Social:Quiverfull

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Short description: Pro-natalist Christian movement

Quiverfull is a Christian theological position that sees large families as a blessing from God.[1][2][3] It encourages procreation and abstaining from all forms of birth control and natural family planning in the pursuit of expanding the family.[4] The position takes its name from Psalm 127:3–5, where children are likened to a gift and described as valuable, comparable to arrows in the hands of a warrior.[5]

Labeling

According to Juliana Denson, an academic of Claremont Graduate University, she contends that while Quiverfull is often labeled as a "movement," and its debate about whether it should be characterized as such. Additionally, Denson uses the term "Quiverfull-minded" to describe those who identify with the Quiverfull movement, a phrase she borrowed from the Jeub family, appearing on TLC's special "Kids by the Dozen" as they introduced this term.[6]

Megan Taylor, an academic of Texas Christian University proposed "Quiverfull" to be renamed "Biblical Family Reformation", according to the primary material from what she collected and read.[7]

Historical background

Human history

Fertility control has been a concern throughout human history, with various societies employing methods such as infanticide and abortion to manage population growth. Primitive women, recognizing the advantages of conception control, attempted to use contraception where possible. In the 4th century B.C., philosophers like Plato and Aristotle advocated for smaller families, reflecting early considerations of family planning. Greek medical literature from that time reported unconventional contraceptive methods, including a hollow tube inserted through the cervix into the uterus and contraceptive potions. This indicates an early understanding of fertility control. In the early modern period, the condom emerged primarily for disease prevention, such as protecting against bilharzia in Egypt and syphilis in Europe. The 19th and 20th centuries saw the advent of various contraceptives and spermicides, including the cervical cap, diaphragm, and later, the intrauterine device.[8]

Christian stances

Early figures in the Christian church opposed contraception based on biblical principles and natural law, citing passages like Genesis 38:9–10 and Deuteronomy 23:1. They believed sexual intercourse's inherent purpose was procreation, viewing intentional interference as contrary to the natural order.[9] The Roman Catholic Church staunchly prohibits contraception[10], while the Lutheran Church exhibits varying stances.[11][12] The Anglican Church allows birth control spending on the parent's circumstances.[13] Baptist churches show a vast aray of stances[8], and the United Methodist Church emphasizes couples' right to manage conception responsibly.[8] The Reformed Church generally permits contraception within marriage, with variations among denominations.[8] The Assemblies of God consider contraception matters of personal conscience.[14] Overall, Christian perspectives on contraception range from strict prohibitions to more flexible and individualized approaches.[8]

Origins and doctrine development

Various influences

According to Kathryn Joyce, a journalist and critic of Quiverfull theology, characterizes the lifestyle to have been broadly influenced by various practices, including those observed among the Amish[15], pre–Vatican II Catholicism, Agrarianism, Reformed tradition[16] and the ultra-Orthodox Jews (Haredi Judaism) in Israel.[17] These religious groups generally adhere to a literal interpretation of the Bible, maintain significantly large families, uphold strict gender roles, embrace a traditionalist outlook, and espouse a more conservative theological stance. However, it is crucial to recognize that variations in adherence may be influenced by factors such as culture, social dynamics, historical context, theological perspectives, and other contributing influences.

Christian fundamentalism

Denson labels the movement as neo-fundamentalist. Denson describes it as a movement within Christian fundamentalism. According to Denson, the idea of fundamentalism originated in the 1920s and is a subset of evangelicalism distinguished by its militant opposition to "modernist" theology and secular cultural trends, especially those associated with "secular humanism." Fundamentalists believe in a stark division between the forces of good and evil, with humanity serving as soldiers in either God's or Satan's army. They defend the "five fundamentals" of Christianity, which include belief in biblical inerrancy, a literal interpretation of Jesus' virgin birth, sacrificial death, physical resurrection, and second coming. [18]

In the late 1950s, fundamentalism split into stricter fundamentalism and "neo-evangelicalism." Neo-evangelicals softened certain aspects of fundamentalism, retaining basic biblicism and opposition to liberal theologies but discarding strict prohibitions and separatism. However, they soon split over the issue of biblical inerrancy.[18]

The emergence of large-scale political activism among moderate fundamentalists in the late 1970s, under leaders like Jerry Falwell, led to the formation of what George Marsden terms "neo-fundamentalism." This movement became politically active in response to events such as Supreme Court rulings against official prayer in public schools and the legalization of abortion. Neo-fundamentalists, unlike traditional fundamentalists who eschewed political involvement, embraced political activism to combat what they perceived as the forces of evil in the secular world. Quiverful practitioners emphasize the biblical command to "be fruitful and multiply" and reject birth control, believing that having more children contributes to world evangelism and combats the forces of evil by producing more soldiers for God's army.[18]

Institute in Basic Life Principles

As noted by Dr. Bethany E. Sweeney, of UC Santa Cruz, the origins of the Quiverfull movement can be traced back to the establishment of the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP) by Bill Gothard in 1961. Sweeney posits that the IBLP aimed to teach young people "true" godly principles and experienced significant growth in 1964 when Bill Gothard was invited by Wheaton College to design and teach a course called "Basic Youth Conflicts." This course, later known as Basic Youth Conflicts, expanded to new locations, attracting thousands of youth and adults in attendance.[19]

Sweeney states that by the 1970s and 1980s, Bill Gothard's seminars, particularly the "Basic Seminar" and "Advanced Seminar," were influencing families like the Duggars, spreading the values associated with the Quiverfull movement. Although the seminar expansion process lacks detailed documentation, Sweeney believes it is evident that these events played a pivotal role in shaping the beliefs of many Quiverfull adherents, including the Duggars and the Bates.[19]

