Ep 1. Children of the Prophet

This is Life with Lisa Ling is a CNN original series that explores different facets of American culture and society. In season 2 episode 1, titled "Children of the Prophet," host Lisa Ling examines the lives of those who grow up in the religious community of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). The FLDS is a controversial offshoot of the mainstream Mormon Church that practices polygamy, with its leader Warren Jeffs currently serving a life sentence for charges related to child sexual assault.

Ling interviews current and former members of the FLDS, gaining insight into the religious beliefs and practices that underpin their way of life. She also speaks with those who have left the community, many of whom have experienced trauma and hardship during their transition to the outside world.

The episode features several prominent figures within the FLDS, including Jeffs' former bodyguard, Willie Jessop. Jessop provides a unique perspective on the community, having been a member for many years before becoming disillusioned with its leadership and practices. Ling also interviews Elissa Wall, a former child bride who was forced into marriage at age 14. Wall's testimony played a key role in the conviction of Jeffs for child sexual assault.

Throughout the episode, Ling explores the impact that the FLDS community has on its members' identity, family structures, and education. She speaks with children who attend FLDS-run schools and who are taught a highly curated and often inaccurate version of history and science. Ling also discusses the way that the community's beliefs around gender and sexuality affect its members, particularly the women and girls who are often powerless in the face of arranged marriages and strict gender roles.

Finally, Ling explores the factors that lead many members to leave the FLDS, including abuse, trauma, and disillusionment. She meets with individuals who have built new lives outside the community, often at great personal cost. Despite the hardship that many have faced, Ling finds hope in the resilience and determination of those who have left the FLDS behind.

"Children of the Prophet" is a powerful exploration of a little-understood community, and of the resilience of those who seek to leave it behind. Ling's compassionate and thoughtful approach adds an important voice to the ongoing conversation about religious communities and their impact on those who grow up within them.