After 16-year-old Neil Beagley died inside his home, one person after another has a hard time believing parents at the Followers of Christ Church would let a child suffer needlessly.

“It’s crazy. Why wouldn’t you take your kid to a doctor? I just don’t get it,” said Jody Lamoreaux of Molalla. “I believe if kids need medicine, they need medicine,” added Victoria Nethkin of Sandy.

What role faith should play in the healing process is at the center of a debate after Beagley died from uremic heart failure. According to authorities, Beagley was complaining of stomach aches and shortness of breath for weeks, but due to his religious beliefs, he never got the treatment he needed.

Background: Gladstone teen dies after failed 'faith healing'

“I think it’s ridiculous. I think it’s very preventable. 16-year-olds should be able to get medicine,” said Nethkin.

The president of the Followers of Christ Church did not want to talk on camera, but off camera, he told Newschannel 8’s Mike Benner he is naturally saddened by Beagley’s passing, especially since he is somebody’s loved one, but he stands by his beliefs.

However, people on the outside cannot comprehend the thought letting a child die.

“That’s bad. That’s really bad. It’s bad for the public. It’s bad for everybody,” said Jerry Cowles of Portland.

The Clackamas County District Attorney has not yet decided if he will press charges against Beagley’s parents.