From the Secular Safe House blog by Troy Fitzgerald
Larry is the grandson of Herbert W. Armstrong, the founder of the cult/church, the Worldwide Church of God. He is the eldest child of Herbert’s eldest daughter, Beverly. He attended church until his parents were disfellowshipped when he was 13. He attended the church’s Ambassador College when he was 29 even though he was still not a member of the church.
Larry shares what it was like growing up as the grandson of the cult founder, including what his grandfather compelled his parents to do when he became ill at the age of 3 — force him to go without food for 12 days.
He discusses what lead to his parents being disfellowshipped from the church by his grandfather and how that impacted his family. He shares about his mom’s return to the employ of the church as Herbert’s social secretary though she did not return to the church or attend services; Larry’s enrollment in the church’s college, Ambassador, when he was 29 even though not a member of the church (something that was almost unheard of in the church); his world travels with his grandfather on the church’s private jet; and the evolution of his views about religion.
Finally, Larry discusses his view and the family’s views about the allegations that his grandfather, Herbert, committed incest with his youngest daughter, Dorothy (Larry’s aunt) and his general views about the personality and character of his grandfather and whether he was qualified — according to his own Biblical teachings — to be considered “God’s apostle on earth” or even a minister of Jesus Christ.
Listen to Larry Gott's interesting story here.
NOTE: The audio quality of this podcast is less than ideal due to technical issues that could not be overcome at the time. With some volume adjustments along the way, it is still audible and worth listening to, especially if you have any association with the WCG.
Larry also has a personal YouTube channel where he talks about life, losing religion and politics. It can be found here.
