silentlambs.org - Guestbook - Guestbook

June 2002 Guestbook

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
00:00:49
Comments
Hi again,

To the person who wrote from Canada, Edmonton Alberta. There are Pedophiles in the congregations in Canada. I am an active Witness and so are my parents. The policies of the Watchtower allow pedophiles to operate with relative freedom.

The victim is blamed and expected to act. The victim is usually a CHILD and the pedophile is usually an ADULT. Now isn't this a little unfair. How can a child stand up to the cunning, manipulation, threatening, and the sheer size of a adult predator...It is a little out of the child's league don't you think!! Some people are so unreasonable. The weaker are always dominated by the stronger especially in the case of pedophila.

Hitler was responsible for what happened in Germany but one must always remember he could not have done all those terrible things if he didn't have people who carried out his wicked orders to the death of 6 million Jews and countless others.

After the war some on trial used the excuse they were following orders. Can the elders use this excuse that they were just following orders? These men who followed orders of Hitler still went to prison and were found guilty.

Unbelievable as it was, there were people who lived near the concentration camps, working their farms, who had no idea what was happening until the Americans came in and the war was over. So today there will be people, who will not have a clue what is going on under their very noses...

Just because someone claims nothing is going on doesn't make it so. Old expression "5% make it happen; 5% watch it happen; and 80% ask what happened."

A persons denial may make them feel safe. It just like the disease AIDS. At first the person does not know they have it. They feel fine. They look fine but this doesn't change how deadly the disease is.

So to with some adults, they may look around and think everything is fine in the congregations but think again. The Pedophile usually identifies himself only to his victims(the children)who are their sexual preference, not the adult. Those who have trouble believing this should think you can't tell someone has AIDS just by looking at them so to with the Pedophile...

Denial will not keep the children safe but facing reality will...DJB

P.S. For the record Dateline was good for our family as it helped the doubting Thomas's to realize what I have been saying for past 6 years is exactly what is happening...

P.S.S About that "Gay" bit. Those who have no answer will often resort to name calling, making accusations to deflect the attention off themselves. They want, obviously, to redirect the attention off the REAL issues. THAT IS THE PROTECTION OF THE CHILDREN.

Bill Bowen keep up the good work and efforts with this web site. Barbara Anderson your (research)evidence shows how deep the problem runs in the organization. Thank for your courage in coming forward and speaking up. Both your efforts to expose this to the public/brothers is so appreciated. Thanks with all my heart!!! Jehovah will not forget your work and the love you showed.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
00:07:05
Comments
lollylou2@excite.com wrote: Date: 23 May 2002 Time: 13:21:59 Comments - I just wanted to commend all of you for your brave stand against child abuse. Many years ago I remember a brother sitting in the balcony of an Assembly Hall with a cover over him and two of his granddaughters. He was molesting them under the covers. Shock and disbelief spread quickly. The outcome was we were counseled for gossiping. EVERYONE was told to treat this molester the same as before and if anything else was said we could be publicly reproved or disfellowshipped for slandering this brother. I haven't talked about this for over twenty years. I never let my children be around him, but I have to admit I didn't dare sympathize with the girls for fear of reproof from the elders. This is a crime. Thank you again for your bravery! I am sure you will be blessed for all your efforts in behalf of our children! lollylou2@excite.com

AD responds 23 May 2002: That is exactly what I would do - keep my children away from him! But it is not possible - not only does he get frequent overnight visitations with his children, but I've learned now that some other children in the congregation and some of those that are studies attending meetings have spent time over there when my children are there and even shared in overnights with him too! And I am constantly reminded NOT to speak out about what he has done to us!

To Lollylou and AD ....

"Only persons truly responsible for injustice prefer silence and seek to impose it"

Our silence has only compounded the problem over the years. We gave up our conscience to the dictates of men rather than listen to the dictates of Almighty God.

John 3 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

Matthew 10 26 Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. 27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.

Luke 12 1 ....... Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. 3 Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.

If all of you who are keeping silent in your congregation were to speak out all at the same time, what can they do? I guarantee that almost the whole congregation is affected and all want to speak out. Only Satan and his lackeys loves this silence!

SPEAK OUT! BE SILENT NO MORE!!!!!!!

Jan.Groenveld@uq.net.au THE MOST DANGEROUS LIE IS THAT WHICH MOST CLOSELY RESEMBLES THE TRUTH http://www.caic.org.au

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
00:07:25
Comments
lollylou2@excite.com wrote: Date: 23 May 2002 Time: 13:21:59 Comments - I just wanted to commend all of you for your brave stand against child abuse. Many years ago I remember a brother sitting in the balcony of an Assembly Hall with a cover over him and two of his granddaughters. He was molesting them under the covers. Shock and disbelief spread quickly. The outcome was we were counseled for gossiping. EVERYONE was told to treat this molester the same as before and if anything else was said we could be publicly reproved or disfellowshipped for slandering this brother. I haven't talked about this for over twenty years. I never let my children be around him, but I have to admit I didn't dare sympathize with the girls for fear of reproof from the elders. This is a crime. Thank you again for your bravery! I am sure you will be blessed for all your efforts in behalf of our children! lollylou2@excite.com

To Lollylou and AD ....

"Only persons truly responsible for injustice prefer silence and seek to impose it"

Our silence has only compounded the problem over the years. We gave up our conscience to the dictates of men rather than listen to the dictates of Almighty God.

SPEAK OUT! BE SILENT NO MORE!!!!!!!

Jan.Groenveld@uq.net.au THE MOST DANGEROUS LIE IS THAT WHICH MOST CLOSELY RESEMBLES THE TRUTH http://www.caic.org.au

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
00:20:37
Comments
What is going on here in the JW camp is "Obstruction of Justice." You could call it "Obstruction of Conscience." But to say that implies that the Witnesses active Jehovah's Witnesses have one. Anyone ever see the movie "The Stoning?" I recommend it.

You JW people want so badly to have a "Theocratic War" with the entire Human Race…All of Civilization…All of Mankind…YOU GOT IT! You shits have a war.

I listen here and it is just like everywhere else. When it comes to Jehovah's Witnesses their God is my Devil!!! Why? Look at their very words. They speak for themselves. I need to provide no other proof. I will not wait to see you attack one more victim. Next time you come to my house plan on me leaving with you. Dateline video, this sites stories, your own literature, Franz , "Releasing the Bonds," and the spirit of Christ. They are coming to. I will go door to door with you. No more will I allow you to lie and play dumb about your own "Wolfish" devil ways. I will let people make up their own minds. Just like you. I however will give them all the facts. Including the ways of a propagandist. If your material can still hold any credibility I will truly be amazed.

Anyone else with me?

The Watchtower and its dominion are dependent on shame and silence. You Witnesses created your enemy here. Your enemy is you!

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
00:25:58
Comments
I am an active JW - and both a victim of abuse and a parent of abused children - our abuser was my husband and their bio. father and IS still a member of our congregation in good standing.

I'm in search of a private email group for persons with similar situations. I do not want a group where those not wanting to continue serving Jehovah will be as well. I really just want a loving, spiritually-minded, sympathetic/empathic group where victims can discuss their situations freely and find support in dealing/coping with ongoing related issues.

