29 May To answer the question . . .
I noticed a few of the commenters on my recent post Blogging Without Obligation said they had to google “patriocentricity”. I know it’s not a common term–and I’m curious what Andy and Beth found in their google searches. Some of the results on the web can be enlightening, frightening, or even downright petty. I’m probably not going to get very involved blogging about patriocentric religion and the quiverfull movement. (Go google that now!) I just don’t have the time in my life to devote to this and there are some wonderful writers on the web who are doing a great job discussing the subject. The best definition I’ve found is here. That should satisfy initial curiosity. If you wish to dig deeper, I follow some great blogs written by women who’ve come out of the patriocentric movement. At Under Much Grace, Cindy provides a lot of information on some of the fringe groups that are involved in this, as well as tips for dealing with spiritual abuse. I recommend scrolling down the sidebar to click on some of the buttons for learning about different facets of the movement. I’ve been following Adventures in Mercy for over a year. Molly’s blog is the story of one woman’s journey out of extreme conservative Christianity into the freedom of relationship with Christ. She speaks openly and bluntly about her beliefs and struggles. My recent favorite is Quivering Daughters. Hillary is working on a book about the ramifications of being raised in this type of home. You can find more about that book here. I know I can’t wait to read it!
I hope this serves to answer some of the questions. I’ve had enough personal experience with this type of lifestyle to find it very concerning. When I read a lot about it, I tend to get both angry and sad. The best thing about knowing Jesus is LOVE. If I’m not free to reject Him, then my love for Him means nothing. If I’m not free to be the person He created me to be, then my life is stifled. I know extreme conservative Christianity has been a major factor in turning people away from the faith. But I also know that God’s love is strong enough to make up for the damage. It certainly has in my life.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galations 3:28
No Comments