Gwen Shamblin Lara (1955-2021) was a controversial figure known for her role as the founder of the Weigh Down Workshop and the Remnant Fellowship Church. Her weight loss program and religious teachings garnered a large following but also faced significant criticism. Here's a look at her life, work, and influence.

Biodata

• Full Name: Gwendolyn Shamblin Lara
• Born: February 18, 1955, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
• Died: May 29, 2021 (aged 66), Percy Priest Lake, Tennessee, USA (plane crash)
• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in dietetics (University of Tennessee)
  • Master's degree in food and nutrition (Memphis State University)
• Occupation: Author, dietician, religious leader

Weigh Down Workshop

Gwen Shamblin Lara founded the Weigh Down Workshop in 1986. This Christian-based weight loss program emphasized turning to God for guidance on eating habits rather than traditional calorie counting or dieting. The program became immensely popular, spreading through seminars, books, and church groups.

Remnant Fellowship Church

In 1999, Shamblin Lara founded the Remnant Fellowship Church in Brentwood, Tennessee. The church's theology was heavily influenced by the Weigh Down principles, emphasizing a personal relationship with God and rejecting traditional Christian doctrines like the Trinity.

Net Worth

Gwen Shamblin Lara's net worth was estimated to be in the millions of dollars. Her income sources included book sales, Weigh Down Workshop fees, and church donations. The extent of her wealth was a subject of debate.

Social Media

Gwen Shamblin Lara and the Weigh Down Workshop maintained a presence on various social media platforms, including:

• Facebook: Weigh Down Ministries
• Instagram: @weighdown
• Website: www.weighdown.com

Religion

Gwen Shamblin Lara and the Remnant Fellowship Church espoused a unique set of religious beliefs that drew significant criticism from mainstream Christian denominations. Critics accused the church of being cult-like due to its authoritarian structure and emphasis on Shamblin Lara's teachings.

Interesting Facts

• Controversial Figure: Lara was often criticized for her strict control over her followers, her lavish lifestyle, and her unorthodox theological views.
• Focus on Thinness: Critics argued that the Weigh Down Workshop promoted an unhealthy obsession with weight and appearance.
• Legal Troubles: Shamblin Lara faced legal challenges related to the death of a child in a Remnant Fellowship family.

Death

Gwen Shamblin Lara, her husband Joe Lara, and five other church members died in a plane crash in May 2021.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is provided for informational purposes only. It's important to consult multiple sources and form your own opinions about Gwen Shamblin Lara and her teachings.

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