If you know of such a group OR If you are interested in such a group as well PLEASE CONTACT me at mymomspace@hotmail.com

Agape & Philia

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
00:55:14
Comments
I was raised as a Jehovah's Witness and I am currently married to a baptized-disfellowshipped - re-instated Witness. I am not baptized. We have two children. I know quite a lot of witnesses and non-witnesses. I was a little surprised by the Dateline story. However, I do feel that it is probably true. Among the witnesses there is a false sense of security, as though none of them could do any wrong. I had thought that if anything inappropriate had taken place that the witnesses would have gone to the authorities. I see that is not the case. I also believe that they are more concerned with their "image" than any particular member. If they have admitted molesters going door-to-door, what else is going on in the organization ?? What Jehovah's Witnesses governing body should have done was gotten ahead of this thing - reported the abusers - counseled the victims and prevented anything like this from ever happening again. They should not have buried the problem. People would have been extremely proud and impressed and thought much more of them had they handled the situation the way they should have. They would have brought pride and honor to Jehovah's name. Instead they brought shame and scandal. They should be ashamed of themselves. I am certain that Jehovah is disappointed with them. They said let Jehovah handle it. WELL I GUESS NOW HE IS !!!!! It seems as though he is using Bowen to get the word out so that the abuse can stop. Try not to let their attitude discourage your efforts. I am sure it is difficult for you. But your cause is just and I am certain that all decent people appreciate your efforts. Don't let the self-righteous hypocrites wear you down. Let the innocent children motivate you every day. May Jehovah God bless you for your efforts. Wishing you and your family the best. Dawn P in NJ.d

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
01:11:17
Comments
well......how do I begin,,,well I was a victim of sexual abuse by an elder in 1975.....nothing was done......I am very upset and confused....he destroyed my life and my husbands life.

Deb

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
01:36:41
Comments
Here is the poem..someone requested that was seen on Dateline (on Bills computer) "BED OF TEARS"

She sits upon a bed of tears All alone and full of fears She can not comprehend Why the boo boos do not mend So she stares upon the wall And in her childish prayer does call I want my daddy to come here to protect me from my fear But to daddy I can not call for he is the meanest of them all He whispered he loved me and said not to tell But when he touched me I wanted to yell He hurt me bad and made me cry He said he loved me, so I don't know why Can you hear me Jesus, are you awake? I don't want to bother you, but my daddy I hate Please forgive me for being bad I know I make my daddy mad He told me if I don't be good While by my bedside he stood I'm afraid he will love me no more He said be good, like the times before But Jesus it hurts when he loves me at night I want to tell Mommy, but then they will fight I want to go away to be with you But I have to know, do you hate me too?

Dedicated to my daughter Michele Sandstrom ~~~by Jean Kraus copyrighted 2001

Queens, NY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I cannot seem to yell loud enough to be heard,

e (on Bills computer)

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
01:41:00
Comments
"" If they have admitted molesters going door-to-door, what else is going on in the organization ?? """

This: http://www.geocities.com/wts_rides_the_beast/Awake112298.htm

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
02:25:49
Comments
In response to the 'brother' who said:

"The following is a post dealing with Dateline and Pedophilia in the organization made by a brother on a JW discussion board. I thought it was very good: The safety of the children should come first. Elders are instructed that upon hearing an allegation of child abuse that they are to contact the Society's Legal Department. I'm sorry but that tells me right off where the priorities are. ""

Pffffffffffffffffffff..., finally a 'brother' with common sense, one that doest want to be fooled anymore by the WT Society. Hats off!!!!

But there is one thing that I don't agree with you: "The world hates us anyway and thinks very little of us." The world doest hate you, it's like you said yourself "they watch us go about our business trying to fool them into thinking we are better than them"!! That's the whole issue!

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
02:28:37
Comments
Why on earth would anyone want to belong to an organization so far away from what Jesus tried to teach people?? It is just mind-boggling that such a dictatorial so-called religion, with such juvenile rules & regulations could gain so many followers. Boy, oh Boy, if Christ ever did come back to earth and found out about the Watchtower organization, and what a mockery it has made of true spiritual meaning He would be flabbergasted, and probably nail himself back on the cross. If a person cannot find some sort of spiritual meaning in life without joining such a transparently phony CULT, then these people are truly to be pitied. The TRUTH, they call it !! Such arrogance !!! The "truth" is, that it is a scam, operated by a bunch of old men who live very well off the money donated by a multitude of true 'slaves' .... slaves who have been brainwashed to believe that everything the Watchtower tells them has to be accepted as the FINAL answer. How very, very sad, and what a depressing commentary on our human frailties. God help us all, is all I can say, and if He will, the first thing He should do is expose this arrogant Cult for what it is.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
02:35:36
Comments
TO ALL SILENTLAMBS: My name is Jean Kraus and I am an inactive witness from the Fresh Pond Road Congregation in Queens NY. I am also the mother and sister of incest survivors, still suffering from the aftereffects of the abuse. So many times I wanted to come forward and put my name on this web site, but for fear of being called an apostate by the Society I didn't. Now I realize, that no one but God can judge me, and I know that He does not look down on me with angry for supporting victims and survivors of abuse. I have been a child advocate since 1992. When the girls molester wasn't disfellowshipped, I questioned the elders, I was told their abuser (my husband at the time and a Ministerial Servant)was not a wicked person , but he was weak and I was not to question the outcome of the hearing. The healing of the girls and our family would have been so much easier if our feelings were validated and if he was disfellowshipped. One elder knew he was a con artist, for he told me this after the judicial meeting. The feelings that enveloped me were devastating, I wanted to die. My daughter told me she would lay in bed and think of ways to kill herself. My sister suffered physically from the stress of the abuse. The rest of my family was in shock, and my sons left the Org. When the abuse was first told to me , I tried to have my husband arrested, but the girls were over eighteen when they told me, so the authorities told me they had to report it not me. Another let down. They were too scared and ashamed.I needed the elders to support me by reporting the abuse, but was told they were not mandated to report abuse in NY, so they didnt.In fact, the elders never even spoke to my daughter about the abuse and never even comforted her,she told me she is very hurt by this still to this day and feels betrayed that someone who was a close friend of hers would defend the sexual abuse policy, he is an elder. When I tried to warn other families in our hall of my husband (ex), I was warned to keep silent otherwise I would be marked, and I was causing division in the hall and if I did not listen to the elder's counsel I would be disfellowshipped. Another let down. I couldn't believe that the molester wasn't DF'd but I would be, it was then that even though I still went to meetings and gave talks and went preaching, my heart was aching for justice, but was told I had to wait on Jehovah. I believed that and I still do, and I know that the time has come and He has answered our prayers with all this exposure coming out and our wait is over. I do not hate any witness and never did and I am not turning my back on Jehovah, I am just trying to heal by telling the truth, which God knows I am. And I want to tell all the victims that you are survivors now and as a mother I want to tell you that I love all of you and I believe you and I am so sorry for the horrible crimes committed against you. I want to validate your feelings and offer you support and to tell you that as a volunteer for Silentlambs I am here for you and I am fighting to change the Statute of Limitations for sexual abuse. And to all those who posted such negative replies to Bill Bowen and the Silentlambs, remember this, do as Jesus did and have compassion for all people and do not judge harshly, for you will be judged also by your heart condition....Thanks Bill for being the elder me and my daughter have always been looking for..

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
03:53:50
Comments
I have read for the first time many of the posts in the Guestbook made since Dateline aired. It is the first opportunity I have had due to being inundated with email that I have been trying to answer. At the moment we have several JW pedophiles that are having charges press against them in different parts of the country. Also over 40 pedophile surveys have been turned in with numerous stories of abuse that will be going up shortly on the “abused lambs” page. As I read the posts made so far I was struck by to pain and sadness so many have as a result of WT Policy. WE BELIEVE YOU! Here you will never be doubted, your story will never be questioned, we will support you in anyway possible to heal and report those who hurt you. That is the purpose of silentlambs.

