Don’t Mention the C Word!
In the wake of the scandals surrounding Soul Survivor and its founder Mike Pilavachi, a question has lingered in the air: was it a cult? It’s a loaded question, one that might make some recoil and others nod grimly. But to really grapple with it, we need to unpack what makes something a cult and examine how Soul Survivor measures up. This isn’t about sensationalism or throwing stones, it’s about understanding, healing, and ensuring history doesn’t repeat itself.
What Defines a Cult?
Let’s start with the basics. Cults are typically characterised by a few key traits:
Charismatic Leadership
A central figure who commands unwavering loyalty and exerts significant influence over followers.Authoritarian Control
Leadership that demands obedience, often discouraging questioning or dissent.Isolation
Creating a bubble where members are cut off from outside influences, making it harder to question the group’s practices.Exploitation
Emotional, financial, or even physical exploitation of members for the benefit of the leadership.Us vs Them Mentality
Cultivating an “insider” identity that views outsiders as misguided or hostile.Sexual Manipulation
Many cults use sex as a means of control, often involving inappropriate relationships or abuse under the guise of spiritual authority.
These elements don’t always appear in equal measure, but when several align, you’re venturing into cult territory. So, where does Soul Survivor land on this spectrum?
The Cult of Personality
At the heart of Soul Survivor was Mike Pilavachi, a man with undeniable charisma. His larger-than-life personality, humour, and apparent spiritual authority drew thousands to his events. Pilavachi wasn’t just the leader; he was the face, the voice, and, for many, the embodiment of the movement.
This centralisation of power and adoration is a classic hallmark of a cult of personality. Pilavachi’s influence extended beyond the stage, reportedly seeping into the personal lives of some followers. The recent allegations suggest that this adoration may have shielded him from scrutiny for far too long. When one person’s word becomes gospel, the balance of power is dangerously skewed.
Control and Compliance
Soul Survivor wasn’t overtly authoritarian, but subtle forms of control may have been at play. The emphasis on spiritual authority and submission to leadership can discourage critical thinking. If questioning the leadership is framed as questioning God, dissent becomes not just difficult but spiritually risky.
Moreover, there’s the issue of groupthink. In any large gathering, the collective enthusiasm can create a powerful sense of belonging. But it can also make it hard to voice doubts. Were attendees free to challenge what they saw and heard, or was there an unspoken pressure to conform?
A Bubble of Belief
Soul Survivor wasn’t physically isolating - no one was locked away or forbidden from seeing their families. But spiritual isolation is another matter. The events created an intense, immersive environment where the outside world faded away. This bubble of belief, while not inherently harmful, can become a breeding ground for unhealthy dynamics if not tempered by accountability and transparency.
Exploitation or Empowerment?
One of the most troubling aspects of the allegations against Pilavachi is the suggestion of exploitation. If even a fraction of the claims are true, they point to a misuse of power that left individuals emotionally and spiritually harmed. Cults often thrive on this kind of exploitation, manipulating members’ trust and devotion for personal gain.
The Sexual Dynamic in Cults
A common feature of many cults is the use of sex as a means of control and manipulation. Leaders often exploit their positions to engage in inappropriate relationships, claiming divine justification or spiritual authority. In the case of Soul Survivor, there’s no evidence of a widespread culture of sexual manipulation. However, the allegations against Mike Pilavachi include troubling details about his behaviour.
Reports of Pilavachi giving massages to young men, often under the guise of mentorship or spiritual care, have raised serious concerns. While this doesn’t align with the overt sexual exploitation seen in some cults, it does suggest a troubling dynamic. These interactions, described by some as having homoerotic undertones, were inappropriate and a clear misuse of power. For those involved, the emotional and spiritual impact could be profound.
It’s worth noting that the church has historically struggled with issues of sexuality and power. The lack of transparency and accountability often allows these behaviours to go unchecked. In Pilavachi’s case, the apparent reluctance of others to challenge his actions speaks to a broader culture of silence and deference.
Us vs Them?
While Soul Survivor didn’t explicitly promote an “us vs them” mentality, there was a strong emphasis on being set apart as Christians. This isn’t unusual in religious groups, but when combined with the other elements discussed, it’s worth considering whether this fostered an unhealthy sense of exclusivity.
The insider language, the intense worship experiences, and the focus on a shared mission could create a sense of spiritual superiority. While not inherently harmful, this dynamic can make it harder for members to see flaws within the group or its leadership.
So, Was It a Cult?
The answer isn’t straightforward. Soul Survivor doesn’t fit the extreme end of the cult spectrum—it wasn’t a closed-off commune or a group with bizarre rituals. But some of its dynamics, particularly around leadership and control, bear uncomfortable similarities to recognised cult behaviours. The allegations against Pilavachi suggest a misuse of power that warrants serious reflection.
Moving Forward
It’s impossible to move forward without first confronting the failures of the past. And yet, Soul Survivor Watford’s response to the scandals has been shockingly inadequate. Instead of addressing victim concerns head-on, the organisation appears to have turned inward, focusing more on damage control than genuine repentance or reconciliation. Where are the public acknowledgements of harm done? Where is the transparent dialogue with those who suffered under this leadership? Why has there been such a deafening silence on the specific allegations?
This insular approach is not just disappointing - it’s appalling. The church has a moral obligation to prioritise the well-being of victims over its own reputation. By doubling down on protecting its image, Soul Survivor risks perpetuating the very culture of silence and deference that allowed these abuses to occur in the first place.
So, what does accountability look like? It starts with asking hard questions: How did this happen under the watch of so many leaders? Who turned a blind eye, and why? What systems of power and control allowed Pilavachi’s behaviour to go unchecked for so long? And most importantly, how can the church ensure this never happens again?
True repentance requires more than words. It demands action. It means creating safe spaces for victims to share their stories without fear of dismissal or retribution. It means dismantling toxic power structures and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. It means holding leaders to higher standards and refusing to let charisma excuse misconduct.
The scandals surrounding Soul Survivor and Mike Pilavachi have left many feeling betrayed and disillusioned. But they also present an opportunity for change. Will the church seize it, or will it retreat further into self-preservation? The choice will determine not only its future but the trust and faith of those it claims to serve. Because whether or not Soul Survivor was a cult, it’s clear that something went very wrong. And it’s up to all of us to demand better.