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May 2002 Guestbook
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Remote User:
Date:
01 May 2002
Time:
03:29:16
Comments
Hi, avishai here again. #1 It's my belief that the only reason
Bill is still a jw is to remain as effective as possible, much
like those who choose to become "inactive" rather than
disassociate themselves to be able to still talk w/ there families.
And we all know of those examples. And, now, I feel a bit hypocritical
after bitching about dogma & how the important thing is catching
molesters, not arguing about dogma, but, I think it's time to
throw my hat in the ring, dogmatically speaking, as there are
those who won't believe that anything is going wrong if the religion
is right. It's very, very easy to quickly disprove jw doctrine.
Since it's inception, the religion has been based on the year
1914, & it was calculated from the supposed year of the conquest
of israel 607 b.c.e. This calculation is based on the assumptions
that the gregorian calendar is exact & correct. It is NOT.
It may be inaccurate w/ a variable of up to 15 years! And, that's
beyond the fact that most scholars give a different date for
the fall of israel being 587 b.c.e. Which could put "1914" anywhere
from 1896 to 1934. There is no accurate way to calculate this,
unless perhaps a hebrew calendar is used, & probably not
then! Then, also, w/ this in mind, think of all the times they
say something is going to happen, i.e. 1975. They have called
themselves god's prophet in the past, now changed to the more
ambiguous"gods channel of information on earth" WHICH
MEANS EXACTLY THE SAME THING! According to deuteronomy 18:19,
once you call yourself a prophet, you cannot take it back! Also,
when "god's channel of information" does a 180 degree
turn in doctrine, they call it new light! The old testament "channels
of info" didn't change their prophecies, they were very
explicit, not vague, & NEVER did 180 degree turns on their
prophecies, they couldn't as per deuteronomy, or they would be
KILLED! Said chapters & verse to follow. Once you are aware
of these facts, there is no way to rationalize them away! & if
you do, you are just as guilty as the false prophets, as you
are required to take these lies door to door. Sorry, for getting
all dogmatic, the children are what really matters, remember
that above all else, god won't fix it later, because almost everyone
is too lazy to try themselves. 18 I will raise them up a Prophet
from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words
in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command
him.
19 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken
unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require
it of him. Acts 3.23
20 But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my
name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall
speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.
21 And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word
which the LORD hath not spoken?
22 when a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing
follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD
hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously:
thou shalt not be afraid of him. avishai@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
01 May 2002
Time:
13:52:05
Comments
Avishai: Looks like someone recently read "Gentile Times
Reconsidered," maybe with a bit of "Crisis of Conscience" for
good measure. They really drive the point home.
Remote User:
Date:
01 May 2002
Time:
21:09:18
Comments
""
I am dying with cancer now. I have nothing else to lose. I will
tell the secrets. I refuse to be shut up again! Please join my
voice in a very loud shout!!!
P ""
Dear P, I implore you to seek help for the Cancer. Cancer need
not kill in this day and age. I realize allopathic (General MDs)
will sell you surgery, radiation or poison for Cancer, but there
is a "Natural Hygiene" method for treating Cancer.
Many just accept Cancer as a death sentence. Cancer is the "last" stage
of several levels of toxic damage done to the body and it may
be able to be turned around completely. Get a book by "Harvey
Diamond" called "Fit for Life-A New Beginning. Once
read you will understand and not fear this any more. ServeWPassion@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
01 May 2002
Time:
21:30:07
Comments
This guestbook appears to all, so if you wish to keep your email
private I suggest you go to the home page and click on the "add
me to email" button that way I will be glad to put you on
the sl list for emails but your identity will always remain confidential.
Hope this helps,
silentlambs
Remote User:
Date:
02 May 2002
Time:
03:01:33
Comments
I've read most of the guestbook messages here and I'd like to
reply to those people who are defending the JW's. I was raised
as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and suffered sexual abuse for 5
years from a couple that seemed to be spiritually strong. Everyone
in their congregation loved them. But for 5 years of my life
they molested me. Any form of abuse stays with the victim throughout
their lives. Even if a JW claims to be repentant they should
have charges filed against them. They should not, for any reason,
be let free among the congregation to ruin another child. The
couple that stole 5 years of my life were put on private reproof.
They admitted to everything I had said they did and all they
got was private reproof. That makes it so hard for me to trust
the congregation now. I was also told that I shouldn't press
charges against them because it might "bring reproach upon
Jehovah's organization". So they got away with it for now.
But Jehovah will take care of them in the proper way, whatever
His will is. I am just afraid for the children who have no idea
these predators are in their congregation. Over 27,000 cases
have been reported. So I think protecting the organization is
not the issue here. Protecting the children should be more important.
Remote User:
Date:
02 May 2002
Time:
10:16:26
Comments
I think that it is great that you have created this site for
those of us who have been silentlambs for so long and now feel
the need to speak out! Keep up the work, I greatly support you!!
-Vanessa
Remote User:
Date:
02 May 2002
Time:
14:48:48
Comments
The Catholics have admitted to their mistakes and are trying
to do something about it, so why can't JWs do the same?
Remote User:
Date:
02 May 2002
Time:
15:25:20
Comments
There is a pretty important point that seems to get by a lot
of people: It is horribly self-centered to think that a pedophile
is dealt with if he is identified and the children of the congregation
are protected. That is not nearly enough. It is the height of
apostasy to assert that Jehovah will deal with the individual
and until then he won't have a position of responsibility. How
disgusting it is to posit that the external authorities should
not be called to protect the org.'s name. The world has other
children that don't go to your Kingdom Hall. We are obligated
to protect them too, whenever we can. A christian attitude would
impel everyone to see that the molester is dealt with! Shame
on anyone that knows of an offender and yet participates in the
hush-hush tactics of the Watchtower Society.
"By their fruits you shall know them"
Remote User:
Date:
02 May 2002
Time:
15:29:39
Comments
i don t have any faith that jw s will ever be as candid about
their problem as the catholics have finally done we were brainwashed
too well i don t recall when 'not doing anything that would bring
reproach on jehovah s name' and 'covering a multitude of sins
with love' became 'don t tell what jw s really do or it will
reproach the organization' and 'cover up a multitude of horrific
crimes with theocratic deception' but at some point all of us
were conditioned to that point
Remote User:
Date:
02 May 2002
Time:
16:48:12
Comments
in reviewing some of my previous posts, i would like to apologize
to the group for the style of typing i sometimes use. i find
it hard to understand my own writing. i often type without punctuation,
and make up for it by hitting the space bar several times,in
lieu of periods or commas. now i see that for some reason, the
final form in the guest book compresses all those spaces, and
it all runs together. will try to be clearer in the future. although
i may still eschew capital letters from time to time. ;-)
Remote User:
Date:
03 May 2002
Time:
19:07:04
Comments
HI SilentLambs.you all have my thoughts and prayers Please keep
speaking OUT'Searchin 50 @aol,com
Remote User:
Date:
03 May 2002
Time:
19:08:45
Comments
HI SilentLambs.you all have my thoughts and prayers Please keep
speaking OUT'Searchin 50 @aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
04:23:48
Comments
hey silent lambs me being a active jehovah's witnesses no of your
coming up judicial hearing being DF is your next step jehovah
will keep his people clean he does not tolerate sects its sad
worker of satan how u have fell from the truth sad
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
04:38:48
Comments
You obviously have a problem with the JW's. Unfortunately children
in ALL religious background have been harmed, not just JW's.
Look at the courts in Australia, the Catholic religion has a
few more problems don't you think? But soon all the wrong that
men have done will be corrected. You really have a chip on your
shoulder don't you? What you hate about child molesters is so
true , they destroy lives, but just because a person calls himself
a title, doesn't make the lot that way. Open up your eyes.
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
12:53:16
Comments
This is a message for Bill Bowen:
Hi Bill, you do not know me, I am an active JW and I have been
following your work very closely.
You're doing an outstanding job, keep at it.
You are one man against all the odds. I deplore the covering
up of child abuse and the shunning policy practiced against victims,
it is unscriptural.
