bassey, London: Universalism, Divine Consciousness.
Christ Family,
Charles McHugh: McHugh, a.k.a. Lightening Amen, claims to be the incarnation of JesusFollowers dress in robes, no shoes, practice vegetarianism.
Christ Light Community:
See New Age Church of Truth
Christ the Savior Brotherhood:
See Holy Order of MANS
Christadelphianism,
John Thomas: Teaches that Jesus is a created being, Holy Spirit is Power of God, and salvation by worksAlso rejects the ideas of heaven and hell. It has several splinter groups.
Christian Community:
Based on teachings of Rudolf Steiner, founder of the Anthroposophical Society
Christian Fellowship, The:
See Potter's House
Christian Foundation,
Canyon County, CA: See Alamo Christian Foundation
Christian Millennial Fellowship,
Hartford, CT: Watchtower Bible and Tract Society splinter group (see Bible Students). Publishes The New Creation periodical.
Christian Prayer Center,
Mother Martin, Washington, D.C.: Native American spirituality and rituals, voodoo
Christian Renewal Ministry,
Saratoga, CA: Watchtower Bible and Tract Society splinter group (see Bible Students).
Christian Rose Cross Church,
Olympia, WA: Based on the teachings of Max Heindel (see Rosicrucian Fellowhip), Cosmic Christ, Universal religion.
Christward Ministry,
Escondido, CA: New Age, guided meditation, Christ-consciousness
Chrysalis:
Swedenborg Foundation periodical.
Chuang-tzu:
Legendary founder of Taoism
Church, The,
Jim Roberts: See Brethren
Church at San Diego,
Paul and Patrica Carroll: Current leaders Vincent and Patricia Izacic (a.k.a. Xavier). Shepherding, mind control
Church For Positive Living,
Dean Davis Bedford, TX: Native American spirituality, yoga, creative meditation, visualization
Church in York,
Bernard Haygood, York, PA: Shepherding, baptismal regeneration
Church of All Worlds,
Otter Zell, Berkeley, CA: Occult/Pagan theologyPublishes the Green Egg periodical.
Church of Christ:
See Churches of Christ
Church of Christ-Consciousness:
See Center of the Light
Church of Christ Jesus:
See International Churches of Christ
Church of Christ, Scientist:
Official name for Christian Science
Church of Christ, Temple Lot,
Granville Hedrick, Independence, MO: Splinter group that broke away from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Church of Christ with the Elijah Message,
Otto Fetting, Independence, MO: Splinter group that broke away from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Church of Christ with the Elijah Message,
Greenwood, MO: 1998 splinter group from Otto Fetting's group of the same name.
Church of Cosmic Origin,
Hope Troxell, June Lake, CA: New Age, Community, Cosmic Christianity, additional scripture includes The Book of Enoch
Church of Divine Influence:
Alignment with the Divine Will of the Wise Movement of the Universe.
Church of Freethought:
A social organization for atheists that provides the opportunities for socializing, community service, and social support offered by theistic churches.
Church of God and True Holiness,
Robert Carr, Raleigh, NC: Allegedly practice slavery and mind control
Church of God, (Abrahamic Faith),
Wenatchee, WA: Adventist group, similar to the Bible Students groups; rejects the Trinity, teaches annihilationismPublishes Notes For Bible Students newsletter.
Church of God Family Counseling Center,
William Miller, Dallas, TX: Miller claims to be the savior.
Church of God General Conference,
Oregon, IL: Rejects the TrinityMain headquarters for the Church of God, Abrahamic Faith.
Church of God Philadelphia Era,
David Fraser, Pasadena, CA: Armstrongism break-off group. Publishes the Proclaim Liberty magazine.
Church of God (Seventh Day),
Denver, CO: One of the older Sabbatarian churches in America. Publishes Bible Advocate
Church of God, Seventh Day,
Caldwell, ID: Sabbatarianism; observes Sabbath and Feast days; baptism necessary for salvation (see baptismal regeneration). Publishes The Herald of Truth newsletter.
Church of God (7th Day) Salem,
WV: Rejects the Trinity; teaches Sabbatarianism; observes Feast days and Sabbath; baptism required for salvation (see baptismal regeneration). Publishes The Advocate of Truth newsletter.
Church of God, The Eternal,
Raymond C. Cole, Eugene, OR: Armstrongism splinter group; Sabbatarianism; observes Sabbath and Feast Days.
Church of Hakeem,
Hakeem Rasheed, Oakland, CA: Teaches how the god within makes people rich.
