On Sept. 14, the church issued an extensive statement, which is posted on the Remnant Fellowship website. It reads in part:
Remnant Fellowship categorically denies the absurd, defamatory statements and accusations made in this documentary – yet another Hollywood attack on religion.
Over the last 20 years, countless celebrities and public figures have had to endure allegations of child abuse, eating disorders, sexual abuse and more. While many of these situations might be accurate, there are definitely situations where people are falsely accused. In today’s society, everyone should be highly discerning regarding anything they see on any media. We insist that the allegations made against our church are completely false and defamatory.
Our Christian beliefs are Bible-based. Our church is a place based on love, care, mercy, and kindness shown to people from all walks of life. We have helped thousands to find a relationship with God.
The church has also encouraged members to find their own personal relationship with God and has proven to restore numerous broken marriages and other relationships.
Our teachings have helped thousands to overcome strongholds, vices, and addictions.
Remnant has posted several videos of people offering testimonies about how the church has helped them specifically in areas addressed in the documentary. Elizabeth Shamblin Hannah also posted a lengthy statement that reads in part:
In every action, deed, and word, my mother lived for God alone – no matter what false accusations came her way. She was kind, loving, and gentle, and she never turned away from anyone in need. She donated so much of her time, energy, and personal finances to the building and grounds of Remnant Fellowship, and Michael and I were fully behind those decisions…At this time in my life, I am absolutely honored for the opportunity to follow in my mother’s footsteps in serving others around the world to find God! I will do my best to keep this message moving forth – and I would have it no other way. I will forever be grateful to God Almighty, to His Son Jesus Christ, to the beautiful examples in the Bible, and to my most beloved mother — for all of these have paved the way for me personally to live a life full of JOY, LOVE, and HOPE, forever and ever.
HBO is not done investigating Gwen Shamblin Lara and her church, reports The Guardian. Two more episodes investigating the plane crash and her children’s current leadership at Remnant are expected in the spring of 2022.