Support the show:br br br Available on Spotify, Google, and Apple Podcasts:br br br Weaponized Religion: From Christian Identity to the NAR:br Paperback: Kindle: br The Arizona Daily Star’s investigation, “Twisted Message,” examines the Christian movement known as The Message, founded by William Branham, and its extremist offshoots such as Golden Dawn Tabernacle in Tucson. Through over 50 interviews, the series uncovers troubling practices like excommunication and banning former members from family events, including funerals, which create deep emotional scars. The investigative team highlights patterns of manipulation, strict control, and the severing of familial ties, particularly within splinter groups. Survivors’ testimonies reveal the devastating impact of such authoritarian practices and underscore the need for greater accountability within high-control religious movements.br br The report emphasizes the global influence of The Message and its evolving strains, which have been rebranded and militarized within some contemporary religious circles. Survivors speaking out have found solace in support groups, shining a light on the abuse and prompting public awareness. The investigation ultimately calls for vigilance in protecting freedoms and curbing misuse of religious authority, with hope for systemic change emerging from increased scrutiny and advocacy.