There are areas some have asked about and I would like to provide some brief answers. First, legal action, if you wish to pursue legal action please be careful who you talk to. There are those who would take advantage. I have asked the Webmaster to take all legal advertisements off the website as I do not know who these people are and they have made no effort to contact me. I do not trust them. If you feel you would like to do something in that direction email me and I will be glad to put you with someone who is very credible. info@silentlambs.org

Second, a few have asked about donations. If you read the “gift to sl” you will note all donations go to the assistance of victims. I take no salary and devote hundreds of hours as a donation of my time and effort. Our funding is very limited and as a result we are limited as to what we can do, so if anyone's heart moves them to assist, the more we get the more we can do for survivors. I just looked at the sl account we have $2,143.25 in the bank and to date since Dateline aired I have received a total of $50 in donations from one kind person. The hotline phone bill this month will be close to $400 along with website expenses. When things get tight I have certain ones I can call who are generous to help keep things going, for their help I am very grateful. Perhaps this will help some to see why I have the donate button at the top of the page.

Third, you will note there are a variety of posts that appear on the Guestbook. I try to allow most to remain as it gives the viewer the full picture of how survivors are affected. The anger, sorrow, sense of loss, bitterness, sadness, to name a few are so clearly presented, it needs to come out, you will not be silenced here. I also allow those who bitterly defend WT Policy as it helps the viewer to see how blinded a few are to the reality presented by this website. To this day I marvel how some can walk over all this evidence and call survivors liars. Understand many who read their posts marvel and understand why this problem continues in the organization, it is a living testament. So please do not be offended, this is a rough Guestbook born from atrocities committed against children.

Fourth, many have asked where I stand with regard to belief and teachings of the organization. I remain neutral on any expressions about doctrine. Silentlambs is a support group for all JW victims of abuse. This group ranges in those who have been DF'd, da, inactive, regular, pioneer, etc.. Who do we have the right to turn our backs on? All were hurt as children and are trying to find the path healing. At silentlambs we practice a don't ask don't tell rule whenever we gather or assist one another. That is we come together as survivors and your status is a non issue, you will always have the support of silentlambs. Our message is about healing and getting better, being the best person you can be, giving back to others and learning to never be a silent lamb.

silentlambs

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
04:24:11
Comments
As always when the Watchtower is exposed as it really is with good documentation and facts we have the loyal WT apologists JW's crawling out of the woodwork to deliver some of their usual pathetic one or two liners, like these:

"Those of you bashing witnesses, Pathetic ignorant fools, only looking to release your anger on people who try to lead clean lives, I am not a JW but I have respect for them, how can you possibly base your opinion on them for a few sick individuals. I don't see anyone attacking the Catholics for condemning "sinners" to hell and forcing collection plates. These are people. You are no better than the hatred spewing Nazis that terrorized the Jews or the KKK, that's right you prejudiced hypocrites! "

"Looks like an APOSTATE website to me. How could you do something like this??? It's so sad to see someone do this...."

"You are probably a Catholic that is spearheading these untruths to take the heat off of the terrible problems confronting your church. Soon the Catholic church will answer to God for their conduct. (for the one that is behind this site ) this system is about to end and sad to say you will go down with it..."

These comments are great though, because they show perfectly well the complete lack of empathy and compassion with the victims of the abuse that exist among the rank and file JW's. Here we can see the true face of what they call "Christian Love" in action as practiced by JW's.

It demonstrates the true attitude of loyal devout Jehovah's Witnesses and the cadaver discipline among the rank and file. No matter what kind of horrible abuse you are subjected to in the hands of elders and fellow JW's, you have to take it. Don't rock the boat! Don't do anything to bring shame on Jehovah. What a despicable and sick cult Jehovah's Witnesses are.

So thank you folks! Keep posting these one liners to spew you insane hatred for truth and decency. It reveals your true nature and attitudes.

This one is so typical of a JW who have absolutely no arguments against the well documented material about the horrible conditions within the WT organization and then have to deliver the ultimate last pathetic, impotent and helpless line with the universal and usual threat, my God will kill you because you just exposed us for the creeps we are:

(for the one that is behind this site) this system is about to end and sad to say you will go down with it..........."

Norm

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
08:04:53
Comments
Norm, you are so right!! There is no use in calling each other names, as J.W.'s are so brainwashed they don't even know it (and the few that do know it, are so scared to lose their so called friends that they wont even admit it to themselves!!) and the rest of the world will never understand why these people let themselves be so brainwashed and fooled by WT. So we all, like Bill Bowen, would better put all our energy in protecting and saving our kids from these criminals, no matter their religion!!

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
09:50:32
Comments
Someone wrote: *Just because someone claims nothing is going on doesn't make it so. Old expression "5% make it happen; 5% watch it happen; and 80% ask what happened."

Great quote, but.................. What about the other ten percent? LOL

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
11:37:23
Comments
Hi..I am in awe at the powerful sight this is. It is about time to open the hearts of those wanting real truth to be known, and protecting those innocents. Thank you so much. I love what your doing..Keep it public, keep it public.. judith judyk@neumedia.net

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
14:26:03
Comments
Hi I would like to thank Bill Bowen for opening this web site. It is time that the silent ones stand up and speak out for them selves. God will honor your love that you have for the thousands of abused victims. It is time for the Watchtower to step back and see that they need to change a lot of rules in their organization. They need to realize that people need LOVE, and with that comes FREEDOM of speech. I pray for all of the victims that have been silenced for MANY of yrs! The ones that have chosen to be in an organization like the Jehovah's Witness,need to realize that when we obey and honor God that we honor our Government also, the Bible commands that we pray for our leaders of our country, not to turn against them in any way. It is Gods will that this information be revealed about the Watchtower Society. The shunning that takes place in the Society is also another sin that God has no part of. I pray that God would manifest him self in such a way that the organization would have no doubt as to WHO God truly is! May the Lord keep a hedge of protection around each person that has been abused by this organization. Satan destroys and desires to sift us like wheat. In Jesus name we have the power to over come the enemy who is trying to destroy innocent people. Thank you for this web site, and many blessings and love to all of the ones who are suffering in so many ways. God Bless Sharon Rid595@cs.com

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
14:57:51
Comments
I would like to ask why my post to this page keep being removed. who is doing that. I state 1 thing in favor of the JW group and it doesn't stay on the site. I am confused what this site is for if post keep being removed. why are we not free to post what we wish? Thanks Karen

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
14:58:04
Comments
I would like to ask why my post to this page keep being removed. who is doing that. I state 1 thing in favor of the JW group and it doesn't stay on the site. I am confused what this site is for if post keep being removed. why are we not free to post what we wish? Thanks Karen

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
14:58:10
Comments
I would like to ask why my post to this page keep being removed. who is doing that. I state 1 thing in favor of the JW group and it doesn't stay on the site. I am confused what this site is for if post keep being removed. why are we not free to post what we wish? Thanks Karen

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
14:58:20
Comments
I would like to ask why my post to this page keep being removed. who is doing that. I state 1 thing in favor of the JW group and it doesn't stay on the site. I am confused what this site is for if post keep being removed. why are we not free to post what we wish? Thanks Karen

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
16:02:10
Comments
Anyone who know one of Jehovah's Witnesses or has been to the Kingdom Hall should know that what is said in this website are lies. They things said are lies or twisted around to sound like what they are not. It makes me sick to read what you are writing. You make it sound as if any time someone makes a mistake they are disfellowshipped, which is no true. If you do something really bad and do not turn from that way then you can be disfellowshipped. Jehovah's Witnesses follow what the bible says and take the bible very serious.

I encourage any who have questions to ask one of Jehovah's Witnesses to explain what their beliefs are and do not listen to these lies on this website.

