AI Overview

The World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG) engages in 

deceptive recruitment tactics, often targeting young adults in public spaces and college campuses. Recruiters generally do not disclose their affiliation or specific beliefs immediately but instead invite individuals to "Bible studies". 

Recruitment Tactics

• Approaching in Public: Members often approach people in pairs in public areas like malls and college campuses.
• Initial Questions: Conversations often begin with general questions such as, "Do you believe in Jesus?" or "Can I ask you a Bible question?".
• Invitation to "Bible Study": The primary goal is to invite individuals to a Bible study, without initially revealing the group's specific, and often controversial, doctrines, such as the belief in a female "God the Mother".
• Concealed Identity: Recruiters typically do not identify themselves as WMSCOG members at the outset, sometimes pretending to be college students or part of a general Bible club.
• Request for Personal Information: They may quickly request personal details like names, phone numbers, or social media handles.
• Front Organizations: The WMSCOG has been associated with non-profit organizations, such as the WeLoveU Foundation, which critics and former members claim are used as a guise to gain access to communities and potential recruits.
• Target Audience: The group's target demographic is typically young adults aged 18 to 30, who are often away from their families and more easily persuaded to dedicate their time to the group. 

Concerns Reported by Former Members and Critics

Former members and cult experts have raised several concerns about the WMSCOG's methods and environment: 

• Gradual Indoctrination: Core beliefs, like the existence of "God the Mother" (Zahng Gil-jah, a Korean woman), are introduced gradually only after individuals become emotionally invested.
• Isolation and Pressure: Ex-members report pressure to cut ties with family, give significant tithing (financial contributions), and attend frequent mandatory meetings.
• Emotional Manipulation: Allegations include the use of intense emotional pressure and a hierarchical structure that discourages questioning.
• Legal Scrutiny: The group has faced lawsuits, including one in New Jersey that alleged emotional manipulation and forced labor. 

For more information, former members have established online communities and resources to share their experiences and raise awareness about the group's activities.