July 2002 Guestbook - Page 2

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Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
05:57:20
Comments
REPOSTING --- Loris wrote in her letter to Bill: "I need to do this in order to heal from my own pain. And at the same time to save others from having to go through the pain at all." --- Encouraging Reminder for you and the others: THIS work you and everyone is doing, the work on behalf of the Silent Lambs is your "SACRIFICE OF PRAISE, the FRUIT of LIPS which make PUBLIC DECLARATION to his name." NO? "Blasphemy!!" say the JWs and the DFing committees. They feel that scripture applies ONLY to field service or meetings/songs or informal witnessing or conventions? Well, read the verse right AFTER that one: "Moreover, DO NOT FORGET the DOING OF GOOD and the SHARING of things with OTHERS, for WITH SUCH SACRIFICES God is WELL PLEASED." (Hebrews 13:15,16). By SHARING our child abuse experiences, it not only heals ourselves, as you wrote, but also (like you wrote), we can DO GOOD TO OTHERS with similar circumstances and stop the underhanded way things have been handled for DECADES. This IS a sacrifice for which GOD IS WELL PLEASED! Have no doubts about it. Like that man, Peter, wrote from the UK, we cannot stop ALL the child abuse in the world -- otherwise we would have to get OUT of the world, as the Apostle Paul wrote (1 Cor.5:10) -- but we can DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT IN OUR MIDST, RIGHT UNDER OUR NOSES. --- And it is a OUR 'GIFT' that we can OFFER because we have "been there ourselves." Who better to UNDERSTAND what it is like? Can an elder (man) possibly UNDERSTAND? (If you received a copy of Bro. Anderson's letter sent out by SL, you'll know what I mean). No, even the best-hearted person cannot really UNDERSTAND UNLESS they have experienced it themselves. Therefore, what a SPECIAL GIFT it is for Silent Lambs to help other Silent Lambs. To be continued in another posts re: GIFTS... Love/SLC (yes, looks like I'm on a roll here... the thoughts keep coming.) ;)

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
05:58:13
Comments
REPOSTING THIS ONE, TOO --- SILENT LAMBS' GIFTS (& How Utilizing Them Will Cause GROWING PAINS in the Org): Back to Psalm Chapter 68 mentioned further above. I left out another verse I'd like to share. It is verse 18, very familiar to JWs: "You have ascended on high; You have CARRIED AWAY CAPTIVES; You have TAKEN GIFTS in the form of men, Yes, EVEN THE STUBBORN ONES, to RESIDE [AMONG THEM], O Jah God." --- GIFTS in the form of men (and women, that us!). CAPTIVES! What better word to describe CHILDREN WHO HAVE BEEN SILENCED! Talk about CAPTIVITY! Yet these RESIDE RIGHT AMONG YOU IN THE CONGS! And STUBBORN? Wow Boy! Bro. Bowen gets the "MOST STUBBORN JW OF THE CENTURY AWARD!" And Praise Jah for that! --- Now let's go look at Ephesians Chapter 4 where the apostle Paul requoted Psalms 68:18 in Verse 8 of Ephesians, (he expounded on Ps.68:18 throughout Ephesians 4:8 thru 16). Here's a few points about GIFTS -- if we HAVE THEM ("Gifts of Experience of Sex Abuse/Being Silenced, etc."), this is WHY we should SPEAK UP and USE THIS GIFT -- Vs. 11: "He gave some as apostles, some as PROPHETS (B. Bowen and B. Anderson and others who speak up, who are NEVER popular in their own "town," BTW), some as evangelizers, some as SHEPHERDS and TEACHERS (women like us who can shepherd the silenced and abused lambs and who can TEACH, FROM EXPERIENCE, THE UNINFORMED PUBLIC & UNINFORMED JWs about this!) with a VIEW TO the READJUSTMENT of the (GB/anointed) HOLY ONES, for MINISTERIAL WORK for the BUILDING UP of the BODY of the Christ (the ENTIRE BODY, including ALL abuse survivors) ... in order that we should NO LONGER BE BABES, TOSSED ABOUT as by WAVES and CARRIED HITHER