I simply cannot believe that the Society is trying to form a
judicial committee against you.
I would go on the presumption Bill that your judicial committee
has ALREADY made the decision to disfellowship you, they are
just doing it by the book. You will then be known as a disgruntled
X-JW not as an active witness, which will make a huge difference
to how people see your cause for changing the child abuse policy.
What is even more low is that the Society sends letters to the
families that appear on dateline who have been victims of child
abuse ordering them to a judicial committee. Haven't the victims
suffered enough?
Child abuse is a crime, it should not be covered over or dismissed.
I find that the Society is more interested in preserving their
'image' of Jehovah, rather than living up to 'their' dedication
to Jehovah and doing what's right. Image counts for everything,
people it seems, don't.
A B Rother
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
16:17:24
Comments
if it is true that a judicial committee is being formed against
bill bowen, i can assure u that MINDS ARE ALREADY MADE UP! never
saw a committee that didn't. especially one that was formed as
part of the cover up of child abuse. i was so brainwashed that
i felt i was in the wrong for my attitude when i was harassed
by committee for trying to protect and expose the abuse of my
children. it has taken years to undo the spiritual/emotional/psychological
RAPE that is done by elders, congregations, the "faithful
and discreet slave", the WTS, etc. interesting that they
use the same comfort/threat/we your only family and support/u will
be killed if u don t do as we say type of techniques in grooming
their converts, as abuse perpetrators use against their victims.
my family will NEVER go back to such filth and depravity as we
experienced as JWs! and it has cost us dearly,in losing the few
relatives who are still part of this borg collective. as far
as losing the fellowship of those who perpetrated or covered
up the crimes against my family, tried blaming the victims, (including
my children), protected the perps, and spread the vilest slander
about my family INCLUDING my children as a smokescreen, refused
to take judicial action against one of the perps when it was
established in a court of law that the perp perjured and committed
false testimony against my family, for those who actually made
my brainwashed psyche feel so guilty about my attitude in all
this, that i actually ASKED to be disfellowshipped,so as to receive
the 'loving, scourging discipline of jehovah that he gives to
those he accepts as his sons ' so that i might actually re establish
my 'dying faith ' and adjust my un-theocratic-like attitude.....as
far as my fellowship with these kind of sc um..... including the
elder who personally apologized, saying he had no choice but
to go along with the lies 'for the sake of unity with the committee,
elders and truth'....as far as our loss of fellowship with these
'christians' ...... good riddance and *%$# u all! had i seen
even one 'brother' with the moral fortitude and integrity of
the one running silentlambs, i would have stayed, and my family
would not have healed as much as it has. i am ashamed about my
diligence in raising my beautiful children in this dangerous
teaching. i am ashamed that i continued to take them to meetings,
assemblies and conventions after i asked to be disfellowshipped.
i am ashamed that i had the goal of being reinstated into such
a depraved organization. and no, my healthy aversion to these
lying abusers that call themselves witnesses of jehovah did not
come about from reading this web-site, or any other writings
against the organization. i scrupulously avoided ANY association
with anyone/thing that questioned jws for years. i avoided associating
with any EX-jws for years. i came to my attitude by having my
sanity restored. if there were more like the founder of silent
lambs, who actually stand up for TRUTH and what witnesses claim
to be and teach, i would still be defending them, as i did for
the first decade after i left. if this work can prevent or help
even ONE silentlamb heal of being raped, intimidated, threatened
and feeling guilty about it, then everything that they have done
has been worth it. if they have the audacity to df bowen, it
only goes to show them for what they are. never seen a rapist
that didn't try to discredit their victims and their defenders.
if bowen is anything like i was, sincere in believing jw s have
the truth, he probably will have little to do with people like
me until he heals too. their trying to df him is just ANOTHER
FORM OF RAPE.
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
16:20:51
Comments
by the way, my family and i are eagerly awaiting the dateline
report. when is it scheduled to be aired? i e mailed dateline
and asked, but don t want to take the chance that they will air
it before they get a chance to respond.
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
19:35:31
Comments
I was molested by a male pioneer many years older than I. This
was when I was merely 13. He went on to serve where the need
was great and was appointed an elder in many diverse places in
California. He had a problem which was never uncovered because
I never said a thing. Now my best girlfriend,,we are both 55+
years old, reveals that she ALSO was molested by him at the same
time. He had "sisters" chasing him in an attempt to
get married for decades. I decline to add my name in hopes of
protecting my elderly mother who is still very strong in the
organization. I have left some 4 years ago now with a total
loss of belief or trust.
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
20:46:08
Comments
It is crystal clear from reading the news excerpts that pedophiles
are allowed to circulate. All the abuser has to do is say 'I'm
sorry' and is deemed repentant. Or better yet, the abuser denies
it all, and the abused is left not only with the enduring hell,
but the reality that it is the abuser who will get protection.
I experienced this first hand. If you get therapy for what you've
gone through, the elders 'watch' your every move. Getting therapy
is frowned on - you are considered spiritually weak for seeking
'wordly' help. This site blows their hypocrisy to smithereens
and I highly encourage those looking into this 'religion' to
look close enough to see the whites of their lies. Those who
share their stories here - I applaud you.
Salem salem@ns.sympatico.ca
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
20:50:38
Comments
Hey what a great site for witnessing materials.
Remote User:
Date:
04 May 2002
Time:
23:38:10
Comments
The experiences reported here concern mainly elders and ministerial
servants as the perpetrators, and it would seem that these ones
were ALREADY PRACTISING their vile crimes against children BEFORE
being 'appointed' by holy spirit.
Even when these ones are found out, some of them simply move
to another congregation, only to perform well again and be 're-appointed'
by holy spirit to their former position.
My question is this:
Is it true or not true that ministerial servants, elders and
other higher ranking servants are APPOINTED by holy spirit?
As one scripture says, 'My thoughts are not their thoughts,
for my ways are higher than their ways'
I cannot understand how anyone could be appointed by holy spirit
and still be practicing child abuse.
The Society feels that if the whole issue of child abuse in
the organization is 'well known', then this will undermine the
whole authority structure of the elders and the Society in general.
Appointment by holy spirit could be seen as a means to control
people, and if this is blown away, then control over witnesses
is greatly undermined.
Remote User:
Date:
05 May 2002
Time:
23:03:27
Comments
I am a former JW. My ex-husband was, at the time of our divorce,
an elder. Then, due to the divorce he was removed (an elder,
after all, has to have his family under control and he'd lost
his control!), but just a year later was an elder again.
He never sexually abused any child, nor did he physically abuse
me. My children,however, endured incredible abuse and they have
mental, emotional as well as physical scars. When I brought this
to the other elders' attention, they always said the children
must have deserved it. No child deserves to be burned with a
candle flame.
We must keep in mind that these elders are not trained in dealing
with family problems, only in bible teachings. And yet this is
no excuse.
As a child growing up, I experienced sexual abuse both from
a "brother" in the congregation as well as from my
stepfather, who never was baptized but was an accepted member
of the congregation.
One of the issues I'd like to bring up is one that is also totally
ignored within the society. That's alcoholism. I learned to drink
at social gatherings, early in my marriage. It took me years
to recover. Almost all of our "friends" drank to intoxication.
And most of our friends were elders.
Another issue is how children are treated. I wish I had gotten
away earlier from the society. Learning to treat each child individually,
with love and respect, is something I learned "in the world."
Then there is the issue on how women are treated. The psychological
battering I endured from my ex-husband for 18 years almost killed
me. It took years of counseling for me to even learn that I could
say "no" to a man.
As a last note I want to add that my ex-husband, refuses to
take any responsibility in raising our children, except for taking
them to "meetings." Otherwise, financially and in handling
parental issues, I am on my own. Yet he is an elder, counseling
other families ... However, I am glad to be free of him and the
society.
I do miss the nice people in the congregation. I miss my family
who has to shun me. I miss the sisterhood.
In about two years, look for my upcoming book, entitled: After
the Fall -- A book of hope for those who have been excommunicated,
expelled or disfellowshipped from a religious organization.