Sweeney says that the widespread reach of Gothard's organization contributed to the emergence of new institutions promoting Quiverfull principles and strengthening churches with similar priorities. Notably, Sweeney posits that Vision Forum Ministries, while having ties to Calvinist theology through Theologian R.J. Rushdoony, who adopted a Christian lifestyle and self-help approach more aligned with Gothard's teachings. While some adherents may have been introduced to Quiverfull principles through new organizations or Calvinist theology, Sweeney believes many embraced these principles through personal interactions with other adherents, local churches, or Christian ministries.[19]

Doctrine & beliefs

Quiverfull writers base their doctrine on passages found in the Bible, interpreting it in their own ways. This interpretation often involves a literal approach to understanding the words of the Bible, with adherents sometimes adding commentary to justify their positions on topics such as birth control, women's reproduction, gender roles, and the concept of submission to God.

Beliefs founded in scripture

The Christian Quiverfull movement derives its name from Psalm 127:3–5, where many children are metaphorically referred to as the arrows in a full quiver.

Numerous authors emphasize the importance of recognizing the initial command given to humanity, found in Genesis 1:27-28, urging Christians to "Be fruitful and multiply."[20][21][22] Charles D. Provan points out that this command is reiterated multiple times in the Bible, including passages like Genesis 9:1 and 35:11.[23]

Furthermore, the movement draws its name from this foundational command and often refers to Solomon's Psalm, specifically Psalm 127:3-5, to underscore the belief that children are considered a divine blessing.[24][25][23]

Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." This passage underscores the importance of relying on God's guidance and seeking His will in all aspects of life, including the formation of families.[26]

Jeremiah 29:11: "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" Surrendering control over family planning is viewed as an act of obedience, trusting in God's plans for their lives and embracing the hope and future He promises.[27]

The commitment to traditional gender roles and the centrality of family life is affirmed in Titus 2:3-5, which encourages women to be reverent, loving toward their husbands and children, self-controlled, pure, and busy at home.[28]

Spiritual warfare

Rick and Jan Hess see Christians as behind enemy lines in a hostile environment, drawing inspiration from 1 Peter 2:11. This passage encourages moral living in a society with different values. Hess likens children to "arrows," emphasizing their role in spiritual warfare. Referring to Ephesians 6:12, they stress that the warfare is spiritual, not physical. The Hess' discuss a hypothetical scenario where Christian childbearing couples, if they produce a significant amount of children, could influence society and win the spiritual battle.[29]

Lifestyle and practices

Family structures

The community places a significant emphasis on family identity, considering it the second-most crucial self-identifier after being Christian. This commitment involves aligning personal desires with the family vision and rejecting the perceived selfishness of modern individualism. While recognizing individual uniqueness, there are defined gender boundaries for using one's talents within the community. This approach mirrors intentional communities that prioritize a shared group identity over personal individuality. Individuals are encouraged to pursue personal ventures within the family context, and children are directed toward maintaining "multigenerational faithfulness" and realizing their father's vision for the family[30]

Husbands

Husbands and fathers are in-charge of actively upholding a patriarchal family framework. Acknowledged as the spiritual guides within their households, they symbolize God's presence. Their duties extend across economic provision, providing spiritual direction through family worship, and ensuring physical protection by managing external influences. Significantly, the community underscores the role of fathers as protectors, emphasizing both spiritual and physical aspects, aligning with their leadership role within the family structure.[30]

Wives

Wives and mothers align with the principles delineated in Proverbs 31 and Titus 2, serving as representatives of their husbands in the household. Their duties encompass instructing, fostering, and establishing a nurturing environment for their families. Integral to their roles are the observance of modesty, the embodiment of femininity, and a commitment to submitting to their husbands. Additionally, they play an active role in the education of their children and engage in community outreach efforts.[30]

Sons

Sons is centered around two objectives: embracing Christianity and readying themselves to embody the ideals of exemplary husbands and fathers. This community deliberately distances itself from the notion of contemporary adolescence, urging sons to assume roles as providers, spiritual guides, and protectors. The process of nurturing these values encompasses family-integrated worship, home education, and mentorship, all designed to instill a steadfast commitment to these principles.[30]

Daughters

Daughters center their efforts on embracing Christianity and embodying the principles outlined in Proverbs 31 and Titus 2. Their upbringing involves education in homemaking, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, with a significant emphasis on upholding values such as chastity, modesty, and femininity. Unmarried daughters are encouraged to participate in ministry and pursue theological studies, underscoring the community's commitment to prioritizing scripture as a fundamental focus for both genders.[30]

Siblings

Siblings are encouraged to cultivate strong bonds, resolving conflicts amicably and nurturing relationships as a preparation for future interactions with individuals of the opposite gender. Additionally, grandparents are pivotal figures, providing mentorship, fostering multigenerational faithfulness, and earning respect within the community for their valuable wisdom and life experiences.[30]

Grandparents

Grandparents should reject he notion of leisure in their later years. Pastor Scott Brown emphasizes in his sermon the indispensable role of grandparents in mentoring their grandchildren, promoting multigenerational faithfulness. The community encourages younger generations to respect and be grateful for this mentoring. Family legends of past generations' bravery and faithfulness are shared to inspire the next generation, promoting the embodiment of positive traits and learning from mistakes. Grandparents may even live with their children's families, and sons are expected to care for widowed mothers, incorporating them into their households with their own families.[30]

