JOHN'S BAPTISERS: MANDAEANS IN AUSTRALIA is a radio program that is scheduled to air on ABC Radio National on Sunday October 5 at 7.10am. It will also be available online.

This week's Encounter program looks at an ancient Gnostic sect which honours John the Baptist. They have fled persecution in the Middle East and found sanctuary in Australia. The Mandaeans of Iraq and Iran bring with them a pacifist belief structure and ancient rituals based on fresh flowing water.

The program shows how they are grappling with their past but also the challenges of life in Australia.