Thank you for the good work you are doing.
Remote User:
Date:
06 May 2002
Time:
16:43:27
Comments
I think this is a good "awareness" site and I am totally
all for helping the silentlambs. But I have never heard of any
thing of this sort...It is against the JW's religion to have
pre-marital sex so I find this hard to believe that it is an
ongoing problem...its obviously not big enough to make the news--look
at the Catholic's. They protected their priests and still there
will be people out their who report it to the proper authority's.
I think that people are consistently looking for the bad in everything...why
don't we look at the good for a change? This world isn't that horrible.
Thanks--CD
Remote User:
Date:
06 May 2002
Time:
20:29:31
Comments
All right, for the guy that said It can't be that bad, look at
the catholics, look at the good for once. SCREW YOU,PAL!!! The
catholics are MUCH larger religion, that is why they get more!!!
And, tell me, where is the good in letting children get raped
over & over & over again? WHERE? It's complacent jerks
like you that allow these ATROCITIES to occur. You are & all
of your ilk are blood guilty!!! Guilty of child molestation by
proxy if not by fact. I hope Bill sues the wtbs for discrimination,
in that he was following a federal law when he reported this
evil bastard! I hope they & every other churches that cover
this up are sued so bad by all the victims that they are no longer
able to function! THAT would truly be paradise, a new order.
God doesn't protect child molesters, you do!!!!
Remote User:
Date:
06 May 2002
Time:
22:26:36
Comments
To the person who suggests we look at the good in things, tell
me.. What is the "good" in this situation? Certainly
you can see how the lives that have been forever altered, and
the innocence ripped away from these victims/survivors is so
very much worse and outweighs any of the "good" things
that you may say this religion has done for people. Shame on
you for such an insensitive comment in a place where people are
trying to heal. Amy at aorchid21@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
07 May 2002
Time:
00:59:16
Comments
Excellent site. Unfortunately, there are way too many sisters
(and brothers) emotionally messed up, not only because of the
abuse that they sustained, but seeing the abuser literally get
away with murder.
Remote User:
Date:
07 May 2002
Time:
01:43:14
Comments
Hi again, To the person who said look at the good. This isn't
a matter of where we focus our attention. The bible says that
a man who does not look after his own(family)is "worse than
a man without faith." A pedophile does not look after his
own obviously!!! What good?
The Older men in bible times were commanded to keep the congregation
clean. Why are they not? How many times must they repeatedly sin
against our children before they realize that they are unrepentant?
The King of Israel Saul was told when he begged God forgiveness "to
obey is better that a sacrifice." Even in the bible there
are examples where there was an end of forgiveness on Gods part.
There had to be works befitting repentance. He certainly never
suggested the Kings behaviour to be ignored or suggest we look
for the Good. DJB
Remote User:
Date:
07 May 2002
Time:
19:57:23
Comments
Dear Silentlambs,
Just a quick note to say 'Thank You' for all your hard work,
perseverance and courage. Speaking out against a ruthless, powerful
and selfish cult like the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
is a daunting task - particularly when one considers the mountain
of ill-gotten wealth they have at their disposal. Rest assured,
your sacrifice is sincerely appreciated by many - especially
by those who have been directly victimized by this sick cult.
Looking forward to the airing of the Dateline show...
Sincerely,
Phil Trozzi (X-JW and proud of it) email: scot@mnsi.net
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
12:09:34
Comments
Dear Bill, I sent the letter you sent to the yahoo mailing list,
and the letters from the elders who are wanting to disfellowship
you to the local newspaper here. I pray the publish a story on
this. I am so sorry this is happening to you and all those good
people who work with you.
All of us ex-witnesses who have have been booted out by this
self-righteous organization know all too well what you are going
through.
How brave are all those who are publishing the truth though
about the WTS. May the God of all mercy and love be with you
through this trial.
Sincerely,
Balsam Balsam51@hotmail.com May 8th 2002
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
13:26:14
Comments
I have been studying, but in researching the organization for
myself I have come to this conclusion: Jehovah's Witness a more
concerned about the "Letter of the Law" (Scribes & Pharisees
views) vs the "Spirit of the Law" (Jesus Christ's views)
They're more interested in protecting their image than caring
for their flock. My heart goes out to all the victims. I'm behind
the Silent Lambs 100%
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
14:00:48
Comments
Hello - my name is Pamela (Williams) Montgomery. I work for Northwestern
Academy in Pennsylvania. The facility is a juvenile detention/rehab
center and I have been doing research for information and happened
upon your site. I am looking for worksheets or brochures that
can be given to juvenile male victims of sexual abuse for our
clinical office. The odd thing about your site is - I grew up
in Calvert City, Kentucky, and my family is still there, so it
was a surprise to see your address. Any help you can give would
be appreciated.
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
14:03:53
Comments
Northwestern Academy, 3800 State Route #61, Coal Twp, PA 17834.
Thanks again - Pam Montgomery PMontgom@nhsonline.org kentuckywoman@iwon.com
Regardless of the religion of a person - this should never be
tolerated. I see the results every single day.
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
19:49:31
Comments
Hi, I was raised as a "witness" and was abused by a
member of my family who was not a witness. The traditions and
beliefs of the witnesses do not protect the innocent children
from sexual predators. At the time I was a girl (30 years ago)
it was unheard of to seek "professional" help for emotional
problems, Jehovah will take care of. I wonder if that attitude
still pervades today. I am so glad your site it here for those
who may need it. You will be blessed.
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
20:44:03
Comments
True Some of JW members do not imitate Jesus closely as they
should but that does not take away the fact the organization
preaches the truth and encourages all to remain in the truth,
to apply it fully. Everyone is responsible for their actions.
I love being a JW. Jehovah is teaching us for our benefit, it
is up to each one of us to heed the counsel. I find hard to believe
these malicious acts are going on in the congregations where
parents are encouraged to train their own children in the truth.
I also find hard to believe that elders would tolerate an active
pedophile among us and not encourage victims to report it to
proper authority. I am not serving anyone but Jehovah. I like
what I am learning I am going to support the good and reject
the bad. You do the same instead of wasting your time trying
to destroy Jehovah' organization on earth. You will never win.
Study the book of Isaiah and find out that Jehovah always protects
his people (The righteous ones of course).
Remote User:
Date:
08 May 2002
Time:
21:20:16
Comments
To the one that loves being a JW: You sound fairly new to the
org. All you will need is one run-in with a judicial committee
to find out how far they have strayed from a christian attitude.
Self-righteous men doing what an even more self-righteous organization
tells them. The men leading the congregations are a self-selected
group where those that wouldn't treat other christians with such
cruelty are weeded out. You do yourself a disservice when you
think that the congregation elders would not allow such a one
to carry on in a congregation. If a Circuit Overseer decides
that it would be best for the Society to keep the matter quiet,
the elders will bow their heads like the the overly-indoctrinated
robots they have become. "Shhh...Jehovah will take care
of it due time - and don't go to the worldly authorities." Sorry
chief, it happens every day.
Unless you are the type that enjoys relinquishing all conscientious
decisions to someone else, you'll get your chance. Just remember
how you were going to 'support the good and reject the bad' while
they sit you down and force you to swear allegiance to the Society
and reaffirm your acceptance of some absurd doctrine. See how
you stand as you decide whether the 'truth sets you free' or
you should just go along with something you don't believe just
so you can stay in an organization. If it hasn't happened yet,
then you haven't been having frank discussions with fellow members.
How constraining is that? For starters, why don't you tell some
of your closest fellows that you've been on this site.