Child molestation is a horrible thing and none of Jehovah's Witnesses would protect or condone any child molester.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
16:03:01
Comments
To the person who wrote that you are pointing out negative things about JW's. I have been a JW for over 30 yrs. FYI: THE ELDERS ONLY REPORT ABUSE IF IT IS REQUIRED BY LAW (16 STATES)...OR ANY OTHER CRIME FOR THAT MATTER. THE BROTHER ON DATELINE WHO IS IN PRISON (MANUEL) WAS DF'D FOR 6 MO. MOST ARE NOT DF'D AND IF THE ABUSER OR FAMILY SAY ANYTHING TO ANYONE ELSE...WARNING OTHER PUBLISHERS TO PROTECT THEIR KIDS, ETC. THEY ARE PUBLICLY REPROVED OR DF'D. JW'S DO NOT WANT TO BELIEVE THAT THIS IS GOING ON AND THEY REALLY BELIEVE THAT ABUSERS ARE REMOVED.....USUALLY THEY ARE NOT. WE NEED TO WAKE UP AND PROTECT OUR CHILDREN.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
16:28:38
Comments
OK Bill I got the message and my PayPals are on the way. You will see me every month. Sooner if need be.

For anyone looking to follow me here is a tip. The donation site on the main page is much easier to use than the one on the Guestbook. The Guestbook link is so small it is hard to use. And even a $5 dollar donation does matter. Regardless of the theocracy of the people involved my love is to the children; Any children ours or yours. For any person who can't understand why Bill created this site know this. Witnesses, if this is a crime against God to you, then that crime is we love your kids. You may think this misguided. I tell you what, if these are the end times, on that day you people who did nothing, You say why you did nothing. Those who are there for the protection children, You say why you did this.

Let God judge.

Peace and love to you Brother Bill. Glory to Jehovah God for this site.

I know here I stand.

WTCOVERTOPS@AOL.com

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
16:51:06
Comments
Jehovah's Witnesses are like any other humans. They are not perfect so some do really bad things. That does no mean that Jehovah's Witnesses as a whole are bad. They try to lead clean lives. I would not want to be around any Witnesses who has molested a child but if they do repent then they will be able to still be one of Jehovah's Witnesses. I am very sorry for any who have been molested, whether they are a Witness or not. The Catholics had to all go to New York and decide what to do about this problem. Jehovah's Witnesses have always knew what their stand on the matter is. If there is more than one person making a claim then the elders can do something about it other wise they can't (it says in the bible to have two or three witnesses). If a elder told a family they would be disfellowshipped for reporting it to the police then he was wrong. The family has the right to do that. The reason the elders don't report it to the police is because it usually can be handled in the congregation. If not the family can report it. In most states it is not the law to report it or the elders would even if there was only one witness, because that would be the law. Jehovah's Witnesses have put out many articles on how to protect our children from child molesting. We hate the sin of child molesting and would never condone it at all. The elders can not read hearts so if the child molesters seems repentant sometimes he/she is allowed to remain in the congregation. If he/she goes to any door the have to be with someone that is not ever been child molester. I believe on the Dateline show it showed a man that had been a child molester at a door, but there was also another person with him. You can not condemn all of Jehovah's Witnesses for what a group of witnesses did (which is a horrible thing). Jehovah's Witnesses as a whole try to lead good clean lives. Even though some witnesses that have molested are allowed to stay in the congregation the elders inform all the members of the congregation of who he/she is and what they did. If that person moved the new congregation would inform the new congregation of what he/she has done and the elders would tell the members of the congregation. The organization does not in any way protect that person from jail of any action by the courts or police. Any child molester can not serve as an elder or in any position in the congregation of responsibility. Many things on this website are twisted around and many things are lies. For one example, people are not disfellowshipped for about anything they do, they are disfellowshipped for doing something really bad and not being repented. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTION PLEASE GO TO ONE OF JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES AND ASK THEM THE QUESTION SO THEY CAN EXPLAIN. Don't trust people that hate the witnesses or who claim to be a witness but to not act like they are (but telling how bad we are a twisting the truth).

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
16:52:44
Comments
To those who are victims, your second witness comes in the form of "forensic" science which our civil authorities use diligently. While each state may not have a Law for "shepherds" to have to report a crime. Does not God have one which says to "obey the Laws of the land". Exactly, we are to "obey CIVIL laws for reporting crimes. It is not only law, it is humane, it is a Godly act to help another in need.

Now while the WT wants to protect its own gluteus maximus. You will stand before Jehovah and have to tell Him why you didn't act to help an innocent and lowly one. Just like the admonition in 2 Tim 2:15 "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth".

I doest matter if you are a Jehovah Witness, or a Mormon, or a Catholic, or a Baptist or not even in a church. Everyone deserves the right to choose what is done to them in their life. These are moral things the thread of what righteousness is made of.

May God bring you all Peace, Love and Joy

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
16:59:02
Comments
Yes, God's law does say to obey the law of the land but only 16 states say that you have to report the crime. If the law says to report the molesting then the elders do, no matter how many witnesses there are even one.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
17:01:24
Comments
The family always has the right to report the crime to the police. And if any one says they will be punished then that person is wrong for saying that.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
17:05:35
Comments
I guess I am not done. Remember the "naughty one" who keeps on transforming himself as an angel of light? The one who would fool even the very elect if it were not for God bringing this to an end?

I see all kinds of personalities posting here. Victims first of all. Then second the ones who belong to the organization that have not had this bad experience who are adamantly defending their faith. And then third I see everyone else who lives outside the "protected Bubble" of the WT Society showing cause for the ignorance and blindness in the world. Well pull up your boot straps, this blindness exists in every faith and in every walk. God is cleaning house and "NO ONE" is going to remain hidden. What the perpetrator does in secret will come to light not just in the Catholic faith, or the Jehovah's Witness's but all walks will get this shake down.

For those of you who have not had to live this horror. And since you don't know. I will share this well known metaphor "It is better to remain quiet and thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt". YOU have NOT walked a mile in their shoes and DO NOT have the right to judge those who say they are victims. How dare you.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
17:14:38
Comments
I agree with you that you should not judge any one who says he/she is a victim. If someone was to do that then they are wrong. I have heard stories of have other people turn their back to ones how say they are victims (from this website) but if that's true then those people, as I said, are wrong. We don't know if these ones saying they are victims are or are not. I hope if they are victims that they can find help, and if they are not victims then they will be exposed.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
17:22:35
Comments
Most of the comments are just wonderful!

Congratulations of the airing of Dateline - it has definitely opened up a lot of comments in the guest book. Many more people finding this "safe" place.

Regarding divisions: The WTS have been doing the dividing for a ignoble cause. Love does not divide. Truth does not divide on itself. Liars cannot handle the truth. They have already primed the congregations for the "cleaning" out - to clean out what is clean, beneficial, what is good and what will be left??? Dirt and dirt-bags. The WTS has proved that they are not noble, not just, not honest in their dealings and control is better if it divides. WTS is divisive, is ignoble and hates what is good, beneficial, clean - one hell of an organization. They alienate, ignore, neglect the innocent in behalf of "not causing division."

It is Better to cause division for what is noble than to cause division for what is evil and wicked. It is not better to ignore, neglect what in reality divides so that there is an illusion of no division. Nothing is as complicated as it looks. Pedophiles are criminals and any toleration, support, over-looking of this is just plain common sense wrong and if it causes a division let that division be for what is Noble. It is better than standing by and WATCHing.

Bill and all of you who had the courage to stand up and be noble are not to be "commended" for doing what is just being a slave to God as you should be. Then you would be big fat "egos" like the rest of them. You are better than that!

Pedophiles love the WTS and the brothers & sisters tolerance of them. And that is the only love they have right now. If they had the love of God, or LOVE for God and his righteousness this site would be full of remorse, repair, and words of humility from the WTS, the pedophiles, all those who support the pedophiles and have shunned the innocent victims and caused so much DIVISION.

