Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about Compass: Cult of the Saints, the ABC documentary investigating the tragic death of Elizabeth Struhs and the dangerous cult-like practices of The Saints.
How to watch Compass: Cult of the Saints in the US on ABC iview
To watch Compass: Cult of the Saints in the US, use a trusted VPN service and connect to an Australian server. Once connected, go to the ABC iview website or app and log in with a free ABC account. This will allow you to stream the documentary in high definition from anywhere in the world.
Compass: Cult of the Saints – Synopsis
Compass: Cult of the Saints is a confronting ABC documentary that examines the shocking case of the religious sect known as The Saints in Toowoomba, Queensland. In 2022, eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs, who had type 1 diabetes, died after her parents and 12 other cult members withheld her life-saving insulin, replacing medical treatment with prayer. Led by self-proclaimed pastor Brendan Stevens, the group practiced extreme Pentecostal teachings, rejecting doctors and promoting the belief that only God could heal.
Award-winning journalist Suzanne Smith delves into the inner workings of this cult, the coercive control exerted on its members, and the devastating consequences of blind faith. The documentary also highlights the growing movement within Queensland’s Christian community to expose and prevent cult-like behaviour in churches. Through interviews with bereaved families, former members, and religious leaders, Compass reveals both the darkness of the tragedy and the hope that comes from open discussion and reform.
When Does Cult of the Saints on Compass Premiere?
Compass: Cult of the Saints premieres on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 6:30pm AEST on ABC TV. The documentary is also available to stream on ABC iview from the same date.
Compass: Cult of the Saints Cast
While this is a documentary rather than a scripted production, the program features:
- Suzanne Smith – Journalist, producer, and presenter of the documentary.
- Cameron Schoenfisch – Father of cult member Lachlan Schoenfisch, who is serving a manslaughter sentence.
- Denis Lennox – Christian pastor advocating against coercive control.
- Cecilia Anderson – Wesleyan counsellor interviewed in the program.
- Maria Esguerra – Psychologist and survivor of the US Children of God cult.
- Paul Reid – Former friend of Brendan Stevens.
Is Compass: Cult of the Saints Suitable for All Ages?
No. While Compass is a factual program, this episode contains sensitive themes including child neglect, coercive religious practices, and death. These topics may be distressing for younger viewers. ABC recommends parental guidance for viewers under 15.
How can I watch Compass series from the US?
The easiest way to watch the Compass series from the US is by using a reliable VPN to change your location to Australia. After connecting, access ABC iview with a free account to stream episodes on-demand.
FAQs
1. Who is Brendan Stevens in Cult of the Saints?
Brendan Stevens is the leader of The Saints, the religious cult at the centre of the case. He was sentenced to 13 years in prison for manslaughter following the death of Elizabeth Struhs.
2. Is Compass: Cult of the Saints based on real events?
Yes. The documentary investigates the real-life events in Toowoomba, Queensland, in which members of The Saints refused medical treatment for a child in favour of prayer, leading to her death.
3. What is coercive control in a church setting?
In this context, coercive control refers to the use of manipulation, fear, and absolute authority by religious leaders to dominate members, restrict their freedom, and discourage critical thinking — often with devastating consequences.
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