- Buster
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
00:43:09
Comments
This is avishai, & here is a msg. to the one who loves being
a jw. You refer to the "righteous ones". Your letter
is very naive & sad. First, refute my argument of May 1 about
1914, & then you can tell me about how Jehovah protects the
righteous. Then, I want you to find a child who has been molested & had
it covered up or even been reproved at as young of an age as
11 for "fornication w/ someone who is of age, & tell
them how they have been "protected" by Jehovah & his
org. Or, maybe you can tell this child that they weren't protected
because they aren't"righteous" as they are forced
to be cordial to someone who has raped them and stolen their
innocence. Trust me, You can find someone this has happened to,
it won't be hard, THEN come back & tell me that you love
being a jw, that Jehovah protects the righteous. Then, & only
then, will you have a right to come on here & spout off about
things you obviously know nothing about. Then you can call Bill
an apostate. You, know, there have always been "Gods people" Who
have been called apostates for saying the right thing, who have
been jeered, shunned & tortured for saying the right thing.
Look at Jeremiah! And it's self-righteous people , just like
you, who were persecuting them, not listening. RAPING CHILDREN
IS WRONG! THAT IS ALL THIS SITE IS SAYING! Go sit in your tower,
idiot! You are helping satan do his work, sitting there blindly
calling names! You know better! PHARISEE!!
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
00:43:12
Comments
This is avishai, & here is a msg. to the one who loves being
a jw. You refer to the "righteous ones". Your letter
is very naive & sad. First, refute my argument of May 1 about
1914, & then you can tell me about how Jehovah protects the
righteous. Then, I want you to find a child who has been molested & had
it covered up or even been reproved at as young of an age as
11 for "fornication w/ someone who is of age, & tell
them how they have been "protected" by Jehovah & his
org. Or, maybe you can tell this child that they weren't protected
because they aren't"righteous" as they are forced
to be cordial to someone who has raped them and stolen their
innocence. Trust me, You can find someone this has happened to,
it won't be hard, THEN come back & tell me that you love
being a jw, that Jehovah protects the righteous. Then, & only
then, will you have a right to come on here & spout off about
things you obviously know nothing about. Then you can call Bill
an apostate. You, know, there have always been "Gods people" Who
have been called apostates for saying the right thing, who have
been jeered, shunned & tortured for saying the right thing.
Look at Jeremiah! And it's self-righteous people , just like
you, who were persecuting them, not listening. RAPING CHILDREN
IS WRONG! THAT IS ALL THIS SITE IS SAYING! Go sit in your tower,
idiot! You are helping satan do his work, sitting there blindly
calling names! You know better! PHARISEE!!
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
02:15:41
Comments
Hi again, Response for May 8 2002 Time:20:44:03
You are happy you are a witness. Nice to hear. Hope you do not
have any children. They will be at RISK. I am an ACTIVE WITNESS
and from my experience it the TRUTH what you read here. I do
not agree with what is going on. I will tell you it is happening
and to reject what everyone is saying here is very dangerous
for your children. Consider it you have a lot to lose.
Think! The apostles even talked about the super fine apostles,
false brothers in the early Christian congregation. Who are we
to think it can't happen today? Romans 15:4 tell us "For
all the things that were written aforetime were written for our
instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort
from the Scriptures we might have hope". We are to learn
from what happened to them so we don't repeat the same mistakes.
In 1 Cor 5:1 tells of a situation that existed in the early
Christian congregation. It reads "Actually fornication is
reported among you and such fornication as is not even among
the nations...V.2 ...rather not mourn, in order that the man
that committed this deed should be taken away from your midst?
Considering this scripture why are they allowing these pedophiles
in midst attending meetings? These scriptures were written aforetime
for our instruction... and supersede any man made rules or policies.
DJB
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
05:17:10
Comments
Hi, i will just say, i support your action against the organization.
cause we can not allowed this thing to go on. I`m 23 years old,
i got Disfellowshipped at the age of 21, i will fight for the
right that every people can have their own beliefs, and not being "let
to die" this way of shutting people out is a sick way of
showing they don`t respect human beings. people can believe what
they want...but not practicing this way of shutting people out,
i`m not a believer of any other religions now, but jesus never
turned away from anyone. young people struggle after getting
Disfellowshipped, they have no place to go, we can not let the
government keep on letting jw. doing this. thanks. jat-m@online.no
from norway:)
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
08:38:44
Comments
I found this site interesting, sad and disturbing. I am an active
witness who worships God. Since He hasn't abused anyone I won't
leave Him. However, I can understand the great anger that injustice
generates. An abused child needs to be protected and the guilty
one needs to be punished and this should be PUBLIC knowledge
in order to protect others. And this leads to the hub of the
problem - the Organization is not able to 'punish' anyone, they
are only able to remove wrongdoers who are unrepentant. Neither
do they want to bring God's name into reproach by going public.
However, reporting ALL accusations to the authorities, whether
there is a legal responsibility to do so or not, is the only
way to go. Let the 'superior authorities' investigate and take
all appropriate action and let the congregations support them.
Otherwise people will make wild unfounded accusations like many
posted here that sexual abuse is 'rampant' in the Organization,
which it certainly is not, or take the opposite defensive view
that it isn't a problem at all which is both untrue and hurtful
to those who have become victims. The Organization is in decline
in many countries around the world. Arrogance and self-righteousness
is commonplace, especially amongst those 'taking the lead'. This
is simply what 2 Tim 3:1-5 says will happen INSIDE the congregation.
It's not going to improve. In fact, the Society is yet to wake
up to the realization that there IS a problem and that there
may be not as much 'food at the appropriate time' as they would
like to think. There were similar problems in the first century
too - the first apostles thought too much of themselves as well.
That's the way it is. However, I worship Jehovah and no man and
that's why I have no problem being in the Truth. Sure, it's far
from perfect and genuine silentlambs deserve better. I hope and
pray that they will see justice soon.
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
08:39:02
Comments
I found this site interesting, sad and disturbing. I am an active
witness who worships God. Since He hasn't abused anyone I won't
leave Him. However, I can understand the great anger that injustice
generates. An abused child needs to be protected and the guilty
one needs to be punished and this should be PUBLIC knowledge
in order to protect others. And this leads to the hub of the
problem - the Organization is not able to 'punish' anyone, they
are only able to remove wrongdoers who are unrepentant. Neither
do they want to bring God's name into reproach by going public.
However, reporting ALL accusations to the authorities, whether
there is a legal responsibility to do so or not, is the only
way to go. Let the 'superior authorities' investigate and take
all appropriate action and let the congregations support them.
Otherwise people will make wild unfounded accusations like many
posted here that sexual abuse is 'rampant' in the Organization,
which it certainly is not, or take the opposite defensive view
that it isn't a problem at all which is both untrue and hurtful
to those who have become victims. The Organization is in decline
in many countries around the world. Arrogance and self-righteousness
is commonplace, especially amongst those 'taking the lead'. This
is simply what 2 Tim 3:1-5 says will happen INSIDE the congregation.
It's not going to improve. In fact, the Society is yet to wake
up to the realization that there IS a problem and that there
may be not as much 'food at the appropriate time' as they would
like to think. There were similar problems in the first century
too - the first apostles thought too much of themselves as well.
That's the way it is. However, I worship Jehovah and no man and
that's why I have no problem being in the Truth. Sure, it's far
from perfect and genuine silentlambs deserve better. I hope and
pray that they will see justice soon.
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
11:33:43
Comments
My name is Ben - I'm 24 years old and was raised in the JW denomination
in my early years of life. I excommunicated myself when I turned
18 years old because I felt this religion wasn't for me due to
some unfavorable experiences I've had with members of JW's. I
never got baptized with this JW denomination so I guess I could
say I never was really a JW, although I was raised in it since
I was 5 years old until I was 18. With the news of Catholic bishops
molesting children - I find it hypocritical of JW's to criticize
them and tear them down when they themselves got serious problems
of their own. If any former JW's would like to talk to me please
email me at my address posted below. I might take a while to
respond but please bare with me - any and all contacts to me
would be greatly appreciated.
Ben ben_24_r@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
12:09:38
Comments
It is truly sad if you think in Jehovah's perfect Justice that
he is worried about His reputation if you expose a child molester
or murderer in the ranks of a "spiritual organization".
It is exactly the opposite, you would be cleaning house, so it's
time to take "off" the "Excuses" hat and
take a "Stand for what is right". I remember a banner
in a room once, it said "Stand up for what is right, even
if your standing alone."
