The Sworn: Dissecting the Cult
Season 1
The Sworn vs. Christianity
WTF is The Sworn? A Beginner's Guide
by Jason White & Shari Kennedy
We take a look at two interviews with Grinner and his thoughts on his cult-esque religion in comparison with Christianity. We compare Jesus Christ to The Sworn's prophet, The Lord of Death. Below is an excerpt from Grinner's interviews with Dr. Elizabeth Hart, Religious Scholar: Dr. Hart: Welcome to today’s interview. I am Dr. Elizabeth Hart, a religious scholar with over two decades of experience studying belief systems in post-apocalyptic societies. My research has focused on how faith adapts and transforms in response to catastrophic events, exploring everything from ancient traditions to modern sects that have arisen in these challenging times. Today, I have the unique opportunity to speak with Grinner, the leader of a new and intriguing religious movement known as The Sworn. Emerging from the ashes of a world ravaged by the living dead, The Sworn worship the Lord of Death and see transformation into the living dead as the ultimate expression of devotion. Grinner himself is a charismatic figure, known for his passionate sermons and unwavering commitment to his faith. He has attracted a dedicated following, creating a community that thrives amidst the chaos. Grinner, thank you for joining me today. It’s a pleasure to have you here. Grinner: Thank you for having me, Dr. Hart. I’m honored to share our beliefs and experiences with you. Dr. Hart: To start, how would you define The Sworn in comparison to Christianity? Grinner: The Sworn is rooted in the reverence for death and the living dead. While Christianity offers a path of salvation and eternal life through faith in Christ, we believe in embracing death as a transformation—a necessary step to become one with the Lord of Death. We view death not as a defeat but as a continuation of existence, a way to serve a greater purpose. Dr. Hart: That's a fascinating perspective. How do you think this belief system resonates with those who may have grown up in a Christian environment? Grinner: Many of us were raised with the teachings of Christianity, and I have deep respect for its values. Sects like Catholicism, which emphasize the afterlife, resonate with our beliefs about continuity and transformation. However, we take it a step further by embracing the idea of the living dead as integral to our community. It’s a way of finding strength in what others may fear. Dr. Hart: So you’re suggesting that The Sworn provides a more tangible connection to the afterlife? Grinner: Yes, exactly. While Christianity speaks of heaven and the afterlife, The Sworn offers a direct experience through our rituals and the reverence we hold for the living dead. We believe that by sacrificing oneself, individuals can transcend their mortal limitations and join the ranks of those who have passed, continuing to exist in a communal spirit. Dr. Hart: That’s a significant difference. How do you address the concept of sin and redemption within your faith, particularly in comparison to the Christian framework? Grinner: In Christianity, redemption is often sought through repentance and faith. In The Sworn, we believe that redemption can also come through sacrifice. We see the potential for transformation in everyone, even unbelievers. If they choose to embrace our beliefs, they can find their way back to our community through self-offering. It’s about reconnecting with a greater purpose.
In this episode, we go into what The Sworn is: The Sworn is a post-apocalyptic religious cult founded after the outbreak of the living dead, centered around themes of sacrifice, survival, and reverence for death. They believe in sustaining their community through rituals, including harvesting from the living while keeping them alive, and hold a deep connection with the living dead, viewing them as sacred. Led by High Priestess Stacy Conrad and her mysterious partner Grinner, The Sworn is a tightly-knit society focused on enduring through brutal methods and absolute faith in the Lord of Death.
In our first episode, it's only appropriate that we take a look at the man whose works were used as the basis for the founding of The Sworn: Kurt Conrad. Kurt died a few years before The Sworn emerged as a powerful force. Unbeknownst to him, his earlier experiments and military documents laid the groundwork for the creation of the society founded by his daughter Stacy and Grinner. Though he never witnessed the rise of The Sworn, his legacy continued through their beliefs and practices, tying his fate to the very community he sought to protect. In the annals of the living dead apocalypse, Kurt Conrad is remembered not only as a military leader but as a pivotal figure whose life shaped the course of a new, dark belief system. His dedication to duty, family, and survival left an indelible mark on the world that emerged from the ashes of civilization.