A new religious movement known for its eclectic mix of spiritual teachings, controversial leadership, and luxurious lifestyle.
Founded in 1970 by Robert Earl Burton, the Fellowship of Friends has been a subject of fascination, devotion, and criticism for over five decades. This spiritual organization, rooted in the “Fourth Way” teachings of George Gurdjieff and P.D. Ouspensky, blends elements from various traditions, including Christianity, Buddhism, and ancient Egyptian mythology.
Burton’s journey began in 1967 when he claims to have experienced a spiritual awakening. A former elementary school teacher, he established the Fellowship as a non-profit religious corporation in 1971, positioning himself as a spiritual guide who had attained higher consciousness. His charismatic personality and promises of enlightenment attracted followers from around the globe.
The heart of the Fellowship lies in its 1,300-acre headquarters known as “Apollo,” located in Oregon House, California. This expansive complex serves as both the spiritual and administrative nucleus of the organization. Apollo boasts vineyards, an award-winning winery (operational from 1982 to 2015), elaborate gardens, and extensive art collections. Members have constructed buildings reminiscent of classical architecture, reflecting Burton’s fascination with ancient civilizations.
Central to the Fellowship’s philosophy is the concept of “conscious evolution” and the belief that most individuals exist in a state of “waking sleep.” Members are encouraged to practice “self-remembering,” a technique aimed at maintaining heightened awareness and presence in daily life. Burton’s teachings emphasize developing higher centers of consciousness and cultivating virtues through aesthetic appreciation, refined manners, and disciplined living.
The organization places significant emphasis on fine arts, classical music, and literature. Regular concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions are held at Apollo, with Burton encouraging members to immerse themselves in high culture as part of their spiritual development. This focus on aesthetics and refinement has been a defining characteristic of the Fellowship’s approach to spiritual growth.
One of the more controversial aspects of Burton’s teachings is his claim to communicate with a pantheon of 44 “conscious beings,” including historical figures like Dante Alighieri, Leonardo da Vinci, and William Shakespeare. He asserts that these entities provide guidance and predictions about apocalyptic events, leading to several unfulfilled prophecies about global catastrophes.
Membership in the Fellowship comes with expectations of participation in community activities, financial contributions, and adherence to Burton’s spiritual teachings and practices. The organization has established centers in various countries, with an estimated global membership ranging from several hundred to over a thousand individuals.
Despite its focus on spiritual growth and cultural enrichment, the Fellowship of Friends has been embroiled in numerous controversies throughout its history. Allegations of sexual misconduct, financial exploitation, and psychological manipulation have been leveled against Burton and the organization.
Legal challenges have plagued the Fellowship, with lawsuits in 1984 and 1996 alleging that Burton used his position to sexually prey upon young male members. These cases were settled out of court but led to significant membership departures. A more recent lawsuit filed in 2018 brought even more severe allegations to light, claiming that Burton and other Fellowship officers knowingly enabled and covered up the abuse and trafficking of young, vulnerable male members.
The 2018 lawsuit described disturbing sex rituals known as “Lovefests,” wherein Burton allegedly attempted to engage in sexual activities with numerous men within short periods. One plaintiff claimed Burton sexually assaulted him hundreds of times over several years. The lawsuit also alleged that Burton exerted control over various aspects of members’ lives, from dictating marital choices to demanding abortions and forbidding same-sex relationships, while Burton himself targeted men who were not attracted to other men.
Financial practices within the Fellowship have also come under scrutiny. Members are expected to tithe a significant portion of their income to the organization, with additional donations frequently solicited. The group’s lavish expenditures on art, antiques, and property improvements have raised questions about the use of these funds and the overall financial management of the organization.
The Fellowship’s relationship with the local community in Oregon House has been complex. While the organization has contributed to the local economy through its winery and by attracting visitors, there have also been tensions with neighbors uncomfortable with the group’s presence and activities.
Throughout its history, the Fellowship of Friends has faced media scrutiny, with numerous articles and documentaries examining its practices and allegations against Burton. In the 1990s, investigations by the California Department of Justice and local law enforcement brought attention to the group’s practices and Burton’s leadership. Although no criminal charges were filed, these investigations highlighted the opaque nature of the group’s operations and finances.
Despite these controversies, the Fellowship of Friends continues to operate, adapting to changing times by establishing an online presence and offering virtual meetings and events, particularly in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The organization’s teachings and practices have evolved over time, with Burton introducing new concepts and interpretations, such as the idea of the “44 conscious beings” guiding humanity’s spiritual development.
The Fellowship’s emphasis on apocalyptic predictions has been a source of both fascination and disillusionment for members. Burton’s failed prophecies about global catastrophes and the end of civilization have led some followers to question his claims of divine communication, while others remain steadfast in their belief.
The impact of the Fellowship extends beyond its immediate membership. The Apollo compound, with its architectural beauty and cultural offerings, has become a point of interest for visitors and researchers studying new religious movements. The group’s former winery gained recognition in the wine industry, further intertwining the organization with the local economy.
Critics and watchdog organizations often label the Fellowship of Friends as a cult, citing its hierarchical structure, the devotion demanded of members, and the alleged abuses of power. Former members have described experiences of isolation from family and friends outside the group, financial strain due to required contributions, and psychological distress from adhering to Burton’s teachings and lifestyle demands.
The future of the Fellowship remains uncertain as it faces ongoing challenges related to its leadership, financial sustainability, and public reputation. The aging of its founder, Robert Earl Burton, raises questions about succession and the organization’s direction in the coming years.
As with many controversial religious groups, opinions on the Fellowship of Friends remain divided. While some defend it as a legitimate spiritual organization that has positively impacted their lives, others view it as a harmful entity that exploits its members. The group continues to attract individuals seeking spiritual growth and community, even as it grapples with its controversial past and present.
The Fellowship of Friends stands as a complex and polarizing entity in the landscape of new religious movements, embodying both the allure of esoteric teachings and the potential dangers of charismatic leadership. Its story serves as a case study in the dynamics of spiritual communities, the power of belief, and the challenges of maintaining ethical practices within insular religious groups.
As the Fellowship moves forward, it faces the task of addressing its controversial aspects while maintaining its core spiritual mission. The organization’s journey continues to captivate and provoke discussion among scholars, former members, and the public alike, highlighting the ongoing fascination with alternative spiritual paths and the complexities inherent in such movements.
The story of the Fellowship of Friends serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between spiritual seeking and critical thinking, the power dynamics within religious organizations, and the importance of transparency and accountability in spiritual communities. As society continues to grapple with questions of faith, personal growth, and communal responsibility, the Fellowship’s history offers valuable insights into the human quest for meaning and the potential pitfalls along the way.
image via Los Angeles Times
