CNN reports the death of a teen boy from a blocked urinary tract that went untreated. Neil Beagley attended a church known to have emphasized relying on faith rather than on medicine. More information on the church is available at this site, which indicates that other followers at the church have died after failed faith healing attempts. KATU.com reports that earlier this year a 15-month old child died from untreated conditions.
Oregon law apparently allows teens like Neil the right to refuse treatment. Toddlers like Ava Worthington, the 15-month old who died needlessly in March, are another matter, and in June her parents were charged with manslaughter. Ava and Neil are reportedly among approximately 20 children who died because their parents heeded the Followers of Christ church's reliance on faith, even though readily available medical treatments could have saved their lives.
I can't help but think of one of my favorite memories from the 70s, the Carpenters hit Bless the Beasts and the Children.
Bless the beasts and the children
For in this world they have no voice
They have no choice ...
Bless the beasts and the children
Give them shelter from a storm
Keep them safe
Keep them warm.
Research, news, and commentary on the psychological study of religion. PsyRel also announces improvements to Nielsen's Psychology of Religion.
1 comment:
You know, I wonder if incidences like this are increasing or decreasing. I can't be sure because I'm paying more attention to them now, so it seems like they are more frequent, but I'm inclined to believe society is growing more rational. I could be wrong... :(
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