Since leaving the F. last year, I was told to read some books from various authors to help me "detox" and get a
normal Christian perspecitve of faith. One of the authors I was directed to read was Philip Yancey. I was told that his style is more like a "searcher" and he's not preachy, but more in the mode of finding out the truth for himself.
Well, I found that to be true. I really enjoy his books and I have gotten some real good answers from his books.
Since he is one of the editors at "Christianity Today", I decided to write to him and let him know what I felt and see what he said about my new "journey of faith". Here's a little of what he sent me by email the other day:
In an attempt to maintain some control over my time (mostly futile, I admit),
I do not use email. But I am borrowing this one to respond to you. It's an
unmonitored address, for outgoing mail only, so please do not reply to this
address.
I'm so glad you wrote me! I've known several people who came out of a
cultish background, but you may be the first who wrote me from "The Family."
Yes, I know about it, and know how very hard it must be to break through and
start a new life. A very good friend of mine is emerging from the Worldwide
Church of God, with similar struggles. I hope you have a supportive network
around you. You'll have to overcome an inbuilt
suspicion and skepticism toward all faith, I know. Yet your letter shows both
maturity and eagerness to learn--a rare combination indeed.
Do you know the name Hank Hannegraf? He has a radio program called the Bible
Answer Man, and his website and magazine (Creation Research Journal, I think)
specialize in cults. You might find him helpful. Otherwise, I mention
almost all the books that minister to me in my writing.
Bless you, my friend. And welcome to the family, the real family of God!
Philip Yancey