Church of Illumination,
Quartertown, PA: New Age, Divine Spark in all humans, Gnosticism, similar to Rosicrucianism
Church of Israel,
Day Gayman,
Schell City, MO: Radical Christian Identity movement sect. Publishes The Watchman
Church of Jesus Power,
E.S. Cooke, Sr., Boulder City, NV: Astral projection via "Jesus Powered Sakraments" (sic) which changes man's electro-magnetic polarity.
Church of Light,
Elbert Benjamin, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Associated with the ???Brotherhood of Light, rejects heaven and hell. Atonement to be found in each person's own path.
Church of Metaphysical Christianity,
Russell Flexer, Sarasota, FL: New Age, Jesus is Ascended Master, Creation by Vibrations. Publishes Metaphysical Messenger magazine.
Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ Apostolic Faith:
Oneness Pentecostal church.
Church of Perfect Liberty,
Tokuchika Tokuhara, Glendale, CA: Zen Buddhism, man is manifestation of god.
Church of Seven Arrows,
Wheatridge, CO: Native American spirituality, shamanism, paganismPublishes Thunderbow II newsletter.
Church of the Brigade of Light,
Charlotte, NC: Divine Mother in everyone, Jesus called the Gentle Brother, Metaphysical philosophy. Publishes the Crystals of Light newsletter.
Church of the Final Judgement:
See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Church of the Great God, John Ritenbaugh
Charlotte, NC: Armstrongism break-off group. Publishes the Forerunner newsletter.
Church of the Living Stone Mission for the Coming Days,
Bang-ik Ha, Seoul, Korea: Predicted Jesus would return on October 28, 1992. See False Prophecy
Church of the Most High Goddess,
Mary Ellen Tracy, Los Angeles, CA: Revival of Egyptian religions, temple priestess, salvation through sexual relations.
Church of the New Birth:
See Foundation Church of Divine Truth
Church of the New Jerusalem:
See Swedenborg Foundation
Church of the Plains Indians:
Native American spirituality, sweat lodge
Church of the Tree of Life,
San Francisco, CA: No doctrine of God, sin, etc., only doctrine is anything goes within legal limits.
Church of the Trinity,
A. Stuart Otto, San Marcos, CA: New Age; By Jesus' C.E.R.A. (Crucifixion, Entombment, Resurrection and Ascension) he imparted his Consciousness into the psyche of all.
Church of Universal Love,
Linda Foreman, El Paso, TX: Similar to I AM Movement, use teachings of St. Germain, channeling, guided meditationPublishes Cosmic Channelling newsletter.
Church of Unlimited Devotion:
Worships Jerry Garcia of the rock-and-roll band, The Greatful Dead. They believe Garcia's guitar is a channel for God.
Church of Y,
Tylwyth Teg,
Smyrna, GA: Pagan, occult philosophy.
Circle,
Madison, WI: Pagan newspaper.
Circle Network News
Mt. Horeb, WI: Paganism, shamanism, Wicca, goddess worship. Publishes the Circle Network News newsletter.
Circle of Life,
Dorothy Espiau, Houston, TX: Healing planet Earth, forces of Divinity, crystals, believes dolphins are alien beings.
Circle of Light,
Dallas, TX: New Age periodical.
Circle of Light, Inc.,
Honolulu, HI: New Age, follows Lord Michael, astral planes, channeling
City of the Sun Foundation,
Columbus, NM: Channeling, chakras, Christ-consciousness, karma, man is part of God , man is perfect.
Cleage,
Albert B., Jr.:
See "Pan African Orthodox Christian Church".
Clifford E. Hobbs Foundation,
Newport, WA: Hedonistic theology.
College of Divine Metaphysics,
Joseph Garduno, Glendora, CA: New Age, metaphysical teaching.
Comfort Corner Church,
Lawrenceville, GA: UFOs, metaphysical teachings.
Common Boundary,
Chevy Chase, MD: New Age periodical.
Communion Letter,
San Antonio, TX: UFO periodical.
Community of Jesus,
Orleans, MS: Thought to be involved in shepherding and mind control
Concept Therapy,
Thurman Fleet, San Antonio, TX: New Age, stress management seminars, book title Rays Of The DawnPublishes The Beamer newsletter.
Denver, CO: Ironically, begun in the early 1980s as a Christian ministry to expose cults and false teaching, Miller's organization began to take on cult-like characteristics in later years. Becoming increasingly controversial and bizarre, Miller's group drew national media attention in 1998 when over 50 followers fled the Denver area and disappeared after Miller predicted the Apocalypse was to begin and that Denver was to be destroyed by an earthquake on October 10. Miller, who claims to be one of the two end-time prophets mentioned in the Revelation 11, published Report from Concerned Christians and Take Heed UpdateProduced Our Foundation radio program. This group is not to be confused with the Mesa, Arizona-based Concerned Christians, a Christian ministry to Mormons led by Jim Robertson. Profile available.
