This is the beginning of a discussion between Kaunteya and Iksvaku prabhus about one danger of the G12-system as practiced and advertised by Castellano: eventually the founder of the first (mother-) cell group will emerge as the patriarch of all following (daughter-) cells. Several influential (Christian) cell group preachers criticize Castellano for the increasing subordination he demands from cell groups that want to belong to his church.

Danger of a "Global Apostle"?

kaunteya:

One thing I also find interesting (and troubling) is this (indirect) concept of (in the words of Ralph Neighbour): "building a multilevel marketing structure that peaks in the authority of a special Global Apostle with his hand-picked assistants."

iksvaku:

There are several pages pretty much in the same line. Well written, incisive and in one sense quite worrying... mostly because I think, we (Iskcon) have committed similar mistakes -sometimes, in some places-. It is useful to observe how the 'big ones' (religious movements) fall into some managerial traps that maybe a distortion of their original principles. This aspect (of analysis) is quite useful -particularly- in the embryonic process of developing CP.

kaunteya:I fully agree, thank you for saying that.

kaunteya:

Yes, this is a question worth discussing: in the G 12 approach the one who starts the first group would automatically be and remain the patriarch, the "boss" for the whole extended congregation?

iksvaku:

In all honesty, as I have expressed to some fellow devotees, the 'only' main concern that I have with our system -represented in the BV Manual- is the hierarchical part. The 'one man on top of the pyramid' has always scared me... thinking... what if HE falls.. or drifts away... towards..let's say ... another 'spiritual' group...?

iksvaku:

But is this the 'right' system? Although there are references from BVinoda Thakura.... didn't SP (or for that matter, BSiddhanta) recommended a 'Body' of 'people on top'?....

kaunteya:As far as I remember (I have to find the reference in Godruma Kalpatavi) also Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura talks about a form of Governing Body.

kaunteya:I guess there should be two focuses on this report: one is the analysis (historical, sociological, theological) of the G-12, the other one could be a more itemized discussion on each peculiar aspect or principle, seeing how it could affect positively or negatively (or be potentially dangerous) our congregational development.

Your servant, Kaunteya Das