Adoption

According to Suzanne Titkemeyer, a journalist and critic, the Quiverfull movement generally holds a positive view of adoption, as indicated by instances of Quiverfull families adopting children. Examples of such adoptions include Wanda Kinsinger, who identifies herself as a Quiverfull mother and adopted a child from Vietnam, as well as Nancy Campbell, associated with the influential Quiverfull magazine Above Rubies.[31]

In 2005, Above Rubies began promoting adoptions from Liberia, done through private Christian ministries. Campbell, whose magazine equated adoption to "missions under our very own roof," dedicated a week to visiting Liberian orphanages. Returning with numerous letters from the children, she emphasized the cost-effectiveness of adopting from Liberia, stating it was one of the most economical international adoption options. She conveyed the belief that welcoming a child into one's heart and home meant welcoming Jesus Himself.[32]

Bill Gothard, founder of the Institute in Basic Life Principles, he cautions against adoption stems from his belief in "generational sin," where ancestral sins impact descendants. He argues that descendants, through DNA, carry on the legacy of their ancestors, either fulfilling or polluting Quiverfull ideals.[33] Gothard acknowledged Moses and Esther as examples of biblical adoptions (Exodus 2:10 and Esther 2:7 respectively.) However, he asserts that adoption is a cultural rather than a biblical convention, emphasizing, "It is noteworthy that our contemporary understanding of adoption is absent from the Law that God provided to Israel."[34]

Some Quiverfull adherents disregard the teachings of Gothard, one family includes 19 Kids and Counting's the Duggar family. They embraced adoption when they added Tyler, a nephew, into their family. Lane Vasquez, a journalist for TheThings, characterizes the situation, suggesting that the guidelines may not be as stringent as they once were and there appears to be a shift in perspective aligning more with modern times.[35]

Titkemeyer shares the opinion that some Quiverfull adoptive parents may engage in adoption without adequate preparation, resulting in challenges and disruptions. Titkemeyer article critiques the limited awareness and understanding within the Quiverfull community regarding the complexities of adoption, pointing out that certain families may harbor unrealistic expectations based on their faith.[31]

Parenting methods

As noted by Sweeney, the Duggars adhered to a strict Christian conservative ideology, imparting to their homeschooled children not only rigid gender roles but also a steadfast belief in Creationism. Additionally, the Duggars instilled in their family the notion that mainstream society was undergoing a process of decline.[36]

Education choices

In Quiverfull families, homeschooling is a crucial element in nurturing what they consider as "godly seed." Mary Pride emphasizes the academic and spiritual benefits of homeschooling, which enables parents to oversee their children's spiritual development. Quiverfull parents often utilize Christian homeschool materials from organizations like the Advanced Training Institute and the Institute in Basic Life Principles.[37]

Gothard advocates for the idea that family size is under God's authority. Vision Forum, another prominent Christian homeschool organization, aligns with the Quiverfull ideology. It aims to promote a vision of victory for Christian families by providing resources such as books, films, and curriculum to shape families according to a biblical model.[37]

Stay-at-home mothering, referred to as "homeworking" by Mary Pride, is seen as the biblical lifestyle for Christian wives, rooted in passages like Titus 2:4-5. Quiverfull adherents believe that homeworking allows them to reclaim control over various aspects of life, including education, healthcare, and agriculture, as a form of obedience to God. By homeschooling, they can instill their own principles in their children, avoiding what they perceive as secular influences in public and even some Christian schools. According to Denson's limited survey, most Quiverfull women identified as homeschoolers, there were exceptions, with a few sending their children to public or Catholic schools.[37]

Gender roles

Mary Pride and Jan Hess advocate for the term "homeworking" as a lifestyle aligned with the biblical ideals for Christian wives, drawing inspiration from Titus 2:4-5. They structure their perspectives around the mandates outlined in these verses, emphasizing the importance of loving husbands and children, practicing self-control and purity, being industrious at home, showing kindness, and being submissive to husbands. The interpretation of "to be busy at home" involves actively engaging in various aspects of life within the home.[38]

According to Mina Elwell, a journalist for Grunge, unmarried girls within this movement are anticipated to adhere to their fathers' authority until a husband is found for them, typically at a very young age. Within Quiverfull families, all members are expected to adhere to a stringent set of rules characterized by strong gender distinctions. Wives and daughters are generally prohibited from cutting their hair, wearing pants, or pursuing employment. [39]

In an interview with Vyckie Garrison, a former member and anti-Quiverfull activist, it is highlighted that men and boys in the movement are also confined to predefined roles. While women are tasked with fulfilling every need of their husbands and families, men are kept in an infantilized state, lacking exposure to essential life skills necessary for independent survival without constant assistance from women and girls.[39]

Taylor analyzed Vision Forum's boy toys under the title "All-American Boy's Adventure" and noted that they included items like grappling hooks and military costumes. These toys were designed to promote characteristics such as religious devotion, patriotism, leadership, sexual purity, a call to "take dominion," and a love of adventure for future missionary work. Furthermore, children's books were employed to impart sexual mores, emphasizing the significance of sexual purity within the community.[40]

Community engagement

As stated by Taylor, families within the Quiverfull community foster connections with like-minded peers. These connections, often initiated at conferences, play a pivotal role in establishing friendship networks that serve as the groundwork for potential marriages, business partnerships, and collaborative ministries. The network connections lay the groundwork for a community united by shared interests and objectives. The emotional, spiritual, and ideological bonds that form the backbone of these networks find reinforcement through various online channels such as Facebook, video-sharing platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, and blogging. The online Quiverfull community functions as a support system for its members, who share a sense of separateness from larger segments of their local community.[41]

Fertility and contraception

Rick and Jan Hess's book, "A Full Quiver," appears to be an authoritative resource on topics such as conception, fertility, and birth control. Its influence is apparent through the citation of its theological content in numerous academic articles.[42] While guidelines exist, practitioners may deviate from such rules.