Conciliation Ministries,
Dusean Berkich Lawrence, KS: Conversion should be inward to self, not to Jesus
Confraternity of Deists,
Homosassa Springs, FL: Reject sin, no need for a Savior, no consciousness after death.
Confucianism,
Chiu King (King Fu-tzu or Confucius - "Kung the Master"): A world religion based on the teachings of Chiu King who, according to tradition, was born in Lu, China about 550 BC Chiu King promoted peace and social harmony through the traditions of the ancestors. He is said to have collected, edited and written commentaries on four ancient manuscripts (including the I Ching). He also wrote Ch'un Ch'iu ("The Annals of Spring and Autumn") These documents comprise the Five Classics and along with the Four Books (a collection of his sayings) form the basis of Confucianism. Doctrines include ancestor worship, devotion to family elders, and right conduct based on the inherent goodness of man.
Congregation of God,
San Jose, CA: See Answers Research and Education
Congregation of God Seventh Day,
John Pinkston: Armstrongism break-off group. Publishes The Herald magazine.
Congregation of the Firstborn,
Raymond Glenn, Grapeland, TX: Teaches that Jesus is not God; also sabbatarianism, festival keeping.
Congregation of Yahweh,
Pittsburgh, PA: Sacred name group, sabbatarianism, Old Testament feast days and dietary laws kept, the Holy Spirit is the power of God. Publishes The Restoration Message newsletter.
Conscious Development of Body, Mind, and Soul:
Organization of Teri Hoffman
Conscious Living Foundation,
Drain, OR: New Age, states of consciousness, visualizationPublishes the Gentle Place and Quiet Space magazine.
Consciousness Connection,
Las Cruces, NM: New Age, visualization, automatic writing, rebirthing, astral projection
Constellation,
Elton Powers, Dallas, TX: New Age, African spirituality, animal spirituality, yoga for pets.
Contemplations, Inc.,
Ed Heinemann, Durango, CO: The Universe is alive and speaks. Life is crystalized light.
Continuum Foundation,
Chino Valley, AZ: New Age, dynamic energies, consciousness raising teachings.
Cornerstone,
Jim Rector,
Texarkana, TX: Armstrongism splinter group. Publishes Cornerstone
Corporation of the President of the Fundamentalist Church,
Rulon T. Jeffs, Sandy, Utah: Mormon Fundamentalist splinter group of between eight and twelve thousand members. The group has a strong presence in Hilldale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona (once known as Short Creek), which was the site of a government effort to prosecute polygamists in 1953.
Cosmerism:
Mixture of Christianity and Buddhism, but embraces all religions as having truth.
Cosmic Awareness Communications,
Olympia, WA: New Age, channeling the Force which also spoke through Jesus, Krishna and Edgar Cayce (see Association for Research and Enlightenment).
Cosmic Communication Commune,
Decorah, IA: All religions have same common roots, communication from the cosmic Spirit.
Cosmic Light of Peace Center:
See House of Divine Bread
Cosmic Science Research Foundation,
Edward Palmer, Portland, OR: New Age, UFO information given by Hierarchical Intelligence on the various planes of consciousness.
Cosmic Wisdom,
Clark Wilkerson, Honolulu, HI: New Age, Kabbala, psychic, ESP, cosmic consciousness, Universal Mind.
Council of Light,
Honolulu, HI: Ascended Masters, similar to I AM movement; channeling
Council of the Magickal Arts,
Austin, TX: Paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca), goddess worship, ritual magic
<div id="Course|]]Course in Miracles, A,
Helen Schucman: New Age book given through the channeled voice of "Jesus." The world, sin, and sickness are all illusions. Teaches that man is still in heaven with God and this life is a dream. Profile available.
<div id="Coven|]]Coven:
A group two or more people (ideally thirteen) practicing witchcraft (see Wicca) or occult arts. Also called a clan.
Coven Gardens,
Boulder, CO: Occult, paganism, Wicca, revival of Egyptian deities.
Covered Bridge Canyon,
Spanish Fork, UT: Pantheism, channeling, denies reality of death.
<div id="Covey|]]Covey, Stephen:
Mormon author with New Age affinities. Author of the best-selling, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and several sequels.
Creation Calendar,
Verlis W. Johnson, Kermit, TX: Sabbatarianism, necessity of keeping the Law, Feast Days, etc., for salvation (see salvation by works).
<div id="Creme" id="Creme|]]Creme, Benjamin:
See Tara Center
Crossroads Church of Christ:
See International Churches of Christ
Crusade of Innocence:
Believed to be a splinter group of Process Church of the Final Judgment
Chrysalis Foundation,
Durango, CO: Metaphysical and holistic healing center.
