The Real Reason The Plath Religion Is A Mystery

Season 1 of TLC's "Welcome to Plathville" introduced viewers to the ultra-conservative Plath family. When the show premiered in 2019, the family of 11 — parents Kim and Barry Plath and their nine children — lived off the grid on a farm in rural Georgia. As the show developed, questions began to be raised about parents Kim and Barry's strict approach to child rearing. Was their desire to keep their kids away from any potentially harmful influences robbing them of a normal childhood? Were they doing more harm than good? 

The Plath lifestyle continues to be shrouded in controversy and secrecy, even after they moved closer to the rest of society in the show's second season. One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the family is the religion they follow — especially considering how dedicated they are to it.

The Plaths haven't actually confirmed exactly what their religion is. However, in Season 1 of "Welcome to Plathville," eldest son, Ethan, revealed the kids didn't attend a formal church growing up because his parents "didn't really agree with how a regular church system functioned" (via YouTube). As a result, Ethan simply advised he and his siblings "were raised in a Christian conservative circle."

Judging by the family's connection to "Counting On" stars, the Duggars, along with fellow Christian fundamentalists the Pearls and the Rodrigues family, it's likely they're independent Baptists. During an early documentary appearance, Kim and Barry Plath discussed their faith, with the proud patriarch confirming that, as a Christian, he understands from the Bible that "the prince of the power of the air" [Satan] is the enemy. He advised, "We really want to stand in unity with the Lord" (via YouTube). 

Distractify guessed that the "Welcome to Plathville" stars are likely either Protestants or Baptists. They've been photographed outside of Baptist churches previously and have reportedly played there too, with their family band, but that doesn't necessarily mean they practice that religion (though it's probably a safe bet). 

Woman's Day surmised the Plaths are Christian fundamentalists, meaning they follow a literal interpretation of the Bible (via PBS). However, according to Your Tango, the Plaths may have links to problematic fundamentalist organization No Greater Joy Ministries, much like fellow reality stars the Duggars. They could be keeping quiet about their religion as a result.