Leader of controversial spiritual group fights back against cult allegations
Erna Ernst, founder of the spiritual group Onze Huiskamer, is pushing back against allegations that she leads a cult. After years of facing accusations, she has hired a lawyer and is demanding that authorities launch an official investigation. “These claims are based on pure lies from four people who are waging a smear campaign against me,” Ernst said.
Onze Huiskamer, which translates to “Our Living Room,” is described by Ernst as a group of like-minded individuals interested in spirituality. Critics, however, argue that members are being manipulated, with some families reporting that loved ones who joined the group have cut ties with them.
Ernst, 66, lives in a historic farmhouse in Hengelo with her husband. She claims that they have been repeatedly harassed on their own property, which has led them to install security cameras. “It’s no fun living in a Big Brother house, but we have no choice,” she said.
Originally a music teacher, Ernst studied at the conservatory and played the organ in church. Over time, she developed a deep interest in spirituality, which led her to start offering reiki courses. These sessions gradually evolved into what she calls “Light Gatherings.”
During these gatherings, Ernst says she and others help “wandering souls” find peace. “A wandering soul is someone who has passed away but whose spirit remains on Earth. During a session, I connect with them through a medium, and we guide them to the Light,” she explained. “There are many groups like ours.”
Critics claim that Onze Huiskamer is responsible for breaking up families. Several people who say they were affected by the group have spoken anonymously, fearing social backlash or losing their remaining connections with loved ones.
One man claims he was prevented from attending the birth of his child because his partner was involved in the group. Others say they have been denied access to their children. “The influence of Erna Ernst is destroying relationships,” said one anonymous source.
Ernst denies these claims, insisting that members are free to come and go. “I have always told people to think for themselves and use their free will,” she said. “No one is forced into anything.”
Frank Krake, a Hengelo-based author and cult expert, has been following the situation. He has previously written about religious sects and was contacted by individuals expressing concerns about Onze Huiskamer. “The big question is whether this group meets the definition of a cult,” he said. “In the Netherlands, we have freedom of religion and speech. Adults can make their own choices. So, who decides if a group is a cult?”
Krake supports an investigation. “There are people who are worried about what’s happening in this group, and that concerns me. However, just because something is questionable doesn’t mean it’s illegal.”
Frustrated by the accusations, Ernst has filed a defamation complaint. However, prosecutors have declined to pursue charges, stating that the claims against her do not meet the legal threshold for criminal defamation.
Ernst’s attorney, Jordi L’Homme, is now taking the case to a higher court through an Article 12 procedure, seeking to compel law enforcement to investigate. “My client wants a full investigation to prove these accusations are false. This is a case of defamation and slander,” L’Homme said.
Ernst says the accusations have taken a toll on her health, causing stress-related ailments. “My life has been destroyed by these lies. And to think that we stopped holding gatherings in 2019,” she said. “Yet years later, we’re still dealing with this nightmare.”
Ernst says she is determined to clear her name. “I want my name restored, not just for myself but for my children and grandchildren. A mother or grandmother being called a cult leader—it’s unbearable. The police need to investigate this thoroughly so the truth can come out.”
