Nashville's Notorious Stories: An Overview of Gwen Shamblin Lara's Legacy
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Gwen Shamblin Lara, founder of a controversial Christian weight-loss ministry, died in a plane crash on Percy Priest Lake on May 29, 2021.
The National Transportation Safety Board reported that the crash, which claimed the lives of Shamblin Lara, her husband Joe Lara, and five other Remnant Fellowship leaders, could have been avoided. Joe Lara experienced spatial disorientation shortly after takeoff.
Shamblin Lara founded Remnant Fellowship in 1999, growing it into a global community with approximately 150 congregations. Her “Weigh Down Workshop” significantly influenced the church's teachings, intertwining physical health with spiritual well-being.
The HBO Max docuseries “The Way Down: God, Greed, and the Cult of Gwen Shamblin” alleged cult-like practices within Remnant Fellowship, prompting the church to issue a statement denying “absurd, defamatory statements.”
In a related case, former members Sonya and Joseph Smith were convicted of felony murder regarding child abuse linked to Shamblin Lara's teachings on parental discipline.
Shamblin Lara, previously married to David Shamblin, wed actor Joe Lara in 2018. Following her death, leadership of Remnant Fellowship has shifted to a group of established congregation members.
This report is part of The Tennessean's “Notorious Nashville” series, which highlights significant local stories from the past 25 years.
For ongoing coverage, visit The Tennessean's series at this link.
Liam Adams covers religion for The Tennessean. Reach him at ladams@tennessean.com or on social media @liamsadams.