A controversial religious group with apocalyptic beliefs and a tumultuous history.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Independent
Founder: Rocco Leo
Founded: 2000
Location: Australia
Other Names: Agape Ministries International
Agape Ministries, also known as Agape Ministries of God, was a doomsday cult based primarily in Oakden, South Australia. Founded by Rocco Leo, the group gained notoriety for its controversial and illegal activities, which ultimately led to law enforcement intervention and the cult’s dissolution.
Rocco Leo, who also went by “Brother Rock,” claimed to have divine powers, which he said were bestowed upon him after a miraculous revival from death at the age of four. He told followers that he and other cult elders were immortal and had unique spiritual insights, which included interactions with a man purported to be 189 years old. Leo’s teachings included apocalyptic beliefs, particularly the idea that the world would end with the widespread implantation of microchips in humans. He allegedly told his followers that their salvation lay in relocating to a South Pacific island, which he claimed to own, to escape impending global catastrophe.
The group has been criticized for reported financial exploitation. Members were required to contribute 10% of their income to the cult, supposedly in exchange for spiritual enlightenment. The group amassed considerable funds, with members encouraged to sell their properties and donate the proceeds to the cult. These funds were intended for the purchase of the island where Leo planned to establish a new community.
In 2010, police raided several properties associated with Agape Ministries following allegations of illegal activities, including the stockpiling of weapons and ammunition. The raids uncovered illegal firearms, batons, and a large quantity of ammunition hidden in various locations, including inside bed frames and in shipping containers. Financial irregularities were also a significant issue, with Leo and his associates accused of owing millions in unpaid taxes. The Australian Taxation Office pursued them for these debts, which highlighted the extent of the financial manipulation at play within the cult. The legal troubles also extended to personal claims against Leo, including allegations of physical assault and promises of healing that were never fulfilled. Another major issue was the group’s apocalyptic beliefs, which led to accusations of fearmongering and psychological manipulation. Families of members expressed concern that their loved ones were being unduly influenced and isolated from the rest of society.
As investigations continued, the real estate and other assets linked to Agape Ministries were also scrutinized, revealing a complex web of financial and real property dealings intended to support the cult’s activities and its leaders’ lifestyles. This scrutiny helped dismantle the group’s operations and led to legal actions against its leaders, including Rocco Leo.
image via The Australian
