A controversial religious movement founded in Réunion, known for its leader’s criminal activities and unconventional beliefs.
The Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary was a controversial religious sect that emerged on Réunion Island, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, in the early 2000s. Founded by Juliano Verbard, born in 1974, this group blended elements of Catholic Marian devotion with apocalyptic beliefs and controversial practices that ultimately led to its downfall and the imprisonment of its leader. Verbard, who styled himself as “Little Lily of Love” (“Petit Lys d’Amour”), claimed to receive monthly visions from the Virgin Mary, which formed the foundation of the sect’s ideology. The group’s name referenced Catholic devotions to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and Our Lady of Sorrows, but its beliefs and practices deviated significantly from mainstream Catholicism. Verbard portrayed himself as a divine messenger with a special connection to the Virgin Mary, often making apocalyptic predictions about impending global catastrophes and the end times.
The sect gained notoriety due to its isolationist tendencies, encouraging members to separate themselves from broader society, including their families. Verbard maintained a strict hierarchical structure within the group, exerting tight control over members’ daily lives. Followers were required to pay 20 euros to attend collective prayers, and Verbard’s claims significantly influenced the group’s beliefs and practices, distinguishing it from mainstream Catholicism. The group’s origins were inspired by other religious movements, including the Australian religious group Order of Saint Charbel, founded by William Kamm, known as “Little Pebble,” and a French community named Amour et Miséricorde, where Verbard spent time in 2003.
The group’s activities soon drew the attention of authorities and the public for all the wrong reasons. Verbard faced accusations and was later convicted of child sexual abuse. On July 9, 2007, the group kidnapped a 12-year-old boy named Alexandre, whom Verbard believed to be his spiritual successor. Alexandre was held for several days before being rescued by the police. This incident brought to light other serious accusations against Verbard, including child abuse and fraud. In February 2008, Verbard was sentenced to 15 years in prison for the rape of two children, aged 8 and 13. Despite his imprisonment, he managed a dramatic escape by helicopter in April 2009 with the assistance of sect members, although he was recaptured shortly thereafter and given an additional sentence for the escape.
French authorities, responsible for the governance of Réunion Island, took decisive action against the sect. Beyond the legal prosecution of Verbard and other leaders on charges related to child abuse and kidnapping, the group was placed under surveillance by French anti-cult organizations. Efforts were also made to educate the public about the dangers posed by this and similar groups, aiming to prevent further exploitation of vulnerable individuals. French anti-cult organizations such as CCMM and ADFI condemned the group’s practices and the psychological hold Verbard had over his followers.
The exposure of the group’s illegal activities and the continued imprisonment of its leader led to the rapid decline and eventual dissolution of the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary sect. Many former members, disillusioned and often traumatized by their experiences, sought help in reintegrating into mainstream society. The group’s activities have been a point of concern for the local authorities on Réunion, a region where religious syncretism and superstitious practices are not uncommon. The island has seen various criminal cases linked to religious extremism and cult-like behavior over the years, underscoring the complex religious landscape in which the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary emerged.
The legacy of this sect extends beyond its brief existence on Réunion Island. The case has been frequently cited in discussions about cult activities in French territories and the vulnerability of individuals to charismatic but exploitative religious leaders. It has also contributed to ongoing debates about the delicate balance between religious freedom and the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens from harmful organizations. The movement represents a localized drift from traditional Catholic faith, shaped by Verbard’s unique interpretations and actions.
image via Catholic Tradition
