Children of God

In 1969, when the cult currently known as "The Family" had grown to about 100 members, they were dubbed "The Children of God" (or COG) by the news media. Until then they had been known as Teens for Christ, but the name stuck and was soon adopted as their official title. By 1972, there were 130 COG colonies scattered throughout the world.

In an attempt to deflect public concern over some of his more controversial policies, founder and leader David Berg decided in early 1978 that some deception was in order. In his letter The "RNR"! (ML 650:28), he declared:

Let's also try to get away from being called the "Children of God" where that name is hated, and simply call ourselves the new Family of Love!

Berg's orders were quickly implemented, and The Family entered a new phase.

See also Reorganisation Nationalisation Revolution (RNR)

Related Links

• Why the COG changed their name to the Family of Love - Analysis of The Children Of God's name change.
• Children of God Pseudonyms - Large list of pseudonyms, fronts and umbrella names used by The Family.