Contraception

Abstinence

The Hesses contend that 1 Corinthians 7:5 highlights temporary abstinence for spiritual purposes, rejecting its support for a pro-birth control position. They point to Leviticus 12:1-5, which prescribes distinct periods of abstinence after childbirth, as an indication of a natural method for spacing children. Additionally, Leviticus 15:19 is cited to extend the principle of abstaining during the monthly flow, aligning with health considerations endorsed by contemporary medical science.[43]

Intrauterine device

The Hesses argue that the intrauterine device or IUD, operates primarily as an abortifacient.[44]

Morning-after pill

The discussion switches to a critical examination of the morning after pill, detailing its three mechanisms of action: suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucous for contraceptive purposes. According to them, potentially causing an abortifacient effect by altering the uterine lining. Which violates the commandment "Thou shalt not kill."[44]

Condoms

Regarding Condoms, the Hesses says its awkward, not entirely dependable, prone to potential manufacturing defects, and may cause allergic reactions in both partners.[44]

Diaphragms

Regarding Diaphragms, the Hesses state the potential allergic reactions, urinary tract infections, pelvic pain, cramps, urinary retention, bladder symptoms, foul-smelling, messy, and often disrupts intercourse.[44]

Breast-feeding

Regarding breast-feeding or lactation, the Hesses consider it as a natural method designed by God.[45] The Hesses draw upon information from Sheila Kippley's book on lactation, where the first fertile period is indicated to be 12.4 months, employing total breastfeeding.[46] They conclude that natural mothering results in natural child spacing.[47]

Owen's higher morale purpose

Author Samuel Owen Jr.'s book "Letting God Plan Your Family", concedes that due to the fallen nature of the world, there might be situations where a couple needs to control conception for a "higher moral purpose" related to advancing God's Kingdom. This, however, is seen as an exception and should be approached with caution, as childbearing is viewed as a God-given and God-glorifying role for most husbands and wives, integral to their ministry.[48]

Infertility and miscarriage

The community holds a complex view on infertility and miscarriage, embracing two conflicting perspectives. While some consider barrenness as a potential divine curse or punishment, others believe that God may intend for a godly family to expand through adoption rather than biological birth. Miscarriage is also perceived differently, with some linking it to the curse of barrenness, while godly women who reject birth control and undergo multiple pregnancies may experience miscarriage during their childbearing years.[49]

Within the community, miscarriages are treated akin to the death of a newborn child. It's common for parents to express having a certain number of children on Earth and a corresponding number in heaven. This perspective, echoed in Quiverfull blogger profiles and expressed by figures like Doug Phillips, reflects the belief that all children, from conception onward, are full members of their families. Many in the community believe that, though salvation is not explicitly guaranteed in the Bible, these children are likely part of the predestined elect. They view miscarriage as part of God's plan to usher a soul into eternity, anticipating a reunion with these children in heaven after their own deaths.[49]

Reverse sterilization

Encouragement is given to consider undergoing a reversal operation if financially feasible. Those who have undergone sterilization are urged to seek redemption and trust God for a household filled with children (Psalm 113:9). The Bible recounts narratives of barren women, including Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elizabeth, whom God blessed with the gift of children.[50]

In 1997, Brad and Dawn Irons opened a fund up to finance reverse sterilization for Quiverfull couples. The organization was called "Blessed Arrows Sterilization Reversal Ministry". The fund was able to fiance numerous couples, according to testimony posted on the website. The website for the fund appeared in 2005 and shut down around 2015.[51][52]

Demographics

Quiverfull, a lifestyle embraced by various Christian denominations, exhibits limited diversity in terms of racial/ethnic representation. Primarily observed among Caucasians, the majority of Quiverfull families, including those featured in media and literature, appear to be of Caucasian descent.[53]

The movement is predominantly situated in the United States, with Great Britain, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand following. Originating in the U.S., Quiverfull finds more significant support in the South and rural or suburban areas.[53]

Despite assumptions that Quiverfull adherents are uneducated, a considerable number have attained high levels of education.[53]

Contrary to expectations, many Quiverfull families do not face extreme financial challenges, with reported household incomes ranging from $25,000 to $80,000. The surveyed Quiverfull women generally reside in rural or suburban areas, have a college education, and fall within the age range of 30 to 54.[53]

The movement, which began in the late 1980s, tends to include individuals under the age of 70. While an exact count of Quiverfull-minded Christians is unavailable, estimates suggest a presence in the thousands to low tens of thousands, supported by the numerous blogs and books dedicated to the lifestyle.[53]

Media and literature

The cover of the 1990 A Full Quiver: Family Planning and the Lordship of Christ by Rick and Jan Hess.

Publications referencing the Quiverfull movement began in the 1980s in the United States.[54]

Supporters interact with contemporary culture to advocate for their worldview. They strategically leverage modern technology to promote their movement, utilize mainstream media to enhance credibility by highlighting shared values, and adopt feminist rhetoric. This approach allows the movement to operate within and question established cultural norms. Such mediums includes books, news articles, online articles, blogs, and television shows, and film festivals.[54]

The movement came under scrutiny by various journalist and authors. Critics, like Kate Dixon and Kathryn Joyce, emphasize the movement's aggressive stance against feminism and its patriarchal ideologies.[54]

Mary Pride's first book, The Way Home: Beyond Feminism, Back to Reality (1985), promotes the Quiverfull movement.

