Finding Freedom - with Tarryn Van Rensburg
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
6th April 2026
Today we have the privilege of sitting down with Tarryn Van Rensberg, co-founder of The Fireplace. Her story is a profound testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of unconditional love. Her journey takes us from the confines of a restrictive cultic community to a life dedicated to helping others find their true identity in Christ.
Growing Up in the "Message"
Tarryn grew up within a community known as "message church believers" or "Branhamites". This sect followed the exclusive teachings of William Branham, who claimed to be the reincarnate Elijah. For Tarryn, childhood was a mix of close-knit family bonds and extreme isolation from the outside world.
Key moments from her childhood:
The group viewed themselves as the "144,000" mentioned in Revelation, creating an "elite" but closed-off environment.
Tarryn recalls a definitive moment of self-hatred triggered by being mocked at school for her uncut hair and long dresses.
As the eldest daughter, she took on excessive responsibility, attempting to shield her younger brothers from the growing turmoil and her mother’s struggles with mental health.
The Breaking Point and a Divine Encounter
Desperate to escape her home environment, Tarryn married at age 19. However, the internal conflict followed her. While wrestling with the cult’s teachings and trying to reconcile them with the Bible, she experienced a life-altering spiritual encounter.
Instead of receiving a judgment on whether the teachings were "right or wrong," Tarryn was met with an overwhelming sense of peace and love. This experience superseded the need for intellectual answers and removed her desire to return to the cult’s narrative.
"The focus is not constantly on self-identity but on reflecting the divine truth."
Healing the "Body Score"
Tarryn’s recovery wasn’t just spiritual; it was deeply physical. Years of living in "flight or fight" mode resulted in chronic issues like TMJ, sleep apnea, and neck pain. She realised her body was "holding score," compressing years of unspoken words and hurt. Today, she utilises techniques like the 'butterfly tap' to regulate her nervous system and reassure herself of safety.
The Fireplace and Beyond
Today, Tarryn and her husband Johan, a musician, lead The Fireplace—an online sanctuary for gathering and healing.
The Fireplace: An online community birthed to gather, heal, and build people up through weekly worship and sharing.
Image Consulting: Tarryn uses her work as a personal stylist as a "cover" to reach women, teaching them about their inherent worth and identity in Christ to combat the lies of the enemy.
As He Is Family TV: A reality project where the family documents their lives and shares their journey of faith with the world.
Connect with Tarryn and Johan
If you are looking for a place of belonging or are navigating your own journey of healing, we highly encourage you to explore these resources:
Visit The Fireplace: An online community for worship and connection.
Follow Johan Van Rensburg Music: Experience the music that served as a source of solace for Taran.
Watch As He Is Family TV: (Coming Soon) Follow their family's journey and ministry.
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