CENAP Infoline - no 084-85

Magazine Overview

This issue of cenap-infoline, dated January 6, 1999, with issue number 84/85, focuses on two main themes: the unreliability of parascientific predictions and the legal troubles of a sect leader. The magazine critically examines the claims of psychics, astrologers, and card readers, highlighting their failures in predicting major events of 1998. It also provides extensive coverage of the trial of Erika Bertschinger-Eicke, known as 'Uriella', the founder and leader of the 'Fiat Lux' sect, who faces charges of tax evasion and smuggling.

Parawissenschaften: A Year of Failed Predictions

The lead article, "Parawissenschaften im Umbruch oder nur Sturm im Wasserglas? Wahrsager erweisen sich als Versager", reports on the abysmal performance of clairvoyants in 1998. The 'Forum Parawissenschaften' in Sandhausen reviewed 68 predictions made by various psychics and found that almost none were accurate. This included predictions about the German federal election, where no one foresaw the victory of the red-green alliance, and the performance of the German national football team in the World Cup. Astrologers like Monika Transier and Dieter Hempel, as well as card readers like Liane Reichert, are cited for their incorrect forecasts. The article also debunks doomsday prophecies, such as those by Edgar Cayce and Uriella, which did not materialize. Edgar Wunder, spokesperson for the 'Forum Parawissenschaften', expresses his bewilderment that people still believe in such predictions, especially when real, unforeseen events like the Eschede train disaster occur.

The 'Uriella' Trial: Sect Leader Faces Justice

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the trial of Erika Bertschinger-Eicke, alias 'Uriella', the 69-year-old leader of the 'Fiat Lux' sect. The trial, held at the Mannheim Regional Court, concerns charges of tax evasion and smuggling of unregistered medicines from Switzerland into Germany, with a total estimated evasion of 1.8 million DM.

Legal Proceedings and Accusations

Several articles detail the court proceedings. Uriella, along with her husband 'Icordo' (spokesperson), the managing director of 'Fiat Lux Haus GmbH' Carlo H., and her private secretary, are accused of instructing sect members to smuggle medicines, teas, cosmetics, and promotional materials without customs clearance. The prosecution, led by Chief Prosecutor Hubert Jobski, alleges that Uriella used her position as a spiritual leader to compel her followers to engage in these illegal activities. The smuggled goods were reportedly sold to German customers, bypassing customs duties and taxes.

Uriella's Defense and Claims

Uriella, who presents herself as a 'spiritual healer' and 'voice of God', maintained her innocence regarding the smuggling aspect, stating she had never personally been involved in it. She claimed that her primary motivation was to provide natural remedies to the sick, fulfilling a divine mission. She argued that she was following divine laws, which she believed superseded earthly laws, especially when they conflicted with God's will. Her defense attorneys argued that the medicines were not registered in Germany and that the smuggling was a consequence of the lengthy and expensive registration process. They also emphasized Uriella's prior wealth, suggesting financial gain was not the primary motive.

Testimonies from Former Members

Several former members of the 'Fiat Lux' sect testified against Uriella. They described her as an absolute authority who dictated every aspect of their lives, including partner choices and family planning. One former member recounted being forced to marry someone she barely knew at Uriella's command. Testimonies also revealed that members were pressured to buy expensive 'medicines' and 'elixirs' from the sect, which were allegedly ineffective and led to health problems. The concept of 'white lies' was used to justify the smuggling, claiming it was permissible to deceive authorities for divine purposes. The psychological pressure exerted on members, referred to as 'Psychoterror', was also highlighted.

The 'Fiat Lux' Organization

The 'Fiat Lux' sect, founded in 1980, is described as a community that preaches abstinence from meat, alcohol, sex, and pharmaceutical drugs. It reportedly has around 700 followers and owns several properties in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. The sect's activities included the sale of health products, with a significant portion of income allegedly derived from donations and private loans.

Legal Developments and Verdict

The trial was lengthy, with proceedings extending into 1999. The court considered various legal arguments, including the admissibility of smuggled goods as evidence. The defense requested the suspension of proceedings pending a decision from the European Court of Justice regarding the customs duties on unregistered medicines. The prosecution sought a two-year suspended sentence and a fine for Uriella, while her defense argued for a monetary penalty or acquittal. The final verdict is not detailed in this issue, but the proceedings reveal the sect's elaborate methods and Uriella's strong influence over her followers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance towards parascientific claims, highlighting their lack of evidence and the potential for exploitation. The extensive coverage of the 'Uriella' trial underscores the magazine's interest in exposing fraudulent practices within spiritual and pseudo-scientific communities. The editorial stance appears to favor rationalism and skepticism, contrasting the unfulfilled prophecies of psychics and the alleged deception within the 'Fiat Lux' sect with the factual reporting of legal proceedings and real-world events.