RECOVER FROM COERCIVE CONTROL
Disclaimer:
Renée uses 12 criteria with ratings of 0-3 to assess groups and provide an overall ranking out of 10 that reflects levels of coercive control. These assessments are based upon media reports, personal testimonies, and other research. The findings reflect her personal opinions which may differ to others. She is mindful that groups can change over time, for the better or worst, and that the experiences of individuals may vary within any group. Renée is open to respectful discussions and encourages diverse perspectives to foster a better understanding of matters raised.
Christian / Catholic
Church of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer
Also known as Transalpine Redemptorists or The Sons”
Founded by Father Michael Mary Sim
1988 -
Established in Papa Stronsay, Scotland. Also have presence in Australia, in particular Sydney and Melbourne; Christchurch, New Zealand; Auckland, New Zealand; and Montana, United States.
Estimated followers: 25+ (small but influential)
Summary of Beliefs
The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Transalpine Redemptorists, are a traditionalist Catholic religious congregation founded in the late 1980s with roots in the Redemptorist tradition. Originally aligned with the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), the group established itself on Papa Stronsay, a remote island in the Orkney Islands of Scotland, where they live a monastic life centred around the Tridentine (Latin) Mass, the Divine Office, and strict observance of Catholic devotional practices. Their spirituality is heavily influenced by the writings of St. Alphonsus Liguori and early Redemptorist traditions, with an emphasis on missionary zeal, penance, and prayer for the souls in purgatory.
In 2008, the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer reconciled with the Vatican and were granted canonical recognition by the Holy See, officially bringing them into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. They have since expanded modestly, with small communities in New Zealand and the United States, and spiritual support networks in Australia and other countries through their publications and confraternities. Despite their relatively small size—approximately 25 members as of 2019—the group maintains a global reach through their publishing efforts, online presence, and lay associations, appealing particularly to Catholics drawn to traditional liturgy and pre-Vatican II expressions of the faith.
Analysis Using Renée's Cult Ranking
The Congregation of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer (F.SS.R.), commonly known as the Transalpine Redemptorists or simply “The Sons,” is a traditionalist Catholic religious institute founded in 1988 by Father Michael Mary Sim. Initially affiliated with the Society of Saint Pius X, the group established its primary monastery, Golgotha Monastery, on Papa Stronsay in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, in 1999. The community emphasizes a monastic lifestyle inspired by St. Alphonsus Liguori, celebrating the Traditional Latin Mass and adhering to a strict interpretation of Catholic teachings.
In 2007, the Sons expanded to New Zealand, establishing a presence in the Diocese of Christchurch. However, in 2024, following allegations of unauthorized exorcisms and spiritual abuse, the Vatican and the Bishop of Christchurch removed the priests’ faculties and requested the community to leave the diocese.
1. Authoritative Leadership
Score: 3
The community is led by figures such as Fathers Michael Mary and Anthony Mary, who hold significant authority over members’ spiritual and daily lives. Reports suggest a hierarchical structure with limited avenues for questioning leadership decisions.
2. Control Over Information
Score: 2
Members are encouraged to focus on traditional Catholic teachings and may have limited exposure to external perspectives, reinforcing the group’s doctrinal positions.
3. Deception
Score: 1
While the group presents itself as adhering strictly to Catholic tradition, allegations of unauthorized practices like exorcisms suggest discrepancies between public representation and internal activities.
4. Exclusive Knowledge
Score: 2
The Sons emphasize their commitment to traditional Catholicism, implying a unique understanding of true doctrine compared to mainstream Catholic practices.
5. Exploitation
Score: 2
Former members have reported instances of spiritual manipulation and pressure to conform to strict community norms, indicating potential exploitation.
6. Fear, Guilt, & Intimidation
Score: 2
Accounts from ex-members describe feelings of guilt and fear associated with questioning authority or considering departure from the community.
7. Isolation
Score: 2
The community’s monastic lifestyle on remote islands and rural areas fosters physical and social isolation from broader society.
8. Micro-Management of Daily Tasks
Score: 2
Daily life is structured around communal activities, prayers, and work, leaving little room for personal autonomy.
9. Monitoring Thoughts & Behaviours
Score: 2
Members are expected to adhere strictly to community norms, with deviations potentially leading to correction or discipline.
10. Punishment & Discipline
Score: 2
The group employs disciplinary measures for non-conformity, which may include spiritual admonishment or exclusion from communal activities.
11. Thought Reform
Score: 2
The community’s practices aim to align members’ beliefs and behaviors with its strict interpretation of Catholicism, potentially leading to thought reform.
12. Us vs. Them Mentality
Score: 2
The Sons’ emphasis on traditional practices may foster an “us versus them” perspective, viewing mainstream Catholicism and secular society as deviating from true faith.
Total Score: 24/36 Significant Harmful Cult
According to Renée’s cult ranking system, the Church of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer scores 24 out of 36, placing it at Level 7: Significant Harmful Cult. This classification suggests significant control over members’ lives, including authoritative leadership, information control, and behavioural monitoring.
Further Reading
IS IT A CULT?: Response from
Church of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer
No known response.