A cult in which the “celibate” leader performs sexual acts with a follower as a sacred ritual
The Little Pebble Dohsyuku-kai, also known as the Amakusa and All Martyrs of Japan Community, is a controversial religious sect based in the village of Shimitsukoya, northern Japan, under the leadership of Father Jean-Marie Thornbush Little John, originally Hiroshi Sugiura. This group, founded in 2005, draws inspiration from Roman Catholicism but diverges significantly in its practices and beliefs. It is known for incorporating unique rituals such as “correct sex,” a non-penetrative sexual act performed publicly in front of an altar, claimed to demonstrate the innocence of William “The Little Pebble” Kamm, the sect’s ideological founder, who faced criminal convictions.
Jean-Marie, after theological disagreements and excommunication from Kamm’s Order of Saint Charbel in Australia, returned to Japan and infused his new community with elements from his experiences and spiritual journey. His teachings emphasize radical honesty and self-acceptance of one’s flawed nature, which he interprets as being closer to God’s truth. He also claims a controversial spiritual connection with the Virgin Mary, which he believes was misunderstood by traditional Catholic institutions.
The group, relatively small with branches in Akita Prefecture and Nagoya City, practices several controversial rites including the aforementioned sex rituals and conducts gay marriages, sharply contrasting with mainstream Catholic doctrine. The sect’s open acceptance and ceremonial marriage of gay couples stand as a direct challenge to the prevailing views of many religious institutions around the world.
The group’s practices, particularly the sexual acts performed as part of their religious ceremonies, have drawn attention and criticism. One practice that has garnered significant media attention is their sacred ritual in which Jean-Marie spreads yogurt on a follower’s genitals and licks it off or performs other sexual acts with them. Despite the backlash for their unusual practices, members remain devoted to the commune’s beliefs, including Clara-Josefa-Menendez Yumi Abe, who has been involved in these sexual rituals and claims a prolonged miraculous pregnancy that has lasted for at least three years. They describe their life in the commune as laid-back and self-paced, focusing on personal rehabilitation and spiritual practice without the pressures of conventional societal roles.
Overall, the Little Pebble Dohsyuku-kai represents a unique example of religious syncretism and the formation of new religious movements that diverge significantly from their roots, raising complex questions about faith, orthodoxy, and the interpretation of religious doctrines in modern contexts.
image via Tori
