2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #1 discussion

How could anyone becoming part of a "religious " community rationalize those "initiation" events? How did that scene impact you? What did it tell you about the participants?

The scene with the snake scared me to death. I wouldn't have survived that even if the snake didn't squeeze me. I would have died of fright.

The scene told me that those people were so enamored with Father Everett that he could do anything and they'd justify it.

What was equally frightening was the lack of response from the followers. I knew then that they would follow Everett down any path of his choosing.

The attacks on those women were awful. How these young boys could justify their participation was beyond comprehension. I think the author wanted us to understand the psychology of followers of these type organizations. You cannot expect rational reactions in these situations, no matter how irrational the behavior. Justin was the only one with empathy and we know he was looking for a way out.