Ep.5 The Order of the Solar Temple

It began as a secret society chasing spiritual enlightenment, and ended in ritual murder and mass death. In this episode of Hidden Cults, we uncover the chilling rise and fall of The Order of the Solar Temple. Founded in Europe in the late 1980s, this apocalyptic group blended New Age mysticism, Templar mythology, and conspiracy to justify its descent into control, paranoia, and fatal prophecy. From its charismatic leaders and wealthy elite followers to the carefully staged deaths across Switzerland, France, and Canada, this is the true story behind one of the most disturbing cults in modern history. We follow the timeline step by step, from obscure recruitment to coordinated group suicides cloaked in fire and secrecy. 
What did they believe? Why did so many die? And how did it go so far without anyone stopping it? This is not just a story of belief gone wrong. It's a warning, about power, persuasion, and what happens when salvation is used as a weapon.

Part 1 – Seeds of Shadows: Origins of the Order
Part 2 – The Descent Begins
Part 3 – Behind the Veil
Part 4 – The Fire Rituals
Part 5 – Echoes and Ashes
Part 6 – Reflections on Faith, Fear, and Control

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International Resources

International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
https://www.icsahome.com
Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.
Open Minds Foundation
https://www.openmindsfoundation.org
Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.
The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse)
https://www.thehotline.org
📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.
Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan)
https://freedomofmind.com
Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.
FaithTrust Institute
https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org
Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.
United States

Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA)
📞 1-239-514-3081
Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
https://www.rainn.org
📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.
Canada 

Cult & Trauma Support Resources 🧠
Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org
Phone: 📞 514-274-2333
Email: [email protected]
Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.
Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French.

United Kingdom

The Family Survival Trust
https://familysurvivaltrust.org
Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.
Cults Information Centre and Family Support
https://cults.org.uk
UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.
Mind UK (Mental Health Support)
https://www.mind.org.uk
📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.
Australia

Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS)
https://www.cifs.org.au
National support for individuals and families affected by cults.