There's an enforced group-think mentality at all meetings too. No one comments contrary to what the group-think is for fear of reprisal. Plus, you have a group of people who want to belive, yes, are determined to believe, that their religion, one that they have devoted their lives too, cannot be wrong on such a major issue.
Frankly, I'm awed that this guy had the guts to get up and walk out. I wonder if the elders there will wonder why he left.