Word: sects
(lookup in dictionary)
(lookup stats)
Dates: during 2000-2009
Sort By: most recent first
(reverse)
...Carolyn Jessop, a former member of Jeffs' sect, points out that there are two high-powered, charismatic men who could possibly move back to Colorado City and take Jeffs' place: one is her ex-husband, Merrell Jessop, who oversees the sect's compound in Texas; the other is Wendell Neilson, who likely oversees another compound. But she considers this unlikely. "I don't think Warren would give away any of his power - he's too controlling and hungry for it and these men would be threats to his leadership. Plus they would never go against Jeffs' wishes." Jessop predicts that...
...unlawful flight to avoid prosecution charges of forcing underage marriages, he conducted even more underage unions, exiled men from their homes and families who were considered "unworthy," and ordered followers not to pay their taxes. Some fear that his arrest could now create a power vacuum within his sect and attract other Jeffs-minded leaders interested in doing it their own way. There is also the possibility of an exiled member returning to establish new leadership...
...Parker, an attorney who has represented the sect's members, including Jeffs, believes that Jeffs will maintain his leadership status. "The whole premise of their beliefs is that Jeffs has been chosen by God to be their leader and the fact that he is in custody doesn't change that - he is still going to be viewed as their prophet." Although, logistically carrying out his role may mean relying on a hierarchy of power. "Being a fugitive never stopped him from running the church, so why would it now?" asks Parker...
...sect follows the original fundamental teachings of Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, which include the practice of polygamy. The Salt Lake City-based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints left polygamy behind in 1890 and now excommunicates members who practice...
...conclusion to Jeffs' capture has left Shurtleff hopeful. "This should send a message that nobody is above the law, and hopefully it will encourage some [victims] to come forward." Shurleff anticipates changes in the group's community, especially in the twin cities of Hildale and Colorado City, where the sect is based. "Their feelings about him, their fear of him, their loyalty to him - we're hoping will start to crumble...