Crystals Consciousness, Warren Klausner
San Diego, CA: New Age, crystal healing, Kundalini, iridology
Crystal Horizons,
Santa Barbara, CA: New Age, crystals
Crystallomancy:
Divination or fortune telling by gazing into a crystal rock or crystal ball.
Crystal Pathway,
Denver, CO: New Age/Occult periodical.
Cult:
See the Definitions section in the introduction. Profile available.
Cumorah Books,
Independence, MO: Affiliated with the more conservative Restoration Branches of the RLDS ChurchPublishes Restoration Voice, The Vision. <br /]]
<div id="D"]]D</div>
Daily Word:
A monthly publication of Unity School of Christianity
Dallas Fellowship, Inc.,
Arlington, TX: New Age; uses The URANTIA Book as their main text. Publishes The Circle newsletter.
Dang, Luong Minh:
Founder of Spiritual Human Yoga
Davera Mission Church,
Korea: Alternate name for Church of the Living Stone Mission for the Coming Days
David, John:
See John-David Learning Institute
David, Moses (King David):
Pseudonym for David Berg, the late founder of The Family (Children of God).
Davis, Haviland:
Albany, NY: Leader of a Bible Students splinter group from the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Dawn Bible Students,
East Rutherford, NJ: One of the original Bible Students splinter groups formed after Joseph Rutherford assumed leadership of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Dayspring Resources,
Leonie Rosenstiel, New York, NY: Hypnosis, Reiki, yoga, reflexology, crystal healing.
de Mello, Anthony:
An Indian-born Jesuit priest, who wrote a number of New Age books that were bestsellers in many countries. His works include One Minute Wisdom, One Minute Nonsense, Wellsprings: A Book of Spiritual Exercises, and Walking on Water In 1998, over a decade after his death, the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith (a Vatican commission) denounced de Mello's writings. They warned of false teachings in his works, including a denial of objective morality and the claim that all religion, including Christianity, are obstacles to truth.
Delphi School,
Sheridan, OR: Uses the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Church of Scientology
Demand for Purity:
One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton's theory of Thought Reform. An environment of blame and guilt based on an impossible ideal of human behavior or perfection. This shame-based culture punishes failure and can even subtly train members to punish themselves for their inability to live up to the group's ideals or standards. See Brainwashing
Denver, John:
Prominent New Age singer who promoted est, Yoga, Transcendental Meditation, and the Windstar Foundation before his death in 1997.
Deseret Shadow Church:
See Church of Essential Science
Devil:
See Satan
Di Mambro, Joseph:
See Order of the Solar Temple
Dianetics:
Bestselling "bible" of the Church of Scientology
Discover Seminars,
Irving, TX: New Age, stress management.
Discovery,
West Valley City, UT: Anti-Christian, Jesus is the Devil
Disfellowshipping:
As practiced by the LDS and many other groups, this is a level of church discipline involving a probationary period of restricted privileges, but retaining church membership. As practiced by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, it is an alternate term for "excommunication," being completely cut off from Jehovah's organization; see Shunning
Dispensing of Existence:
One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton's theory of Thought Reform. The organization's dogma determines whether or not other groups or individuals have the right to exist. All alternative belief systems or organizations are considered illegitimate. In extreme cases this mindset can promote violence or murder.
Divali:
Hindu philosophy of Enlightenment.
Divine Light Center,
Swami Omkarananda: Mixture of Hinduism, voodoo and animal sacrifice.
Divine Light Mission,
Maharaj Ji: Hindu/New Age philosophy, teachings on the God within.
Divine Science,
Denver CO: Similar to Christian Science theology: God is All, man is a part of the All, thus man is God.
Divine Science of Light and Sound,
Marina del Rey, CA: New Age, reincarnation, karma, astral projection
Divine Word Foundation,
Warner Springs, CA: New Age, channeled writings, Jesus and Christ are separate entities.
Dixon, Jeane
(1917–1997): Astrologer, prognosticator, claimed information was from Christian God, however she made many false prophecies.
Doctrine and Covenants:
One of the scriptures or "Standard Works" of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints accepts a different version of the work as scripture.
Dominion Press,
San Marcos, CA: New Thought, similar to Christian Science and Unity School of ChristianityPublishes the Theologia 21 newsletter. Not to be confused with Dominion Press in Tyler, TX, a controversial but orthodox Christian publishing house.
Dualism:
An understanding of reality as existing in two opposite extremes. Metaphysical dualism sees the universe as existing in two contrary (and sometimes conflicting) realities—mind and matter, or spirit and physical, or yin and yang Ethical dualism posits a conflict between universal good and an equal and opposite force of universal evil (e.g., the belief that God and Satan are equal and opposite beings).
