There are some interesting threads down below about whether those who post here consider themselves Christians, etc.
I originally joined the F because they DID show me that I could know Jesus personally (this was 1976, and I am talking about a basic prayer life, not "spirit helpers" and all that stuff), that knowing Him could be a wonderful, joyful and personal experience, and that sharing that joy with others was important.
I still hold these simple beliefs, just because I do pray, hear from Him, and take a great deal of joy from that. If there is one thing I miss about the Family, it's the old fashioned "inspirations" we used to have where everyone just let loose and sang songs, the gypsy dancing, and even the quiet inspirations where you sang Psalm 121 and held hands and I, at least, honestly did feel uplifted.
This is probably the one thing I miss and have not been able to find in any local church. I just cannot find the typical church service with sermons, reading set script from the back of the hymnal, and singing hymns at half speed interesting. The one Pentecostal church in my little town sometimes has "services of music" which I've attended, but after my bad experiences with Family prophecies the last few years before I left, etc. I just can't feel comfortable around people getting "slain in the spirit", "talking in tongues", etc.
So anything, one holdover thing I do like to do is occasionally I'll put on Family music tape, especially some of the older ones, and just enjoy.
Just a little confession here (ha!) and observation!
Laura