Books, articles and magazines

Key literary works advocating for the Quiverfull movement include Mary Pride's "The Way Home: Beyond Feminism Back to Reality" (1985), Charles Provan's "The Bible and Birth Control" (1989), Rick and Jan Hess's "A Full Quiver: Family Planning and the Lordship of Jesus Christ" (1990), Nancy Campbell's "Be Fruitful and Multiply" (2003), Rachel Scott's "Birthing God's Mighty Warriors" (2004), and Craig Houghton's "Family Unplanning" (2006). Additionally, various online resources are available through the website "quiverfull.com".[55]

Such works criticizing the movement include Kathryn Joyce's "Quiverfull: Inside the Christian Patriarchy Movement" (2009), Hillary McFarland's "Quivering Daughters" (2010), Kate Dixon, "Multiply & Conquer: How to Have 17 Children and Still Believe" (2007), Russell Shorto's 2006 article title "Contra-Contraception" in New York Times Magazine, Laura Harrison and Sarah B. Rowley's "Babies by the Bundle: Gender, Backlash, and the Quiverfull Movement" (2011), Emily Hunter McGowin's "Quivering Families: The Quiverfull Movement and Evangelical Theology of the Family" (2018). Vyckie Garrison's deconstructing blog can be found at "patheos.com".

Criticism

Christians criticisms

From the beginning, Quiverfull ideas have occasionally stirred a divisive response among fellow Christians, some of whom are skeptical or hold differing views.[56][57] Sophia Bricker, writer for "christianity.com", accuses adherents for taking scripture verses out of context and imposing rules not explicitly commanded by God, resulting in a legalistic mindset, which fosters unbiblical perspectives.[58]

American Protestant theologian James B. Jordan suggests that although having children is considered a blessing, it's just one of many blessings that God provides. He emphasizes the idea that as a responsible Christian, making thoughtful and prayerful choices about how to prioritize and focus on various blessings is part of wise stewardship.[59]

American Reformed Baptist theologian John Piper, through "Desiring God Ministries," suggests that although certain things are gifts from the Lord, it doesn't mean it's wrong to be a responsible steward in deciding when or if to possess them. He emphasizes that pursuing something just because it's good may not always be wise, and in the context of kingdom purposes, decisions like getting married or regulating family size may need thoughtful consideration, recognizing the need for tradeoffs between various good activities.[60]

Journalists

Secular feminists, such as journalist Kathryn Joyce, take issue with Quiverfull ideas, taking issue with leaving family planning up to God, refusing to use contraception, medical treatments, and promotion of female submission to male headship.[61][62] Joyce holds the view that the choice of these families to have a significant number of children is primarily a tactic employed for political warfare within the context of the Religious Right.[63] Additionally, the journalist suggested that one of the main motivations behind the fertility choices of these families is to contribute to the increase of the Caucasian population.[64]

Journalist Kate Graham of Glamour Magazine characterizes the movement as the "world's most women-hating cult" and relates it to a "sex cult". Graham reports Maya and Sophie's alleged experiences of strict gender roles, the emphasis on women's submission, the restrictive dress codes, and the aversion to medical treatment.[65]

Former members

Some former Quiverfull practitioners and children also denounce the lifestyle, some of the most vocal voices include Vyckie Garrison, Suzanne Titkemeyer, Sean Ferguson, Bonnie Ogilvie, and Michelle Wilbur. They alleged their church of child abuse, mistreatment of women, normalization of abuse, downplaying abuse and various other issues.[66][67][31]

As recorded by Vyckie Garrison, she spent 16 years adhering to the lifestyle. Despite homeschooling her seven children, submitting to her husband, and editing a pro-life newspaper, Garrison's health declined, and her marriage turned abusive. In 2008, at 42, she divorced her husband, left the movement with her children, and founded a blog named "No Longer Quivering" to help others leave.[68]

In 2018, Eve Ettinger and Kieryn Darkwater launched the Kitchen Table Cult podcast, where they share their personal experiences of growing up in a Quiverfull environment and connect that to contemporary events, such as the election of Donald Trump.[69]

In a 2015 interview reflecting on their upbringing, Ettinger remarked the Quiverfull parents are just as perplexed as the children, often grappling with psychological issues and requiring therapy and compassion to recover from the dehumanizing reality of striving for a flawless Quiverfull family to appease God.[70]

CFCtoo labels itself an advocacy group for survivors of Christian Fellowship Center, a Quiverfull community. They advocate for New York to amend their mandated reporting laws to include clergy.[71][72][73] CFCtoo argues that such laws are necessary to combat the Quiverfull movement's propensity for "incest, child sexual abuse, and systematic abuse coverups based on a twisted understanding of biblical forgiveness."[74][75]