Dungeons and Dragons:
Occult, fantasy role playing game, allegedly uses demonic names and spells found in occult literature. Some parents have charged that children committed suicide under the influence of the game.
DuPage Church of Religious Science,
Donald E. Burt, Naperville, IL: Religious Science, use the teachings of Ernest Holmes.
Dyer, Wayne:
Prominent New Age writer and spokesman focusing on business applications, personal transformation and motivational speaking. Also promotes holistic health, and Buddhism
Eadie, Betty:
New Age author of best-sellers, Embraced by the Light and The Awakening Heart. An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Eadie claims to have died, gone to heaven, and returned to her body (see near-death experiences). Her books contain a combination of New Age and Mormon beliefs.
Eagle's Cry,
Denver, CO: New Age/Occult periodical, includes Egyptian revival, channeling, aura analysis.
Eagle's Path,
Grand Junction, CO: UFOs, moon festivals, yoga, rebirthing, Eckankar
Earth Church of Amargi,
St. Louis, MO: Paganism, ritual magic, witchcraft (see Wicca), moon festivals, Kabbalah, goddess worship.
Earthmother Therapy Center:
Astrology, aura reading, chakra balancing, channeling, homeopathy, iridology, numerology, palmistry, past life regression, reflexology
Earthsong,
Wendy Moss, Dallas, TX: Journey into Mother Earth.
East West Journal,
Syracuse, NY: New Age periodical.
Eastern School Press,
Talent, OR: New Age, Theosophical, karma, astral light.
Ebon, Martin:
See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship
Ecclesia Athletic Association,
Eldridge Broussard, Jr., Los Angeles, CA: Believed to practice controversial forms of mind control and shepherding
Ecstasy,
Ojai, CA: New Age, man is God, realized through sexual encounters, New Age/Hedonism.
Eddy, Mary Baker:
See Christian Science
Edwards, Bishop Luke:
See REACH, Inc
Effective Learning Systems,
Edina, MN: Subliminal tapes, visualization, ESP, deep relaxation techniques.
Elmwood Institute, Fritjof Capra:
Internationally recognized New Age author (The Tao of Physics) and lecturer.
Emmanuel,
J. David Davis, Athens, TN: See B'nai Noah for theological perspective. Publishes The Gap newsletter.
Emerald Circle:
Paganism, know the Divine within, be part of Gaia
ENERGIE et PARTAGE:
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Epiphany Bible Students Association,
Mount Dora, FL: Splinter group from Laymen's Home Missionary Movement, one of the Bible Students groups that broke away from the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Erhard, Warner:
See est
Esalen Institute,
Michael Murphy, Big Sur, CA: New Age, one of the original institutions for developing and promoting eastern mysticism/New Age philosophy.
Esoteric Order of Dagon,
Soror Azenath 23rd, Abita Springs, LA: Channel the energy of the Nu Aeon, collective magical unconsciousness, worship the Old Ones or Old Gods.
ESP:
Acronym for Extrasensory Perception
ESPress, Inc.,
Washington, D.C.: PsychicsSee National Spiritual Science Center
Essene Gospel of Peace,
Edmond Bordeaux Szekely: New Age, allegedly channeled by "Jesus," enlightenment, illness is a mistake.
Essene Light Center,
Mary L. Myers, Charlotte, NC: Has similarities to I AM movement, belief in Great White Brotherhood, ascended beings, Father-Mother god.
Eupsychia,
Austin, TX: New Age, Transcendental Meditation, Native American spirituality, shamanism
Evolutionary Kingdom Level Above Human,
Richardson, Texas: Earlier name of Heaven's Gate, Marshall Applewhite's UFO cult
Exaltation:
In the teaching of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the highest form of salvation. It means to become a God, exactly like God the Father and Jesus Christ, and to produce and rule over one's offspring throughout eternity.
Faith Assembly Church,
Raymond Jackson, Jeffersonville, IN: Similar to William BranhamPublishes The Contender newspaper.
Faithbuilders Fellowship,
San Diego, CA: Theology similar to Jehovah's Witnesses
Faithful Word,
Chicago, IL: Armstrongism splinter group, teaches necessity of keeping the Law of Moses. Publishes The Faith Word magazine.
Faith Temple,
Rosemary Cosby, Salt Lake City, UT: Apostolic Faith splinter group; Cosby has claimed to be the Messiah.
Family, The,
Charles Manson: The followers of Charles Manson, some of whom were convicted for the 1969 Tate/LaBianca murders. Not related to the following entry.