To my knowledge not one JW Pedophile has wrote to the victims on this web site with remorse for the division HE CAUSED, between a victim and her conscience, between members of the congregation and their conscience. Let alone make restitution voluntarily. A truly remorseful, "godly" pedophile would have turned himself into the police - need I say more??? And would have stopped the division he caused.

Who is running this one hell of an organization???

I do not have to love my neighbor anymore than what the ten commands dictate to me. This embracing, protecting, this sympathy and "compassion" is phoney worldly love and is in direct opposition to Jehovah's principals of love in conjunction with the fruit of the spirit. Love is responsible not an excuse to be irresponsible, or to demand irresponsibility. Crazy-making and confusion. Chaos - yes it is chaos. Organized chaos and confusion. On the surface organized to hide the chaos and confusion lying LIES beneath the surface.

Bill projects a real Christian love that requires sacrifice and fearlessness of faith. This has helped me to believe that there are noble men and women and now I don't feel so "divided spiritually" or "divided off" like an Alien in the chaos. The example of love and faith on this site is encouraging to seekers of real Christian love and what is means to have real faith in God.

If a person loves the WTS or their brother more than God - of what use are they?? If they show more love for a pedophile than the innocent how are they any different, and how are they reflecting the love of God but as a hypocrite. Fear of man is not faith in Jehovah or the love of God but only the fear of man. Fake love is the fear of man, real love knows and puts their trust in Jehovah to show them the right action to take and trust that Jehovah will back them up when they do it. What bigger test than to take the organization that alienated the innocent in the name of Jehovah and exercise faith in Jehovah by doing what is RIGHT? Fake love fears the truth and does nothing to right a wrong. For the love of God you cannot do wrong & get away with it.

IT WAS THE IGNOBLE ACTS OF WTS, THE ELDERS WHO DID NOTHING, AND THE SHEEP WHO STAND BY AND WATCH THAT HAVE CAUSED THE DIVISION IN THE CONGREGATIONS. Not Bill, Not the innocent who want justice, not the ones who would not stand for it and stood up to it.

Amen

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
17:29:50
Comments
The WTS (Watch Tower Society) follows what the bible says to do. I am sorry if you think this should have been handled differently than the bible (God's word) says to handle it. The WTS have and are trying the best that they can to make sure these kind of things don't happen. The WTS has never offered money to anyone to keep them quiet, etc. The WTS is headed by humans so mistakes can be made. But the society as a whole follows what the bible says.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:00:18
Comments
To all of you who have posted above, ponder this:

This is why I am not a organizational Witness. You creatures do not even comprehend the concept of taking responsibility for your actions. As long as your "Elders" don't decide to have an issue with your conduct you don't care.

To entertain your 1Tim 5:19 defense shows how willfully stupid you all are. That is exactly what disgusts me about you creatures!

If it were adult males in your self-indulgent delusional world that were being hunted, preyed upon, and violated you would have an entirely different outlook on this. Sadly pathetic, and archaic as it is, women and children are nothing more that chattel in your organization. (I will not even give it a Capital anymore.) JW's your behavior and your values are disgustingly vile. They are an abomination to our Lord and true Christians and around the World.

PLEASE people I am begging you in the name of Christ and the one who sent him. Put down your Man Made Literature and pick up the Bible. You are being misled. YOU HAVE MINDS USE THEM!

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:05:45
Comments
I encourage you all to visit the Watch Tower's website. The address is www.watchtower.org . You are now visiting a website that doesn't agree with and is against Jehovah's Witnesses so make sure you hear both sides. The Watch Tower website doesn't have is much material on the subject of whether or not they are covering up child molester. But they do have information on it. They have all the different articles they have put out for years telling about child molesters: How to watch for them, and how Jehovah's Witnesses feel about them. Please give both side a chance and give as much attention to finding out about were Jehovah's Witnesses stand as you do about what they do wrong. This is the letter the Watch Tower Society sent to Dateline: http://www.jw-media.org/releases/rgreenberg020702.pdf . This is a letter telling what and why Jehovah's Witnesses position on child molestation is http://www.jwmedia.org/releases/default.htm?content=bg_molestation.htm .

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:06:05
Comments
I like the site and hope it helps all

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:15:42
Comments
I partly agree with the man or woman that wrote (a few up) to put down man made literature and pick up the bible. We all should look in the bible for the answer to everything in life. But the literature that comes from Jehovah's Witnesses comes from the bible. The literature is just a bible aid to discuss bible topic and then the literature gives you the scriptures were all the information is found. I encourage all to ask Jehovah's Witnesses about any of their beliefs and where they are found in the bible. If you do this in a respectful way any Witness will be happy to answer your questions. You can also visit www.watchtower.org which will explain some of our beliefs.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:42:46
Comments
When is this information going to get into the general media. The makes the Catholic Church priesthood look like "kids" play.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:43:30
Comments
When is this information going to get into the general media. This makes the Catholic Church priesthood look like "kids" play.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:46:29
Comments
. A truly remorseful, "godly" pedophile would have turned himself into the police - need I say more??? And would have stopped the division he caused.

**This is a really good point. I never thought of that. I should have. I remember one sister who, before she was baptized, had many affairs with other men. Upon the "suggestion" of the elders, she told her husband and asked him to forgive her. She told me it had been a requirement for her to be baptized. (I suppose I should have "turned myself in" too, but I have to admit I am rather glad I never opened -my- mouth about what I did before I started studying! I'd still be apologizing! To everyone! I was pretty bad.)

You are so right. If an abuser is really sincere, he will -want- to go to the elders, he will -want- to turn himself in to the police; he will -want- to write a simple NON SELF SERVING apology to the victim and her family, and then stay the hell away from them - for good. There are probably other things a molester can do to show his sincere sorrow, but I think much of that depends on what the victim (or should I say survivor?) desires. At no point should the molester force his apology on the victim. Never. At no point should the molester rationalize his behavior. Hey, my father was molested repeatedly when he was a child; I can understand -why- he might have done the same to me, but that doesn't mean he should have. He was an extremely intelligent man and most certainly knew that what he had done was unspeakable. A four year old innocent girl. No wonder I'm crazy. How do you ever really get over something like that? None of my family believes me, either. I'm just the sick one, the pathetic one, the trouble maker. (All non-Witnesses, by the way.)

I kind of changed gears here, I'm sorry. I just am so stupid; it never dawned on me that a sincerely repentant molester would willingly pay the price for his crimes - whatever that price might be.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:47:34
Comments
Witnesses always talk about being shown respect. As my Mother puts it, "They would be given respect by us if there was anything to respect."

Respect is earned.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
18:57:42
Comments
For one example, people are not disfellowshipped for about anything they do, they are disfellowshipped for doing something really bad and not being repented

**This is simply not true. I know of many sincerely repentant Witnesses who got the ax anyway, and I hate to say it, but it was almost always a woman. A single woman. I think the only person lower in the congregation than a single woman who has no family in the truth is an abuse victim crying for help. No one has the courage to deal with them. And that's right?????

And why on earth should a victim and her family be "repentant" for doing what they have a moral obligation to do before God and their fellow citizens by reporting a case of abuse? That's a SIN? Uh......I don't think so. You're heart is in the right place but you need to rethink that statement.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
20:01:00
Comments
I was sexually assaulted by a servant who was appointed by the Holy Spirit of JW's while I was a child. Later The Holy Spirit of JW's promoted him to be Presiding Overseer (PO).Later in a phone call to a Governing Body member,Bro. Jackson told me to write down on Selective Service papers that my PO had baptized me, which was a big Fib.I refused!

