Swiss Healing Cult Endures Decades After Founder's Controversial Death
The Bruno Gröning Circle of Friends remains active in Switzerland, despite decades of controversy. Followers continue to gather in local groups, particularly in Olten and Baden. The movement centres on claims of miraculous healing, even after its founder's death over 60 years ago.
Bruno Gröning rose to prominence as one of Switzerland's most debated healers. His followers insist he could cure any illness—blindness, lameness, even terminal diseases. Many reject medical treatment entirely, relying instead on his supposed powers.
Gröning died of colorectal cancer in 1959. His supporters explained this by claiming his body had absorbed too much 'healing energy'. They still treat objects like his nail clippings and hair as sacred relics, often wrapped in aluminium foil.
The group has faced criticism for years. In 1958, Gröning was convicted of negligent homicide after a 17-year-old girl died under his care. Georg Schmid, former head of relinfo.ch, called the movement a 'textbook case of cult-like mentality'. Despite this, the Circle of Friends claims to have documented 18,000 cases of healing.
Switzerland has over 10,000 self-proclaimed healers and alternative medicine providers. While exact numbers for active Gröning groups are unclear, local meetings persist in Solothurn and Aargau cantons.
The Bruno Gröning Circle of Friends maintains a presence in Swiss towns, promoting faith in his healing abilities. Authorities and critics have long warned of risks, especially when followers avoid medical care. The movement's legacy continues, even as questions about its practices remain.