and THITHER by EVERY WIND OF TEACHING by means of the TRICKERY of MEN (bad-boy elders and WTS attorneys who try to silence lambs and DF their supporters), by means of CUNNING in CONTRIVING ERROR (sex abuse policy of the GB). But SPEAKING the TRUTH (about abuse/coverup), let us BY LOVE GROW UP in ALL THINGS (including abuse/coverup) into him who is the head, Christ..." --- THESE ARE 'GROWING PAINS,' PEOPLE!! A NECESSARY THING! --- Lastly, and coincidentally, further down in vs.17,18,19 are those very familiar scriptures about the world being in darkness MENTALLY, and which also would be extremely appropriate for this subject as food for thought for publishers/elders/JC/CO/DO/GB who still are fighting the Silent Lambs: "This, therefore, I say and bear witness to in the Lord, that YOU NO LONGER GO ON WALKING JUST AS THE NATIONS ALSO WALK in the UNPROFITABLENESS of their MINDS (not thinking STRAIGHT about this entire issue), WHILE THEY ARE IN DARKNESS MENTALLY and ALIENATED from the life that belongs to God, BECAUSE of the IGNORANCE THAT IS IN THEM, because of the INSENSIBILITY OF THEIR HEARTS. Having come to be PAST ALL MORAL SENSE (of what is REALLY right and wrong re: sex abuse/coverup), they gave themselves over to LOOSE CONDUCT to WORK UNCLEANNESS of EVERY SORT (child sex abuse/rape and/or it's coverup) WITH GREEDINESS." --- Thank you for reading. /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
05:59:22
Comments
REPOSTING --- And, thanks Loris for the "It Couldn't Be Done" poem! I liked that! Love/SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:03:04
Comments
And Barb: I replied to your brainstorming post, too, but I didn't keep a copy of that, nor of many others I replied to last night. (Cry a bucket of tears!) --- I loved your lambs-with-mouths-sewn-shut idea! --- Ideas: Maybe a search on the net would turn up a retail outlet for stuffed animals/lambs, and maybe with a well-worded letter to the owner, they might DONATE a big bunch of stuffed lambs for the cause-? It never hurts to ask! --- And how about little lapel pins of little lambs? --- Or bumper stickers that say: www.silentlambs.org - ? Love/SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:07:47
Comments
The knowledge of "good and evil" is the necessary component for "love and forgiveness". Mankind is as prone to do evil as sparks are to fly upward so say the scriptures. When evil is covered up and not dealt with, it encourages more evil. More evil requires more love and forgiveness. When there are no consequences for criminal behavior, the evil doer assumes that God is not interested in human events. Nothing could be further from reality. God notices when a sparrow falls! After the criminal is forgiven, then comes the righteous judgment of execution or restitution. But since man refuses to apply righteous judgment, God sends more evil for man to deal with. It's all plain as day in Deut.28. Anyone interested in a work at home project, email mlf1070@yahoo.com(put "Work at Home/sl" in subject.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:23:36
Comments
" Because sentence against a bad work has not been executed speedily, that is why the heart of the sons of men has become fully set in them to do bad." [Ecclesiastes 8:11] --- REPOSTED by SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:26:56
Comments
THIS NEXT SCRIPTURE should humble parties on both sides of the fence --- "There exists a vanity that is carried out on the earth, that there exists righteous ones to whom it is happening AS IF for the work of the wicked ones, and there exist wicked ones to whom it is happening AS IF for the work of the righteous ones. I said that this too is vanity." --- King Solomon, Ecclesiastes 8:14. --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:28:37
Comments