My mother on her death bed said she couldn't do anything about the molester back then, as she needed his mother as a friend.

The last time I went to a Kingdom Hall was for Mom's funeral service, she got preached as a zealous witness with a hope of earthly resurrection. Rev.21:8 "But as for the cowards and those without faith... will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulphur. This means the second death."

Where's my MOM? WTguineaPIG@ziplip.com

rest of story at www freeminds.org sex abuse page July 23,2001

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
20:07:52
Comments
I was sexually assaulted by a servant who was appointed by the Holy Spirit of JW's while I was a child. Later The Holy Spirit of JW's promoted him to be Presiding Overseer (PO).Later in a phone call to a Governing Body member, Bro. Jackson told me to write down on Selective Service papers that my PO had baptized me, which was a big Fib.I refused!

My mother on her death bed said she couldn't do anything about the molester back then, as she needed his mother as a friend.

The last time I went to a Kingdom Hall was for Mom's funeral service, she got preached as a zealous witness with a hope of an earthly resurrection. Rev.21:8 "But as for the cowards and those without faith... will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulphur. This means the second death."

Where's my MOM? WTguineaPIG@ziplip.com

rest of story at www freeminds.org sex abuse page July 23,2001

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
20:13:29
Comments
Thank you Kevin - Finally a letter of remorse. Read my comments for June 1st - asking for where are the letters of remorse. Had not read your letter before I wrote mine.

You may get letters of rage - this will be good for you and the person who writes them. Better people are enraged with you then to be tolerant and "love you for who you are" if you know what I mean.

For me it showed "them" meaning them as in WTS, them as in standing by and doing nothing, them meaning the pedophiles who con the suckers who tolerate them etc....as to what is the "right" thing to do when you do something this destructive to another human being - even if you are imperfect.

You put egg on the face of it. This is good.

Being imperfect is no excuse for doing what is unquestionable wrong and no excuse for acceptance of doing horrible and terrible acts upon a child. And being imperfect is no excuse for not having sincere remorse and showing it. You know it, I know it.

You know that, now why is it the pedophiles in congregation don't know it, or the WTS, or the Elders????

Anyway you set an example of "the letter" I was looking for and maybe these JW's that visit this site calling Bill gay, an apostate, everyone a bunch of whiners, liars etc...would kindly ask themselves why there is only one letter of remorse from a pedophile and an ex-JW at that. I know the answer.

Only a liar is afraid of the truth. That is why they lie. You are not afraid of the ugly truth even if it is about you, even if you are hated for telling the truth about your ugly deeds - you are cleaner than a person who supports & tolerates this or does it and never comes to remorse.

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
21:02:29
Comments
Bill Bowen,

Is Missouri one of the 16 states that require reporting?

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
21:59:04
Comments
Bill, thank you very much for the hard work past, present and future. It's by no means over. This organization by its own testimony in the '39 Salvation book claimed that holy spirit wasn't necessary now the Organization had been identified (1918). Whatever good Russell did has long gone. The wts is bound for its own Armageddon and there will be a lot of work for you to do, they are masters of the half-truth. I don't know what the best way of organizing is but I would assume that would require some serious money.

As for the JW molestation rate of 23,720 cases (another report I heard was 2 cases in each congregation on average) this is just the tip of the iceberg.

I'd like to throw my hat in the ring. Dunno what I can do. The cases of the two JW sisters that has haunted me for years still haunts me. I emailed one to see if she wants to sue. I could help her with that but my guess is there will be too much pain for her and her family to go through. She went through enough the first time.

Thank you for all your hard work.

Peace

Deleted.

glen@greenstead. com

SAY NO TO DISFELLOWSHIPPING!

Remote User:
Date:
01 Jun 2002
Time:
22:18:07
Comments
In New Mexico, Dateline was preempted by a basketball game, and the local station did NOT announce the change or the info contained so I didn't get to see it Do you know how I can get a copy? sandimylife@hotmail.com My story is long and I have been beaten by elders for 30+ years, so this is not my real name.

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:15:24
Comments
Bro. Bowen:

I'm not sure if you are aware of this but this past week the society announced to all congregations during the service meeting the organization's position on child molestation. It was very succinct and to the point. You can find this information at http://www.jw-media.org/releases/default.htm?content=bg_molestation.htm.

It is apparent to me that you have started your organization in hopes of exposing a flaw. With the above mentioned release I think that your efforts have seen some results although I know you are in no way looking for self gratification. The brothers including the governing body are not perfect as you know. They are all working as shepherds surrounded by a dark world; Satan's world. At times what may be viewed as impropriety or a lack of concern is simply the fruition of this wicked system of things.

I am not so audacious so as to say that these efforts of yours have been Jehovah's direction, however there has been light shed on this matter that appears to be a change in thinking from years past. Does this mean then that Jehovah's organization or Kingdom arrangement is imperfect? No, certainly not. It simply means that human imperfection has crept into Jehovah's perfect arrangement. Sometimes our brothers get caught up in trying not to make a mistake or rushing into something without Jehovah's direction, that we loose sight of the spiritual common sense that Jehovah has helped us cultivate with spiritual maturity.

With all this said even if there is some serious wrongdoing, remember 2 Corinthians 11: 12-15.

“Now what I am doing I will still do, that I may cut off the pretext from those who are wanting a pretext for being found equal to us in the office of which they boast. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself keeps transforming himself into an angel of light. It is therefore nothing great if his ministers also keep transforming themselves into ministers of righteousness. But their end shall be according to their works.”

That's right ‘there end shall be according to their works.' Jehovah will take care of those that have been in fact covering over matters or have been ‘deceitful workers.'

In reading your letter to the governing body two of the three mandates you proposed have now been acted upon. The third being restriction from the door to door activity would be contrary to the scriptural commandment found at Matthew 28:19-20.

“Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded YOU. And, look! I am with YOU all the days until the conclusion of the system of things.”

Asking anyone that is in good standing regardless of their past to not share in the preaching work would be contrary to this commandment. Furthermore, adopting such a policy would exclude any person that has committed a serious wrong from the preaching work. In God's eye a sin is a sin. As you know fornicators, adulterers and so on will not inherit God's kingdom. This of course includes those abusing children.

Although it sickens me greatly to think that human imperfection has marred Jehovah's Organization, I will not let this weaken my faith nor should you. There simply is nothing else out there. If being a Jehovah's Witness does not lead down the narrow path that few are finding then it simply does not exist!

My point to all this is that things are not perfect, mistakes are certainly made but at some point we as human beings can sometimes become addicted to tragedy and chaos. Why do you think there are so many television programs that focus on human tragedy? Don't become addicted to the buzz around stirring the pot. I say this not to cover or sweep serious issues under the rug, but rather to say that the issue has finally been addressed. Elders are now instructed to report to the authorities any behavior of this nature and to use any two separate accusations as being two witnesses in fulfillment of the instructions given in Matthew.

Isaiah 55:8-9

“For the thoughts of YOU people are not my thoughts, nor are my ways YOUR ways,” is the utterance of Jehovah. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than YOUR ways, and my thoughts than YOUR thoughts.”

Jehovah does know what is best for us. We must not loose sight of this. This wicked system and its god will continue to try to thwart us from gaining salvation. Times such as these truly do remind us that these are the “last days.” In your some 40 plus years of service I am sure that you know this. Don't let the mistakes of men rob you of your goal as well as that of your family.