When your standing before Jehovah giving reason for your life,
will you be able to face up to what you have done. Imagine, "Well
uh, Lord, I am a follower, and I was following the "HERD" instinct.
I just could not seem to think for myself."
People, your writing your "RESUME" for heaven "right
this very minute". What you do now on this earth will be
revealed when you stand before God. Will you say, Father, I let
one of your innocent babies go to slaughter to protect the precious
reputation of a "organization" who is afraid of the
TRUTH itself. Beware, there is a difference between wheat and
chaff and light and heat.
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
13:44:32
Comments
I am shocked but somewhat not surprise about everything I have
just read....
You are a very courageous man, my prayers go out to you and
your family...
The truth will be known...
Brissoncar@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
13:45:43
Comments
The problem with conformity is that everyone else likes you but
yourself.
Rita Mae Brown
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
15:27:13
Comments
Your web site is very interesting, it has opened a few things
for me.My name is Lisa I have a story to tell myself, it would
be very interesting to know how my situation would have been
handled. My e-mail address is: lisa_king@ntlworld.com.
Remote User:
Date:
29 May 2002
Time:
00:00:17
Comments
I thought I was alone. Thank you for starting this website. Thank
you for fighting for us when NO ONE else did. Chanel Davis
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
16:28:44
Comments
You should be ashamed of yourself. The good thing is Jehovah will
take care of this whole situation. Your like an apostate in disguise.
What am I doing looking on here? I'm disfellowshipped and you've
just given me strength in who is the true GOD. Jehovah, Almighty.
Obedience is at a loss. Things happen for a reason. You obviously
failed the test. Jehovah works in HIS time. You've gone against
that. I hope no one else gets sucked into this garbage!!!
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
18:39:35
Comments
Well I must have hit rock bottom, I am now being chastised by
a DF person who cannot spell the name Jehovah.
silentlambs
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
23:32:13
Comments
http://www.jw-media.org/vnr/2122827332/7163532856.htm
http://www.watchtower.org/library/g/1993/10/8a/article_01.htm
http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/1997/1/1/article_01.htm
This information is from the official site
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
01:57:28
Comments
This site is not 'Garbage', but I wonder if all the anti-JW talk
has become the main issue, rather than considering the plight
of those who have been abused. As for silentlambs, I hope your
understanding of the facts is higher than your knowledge of how
to spell God's name which is indeed Jehovah is many languages.
The writer's first language need not have been English, and Hebrew
is the definitive spelling, not English. As for your saying about
yourself 'I must have hit rock bottom', time will tell! Remember
the account of the man who thought the Ark of the Covenant was
falling and grabbed hold of it to steady it. God struck him down
dead because he wasn't allowed to touch it under any circumstances.
He had shown a lack of faith in God who could have protected
the Ark if needed by a myriad of angels. The point? The Organization
is not perfect, it may be failing in some way, but Jehovah can
put it right anytime he so chooses. Many cases have not been
dealt with properly, and not just in this subject either. But
if you trust in God you'll let him sort it. If you don't trust
he'll act appropriately then you condemn yourself by your lack
of faith, just like the man who tried to steady the Ark of the
Covenant.
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
02:47:57
Comments
I feel so overwhelmed with all different emotions! Some are of
empathy for those who have suffered molestation. Others bring
back all the torment hic i suffered as a divorced woman in "the
Truth". No, i wasn't physically molested or abused, but
as one woman said, sometimes mental and emotional abuse is worse,
and that i did experience. I pray for us all, that God will heal
our terrible physical and psychic wounds. I ask for blessings
upon those of you who have had the courage to speak out in the
defense of the helpless. Please notify me when the Dateline program
is scheduled to air, and also anyone who just wishes to talk-karbintab@aol.com
Karimah
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
04:15:51
Comments
I am not a JW but my in-laws are. This site really helps with
my own 'research' on them. Excellent site.
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
04:24:47
Comments
William (Bill?); thank you so much for the posts that you have
been sent out regularly by email to those of us on your email
list. It is very encouraging to hear that CNN and the NY Times
are finally taking notice of this problem! I just wanted to let
you know that I am so sorry for what the WT organization is about
to put you through. I really agree with what you said in one
of your emails that THEY are the ones causing divisions, by not
addressing this molestation issue and allowing more victims to
be hurt. You and other Witnesses who are trying to bring this
out into the open to get their policy changed are the ones who
are showing TRUE christian love for all of the silent lambs who
have no one to speak for them in the JW organization. Thank you
so much and I'm sure that the true God is and will continue to
be with your efforts. -Karolyn kikisdragon@yahoo.com
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
08:24:19
Comments
You are right this sight is not "garbage" but to make
a point. Wasn't the man who grabbed the ark of the covenant trying
to get glory for himself not just thinking of the ark? I really
wouldn't liken Bill to a man seeking self glory when he is just
trying to protect innocent people and is one of the first to
stand up against this religion so publicly.
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
10:22:49
Comments
Mark Newman... Pocahontas, Arkansas
Being raised a witness for the first 18 years of my life, I
have seen both the sexual and physical abuse firsthand being
covered up.
At the age of 13, my sister Shelli Newman, was abused by a brother
in good standing in our congregation. The only action taken at
that time was to ask the brother to relocate, by the elders of
the congregation and my parents were told to be silent concerning
this unjust deed.
The Brother that had abused my sister was staying with our family
due to the separation between his wife and himself. He had a
young daughter and I now find myself questioning the reasons
for their separation. Was he abusing his own daughter as well?
Respectfully, Mark Newman suzimark@pokeynet.com
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
10:23:44
Comments
Mark Newman... Pocahontas, Arkansas
Being raised a witness for the first 18 years of my life, I
have seen both the sexual and physical abuse firsthand being
covered up.
At the age of 13, my sister Shelli Newman, was abused by a brother
in good standing in our congregation. The only action taken at
that time was to ask the brother to relocate, by the elders of
the congregation and my parents were told to be silent concerning
this unjust deed.
The Brother that had abused my sister was staying with our family
due to the separation between his wife and himself. He had a
young daughter and I now find myself questioning the reasons
for their separation. Was he abusing his own daughter as well?
Respectfully, Mark Newman suzimark@pokeynet.com
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
12:03:25
Comments
I myself was not abused, but I have a dear friend who was raped
while she was passed out drunk. (He got her drunk.) She confronted
him and he just shrugged it off like it was nothing. She was
a virgin before this happened. She reported it to the elders
and NOTHING was done to him. While he remained in good standing
with the congregation, she bore the shame and guilt of the rape.
She has since rejected the organization and its teachings. I
have become a Christian and pray that she will one day know freedom
in Christ.
Rae Poohsmom61@yahoo.com
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
12:25:21
Comments
You are doing a splendid work. I am an XJW and an X-elder. I
am involved in a support group in Sweden and I we are running
a homepage (we have had more than 60.000 visitors). We have add
some information we have got from Silentlambs. I know that many
JW have been chocked when they have been informed about the Watchtowers
policy
Roger Carlsson
Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
16:23:33
Comments
I thank God for the courage you have been given to speak out
about this. I am an adult survivor of child molestation and incest.
May god be with you always. You can rest assured, although a
church may turn their back on you, GOD never will.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
00:49:12
Comments
i think that this whole thing concerning the sexual molestation/fondling
charges of the WTBTS is insane...how could spiritually "mature" brothers
and sisters who claim to follow their God, "Jehovah" as
they say He is called--and no one else--allow this to happen
to SO MANY PEOPLE??! What's worse is that these recent allegations
(Bowen/Pandello/Rodriguez cases) are only the tip of the iceberg--just
think of how many more "sheep in the flock" are tragically
still trapped within the clutches of the cruel deceiving front
of God's one-and-only so-called "truth" organization...I
was once an "interested one" attending meetings at
the local Kingdom Hall, reading WT and Awake mags, recently about
to begin attending conventions and assemblies, BUT NO MORE. I
have always secretly doubted the doctrine of Jehovah's Witnesses,
not b/c of what "opposers" told me necessarily, but
really b/c a lot of the "rules" that God's true servants
had to follow and obey really didn't seem supported by the Bible
Scriptures. The verses that were quoted or cited to explain a
certain practice or social behavior (i.e., not celebrating birthdays,
assoc. only w/fellow believers, not taking part of the Memorial
emblems unless you were "anointed") seemed to me to
be taken almost completely out of context...but when I asked
my Bible study or an experienced member, I was told to "wait
on Jehovah" for new light explaining it or to wait for further
notice after the person "looked the answer up", etc.
