Return to Waco (Branch Dividians regrouped and back in business)

[kskiska]

In 1993, 80 members of the Branch Davidian sect died when US agents stormed their compound in Waco. Ten years on, the Davidians have regrouped, rebuilt their church and, as Alex Hannaford reports, are still in the thrall of their dead leader

(snip)

Of the survivors, some have moved on, some are still in prison (indicted on charges of conspiracy to murder and murder), and some, including Koresh's mother, Bonnie Haldeman, remain in Waco, committed to the Davidian leader's ideology.

Although those left at Mount Carmel insist they are not evangelising, Ron Goins has only been around for five years and is already a convert. Describing himself as a "volunteer" he says he was traumatised by what happened. "I believe David was a messenger from God," he says. "We're all coming back. That's the promise. I believe in the resurrection. I believe I'm here for a reason. I'm not attracted by a cult."

On the site of the original compound stands a large white wooden church, built this year by various well-wishers, including Goins. Opposite the church are 7ft-tall cyprus trees, with a plaque at the bottom of each commemorating a Davidian member who lost their life. One reads: "David Koresh, 33."

The Davidians who still attend church at Mount Carmel every Saturday believe Koresh is coming back in the not too distant future. To them, he wasn't just a prophet - he was Christ.

more…
http://www.guardian.co.uk/usa/story/0,12271,1072291,00.html

[Valarauko]

1. These people are a bit crazy

but perfectly harmless. Not any more dangerous, probably, than any other highly religious men. :-)