Sincerely,

Your brother

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:19:12
Comments
Here, in San Jose, CA, the Mercury news featured an article about a disfellowshipped JW women who chose to see her daughter (raised in the JW faith and left, at age eighteen)and wrote a book about her experiences. Subsequently, I wrote the journalist, R.Scheinin, that Ms Wilson's--disfellowshipping--experiences, though factually valid, were not earth shaking (despite the fact her husband reported her). Rather, rampant alcoholism, adultery, fornication(both hetero and homosexual), and pedophilia/pederasty were the true shocking and scandalous skeletons. It was pointed out that all this immorality is "swept under the rug" in order to appear before the world as "without spot" "free of sinners", which is, of course, a patent lie (no organized religion is free from the spot of sin). The following week Dateline's story broke (5/28/02). My heart aches for these poor children and their parents, who, like it as not, are emotionally scarred for the duration of their natural lives. There is no valid excuse for these developments. Organizationally, it is far too easy for these uneducated, inexperienced, empathically dead elders to practice the one simple rule that would release them from all potential scandal: "When in doubt--through them out!" What dumb founds me is why this practice is ignored, allow the matter to compound , violate "Caesar's law", and employ the excuse the Catholic Church uses with regard the sacrosanct confessional; which to my knowledge and decades of association, the Watchtower has categorically denied and refused to acknowledge the act of repentance as one and the same thing. Now they are? I say the following knowing full well how difficult it would be for some to follow, but the sole means to get the international Watchtower to acknowledge the heinous conspiracy and cover up is to put as many of these 23 thousand, and counting, cases into Superior and Federal Courts across the land--and make it very public (this is what caused the Catholic Church to flinch, finally). There is one thing the Watchtower HQ fears, with deep dread, is publicity and loosing face before the world of on-lookers. The Bible, both Old and New Testaments, is emphatically clear--the truth must always come to light (remember the reasons for the Prophets and Jesus Christ). In order for the truth to prevail, it must be brought before Caesar's rule(s) of criminal law. Contrary to what the Watchtower spokesmen stated, pedophilia/pederasty are not modern day social problems, they have been with the human race since Adam commenced inseminating both Eve and many of his own daughters (remember where Canaan got his wife, after slaying Able), and set the paternal example for his subsequent sons.

Thank you for the courageous website and personal courage. Please keep up the work of forwarding the truth, so many others may be set free (John 8:23); or a least on guard for their children's safety!

Sincerely submitted,

R. Peterson

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:26:49
Comments
Witnesses always talk about being shown respect. As my Mother puts it, "They would be given respect by us if there was anything to respect." Respect is earned? I don't understand what you mean. How have Jehovah's Witnesses not earned respect?

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:31:09
Comments
Dear R.

I would like for you to tell me more about disfellowshipping and how I'm wrong?

I would appreciate that very much?

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:31:18
Comments
Dear R.

I would like for you to tell me more about disfellowshipping and how I'm wrong?

I would appreciate that very much?

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:31:24
Comments
Dear R.

I would like for you to tell me more about disfellowshipping and how I'm wrong?

I would appreciate that very much?

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
00:35:30
Comments
Of course no group of people are without spots. But as a whole Jehovah's Witnesses try to maintain a clean life that follows the bible (god's word). Many people are disfellowshipped each year for what they do wrong that is why the organization can stay clean. We are all humans so we all do make mistakes.

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
03:38:02
Comments
A part of this that also makes this issue especially bad is that these pedophiles know that the congregation won't turn them and won't advise the child's parents to turn them in. So basically they can do what ever they want & if the child can come forward & speak up they know that they still are going to get away with it. In our hall a number of years back an elders son threatened another elders daughter that if she said anything about him raping her that he would ruin her fathers reputation in the hall. So not only was he abusing her physically he was also holding her hostage until she finally couldn't hold it in anymore. Basically the victims family just changed congregations so they didn't have to continue to look at the guy as he came in & commented away at every meeting. The witnesses need to WAKE UP and realize that what has been going on is not acceptable to Jehovah and it is now being dealt with even if it makes you feel uncomfortable because it's being done publicly. Victims need to speak out - they can't continue to be held hostage by these MONSTERS! and PLEASE LEAVE ANY JUDGING TO JEHOVAH! Could it be that you just don't know all of the facts and besides name calling and abusive speech will not impress anybody and just reflects on your heart condition.

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
03:38:11
Comments
In response to:

"IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTION PLEASE GO TO ONE OF JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES AND ASK THEM THE QUESTION SO THEY CAN EXPLAIN"

How? By opening this book full of pre-chewed answers????

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
04:02:15
Comments
Hi again,

Mistakes...Imperfection...We are NOT talking about this! We are talking about Criminal Behavior!!!! The watchtower web site...Yes I have been there. I read all the information they had posted!!

The facts speak for themselves!! So many refuse to consider what we are saying I want to say YOU ARE IN DENIAL. What we hate is the behavior (pedophilia) and the cover up. As a TRUE Witness of Jehovah I am telling the truth.

If I even started to tell the things I have seen beyond what I have submitted here you probably scream that I was a liar...You must realize I am not the only witness to what is going on where I live...but you probably still scream I was twisting things...Just because you (some JW) call us liars doesn't make it so.

Regardless what you think the facts speak for themselves. THERE ARE PEDOPHILES IN THE CONGREGATIONS. In Proverbs 22:3 gives very timely advice " Shrewd is the one that has seen the calamity and proceeds to conceal himself but the inexperienced have passed along and must suffer the penalty." Do you (JW's) want to suffer the penalty?Do not refuse to consider what we are saying here!!

Listen to Proverbs 21:13 " As for anyone stopping up his ear from the complaining cry of the lowly one he himself also will call and not be answered." The organization and most JW's are stopping up their ears to us. Doing this carries chilling consequences for not listening to the lowly ones...when they call Jehovah will not answer them!!! Do you (JW's) want this? DJB

Remote User:
Date:
02 Jun 2002
Time:
06:21:35
Comments
A Silent Lamb Speaks:

While I've made comments in the Guestbook here in the past - this one will be different...it's personal!

Earlier today I finished my personal preparation for Sunday's (tomorrow's) WT lesson. It's been a challenging study - not because the content is deep and maybe difficult to fully understand but because I **KNEW** this material so intimately! It has always been my belief that Jehovah does find ways to make the truth of his words in the Bible known to all those looking for that truth. So I find it to be a bit of his divine guidance in the timing of some recent events. For me, this WT article fits right in there with Dateline's 5/28th show and the purpose behind this silentlambs website. But's it's my tears that bring me to posting at this site now - when it's 3AM here and my meeting's just six hours from now! Sleep is not finding me tonight.

THIS is my life now. Sleep is often hard to get. If it's not the emotions from all I've survived, it might be the nightmares that still come in my sleep, or it's often the pain that wracks my body constantly... regardless the cause, I have found that writing about it helps me to get some rest.

I've been divorced now for almost 3 years. I used to think getting the divorce would help give me some closure to the awful events that preceded it. I don't think that way anymore. There's a lot of things I don't do anymore. I don't sew all of my own clothes nor my children's clothing anymore, just like I don't write with my hands much either now, or knead fresh made bread dough, or do all the crafts I loved or even manage all those little round the house fixit jobs that I used to do. My hands no longer work like they are supposed to - taken from me by my abuser (now my ex-husband). And for those now thinking "how's she writing this then?" I have an adapted computer...literally a godsend! I love working with my hands, especially writing...the loss of that ability has been severely traumatic. I used to go for walks with my kids - can't do that now either. For now a cane helps me with the few steps I take in one time, and docs warn me it will only get worse as many old injuries are showing signs of degenerative arthritis. I used to love going lots of places and doing lots of things all the time - now it's a challenge just to get myself dressed, to care for my family, to do most of the simplest everyday sorts of things! But all of that pales in comparison to the feelings that hit me when one of my kids excitedly runs up to me and gives me a great big bear hug (forgetting how much it will hurt me) and I fight the urge to cry out in pain and struggle to replace it with something close to my former mom hugs - I don't quite get there, but we know I'm trying.

