A joint investigation exposes control, pressure and exploitation as the fundamentals of a large Baptist congregation in North Parramatta.
The Redeemer Baptist Church wants the world to believe it’s a loving Christian community devoted to doing God’s good work, and that the elite school it operates in Sydney’s western suburbs is a perfect example of that. But if that’s the case, why is the church now being so vociferously challenged?
In this joint 60 MINUTES, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age investigation, former insiders make serious allegations about Redeemer, saying it’s built on a foundation of control, exploitation and questionable financial dealings. They also accuse church elders of dominating the lives of members, deciding who they marry, what careers they pursue, even their living arrangements.
And as Amelia Adams reveals, anyone who tries to leave the church needs to be aware the consequences are as severe as they are heartbreaking.
Reporter: Amelia Adams
Producers: Natalie Clancy, Emily KowalÂ