A shadowy figure exploiting faith and trust for control and abuse.
The Parsee Ministry Team, led by Feroze Golwalla, emerged as a controversial group with deeply troubling allegations surrounding its activities and leadership. Feroze Golwalla, a Pakistani national, positioned himself as a Christian missionary targeting the Parsee Zoroastrians of India and Iran. His activities primarily took place in the United States, where he became associated with Wheaton College in Illinois, a well-known evangelical institution.
Background and Activities
Golwalla’s ministry, also referred to as Baruch Ha Shem International, claimed to focus on evangelical outreach to Parsee Zoroastrians. However, the reality of his activities soon came under intense scrutiny. Allegations surfaced regarding Golwalla’s approach to recruitment and control over his followers, with accusations of physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. Disturbing reports detailed how members were subjected to severe beatings, forced self-harm, and were kept in a state of isolation from their families and external influences. The group’s practices were described by former members and observers as cult-like, focusing on Golwalla’s absolute authority and the infliction of punishments to maintain discipline and loyalty.
Legal and Social Repercussions
The activities of the Parsee Ministry Team and Golwalla attracted legal attention, with Golwalla becoming wanted by Maryland state police on charges of assault. The severity of the abuse allegations led to significant concern among the families of those involved and the wider community. Efforts to intervene and extricate members from Golwalla’s influence were undertaken, highlighting the profound impact on the victims and the challenges in addressing such deeply entrenched cult dynamics.
Institutional Response
Wheaton College, where Golwalla recruited some of his followers, faced criticism for its response to the allegations. The college ultimately declared Golwalla unwelcome on its campus, reflecting the growing awareness and acknowledgment of the dangers associated with his ministry. The case underscores the difficulties institutions face in identifying and responding to cult-like activities, especially when they occur within the context of religious outreach and missionary work.