But I've sidetracked a bit... I was talking about Sunday's WT study article: "Guide Your Steps By Godly Principles" Paragraph 2 - God finds delight in intelligent creatures who choose to obey him. (Proverbs 27:11) Instead of programming us to submit blindly as mindless robots, Jehovah endowed us with free will so that we can make informed decisions to do what it right. -Hebrews 5:14

I said just about the same thing during my presentation to the elders in explaining why I'd decided I could not forgive my husband nor allow him back in our home, even if they did not find him guilty of any wrongdoing.

Paragraph 5 - (in part) (referring to several of the principles God provides us in the Bible: loving God with our whole hearts, souls and minds; the Golden Rule; etc) As to everyday aspects of our life, the apostle Paul says: "Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God's glory." (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Another point I'd mentioned as I tried to explain how bad our daily home was.

Paragraph 7 - Time and again, "the word of our God" encourages us to think and act on the basis of principles. (just the first sentence, there's more)

This point of acting on the basis of principles was something I vainly repeated, especially when struggling to understand why the elders could not take the words of not just me (being only one witness), but also those of my several children who had each witnessed many other abusive acts, as a means to prove that my husband was the one lying (not me and all the kids as he was telling them).

Paragraph 10 - You have probably seen people who are inclined to obey laws grudgingly, out of fear of a penalty. Respect for principles precludes such as attitude. The very nature of principles moves those governed by them to respond from the heart. (just the beginning sense.) then gives example of Joseph refusing the advances of Potiphar's wife and how Joseph acted on principle because there was not yet a written law against adultery... We can see from his response that such principles powerfully affected him: "How could I commit this great badness and actually sin against God?" - Genesis 39:9

Used as but one example that one doesn't not need a scripture written saying that a certain sex-related act with a child is wrong. But still it was in vain.

Paragraph 11 (in part) - Guided by Bible principles, we will not look for loopholes in God's laws; nor will we imitate those who try to see how far they can go without actually breaking a certain law.

Yet this IS what my husband always was doing...and still does! But informing the elders of this had no effect either.

Paragraph 12 - Mature Christians recognize that a key to following godly principles is wanting to know how Jehovah feels about a matter. "O you lovers of Jehovah," exhorts the psalmist, "hate what is bad." (Psalms 97:10) Listing some of the things that God would classify as bad, Proverbs 6:16-19 says: "There are six things that Jehovah does hate; yes, seven things are detestable to his soul: lofty eyes, a false tongue, and hands that are shedding innocent blood, a heart fabricating hurtful schemes, feet that are in a hurry to run to badness, a false witness that launches forth lies, and anyone sending forth contentions among brothers." When a desire to reflect how Jehovah feels on such fundamentals governs our lives, living in accord with principles becomes a consistent practice. -Jeremiah 22:16

Five of these things I bore witness to that my husband was not just doing this now and then but practicing these things daily!!! My kids could also tell you of some of these things as they had each experienced many of his lies! The lies they were hurt most by and the ones that shocked them the most were those he told to the elders.

Paragraph 15 - (boy does this one make the tears fall) This example (refer to p.14 above about Jesus' Sermon on the Mount) illustrates that we should never lose sight of the intent and spirit of Jehovah's principles. We should certainly not try to earn God's favor through moral formalism. Jesus exposed the fallacy of such an attitude by pointing to God's mercy and love. (Matthew 12:7; Luke 6:1-11) Following Bible principles, we will avoid trying to live (or demand others to live)(their quote) by an extensive and rigid set of dos and don'ts that go beyond the teachings of the Bible. We will be more concerned about principles of love and obedience toward God than about the outside appearance of worship. -Luke 11:42

Did you catch that last sentence? I sure did! We WILL be more concerned about principles than about the outside appearance!!!!! So why do the elders right away when told of abuses going on want to make sure we do nothing to bring reproach on God's name or on the organization...that WE...the ones reporting to them that we are the victims of such abuse...that we would be the one's bringing such reproach if we choose to go to the police or the child protection people or whatever other authorities with this information??? WE didn't DO ANYTHING to shame Jehovah or his organization!!! ohh, the tears just won't stop now...it's a good thing I don't have to see a keyboard to write this! LOL But there's more!

Paragraph 16 (in part) - What underlies the Christian stand on those issues? (idolatry, immorality, misuse of blood) God deserves our exclusive devotion; we should be faithful to our mate; and Jehovah is the Life-Giver. (Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:5; Psalm 36:9)

Is one being faithful to their mate if they are considering if he could make another female have an orgasm? Are you being unfaithful to your wife if you are seeking sexual pleasure from your daughters? What sort of person wonders if his infant daughter is capable of orgasms? (I stopped asking him to change diapers after that comment!!) My personal study of the Bible tells me that all of the above would stand up as violations of the principles related to being faithful to one's mate and/or not committing adultery. But I'm told I'm not scripturally free to remarry.

Paragraph 18 - Letting our life be guided by Bible principles leads to a superior way of life, which in itself may attract others to the way of God. Most important, our life course honors Jehovah. We realize that Jehovah is really a loving God who wants the best for us. When we make decisions in accord with Bible principles and see how Jehovah blesses us, we come to feel even closer to him. Yes, we further develop a loving relationship with our heavenly Father.

I am now making a decision that I believe to be in accord with Bible principles. My birth given name is Andrea Anderson. I withhold my married surname as a protection for my children still. One has totally left the truth...says she will never step foot in the Kingdom Hall because of what her father has done to her and how the elders handled it. Another is desperately seeking acceptance in worldly relationships...and being hurt by them as well...she really worries me. Another strives to be an overachiever now...as tho she must make up something lacking somewhere. They all suffer nightmares related to acts of their dad. They've been in counseling...some for years now...diagnoses of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, General Anxiety Disorder, very low self-esteem, obsessive/compulsive disorders, self-injurious behaviors and the list goes on. These are the ones that no longer have to see him!!! The younger children suffer worse!

My kids and I have found some wonderful counselors that while they are not Jehovah's Witnesses themselves, they do understand issues of faith and abuse together. They appreciate our views on many things and often will ask for our literature relating to a specific matter so they can better understand how best to help us.

I've written to the brothers in NY myself concerning this matter...several times even. Our CO got involved with these matters. And even tho the elders here and our CO then told me they did indeed believe me, there was NOTHING they could do because my husband was denying it all and even trying to turn some of the situations around to be something I'd insisted on rather than him being the one forcing it on me! To many of those particular incidents the only ones that know what really happened are me, him and Jehovah. I'd stifle my screams in pillows, and fight to keep things quiet enough so the kids were not awakened in their sleep. That was in vain too as I have since learned that some of them did hear sounds that worried and concerned them coming from our bedroom - but they are too afraid of their father to try to come in or even knock! (and the tears fall faster) But they also told me that they did discover that making one of their littler siblings cry (waking the baby, or something) did sometimes stop whatever was going on in our room if it made me come out to tend to the crying child. (they were smart kids LOL)

I know Jehovah does not want these things to go on anymore in secret...that is why Bill has been able to avoid being disfellowshipped and managed to get this information made public. (not to discount the work of all the others - they've done a great job! and I'm sure they will all be blessed by Jehovah)

Thanks in part to some of the comments here from other victims...and to Kevin(?), the man who was a pedophile and is now getting treatment and knows he cannot be around children if he's to avoid hurting them again; I've been able to determine what I think has been a hidden issue for me in all this. My ex has yet to admit to anything, or apologize to any of us (tho he once told me on the phone that he'd apologize, he would, he'd apologize for anything and everything he ever did to hurt me or the kids...just tell him what it was he had done