A deeply disturbing story has come to light, revealing the horrific practices within the infamous ‘Children of God’ cult, which has now rebranded as ‘The Family International.’ The account of Serena Kelly, a survivor born into this organization, paints a vivid picture of a childhood stolen and innocence shattered by the cult’s founder, David Berg, who was also known as ‘Moses David.’
A Life Decided Before Birth
Serena Kelly’s fate was sealed even before her birth, a tragic consequence of the cult’s bizarre and cruel doctrines. David Berg, who commanded absolute authority, had already claimed Serena’s older sister as his ‘child’ and then, with an almost unbelievable audacity, decided to take ‘protection’ over Serena while she was still in her mother’s womb. This pre-birth arrangement was part of the cult’s practice of ‘Flirty Fishing’ and ‘Loving Jesusism,’ ideologies that were later revealed to be covers for widespread sexual exploitation.
Forced Marriage at Age Three
The most shocking detail of Serena’s story is the ritualistic marriage she was forced into at the tender age of three years old. In a formal ceremony, she was dressed in white and presented to the cult leader, David Berg, who was 65 years her senior at the time. This wasn’t merely a symbolic gesture; it was framed as a great honor within the cult, designed to legitimize Berg’s intentions.
Our Opinion: This practice is a clear example of how cults use twisted theology and manufactured ceremonies to normalize and celebrate criminal abuse. The excitement of the members over such a tragic event highlights the depth of their indoctrination and the utter lack of moral compass within the group.
The ‘Strategy’ of Filth and Exploitation
Serena recalls a profoundly unhealthy and disturbing environment growing up. She described being constantly surrounded by naked people and living in filthy conditions. According to her, this was a deliberate part of Berg’s “strategy.” The cult leader openly preached a distorted view of love, claiming it should have “no limits,” regardless of age or familial relation.
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David Berg’s Doctrine: He actively promoted the idea that children should be “sexually awakened at a very young age,” a vile justification for pedophilia and child sexual abuse.
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The Propaganda: Berg documented Serena’s upbringing and used it in the cult’s publications to promote his methods as ‘the right way’ to raise children, turning her life into a tool for dangerous propaganda.
Serena’s mother, tragically, was reportedly the one who handed her over to Berg. Serena, barely a toddler, remembers being given a doll and a ring—a cruel exchange for her childhood. She claims the inappropriate touching began very early, but no one intervened, believing she was “made for the cult leader.”
The Escape and The Road to Recovery
Serena’s direct contact with the cult leader ended in 1989 when she was just six years old and traveled to Brazil as part of the cult’s global activities. Berg himself died five years later. However, she continued to be a part of the movement, traveling across countries like the United States, Japan, and Brazil for several years.
Breaking Free and Building a New Life
The turning point came when Serena reached adulthood. At the age of 18, she made the courageous decision to leave the cult, moving to the United States with her mother.
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The First Steps: With the critical help of former cult members and survivors, Serena began the long and difficult process of deprogramming and building a functional, normal life.
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Education and Independence: In 2013, she achieved a significant milestone by completing a course in corporate communications at the University of Texas at Austin and starting a career. She later separated from her mother, further cementing her independence from her traumatic past.
Today, Serena Kelly has moved forward. She says she chooses not to dwell on the horrific memories of her “old days,” a testament to her resilience and focus on the future. Her story serves as a painful reminder of the enduring damage inflicted by destructive cults.
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Geographic Isolation: Moving members into communal living spaces (‘colonies’ or ‘families’) far from non-members.
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Information Control: Restricting access to outside news, books, and media, branding them as ‘evil’ or ‘Satanic.’
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Alienation from Family: Encouraging members to cut off ties with non-member family and friends.
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Love Bombing and Fear: Initially overwhelming new recruits with affection (‘love bombing’), followed by using fear of divine punishment or eternal damnation for disobedience or leaving the group.