Notable adherents

  • Nancy Campbell, a speaker, author, and mother of 10, along with her husband Colin, leads Above Rubies—a magazine dedicated to inspiring women in their vital roles as wives, mothers, and homemakers.[76] Campbell's magazine is published in 100 countries and has a circulation of over 160,000.[77]
  • Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, known for the reality TV show 19 Kids and Counting.[78]
  • Mary Pride, author of "The Way Home" and "The Big Book of Home Learning". She advocates for a Christian home school curriculum and wrote about rejecting birth control. She is married to Bill with 9 children who are home schooled.[79]
  • Charles D. Provan, a notable figure whose influential work, "The Bible and Birth Control," serves as a key reference for Quiverfull adherents justifying their movement.[4] In addition, Provan authored various works and articles on a range of Christian topics. Until his passing in 2007, Charles D. Provan, along with his wife Mary, raised a family of 10 children.[80]
  • Doug Phillips, a Calvinist Christian and the son of U.S. Constitution Party leader Howard Phillips.[81] From 1998 to 2013, Phillips was the president of Vision Forum Ministries, a now-defunct organization. Phillips and his wife, Beall, have 7 children.[82]
  • Robert Craig Sproul Jr., a Calvinist Christian theologian and the son of R. C. Sproul, the distinguished Reformed theologian and founder of Ligonier Ministries. Sproul Jr. and his wife Denise, raised a family of 8 children before the untimely passing of Denise.[83][84]
  • David and Louise Turpin, a couple who lived in Perris, California, U.S., where they imprisoned both adults and children, spanning ages 2 to 29, in their suburban home. The victims were subjected to malnutrition and restrained with chains on beds.[85][86][87]