I kept getting the feeling that they (JWs) just wanted me to
stop asking so many doctrinal questions, accept it,and progress
to baptism...I felt that many individuals felt that I was a trouble-maker
and soon after I voiced my doubts to a "friend", she
told others in the congregation and then I think that I was "marked"--people
started to look at me with disdain maybe so far as hatred even.
But the other JWS never made me feel comfortable from the beginning,
when I first started to study and come to the Sunday meetings..in
retrospect, I remember a LOT of TENSION in the air, no one would
look directly at me and smile or say hello unless I murmured
a greeting first. It changed a bit only as I came more often...?
Even the JWs I went with acted somewhat funny, cold and aloof
when we got to the Hall..Well sorry for the kinda long story...I
hope the Dateline story proves that the Witness religion and
practices (not necessarily the individual Witness) is a dupe.
They are not what many many people think they are cracked up
to be--God's true servants of "light".. I don't get
why they don't like questions, is it just cuz the answers are
too painful for them to confront (meaning that they are wrong
in what they believe, or perspectives need to be changed) or
is it b/c of the strictness of the elders and GB that keep them
in line...why CAN'T a person GEINUINELY interested in learning
about God and Jesus ask as many questions as they want about
a religion and its doctrines that claims to have the TRUTH, the
whole TRUTH, and NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH.....! Isn't that what
God would want humans to do to find what is "good in his
eyes"....God help us all!!
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
00:54:26
Comments
p.s. same person as above...i really want to say that i will
pray for all of those suffering from WT "policy" and
sexual harassment molestation...this needs to stop! stories i'm
reading are HORRIBLE! innocent lives are being destroyed because
13 or so men in Brooklyn will not open their aging eyes and minds
and SEE THE REAL "LIGHT"! God Bless to all of you..He
will not forsake you...He will guide and protect you, and be
assured...He does not like the ugly...they will <bold>pay</bold> in
the end sooner or later.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
10:03:52
Comments
Good morning. I would like to share a story with you. My name
is Samantha and I was Jehovah's Witness but decided that it wasn't
for me as I wish to enjoy my freedom to party and have good time.
I never agreed with monogamy.
When I was 12, I was molested by someone who was studying the
Bible with the Witnesses. I had enough common sense to inform
my parents and they in turn had enough common sense to contact
the authorities before involving the elders as they are not licensed
to practice law. Evidently, you dumb ass mother fuckers have
not a lick of fucking sense and have put all your faith in "man" and
not the bible. Even though I am a sinner, I don't lack common
sense as you. May God be with you, you are from your father the
DEVIL.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
10:30:37
Comments
to all the current JWs spending their time on this site and writing
in the theocratic-speak that some of us have finally broken free
of......PLEASE GO COUNT YOUR TIME SOMEWHERE ELSE.....how dare
you come where families that have been raped and brainwashed
about it finally have the courage to talk about it and preach
your brainwashing tactics to us again? shame on you....the only
thing you have done is remind me that i am finally FREED BY THE
TRUTH....if you find spiritual strength in jw teachings, more
power to you....if you wanna herd runaway BORG members back into
mindless subservience to those who raped them....then you are
as bad as the rapists....surely, if you wanna follow men who
demand completer obedience to them instead of the god they tell
you they are serving, then COUNT YOUR TIME IN WAYS APPROVED BY
THAT "THEOCRATIC ORGANIZATION"
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
12:21:42
Comments
Funny thing,the Bible does say what you do in secret will be
brought to light. This is God's policy. So for those who have
been covering up child abuse and all other crimes and using "religion" to
hide behind, "watch out" this looks like an "enlightening
time" for you.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
13:08:39
Comments
We as an Evangelical church have policies in action to prevent
any molesting problems. Our insurance company insists that such
policies are in place before they will insure us!!
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
14:27:20
Comments
To the one who wrote the following and all who agree with it: "to
all the current JWs spending their time on this site and writing
in the theocratic-speak that some of us have finally broken free
of......PLEASE GO COUNT YOUR TIME SOMEWHERE ELSE.....how dare
you come where families that have been raped and brainwashed
about it finally have the courage to talk about it and preach
your brainwashing tactics to us again? shame on you...." Strange,
I thought this site was about victims of abuse that have been
unjustly treated. I guess many have their own agenda. To all
who are Jehovah's Witnesses: this site has descended from publicizing
a real problem into a forum for apostates, nutters and the ignorant
spouting nonsense. This is the shame of it since it does nothing
to help those who are genuine 'silent lambs'. On one thing we
may all agree - that this is clearly no place for Jehovah's people,
though we may differ on the reasons.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
14:27:31
Comments
To the one who wrote the following and all who agree with it: "to
all the current JWs spending their time on this site and writing
in the theocratic-speak that some of us have finally broken free
of......PLEASE GO COUNT YOUR TIME SOMEWHERE ELSE.....how dare
you come where families that have been raped and brainwashed
about it finally have the courage to talk about it and preach
your brainwashing tactics to us again? shame on you...." Strange,
I thought this site was about victims of abuse that have been
unjustly treated. I guess many have their own agenda. To all
who are Jehovah's Witnesses: this site has descended from publicizing
a real problem into a forum for apostates, nutters and the ignorant
spouting nonsense. This is the shame of it since it does nothing
to help those who are genuine 'silent lambs'. On one thing we
may all agree - that this is clearly no place for Jehovah's people,
though we may differ on the reasons.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
18:09:25
Comments
to the one who responded to my saying that 'jw s should count
their time elsewhere instead of getting on this list, and telling
sexual abuse victims that they are liars and apostates for exposing
the crimes against them ...... to the one who responded to that
by saying, calling me an apostate or nutter, who is getting away
from the purpose of this site......was i that unclear? several
members of several generations of my family have literally been
raped by jw sin good standing, who will never be called "apostate" or
even "sinner". children in my family have been accused
of being the sinners, while abusers and pedophiles remained in
good standing. after all these years, my family finds a safe
place to say that, and we are "apostates and nutters"?
you have never seen a post from me on an "apostate" site.
but your counting time on this site by telling us we didn't "wait
on jehovah" is not only insulting abuse victims further
than they have been (by trying to report it to the elders)....but
is not even in line with the directives of the society. you are
not following the direction of the "faithful and discreet
slave" by witnessing on this site....so who is the apostate?
you have no idea what my family or others like ours, who tell
our stories on this site have gone through....you assume that
we are just spouting nonsense. yet you claim to understand that
this is a real problem.....perhaps you have been or are in our
shoes, but just continuing to defend the brothers, as we were
all taught to do....perhaps not....but don t preach spiritual
paradise to rape victims....whether we are still in the truth
or not, we know better. and i will never respond to you again.
for all I know you are one of the jw s in good standing that have
raped members of my family...or one that was involved with the
many cover ups... maybe not but you sound like them
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
19:44:29
Comments
I am not a JW. I am simply a Christian... a follower of christ
and I just have to say... GOOD FOR YOU! It takes a very brave
person to go against the tide especially of their religion. But
you are wise to do the right thing. may God bless you in your
service here. Love a Mom of four
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
20:53:58
Comments
Hi!
You are cordially invited to join our growing Forum. Everyone
is welcome regardless of their faiths and beliefs.
Our URL is:
http://host22.hrwebservices.net/~faithfr/FFI/phpBB2/index.php
Love and Peace.
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
23:30:49
Comments
Thank you for having a great website. I admire the courage to
stand up for what is right. I have been an EX-JW for 19 years.
