The Family International: A History of Controversy and Change
Origins and Early Years
The Family International (TFI) is an American new religious movement founded in 1968 by David Brandt Berg. Originally known as the Children of God, the group gained notoriety for its countercultural beliefs and practices, including free love and the rejection of traditional family structures.
Under Berg's leadership, TFI established communes around the world and recruited thousands of followers, primarily from the hippie counterculture.
Controversies and Reform
In the 1980s, TFI faced widespread allegations of child abuse and sexual exploitation within its communities. These allegations led to investigations by law enforcement agencies in several countries.
In response to the controversies, TFI underwent significant reforms in the 1990s. Under the leadership of Berg's son, Davidito, the group distanced itself from its more controversial teachings and practices.
Present-Day TFI
Today, TFI is an online Christian network with approximately 1450 members in 75 countries. It is no longer a communal movement, and its focus has shifted to spiritual development and outreach.
The group maintains its belief in the imminent end of the world and continues to engage in missionary work. However, it has largely shed its earlier controversial image and now operates as a more mainstream Christian organization.
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