The Farm,
Stephen Gaskin, Summertown, TN: Zen Buddhism mixed with esoteric Christianity, pantheism, communal society.
Farrakhan, Louis:
Leader in the Nation of Islam
Fate,
Marion, OH: New Age/occult periodical.
The Fellowship,
Chicago, IL: One of a number of groups that follow the teachings of The URANTIA Book, New Age, automatic writing, ascended beings
Fellowship For Spiritual Understanding,
Marcus Bach, Palos Verdes Estates, CA: Similar teaching to Unity School of Christianity, denies reality of death, teaches man is God.
Fellowship of Isis:
Paganism Egyptian gods and goddess worship.
Fellowship of the Inner Light,
Paul Solomon, Virginia Beach, VA: New Age; concept of "Meta-Human" teaches man to go beyond human to become Creator/Master.
Fellowship of Universal Guidance,
Glendale, CA: Astrology, psychic reading.
Fellowship Press,
Noblesville, IN: Soulcraft library, claims of channeled information from William Dudley Pelley in the very High Planes of Consciousness after he had died.
Feminism:
See Radical Feminism
Feng Shui:
A religious "science" for the balancing of Yin and Yang in the environment, discovered or originated by farmers some 3,000 years ago and developed within Taoism. Feng Shui teaches that there is an energy called Qi (or, Chi) flowing throughout the universe, and in this world through lines, sometimes called channels or meridians, to which one must be properly aligned for optimal health, fortune, and quality of life. The position and alignment of structures and objects in one's environment affects the flow of this energy and one's own ability to harmonize with nature. Practitioners therefore arrange household and office furniture, design rooms and even whole buildings, their grounds and gardens, etc., to properly align with the flow lines of earth's energy. They thus hope to improve the balance of nature around them, not only for their own benefit, but for the benefit everyone in the area.
Feraferia,
Eagle Rock, CA: Paganism, magic, spells, astrology, goddess worship.
Firewalking Institute of Research and Education,
Twain Harte, CA: Firewalking, shamanism, meditation, sweat lodge, rebirthing
First Demonic Church,
Efrem Del Gatto, Italy: Satanism
First Temple of the Craft of W.I.C.A.,
South Chicago Heights, IL: Paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca).
First World Conclave of Light,
San Diego, CA: UFO, 32 planets already joined but are waiting for the Earth to make the necessary commitment before the spaceships can land. See also Unarius Education Foundation
First Zen Institute of America,
New York, NY: Zen Buddhism, astrologyPublishes the Zen Notes newsletter.
Fitch, Joseph:
See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship
Flag Service Organization,
Tampa, FL: Promotes Church of Scientology philosophy.
Flirty Fishing,
(Ffing): Allegedly discontinued practice of using sex to entice converts into The Family
Flying Saucer Information Center,
Pasadena, MD: UFOs, aliens coming to take Earth children for seedlings. Publishes the Update newsletter.
Oregon City, OR: Practices shunning, exhibits legalism, and holds to a strict faith-healing doctrine. Doctors and hospitals are not allowed. State medical examiner claims as many as 25 children have died in the last two decades from complications from otherwise common medical problems.
Ford, Arthur:
See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship
Fort Worth Bible Students,
Fort Worth, TX: Bible Students group that republishes older Watchtower Bible and Tract Society materials.
Fortunetelling:
A form of divination in which a person attempts to predict the future using alleged paranormal powers.
The Forum:
New Age, personal transformation seminar; see est
Foundation Church,
New York, NY: Psychic development, "psychosomastery," UFOsSee also Process Church of the Final Judgement
Foundation Church of the Millennium:
See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Foundation Church of the New Birth:
See Foundation Church of Divine Truth
Foundation Faith,
(Foundation Faith of God): See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Foundation Faith of the Millennium,
New York: UniversalismAll religious leaders, including Jesus, Mohammad and Buddha were sent by God.
Foundation for Co-Creation,
Barbara Marx Hubbard, Greenbraie, CA: Prominent New Age lecturer and writer.
Foundation for Higher Spiritual Learning,
Centreville, VA: Formerly "Bridge to Freedom," the new name was adopted in 1979. The group follows the theosophical teachings of Guy Ballard of the I AM movement, including the Great White Brotherhood
Foundation for Inner Peace:
Organization and publisher for A Course in Miracles
Foundation for Life Action,
Tara Singh, Los Angeles, CA: Know one's own Christ nature; promotes A Course in MiraclesPublishes A Call To Wisdom newsletter.
Foundation for Shamanic Studies,
Michael Harner, Norwalk, CT: Occult, shamanism for empowerment and healing.
Foundation for Unlimited Consciousness,
Rain Morgan, Orcas, WA: New Age, channeling, Ramtha devotees (see Knight, J. Z.).
