Acknowledging mistakes

From: Beyond Boundaries, Part 1: Relations with Leave-takers By Peter FD/MM/FM 3787 6/09

25. I want to preface this historical background by stating that mistakes were made in the past in the Family's treatment of former members or those who were in the process of leaving. Mama and I have published apologies to former members from 1995 onward, as we became more aware of how a number of people felt after leaving the Family and the difficult challenges they faced. (See "Mama's Letter to Former Members" in "Bridging the Gap," ML #3068:101-108, published in August 1996; "An Open Letter to All Current and Former Family Members," ML #3091:3,10h,15-22, published in December 1996.) In 2007, we also published an apology for current and former second generation members at the end of the series "The Family's History, Policies, and Beliefs Regarding Sex" (ML #3673, GN 1236).

26. Negative attitudes toward leave-takers were, to a great degree, rooted in Dad's writings, which were quite harsh in many cases toward former members, at the time referred to as "backsliders." Although Dad's interpretation was based on biblical principles, which I'll explain in reviewing the history, the application Dad presented of these principles resulted in uncharitable and unloving actions in many cases. It also gave rise to a judgmental and intolerant spirit toward those who chose to leave the Family, which did not bear good fruit in many instances. Former and current members were hurt, relationships were strained, and families were divided, resulting in bitterness and unhappiness in the lives of a number of former members.

27. Mama and I are very sorry for the hurt and difficulties that have been faced by both current and former members due to this strong position regarding leave-takers. We acknowledge that mistakes were made, and people's lives were affected as a result. Not only do we want to learn from the mistakes of the past, but we want to ensure that our future is one of greater love, tolerance, and charitable attitudes toward those who choose other paths in life.

28. This is not the first time—and will probably not be the last—that we have acknowledged that mistakes have been made and change is needed in some area of our lives and service for the Lord.