Russian Doomsday Cult

I was impressed with myself when recently I was offered the opportunity to join a local religious cult. Yes, I have arrived.

I have long been fascinated by the belief systems of modern cults. I admire their tenacity and commitment to belief. Labeling a movement as a "cult" and all the implicit negative connotations that accompany the term is risky, since it is such a subjective label. And besides, all the characteristics of a "cult" are evidenced in early Christianity: Extremist (at least in perception), living in unconventional manner under the guidance of a charismatic leader, esoteric, apocalyptic focus...

With all the cults that have popped up in recent years (Koresh, Heaven's Gates, Jones), I think America assumes we own the market on all things cult-ish. Not so. Enjoy the pictures of the Russian doomsday cult that, until recently, has been holed up in a cave awaiting the end of the world, which they believe is coming in May. The group believes, among other things, that barcodes are evil--a sign of the beast, refuse to consume processed food, and believe that credit cards are from Satan. The group, a splinter sect of the Russian, are absolutely devoted to God, and left the bunker only after melting snow caused collapse.

Cult members leaving bunker with emergency workers.


Pyoder Kuznetsov, leader of the sect.


Cult members.


Inside the cave where members lived for six months.


Entrance to the cave.


Home where cult members now reside.


Crosses outside the cults home.