Foundation of Light and Metaphysical Education,
Hurst, TX: Occult, astrology, psychic readings.
Foundation of Revelation,
San Francisco, CA: Eastern mysticism, yoga
Fox, Kate and Margarett:
See Spiritualism
Fraternity of Light,
Philadelphia, PA: Kabbalah, reincarnation, karma; one's inner essence is a Divine Spark.
Free Bible Students:
A small Bible Students splinter group currently consisting of only four congregations and approximately 27 home groups.
Free Soul,
Sedona, AZ: New Age, spirit guides, commune with Divine Nature, Psychic and Higher Soul Dimensions.
Free Spirit,
Brooklyn, NY: New Age periodical.
Freewinds Relay Office,
Clearwater, FL: Promotes Church of Scientology
Friends Review,
Hillsboro, OR: Occult/ metaphysical periodical.
G.A.P. Ministries,
Elm Grove, WI: Sabbatarianism, observes Feast Days, part of Sacred Name movement. Publishes The Appointed Time newsletter.
Gabriel Society,
Ruth Harders, Western Springs, IL: New Age, metaphysics, Universal Mind.
Gandhi Memorial Center,
Swami Premananda, Washington, D.C.: Eastern mysticism, teaching of Hindu leader Mahatma Gandhi. Publishes The Gandhi Message quarterly.
Garvey Center,
Witchita, KS: New Age, holistic health mixed with sound medical procedures. Pyramid powers.
Pala, CA: A small cult formerly called Ahabah Sasah Prophetic Ministries in Everett, WA. Turgeon once claimed to be the prophet Elijah. He and another member, Blaine Alan Applin, were charged with first-degree murder in 1998 following the shooting death of former member Daniel Jess. Earlier that year a SWAT team served a warrant on the group's five-acre compound located 60 miles north of San Diego and recovered weapons and other stolen property.
Gateway To Light,
Lloyd G. Sellman, Dewey, AZ: UFOs, telepathic communications.
Gateways Institute,
Jonathan Parker, Ojai, CA: New Age, subliminal tapes, karma, reincarnation, hypnosis
Gawain, Shakti:
New Age author who popularized Buddhism through creative visualization (meditation) techniques.
Germain, Saint:
See I AM Movement, Ascended Masters
Global Family,
Palo Alto, CA: New Age, visualization, Higher self which is God, pantheism (all is God).
Globalism:
When used in a religious sense, this term most often means to lose all national identity. Mankind must see itself as one world family, without the need for distinctions between religions. All religions become true or the distinctive doctrines of the various religions must be disregarded in an attempt to achieve the new Global Family idea.
Global Times:
The bimonthly magazine published by the Denmark office for Proutist International. See PROUT
Gnostic Catholic Church of Canada,
Edmonton, Alberta: Paganism, magic, Celtic rituals. Publishes the Sunspot magazine.
God Saves the Earth Flying Saucer Foundation:
See Chen Tao
God's House of Prayer for All People,
Samuel T. Allen, Dallas, TX: Sabbath and Old Testament festivals kept for salvation (see Sabbatarianism).
God's Salvation Church:
See Chen Tao
Golden Association,
Ann Rogers, San Jose, CA: New Age, channeling, inner voices.
Golden Book of the Theosophical Society, The:
See Rosicrucianism
Golden Dawn,
John Phillips Palmer, Lumberville, PA: Occult, magic, spiritual authorities are Secret Chiefs and Inner Plane Adepti.
Golden Dolphin,
Sheila Balenger, Greenback, WA: Paganism, astrology, Mother Earth, Primal GoddessPublishes Sacred Cycles newsletter.
Golden Eagle Sanctuary,
Hot Springs, AR: Yoga, crystalss, pyramidology, aura balancing.
Golden Lion,
Ann Alexander, Houston, TX: New Age, esoteric philosophy.
Golden Quest,
Hilda Charlton, Lake Hill, NY: UFOs, space brothers, karma, meditation, the divine child within all.
Golden Wheel,
W.E. Reeve, England: Occult, astrology, alchemy, UFOs, spiritualism
Good Cheer Press,
Boulder, CO: Publishes material promoting The URANTIA Book
Good, Joseph:
See Hatikva Ministries
Grail Foundation of America,
Abd-ru-shin, Binghamton, NY: Esoteric teachings, Christ's call for "child-like faith" no longer valid.
Grand Canyon Society,
Scottsdale, AZ: New Age, channeling, members use The URANTIA Book as their text.
Great Lakes Fellowship:
Splinter Group of The Way International
Great Lakes Pagan Association,
Techumseh, MI: Pagan, WiccaPublishes The Covenstead newsletter.