Fran J. FEJ4620@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
01:34:18
Comments
Hi again, I agree this site is for victims of child abuse but
the person who was a victim and thinks all victims have gotten
df and/or quit being Jehovah's Witnesses think again!!! I am
an active Witness.
I also thought this web site was to let the public know what
is really happening. Apart of this public are those who are Jehovah's
Witnesses. I think this is excellent that some are coming to
this site to see what is going on. The important thing is they
are being warned. To convince them you must talk Theocratically
and with respect. Talk the language they understand.
I hate to say this but you would never be listened to with all
your anger and swearing. Yet I feel that it is all JUSTIFIED!!!
This just isn't the way to get people to believe you. I do because
I have been there and know how a victim of rape feels but yet
we all don't react the same way. You must respect that we each
have a right to react in our own way not everyone wants to go
out and party and throw monogamy out. You have a right to your
choices and I have a right to mine. I treat you with respect
and I expect you to do the same.
We all want the children to be protected. I want to add the
middle ground that May 09,2002 time 08:38:44 talks about isn't
middle ground. I want to say THE ABUSE IS AS BAD AS WE SAY IT
IS. I personally have seen it.
My dad also has seen it. My Uncle and Aunt know about it and
my grandparents did also. I know I am telling the truth and treating
my relatives with respect did gain me their support to varying
degrees.
My dad gave me the web site address and encouraged me to come
here. I had never heard about it before.(My dad has been in Bethel
and translated literature from English to French,Served as Special
Pioneers assigned to different places, Elder until he resigned
due to poor health). With his experience he says that the situation
in the congregations is worse than the Catholic Church. The numbers
Bill gives my dad feels could be multiplied by four for a more
accurate picture of the number of pedophiles in the congregation.
The congregation. I am in is especially bad...More than just
me says this. We have GENUINE SILENT LAMBS here. It is just as
bad as WE say it is...DJB
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
08:51:35
Comments
Your a liar and a slanderer. I hope the society decides to respond
to this very loudly so everyone will know the truth. I wish I
believed in hell so I could tell you to go there.
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
09:46:26
Comments
i appreciate and respect this site because it is NOT LIMITED
to helping jws who are still in the truth. neither is it limited
to helping ex jw s. it is dedicated to helping the victims. whether
active ones believe it or not, many ex jw s would never had left,
but have been df ed on some pretext, for trying to do, or say
something about being a victim. i used to think it was only a
couple of congregations, and have been proven wrong repeatedly.
this web-site has proved it wrong repeatedly. expressing anger
over violation, and then further betrayal by the comforting princes
who are were trusted to shepard the flock is a perfectly legitimate
channel of dealing with such grief. yet active, inactive, disassociated
and disfellowshipped witnesses have all been vilified as slanderers,
and told that even if their experience of being molested and
raped is true, that they should ignore it, forgive their rapists,
who have generally lied to committees, and continue to tell people
to get out of babylon the great, because they are full of religious
hypocrites and sexual perverts. what convinced me to come into
the truth was an awake article about 1970 entitled"frances
state tv takes a look at the catholic church." it was an
expose of some of the same type of abuses in the church that
this website has been exposing in the organization. it, and my
further theocratic education convinced me that jehovah s witnesses
had NO SUCH PROBLEM. how can i gently say that was proven to
be a lie? it is because of believing that lie, that i was stupid
enough to think my spouse would do such thing to my children.
not someone who had been a regular pioneer! not someone who was
considered a shining example in the congregation! an adult who
makes the child out to be the liar, and then turns the tables
on the whistleblower....and judicial committees who know the
truth and use theocratic language (and yes...believe it or not...CUSSING...)to
beat down those that would protect the children....elders who
use the same to beat down other elders who try to take a stand
of integrity....all of this is NOT made up for if one of the
elders comes back later with tears and apologizes...saying "i
had no choice...when you are in this position, you will understand"....
that is why when many of us see those that say we are liars,
and then try to use the same language to put us in our place
that was used before, it is re-living the past over again. it
is especially true now that the society is intent on getting
those who are telling the truth about the truth on dateline out
of the organization. i used to sincerely witness to others about
the atrocities committed by the catholic church that they only
covered up. i will never say such a thing again. at least now
they are finally...if too late... honest about their problem
and doing something about it. how can anyone say the truth is
honest about their pedophile problem? how can anyone say they
have protected the children? how can anyone say that they are
not covering over the problem? at least i have never heard of
the catholic church excommunicating whistle blowers, the way the
organization wants to disfellowship whistle blowers. the way they
have done in the past...the way they are trying to do to bowen,
anderson and the others RIGHT NOW! so, it is far more than insulting,
when people are counting their time in here...it is a further
violation. being told we are lying, exaggerating, or slandering...and
then being told to just forget about it...to get back to meetings...(you
assume people who tell the truth aren't there? ...shame on you
again!) ...well you individuals saying such things are just a
microcosm of what is going on in jehovah s visible earthly organization.
and i would like to suggest that, instead on coming on this site
and being job s comforters...accusing the innocent victims...that
you keep your comments to the meetings, and in the door-to-door
work.....that is unless you are the sexual molesters (did i mention
how many of you sound JUST like them when you use theocratic
language to battle the truth?) in which case i wish you would
stay out of neighborhoods, and out of the meetings...away from
innocent children. the experience of thousands...including many
who will NEVER talk about it on line, is that the true victims
and their families, and their whistle blowers are the ones , if
not outright drummed out, are slowly driven out by such in-justice,
un-loving, un-wise abusers of power. do you assume i am one that
left? maybe. maybe not....everything that has been said by me
could well have been said by anyone in or out of the organization.
and has been. the fact is if you want to continue to give me
a choice of whether i love jw doctrine or my children more...guess
which one i will choose? and for that will i be smitten by his
angels at Armageddon? we will see.
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
12:38:12
Comments
I CAN SEE THR ELDERS SIDE. IF THERES NOT TWO WITNESSES TO THE
FACT THEIR SCRIPTURAL HANDS ARE TIED. I CAN'T REALIZE HOW SOMEONE
CAN BE SO VICTIMISED BY SOMEONE WITH THE PRIVILEGE OF SHEPHERDING
OF JEHOVAH'S PEOPLE. JUST AS IT SAYS ALL THINGS COME TO LIGHT
IN DUE TIME. HAVE COURAGE .FRANK_PAR@MSN.COM
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
14:42:28
Comments
to the ones who can see the elder's side about 2 or more witnesses..........
since when is that the real issue?
the elders of TWO congregations REFUSED to hear the testimony
of any witness that would say my daughter had been abused
wanna cover it up?
don t allow the witnesses to speak....put a gag order on them......don
t even allow the child to tell their story EASY!
hey wanna give some of jehovah s loving discipline to someone
who would DARE report to the elders that a child abuser is in their
midst?
we don t need no stinking witnesses!
just get someone to trump up some charges
then when they dare challenge the committee to produce witnesses
or evidence.....
just say "you can be disfellowshipped for lying if you
don t confess!"
and for good measure you can add....
"the only evidence needed is that elders, who were appointed
by holy spirit, feel YOU are the liar! do you dare speak against
us and let yourself be disfellowshipped for APOSTASY? are you
going to sin against the holy spirit?"
please...
don try to tell ANY member of my family that elders hands are tied...
they have more power and authority than ANY clergyman i have
EVER seen
don t even try to tell my family members who are still in the
truth who are elders pioneers ministerial servants or bethelites
that is the case
they all know better too
they have just learned to keep their mouths shut
so they don t get some of the same medicine
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
18:11:57
Comments
Does anyone have news of the status of the committee decisions
with silentlambs founders?
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
18:16:38
Comments
Hey, "Can See the Elders' Side": All things in due
time? Are you kidding? We're not talking about a slap on the
cheek, or some sort of insult. We are talking about some slimy,
self-righteous Ministerial Servant grabbing some kid, perhaps
while on an upbuilding visit to some vulnerable single sister,
and doing stuff that should get them executed. If it was your
kid, would you really tell your family, including your vulnerable
child, that we just need to wait for Jehovah to bring it to light?
