silentlambs.org - Guestbook - Guestbook - May 2002

May 2002 Guestbook - Page 2

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 innaccurate 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 ambiguos "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" did'nt change their prophecies, they were very explicit, not vague, & NEVER did 180 degree turns on their prophecies, they could'nt 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 emplore 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 sentance. 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:
03:01:46
Comments

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:
10:38:38
Comments

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 apostacy 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 jehovahs witnesses no of your coming up judical 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. Unfortunatly 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 dont you think? But soon all the wrong that men have done will be corrected. You really have a chip on your shoulder dont you? What you hate about child molesters is so true , they destroy lifes, but just because a person calls himself a title, doesnt 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 unscriptual.

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 disfellowhsip 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 harrassed 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 ur 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 fellowhip with these kind of scum.....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 disfellowhipped. 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 scrupuously 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 awating 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 lyears 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 exerpts that pedophiles are allowed to circulate. All the abuser has to do is say 'I'm sorry' and is deemed repentent. 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 smitherines 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 wold 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 practising child abuse.

The Society feels that if the whole issue of child abuse in the organisation is 'well known', then this will undermine the whole authority strucure 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:
04 May 2002
Time:
23:42:00
Comments
test

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 baptised 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 shunn 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 disfellowshiped from a religious organization.

Thank you for the good work you are doing.

Remote User:
Date:
06 May 2002
Time:
08:06:33
Comments

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 consistantly looking for the bad in everything...why dont we look at the good for a change? This world isnt 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 bloodguilty!!! 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 does'nt protect child molseters, you do!!!!

Remote User:
Date:
06 May 2002
Time:
22:17:56
Comments

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 petophile does not look after his own obviously!!! What good?

The Older men in bible times were commanded to keep the congretation clean. Why are they not? How many times must they repeatly sin against our children before they realize that they are unrepentant? The King of Isreal 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 befiting 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:
08:02:09
Comments

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 prevades 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 preachs 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' organisation 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 consciencious 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 allegience 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 were'nt protected because they are'nt "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 were'nt protected because they are'nt "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 congretation. 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 congretation. 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 allowd 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 belives, 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 belive what they want...but not practising this way of shutting people out, i`m not a beliver 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 goverment 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 similer 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 similer 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'am 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 wasnt 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 like 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:
18 May 2002
Time:
10:51:12
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 Jehova 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. Jehova, Almighty. Obedience is at a loss. Things happen for a reason. You obviously failed the test. Jehova 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 chastized 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 Jehova 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 diffeent eotions! Some are of empathy for those who have sufferd molestation. Others bring back all the torment hic i suffered as a divorced woman in "the Truth". No, i wasn't physcially 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 defnse of the helpless. Please notifyme when the Dateline program is scheduled to air, and also anyone who justwishes 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 NYTimes 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 grabed the ark of the covenent 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 aginst this religion so publically.

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 seperation between his wife and himself. He had a young daughter and I now find myself questioning the reasons for their seperation. 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.

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 supportgroup 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 Silentlams. I know that many JW have been chocked when they have been informed about the Wathtowers policy

Roger Carlsson

Remote User:
Date:
10 May 2002
Time:
13:55:17
Comments

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/Pandelo/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 teh 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 teh 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 monogomy.

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 publicising a real problem into a forum for apostates, nutters and the ignorant spouting nonsence. 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 publicising a real problem into a forum for apostates, nutters and the ignorant spouting nonsence. 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 fromthe purpose of this site......was i that unclear? several members of several generations of my family have literlly 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 witnessingon 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 realo 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 alli 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:
19:57:46
Comments

Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2002
Time:
20:33:31
Comments

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 excellant 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 theocraticly 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 congretations 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 congretation.

The congretation 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 ov congregations, and have been proven wrong repeately. 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 legitamate 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 committes, 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 entiled "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 leqast 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 whistleblowers, the way the organization wants to disfellowship whistleblowers. 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 molestors (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 whistleblowers 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 armegeddon? we will see.

Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
09:46:58
Comments

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 THERE SCRIPTURAL HANDS ARE TIED.I CANT REALIZE HOW SOMEONE CAN BE SO VICTOMISED 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 sideabout 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 thata child abuser isin their midst?

we don t need no stinking witnesses!

just get someone to trump up some charges

then when they dare challenge the committe 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? areyou going to sin against the holy spirit?"

please...

don try to tell ANY member of my family that elders handsaretied...

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 pioneerts 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 beleive that anyone that would allow these things to go on deserves life everlasting on a paradise earth.

A little reason, and less robot-like obediance to a Society is in order here. "See the elder's side," indeed.

Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
18:28:12
Comments

Remote User:
Date:
12 May 2002
Time:
18:28:21
Comments

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 postions 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 Saten. 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 persucuting you...You really don't sound very Christian in light of these scriptural thoughts. Sounds like you would be one of the persucutors (Pedophiles)!!! The idendifying mark of a true Christian would be their love. So where is your love? DJB

Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2002
Time:
00:45:26
Comments

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:
07:48:59
Comments

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 refering 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 tramutic 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 repeate