Group for Creative Meditation:
See Meditation Group for New Age
Grove of the Unicorn,
Galadriel, Atlanta, GA: Paganism, Wicca, moon festivals, magic
Guardian Action International,
Deming, NM: UFOs, Atlantis, ESP
Guideposts:
Magazine founded by Norman Vincent Peale
Guild For Hermetic Revelation,
Houston, TX: New Age, astrology, soothsaying, reflexology, Tarot
Gunvik, Sigurd:
This man's teachings are a mixture of Jehovah's Witnesses and Sacred Name theology
Gurdjieff, George I.:
Mixture of occult, psychic and mystical teaching. Considered by some to have been the greatest mystical teacher of all times.
Guru Dev:
Hindu Swami (religious master) who was the teacher of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, founder of Transcendental Meditation.
H2B Company
San Francisco, CA: New Age, yoga, meditation.
Hare Krishna:
Nickname for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Harmonie et Energie des volcans d'Auvergne:
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Harr, Brian,
Rochester, NY: The reincarnation of Jesus!
Harris, Timothy:
See "Gnostic Order of Christ."
Hartley, Harriette,
Arlington, TX: New Age, psychic, channeler
Hatha Yoga:
See "Yoga."
Hawkwind,
Charla Hawkwind Hermann, Valley Head, AL: Native American spirituality, Mother Earth, shamanism, astrologyPublishes The Pathfinder magazine.
Hay, Louise:
New Age, metaphysical counselor and author.
Healing Arts Expressions,
Solvang, CA: New Age; healing by meditation on a piece of art, painting, etc.
Healing Center,
Sarasota, FL: New Age, magnetic therapy, chakras, Yin and Yang balancing.
Health and Wealth Gospel:
See Word-Faith Movement
Health Conscious Services,
Christ Singh Khalsa, New York: Yoga, Kundalini, each person is his or her own Master.
Heart Consciousness Church,
Middletown, CA: New Age, goddess worship, Native American spirituality, sweat lodge, meditationPublishes the Harbin magazine.
Heart Dance,
Mill Valley, CA: New Age, psychic, CrystalsPublishes the Heart Dance magazine.
Heaven and Earth,
Gloucester, MA: New Age, crystals
Rancho Santa Fe, CA: New Age, UFOs Applewhite (a.k.a. Do) and 38 other members committed suicide in March of 1997, believing that by leaving their bodies behind they could join Nettles (a.k.a. Ti) and other "older members" from "the next level above human" on a UFO supposedly hidden behind the Hale-Bopp comet. Profile available.
Heaven's Magic:
Another name for the followers of David Berg, founder of The Family (Children of God); produces multi-color children's posters and music.
Heretic:
A person who causes a division by teaching heresy
Heritage Institute,
Plainfield, WI: New Age, past life, Ouija board, telepathy, psychic healing.
Hermit,
Jan Moody, Topsham, MA: Astrology, Tarot card reading, channeling
High Point,
Vance Harris, Willard MO: New Age, Channeling, astrology
High Wind Association,
Milwaukee, WI: Native American philosophy, Alchemy, Accelerated Human Consciousness. Publishes Windwatch newspaper.
Hinkins, John-Roger:
Founder of Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness
Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy,
Swami Rama, Honesdale, PA: New Age, Hinduism, yoga, meditationPublishes Himalayan Institute Quarterly
Hippocrates Health Institute,
West Palm Beach, FL: New Age, healing, yoga and meditation
Hohm Community,
Lee Lozowick, Tabor, NJ: No specific doctrine, all religions have truth, seek Divine Evolution.
Holiness Tabernacle,
Dyer, AR: See Alamo Christian Foundation
Holistic Life University,
San Francisco, CA: New Age, aura healing, reflexology, visualization
Hollyhock,
Rex Weyler, Blaine, WA: New Age retreat, shamanism, drumming, meditation, Buddhism
Holy Body of the Coming Jesus Christ Mission in New York:
See Church of the Living Stone Mission for the Coming Days
Holy Grail Foundation,
Leona Richards, Santa Cruz, CA: New Age, Ascended Masters, reincarnation
Holy Shankaracharya Order,
Stroudsburg, PA: Hindu theologyPublishes Purarnave periodical.
Holyland:
See REACH,Inc
Homewords,
Susan Johansen, Salt Lake City, UT: Channeling, out-of-body experiencesPublishes the Homeword newspaper.
Horoscope:
See Astrology
Horus/Maat Lodge:
Occult, paganism, ritual magic, Egyptian philosophy.
House of Prayer for All People,
William Blessing, Denver, CO: Sacred Name, teachings on Atlantis and Lemuria.