See also


References

  1. ↑ Hess, Rick and Jan (1990). A Full Quiver: Family Planning and the Lordship of Christ. Brentwood, TN: Hyatt Publishers. ISBN 0-943497-83-3. 
  2. ↑ Dennis Rainey (2002). "The Value of Children (11 July 2002 FamilyLife Today Radio Broadcast)" (Transcript of radio broadcast). FamilyLife Today. http://www.familylife.com/fltoday/default.asp?id=5868&page=72&search=&strMonth=&strDay=&strYear=&guests=&keywords=&showType=. 
  3. ↑ Campbell, Nancy (2003). Be Fruitful and Multiply: What the Bible Says about Having Children. San Antonio: Vision Forum. ISBN 0-9724173-5-4. 
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Kathryn Joyce (9 November 2006). "Arrows for the War". The Nation. https://www.thenation.com/article/archive/arrows-war/. Retrieved 2010-09-18. 
  5. ↑ Denson, J. (2013). Quiverfull: Conservative Christian Women and Empowerment in the Home. LUX: A Journal of Transdisciplinary Writing and Research from Claremont Graduate University, 2(1), Article 11, 4. Retrieved from http://scholarship.claremont.edu/lux/vol2/iss1/11/4
  6. ↑ Denson 2013, pp. 2-3.
  7. ↑ Taylor, M. (2012). QUIVERFULL: Family Reformation and Intentional Community (pp. 7-8). Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Departmental Honors in The Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas. Retrieved from https://repository.tcu.edu/bitstream/handle/116099117/7376/Quiverfull%20Family%20Reformation%20and%20Intentional%20Community.pdf
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 Schenker, J. G., & Rabenou, V. (1993). Contraception: Traditional and religious attitudes (pp. 15-18). European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, 49(1-2). https://doi.org/10.1016/0028-2243(93)90102-i
  9. ↑ "What the Early Church Believed: Contraception and Sterilization". https://www.catholic.com/tract/contraception-and-sterilization. 
  10. ↑ "The Catholic Church and Birth Control | American Experience | PBS" (in en). https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/pill-catholic-church-and-birth-control/. 
  11. ↑ Kivisto, Peter (October 16, 2014) (in en). Religion and Immigration: Migrant Faiths in North America and Western Europe. Wiley. p. 110. ISBN 9780745686660. 
  12. ↑ Tedford, James (2001-07-09). "Laestadian lutherans Conservative Energy" (in en). https://tdn.com/laestadian-lutherans-conservative-energy/article_fbc4a32e-aaaa-5d0c-b765-86046e0d239a.html. 
  13. ↑ "Lambeth on Contraceptives". http://anglicanhistory.org/gore/contra1930.html. 
  14. ↑ Assemblies of God. (2010). Sanctity of Human Life: Abortion and Reproductive Issues (Adopted by the General Presbytery in session August 9-11, 2010). Retrieved from https://ag.org/Beliefs/Position-Papers/Abortion-Sanctity-of-Human-Life
  15. ↑ Joyce 2011, pp. 128.
  16. ↑ Joyce 2011, pp. 123.
  17. ↑ Joyce 2011, pp. 129.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 18.2 Denson 2013, pp. 11-13.
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 Sweeny 2017, pp. 5-6.
  20. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. p. 106.
  21. ↑ Provan 1989, p. p. 5.
  22. ↑ Pride 1985, p. p. 20.
  23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 Provan 1989, p. 5.
  24. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. 28.
  25. ↑ Pride 1985, p. 39.
  26. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. 93.
  27. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. 57.
  28. ↑ Pride 1985, p. xi.
  29. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, pp. 169-170.
  30. ↑ 30.0 30.1 30.2 30.3 30.4 30.5 30.6 Taylor 2012, pp. 16-30.
  31. ↑ 31.0 31.1 31.2 Titkemeyer, Suzanne; Quivering, No Longer (2020-08-21). "Quiverfull Adoptive Parents Unprepared For Realities Of Adoption?" (in en). https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nolongerquivering/2020/08/quiverfull-adoptive-parents-unprepared-for-realities-of-adoption/. 
  32. ↑ Joyce, Kathryn. "Orphan Fever: The Evangelical Movement’s Adoption Obsession" (in en-US). https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/04/christian-evangelical-adoption-liberia/. 
  33. ↑ Sweeney 2017, pp. pp. 258,259,260,261..
  34. ↑ "Adoption: The Ultimate Act of Grace" (in en-US). 2011-10-14. https://www.recoveringgrace.org/2011/10/adoption-the-ultimate-act-of-grace/. 
  35. ↑ Vasquez, Lane (2023-03-10). "The Duggars Might Have Violated Their Religion's Principles With This 'Controversial' Move" (in en). https://www.thethings.com/are-the-duggars-allowed-to-adopt/. 
  36. ↑ Sweeney 2017, p. 1.
  37. ↑ 37.0 37.1 37.2 Denson 2013, pp. 14-15.
  38. ↑ Denson 2013, p. p. 15..
  39. ↑ 39.0 39.1 Elwell, Mina (2022-07-21). "The Untold Truth Of Quiverfull Christianity" (in en-US). https://www.grunge.com/935500/the-untold-truth-of-quiverfull-christianity/. 
  40. ↑ Taylor 2012, p. 15.
  41. ↑ Taylor 2012, pp. 13-14.
  42. ↑ Harrison, L., & Rowley, S. B. 2011, p. 55.
  43. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, pp. 117-118.
  44. ↑ 44.0 44.1 44.2 44.3 Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, pp. 110-113.
  45. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, pp. pp. 110-113..
  46. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. p. 115..
  47. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. p. 116..
  48. ↑ Owen, S. A., Jr. (1990). Letting God Plan Your Family (pp. 86-87). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
  49. ↑ 49.0 49.1 Taylor 2012, pp. pp. 35-36..
  50. ↑ Hess, R., & Hess, J. 1990, p. 133.
  51. ↑ "Tubal Ligation Reversal | Five More Arrows!". https://aboverubies.org/index.php/2013-11-12-17-55-51/english-language/tubal-ligation-reversal/1055-tubal-ligation-reversal-five-more-arrows. 
  52. ↑ "Our Purpose - Blessed Arrows - A Sterilization Reversal Ministry". 2015-08-28. https://web.archive.org/web/20150828191921/http://www.blessed-arrows.com/our-purpose.html. 
  53. ↑ 53.0 53.1 53.2 53.3 53.4 Denson 2013, pp. 16-17.
  54. ↑ 54.0 54.1 54.2 Harrison, L., & Rowley, S. B. (2011). Babies by the Bundle: Gender, Backlash, and the Quiverfull Movement. Feminist Formations, 23(1), 47–69. https://doi.org/10.1353/ff.2011.0012
  55. ↑ "Does God Exist? - Quiverfull: More Fuel for Atheists - September/October 2014". https://www.doesgodexist.org/SepOct14/Quiverfull.html. 
  56. ↑ Ellison, Christopher G.; Patricia Goodson (1997). "Conservative Protestantism and Attitudes toward Family Planning in a Sample of Seminarians". Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion 36 (4): 512–529. doi:10.2307/1387687. 
  57. ↑ Goodman, Patricia (1997). "Protestants and Family Planning". Journal of Religion and Health 36 (4): 353–366. doi:10.1023/A:1027437310363. 
  58. ↑ Bricker, Sophia (July 6, 2023). "How Should Christians View the Quiverfull Movement? Part 2" (in en). https://www.christianity.com/wiki/cults-and-other-religions/how-should-christians-view-the-quiverfull-movement-part-2.html. 
  59. ↑ James B. Jordan (1993). "The Bible and Family Planning: An Answer to Charles Provan's "The Bible and Birth Control"". Contra Mundum: 2–14. ISSN 1070-9495. http://www.contra-mundum.org/cm/cm09.pdf. 
  60. ↑ Desiring God Staff (2006). "Does the Bible permit birth control?". Questions and Answers. Desiring God. http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/QuestionsAndAnswers/ByTopic/45/1440_Does_the_Bible_permit_birth_control/. 
  61. ↑ "Kathryn Joyce | Quiverfull: Inside the Christian Patriarchy Movement" (in en-US). http://kathrynjoyce.com/books/quiverfull/. 
  62. ↑ Denson 2013, p. 2.
  63. ↑ Joyce, Kathryn (2006-11-09). "'Arrows for the War'" (in en-US). ISSN 0027-8378. https://www.thenation.com/article/archive/arrows-war/. 
  64. ↑ Taylor 2012, p. 34.
  65. ↑ Graham, Kate (2015-11-24). "Inside the world's most women-hating cult" (in en). https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/sex-cults-and-the-quiverfull-movement-november-issue. 
  66. ↑ Post, Kathryn (2023-05-17). "Former ‘Quiverfull’ church members push the needle on New York’s CARE Act" (in en-US). https://religionnews.com/2023/05/17/former-quiverfull-church-members-push-the-needle-on-new-yorks-care-act/. 
  67. ↑ Thompson, Tiffy (2016-07-16). "What It’s Like to Escape the Christian Fundamentalist 'Quiverfull' Movement" (in en). https://www.vice.com/en/article/wdbd45/we-talked-to-an-quiverfull-escapee-about-helping-women-leave-the-movement. 
  68. ↑ Thompson, Tiffy (2016-07-16). "What It's Like to Escape the Christian Fundamentalist 'Quiverfull' Movement" (in en). https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/wdbd45/we-talked-to-an-quiverfull-escapee-about-helping-women-leave-the-movement. 
  69. ↑ "About the Podcast" (in en-US). 2018-07-11. https://kitchentablecult.com/about/. 
  70. ↑ Mathieu, Jennifer (2015-05-27). "What It Was Like to Grow Up Quiverfull" (in en-US). https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/books/q-and-a/a41047/growing-up-quiverfull-interview/. 
  71. ↑ Post, Kathryn (17 May 2023). "Former ‘Quiverfull’ church members push the needle on New York’s CARE Act". Religion News Service. https://religionnews.com/2023/05/17/former-quiverfull-church-members-push-the-needle-on-new-yorks-care-act/. 
  72. ↑ Post, Kathryn (3 February 2023). "New York debates whether clergy should be required to report abuse". Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2023/02/03/new-york-debates-whether-clergy-should-be-required-report-abuse/. 
  73. ↑ Grindon, Lucy (September 8, 2022). "Ex-Christian Fellowship Center members call for clergy to be mandated child sexual abuse reporters in Potsdam protest". North Country Public Radio. https://www.northcountrypublicradio.org/news/story/46540/20220908/ex-christian-fellowship-center-members-call-for-clergy-to-be-mandated-child-sexual-abuse-reporters-in-potsdam-protest. 
  74. ↑ "The Quiverfull Families Next Door: Part 1". https://www.cfctoo.com/blog/the-quiverfull-families-next-door-part-1. 
  75. ↑ Post, Kathryn (August 25, 2022). "An insular ‘Quiverfull’ church in New York’s North Country faces a reckoning". Religion News Service. https://religionnews.com/2022/08/25/an-insular-quiverfull-church-in-new-yorks-north-country-faces-a-reckoning/. 
  76. ↑ "Ministry Overview". https://aboverubies.org/index.php/home/ministry-overview. 
  77. ↑ "The Quiverfull: The evangelical Christians opposed to contraception" (in en-GB). BBC News. 2013-05-14. https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-22526252. 
  78. ↑ Dennis, Alicia; Jamieson, Amy (November 20, 2023). "A Guide to Everyone in the Duggar Family" (in en). https://people.com/tv/a-guide-to-the-duggar-family-photos/. 
  79. ↑ Oppenheimer, Mark (January 18, 2013). "A Home-Schooling Pioneer Looks to the Future - The New York Times". https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004339/http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/19/us/a-home-schooling-pioneer-looks-to-the-future.html. 
  80. ↑ Vondas, Jerry (December 13, 2007). "Monongahela Printer, Bible scholar wrote about Holocaust". Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/obituaries/s_542504.html. 
  81. ↑ "Theonomy Resources: Howard Phillips Passes Away". 2013-04-22. https://theonomyresources.blogspot.com/2013/04/howard-phillips-passes-away.html. 
  82. ↑ "Vision Forum Ministries". 2015-08-27. https://web.archive.org/web/20150827002038/http://www.visionforumministries.org/home/about/about_the_president.aspx. 
  83. ↑ "Denise Elizabeth Sproul Obituary (2011) Bradenton Herald". https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/bradenton/name/denise-sproul-obituary?id=13096817. 
  84. ↑ "A Brief History - Highlands Ministries OnlineHighlands Ministries Online". 2013-11-04. https://web.archive.org/web/20131104012246/https://highlandsministriesonline.org/about-highlands/a-brief-history/. 
  85. ↑ "Couple Kept Their 13 Children in Chains, Which Raises Question: What Kind of White-People Mess Is ‘QuiverFull’?" (in en). 2018-01-17. https://www.theroot.com/couple-who-kept-their-13-children-in-chains-begs-questi-1822168554. 
  86. ↑ Miller, Fiona (2018-01-16). "The Duggar Family And Family Who Chained And Starved 13 Children Possibly Part Of Same Religious Sect" (in en). https://www.inquisitr.com/4740258/the-duggar-family-and-family-who-chained-and-starved-13-children-reportedly-part-of-the-same-religious-sect. 
  87. ↑ Sitzer, Carly (2018-01-18). "There’s a Connection Between the Horrific Turpin Family and the Duggars" (in en-US). https://www.intouchweekly.com/posts/turpin-family-duggars-quiverfull-151742/. 