If you could look at your innocent child and say something like
that to him/her, then you are every bit as disgusting as any
of the rest that would cover up the abuse of our most vulnerable.
How would you feel if the family ahead of you in the pedophile's
path had made that same decision. Don't you think you may have
decided that Jehovah perhaps was trying to enlighten through
that prior family? ..and thereby spare your son/daughter from
that creep's ham hands? Wouldn't you put blame on those that
had covered up before? If it were your kid, you wouldn't set
on the comfy perch you are on and crow that the elders had no
choice. If you are a responsible parent, or any kind of christian
at all, you would demand that the perpetrator be reported to
the authorities, that all children in the congregation be protected,
as well as those children outside of the congregation. I feel
sorry for any children around you that you could help but don't.
I don't think anyone with reason would believe that anyone that
would allow these things to go on deserves life everlasting on
a paradise earth.
A little reason, and less robot-like obedience to a Society
is in order here. "See the elder's side," indeed.
Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
23:40:53
Comments
Hi again, I have heard about the Judicial(sp) committees set
up. This site must be influencing some of the witnesses to rethink
their positions and some must be writing the society protesting...
I think that the scripture in Ps. 94: 21 says it all "They
make sharp attacks on the soul of the righteous one and pronounce
wicked even the blood of the innocent one." Isn't this what
they are doing it?
Both my X's go from door to door. One of them has all these
calls on single women with children or some older who maybe widowed.
He offers to work for them and get them good deals. He is very
pushy and doesn't take no for answer. He was on probation for
assault at the time (he was calling on all these women) which
I didn't know about at the time.
This is to the person who doesn't have the guts to sign their
name (May 12, 2002 time 08:51:35) How can you call someone a
liar and say they are slandering when you were not even there?
Where do you get off judging the accounts told by the victims
here? You judge us in the way Jesus would not even judge Satan.
He left it to God saying may "Jehovah rebuke you." Do
you want to be judged the way you judge us? You are doing what
Jesus would not!!!
Quote: "Wishing you believed in hell because you would
tell us to go there." The bible commands to love your enemy
and pray for those persecuting you...You really don't sound very
Christian in light of these scriptural thoughts. Sounds like
you would be one of the persecutors (Pedophiles)!!! The identifying
mark of a true Christian would be their love. So where is your
love? DJB
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
05:52:42
Comments
I agree, there are far too many people making the same claims
that they were not given the support and protection they deserved
from the Society for it to be lies.
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
08:04:11
Comments
ok over the past several days ..... have tried several times
...at all hours....to go to the chat room...only once did someone
else come into the room....but would not talk....and left.....is
there a scheduled time that people go to the room? thanks
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
08:45:14
Comments
Keep up the good work may Jehovah BLESS YOU. PHYLLIS CULBERTSON
E-MAIL ADDRESS:jeanie2culber@webtv.net "Peace Be With You"
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
11:11:33
Comments
JWs are the biggest hypocrites in the world. They say they follow
the example of Christ, yet they have the nerve to protect the
pedophiles and not the victims. Does that sound like something
Jesus would do? Definitely not. Also, do they follow his example
by hating everyone else? Well he did say to "love your enemies," didn't
he?
Not only are they hypocrites by trying to cover the whole thing
up, but they are also liars because they say there's no covering
up being done. Just look at all the postings in this guestbook
from people saying they've been abused by some of the JWs. I
don't think that many people would lie, so it must be the JWs
who are lying. You can't believe a thing they say anymore. It's
all bullshit. (Sorry about cursing, but there's no better way
to put it.)
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
11:12:45
Comments
I am currently an active Jehovah's Witness. As a parent of two
small children, my heart truly goes out to any children who suffer
at the hands of an abuser. In the only case of abuse that I am
personally familiar with in the congregation, the abuser was
removed from his position of authority, the civil authorities
were notified, and the abuser ended up going to prison.
While reading the posts on this site, I have read a lot of stories
about people who are unhappy with the way they feel problems
have been handled. While not discounting these stories, there
are usually at least two sides to every story. Even when problems
are not handled in the best way, we always have to remember that
the organization is made up of imperfect humans, so we cannot
expect perfection from them. Just because someone has been appointed
by holy spirit does not mean they will not make mistakes. As
with any injustice I see in this old system, I firmly believe
that Jehovah, the Just God, sees what is happening and will make
each person answer for his actions.
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
11:31:36
Comments
Hi again, To clarify a previous comment I made about using theocratic
talk and respect to forward this in the public eye. I was referring
to winning over the sincere witnesses not the corrupt elders
who swear, jump up and down waving there arms and fists at us
and yelling. Reviling us with their name calling. Threatening
us...these we would probably never convince anyways as they are
the problem.
The two witness rule does not always mean the witnesses are
two people, it could also apply to a situation when a parent
finds evidence of abuse such a bruises on a child. Then the other
witness is the child when they described what happened. This
equal two. A witness could be the evidence found...
The man who wrote in about repressed memories not being excepted
as evidence. My father believes in repressed memories because
he was in car accident and he remembered nothing after the accident,
then later in dreams (as nightmares)the memories started to return
and flash backs during the day. He was sixty at the time. His
thought was an event can be so traumatic that we will repress
it until a later time when we are able to handle it. So when
my daughter decided to talk he believed her and encouraged me
to do likewise...DJB
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
13:29:20
Comments
My name is Brenda. I really appreciate your website. I'm an ex-JW
who still believes in God & Jesus the Son but not organized
religion. I was originally in the Bay Ridge, NY congregation,
then Capistrano Beach, CA cong., then Mission Viejo, CA cong.
If anyone thinks they might remember me and would like to get
in touch I am at brenda.marston@nobelbiocare.se.
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
13:40:04
Comments
Hi everyone, My name is Blank lol as we all know if we go public
we get disfellowshipped.
I live in Canada, My daughter was repeatedly molested by a brother
in our congregation she was 14 he was 27 years old. I found out
about this and went a little crazy and well lets say he forget
me for a long time.
But the whole situation was all about me and my beating him
up the elders never got involved with checking on our family
or assisting my daughter through this difficult time.
I have wanted to leave the Organization since this happened
but have not been sure what to do.
I am pleased only with the fact that we are not alone and this
site is available.
I believe every story I have read and I know of so many others
from my 21 years of being around the TRUTH??? I hope the Watchtower
is happy , but I becoming more and more convinced they are not
being blessed by Jehovah while there sneaky ways continue.
Thank-you Michael From Ottawa, Canada.
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
13:49:01
Comments
Hi everyone , I will just say this my 14 year old daughter was
molested by A 27 year old brother and I beat him up over it Now
I am the bad guy.
Oh well I learned a lot about the Organization over it, people
privately told me how it was about time someone did something
about all this kind of stuff happening and it is always kept
hush hush, I for one don't think how I handled it was right.
But I will say this Jehovah's Witness have 2 rule books 1 THE
bible and 2 The watchtower set of rules.
I have moved on from the incident but the mishandling of it
all and the discouragement WE ALL RECEIVED from the local elder
body left a very bad taste in our mouths.
Michael From Ottawa, Canada.
I have chosen not to identify myself as I have not made up my
mind if I am staying or going. but wanted everyone who reads
this to know WE ARE NOT ALONE and I thank all involved for being
this brave.
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
13:49:41
Comments
Hi everyone , I will just say this my 14 year old daughter was
molested by A 27 year old brother and I beat him up over it Now
I am the bad guy.
Oh well I learned a lot about the Organization over it, people
privately told me how it was about time someone did something
about all this kind of stuff happening and it is always kept
hush hush, I for one don't think how I handled it was right.
But I will say this Jehovah's Witness have 2 rule books 1 THE
bible and 2 The watchtower set of rules.
I have moved on from the incident but the mishandling of it
all and the discouragement WE ALL RECEIVED from the local elder
body left a very bad taste in our mouths.
Michael From Ottawa, Canada.
I have chosen not to identify myself as I have not made up my
mind if I am staying or going. but wanted everyone who reads
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