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Episode 1

A look at the origins of the Jesus Fellowship, in which an early vision of communal living and spiritual commitment becomes more disciplined, violent and controlling.

A look at the origins of the Jesus Fellowship. Founded in the 1970s, its early vision of communal living, shared finances and spiritual commitment changes over time, becoming more structured and controlling. Unexplained deaths begin to occur within the community, exorcisms are performed on members with 'unclean spirits', and children as young as two are disciplined with birch canes in a practice known as 'rodding'.

Then, in 1987, leader Noel Stanton announces the launch of a ‘Jesus Army’. Members go onto the streets to evangelise, often amongst the homeless or people with addiction issues, and often bring new recruits back into community homes. One of these homes is in London, and it is here that a young girl becomes a witness to something that will change her life forever.

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58 minutes

Last on

Wed 6 Aug 2025 02:30

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Credits

Role Contributor
Director Ellena Wood
Series Producer Katie Buchanan
Producer Esme Ash
Producer Ellena Wood
Producer Sophie Daniel
Producer Polina Borshchevska
Editor Tom Herington
Editor Andrew Rushton
Executive Producer Katie Buchanan
Executive Producer Helen Littleboy
Production Company Docsville Studios Limited
Production Company Big Sister Films

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