Further reading

Books advocating a Quiverfull position

  • Adams, Shelly and Morgan. Arrows in His Hand (children's book). Monument Pub., Monument, CO: 2007.
  • Andrews, Robert. The Family: God's Weapon for Victory. Winepress Publishing 1996. ISBN:1-883893-24-0 ; Sentinel Press 2002. ISBN:0-9715694-0-1
  • Campbell, Nancy. Be Fruitful and Multiply. Vision Forum, San Antonio, TX: 2003. ISBN:0-9724173-5-4
  • Flanders, Jennifer. Love Your Husband/Love Yourself: Embracing God's Purpose for Passion in Marriage. Prescott Publishing, Tyler, TX: 2010. ISBN:978-0982626900
  • Hess, Rick and Jan. A Full Quiver: Family Planning and the Lordship of Christ. Wolgemuth & Hyatt Publishers, Brentwood, TN: 1990. ISBN:0-943497-83-3
  • Houghton, Craig. Family UNplanning. Xulon Press, Longwood, FL: 2006. ISBN:978-1-60034-851-8
  • Owen, Jr., Samuel A. Letting God Plan Your Family. Crossway Books, Wheaton, IL: 1990. ISBN:0-89107-585-2
  • Pride, Mary. The Way Home: Beyond Feminism, Back to Reality. Good News Pub, Wheaton, IL: 1985. ISBN:0-89107-345-0
  • Provan, Charles D. The Bible and Birth Control. Zimmer Printing, Monongahela, PA: 1989. ISBN:99917-998-3-4
    • Chapter of Provan's book available here. Audio files of Provan's complete book available by searching with his name at sermonaudio.com
  • Scott, Rachel. Birthing God's Mighty Warriors. Xulon Press, Longwood, FL: 2004. ISBN:1-59467-465-5

Books which advocate Quiverfull as a secondary focus

  • Farris, Vickie. A Mom Just Like You. B&H Publishing Group, Nashville, TN: 2002. ISBN:0-8054-2586-1

Sources which are critical of Quiverfull

External links



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