" WE MUST OBEY GOD AS RULER RATHER THAN MEN." [Acts 5:29] --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:32:31
Comments
After the Panorama show, SilentLambs and the world say to the GB re: the pedophile database at HQ --- "YOU YOURSELF ARE SAYING IT." [Luke 23:3] --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:37:17
Comments
" In an ACCEPTABLE TIME I HEARD YOU, and in A DAY OF SALVATION I HELPED YOU. LOOK! NOW IS THE ESPECIALLY ACCEPTABLE TIME. LOOK! NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION." {Galatians 6:2} --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:38:44
Comments
Abuse Survivors say to each other: "For if we were out of our mind, it was for God; if we are sound in mind, it is for you." {Gal. 5:13} --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:40:36
Comments
The GB says of itself: "WE ARE THEREFORE AMBASSADORS SUBSTITUTING FOR CHRIST." {Gal. 5:20). Would Christ Hush-Hush the Lambs? --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:42:14
Comments
Ooooops! I switched books and didn't realize it. That scripture above is from 2 Corinthians 5:20; and the one above that is from 2 Corinthians 5:13 (NOT Galatians!) Sorry about that. Been up too long. Love/SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:43:50
Comments
AND... the scripture ABOVE those two (re: the Acceptable Time and day of salvation) is from 2 Corinthians 6:2!! So Sorry! /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
06:56:31
Comments
" IN NO WAY are we (Silent Lambs) giving ANY CAUSE for STUMBLING, that OUR ministry might NOT be found fault with; but in EVERY WAY we recommend ourselves as God's ministers (to the Lambs), by the ENDURANCE OF MUCH, by TRIBULATIONS, by cases of NEED, by DIFFICULTIES, by BEATINGS, by (emotional) PRISONS, by DISORDERS, by LABORS, by SLEEPLESS NIGHTS... by PURITY, by KNOWLEDGE, by LONG-SUFFERING, by KINDNESS, by HOLY SPIRIT, by LOVE FREE FROM HYPOCRISY, by TRUTHFUL SPEECH, by GOD'S POWER; through the weapons of RIGHTEOUSNESS on the RIGHT HAND and on the LEFT, through GLORY and DISHONOR, through BAD REPORT and GOOD REPORT; as DECEIVERS and YET TRUTHFUL, as BEING UNKNOWN AND YET BEING RECOGNIZED, as DYING and yet, LOOK! WE LIVE, as DISCIPLINED and yet NOT DELIVERED IN DEATH, as SORROWING but EVER REJOICING, as POOR but MAKING MANY RICH, as HAVING NOTHING and yet POSSESSING ALL THINGS. OUR MOUTH HAS BEEN OPENED TO YOU, (GB) Corinthians, OUR HEART HAS WIDENED OUT. YOU ARE NOT CRAMPED FOR ROOM WITHIN US, BUT YOU ARE CRAMPED FOR ROOM IN YOUR OWN TENDER AFFECTIONS. So, as a RECOMPENSE IN RETURN --- I (we) SPEAK as to children -- YOU, TOO, WIDEN OUT." [2 Corinthians 6:3-13] --- Is that not BEAUTIFUL or WHAT? I can't believe I stumbled across it! What a perfect way to end the night. Now I don't even care all the posts were lost. That scripture is TOO BEAUTIFUL & PERFECT! Love/SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:39:22
Comments
From THE WATCHTOWER of November 15, 1962, page 693 --- w62 11/15, 693 --- The Benefits of Subjection to Authorities --- 9 Worldly authorities render a judgment and punish persons, whether they are inside the congregation or outside, if they violate the laws of decency and good order. The violators have no right to complain at such punishment, as Paul showed by his words before Caesar's judgment seat. (Acts 25:11) Hence the Christian congregation cannot protect any of its members if they steal, smuggle, commit bigamy, murder, libel, defraud, and so forth. The congregation must release such guilty members to punishment by worldly authorities. Since the guilty break the laws of the land and thus oppose the "authority," they are taking a stand against God's arrangement. --- 10 The Christian congregation has no orders from God and has no right to protect such opposers and lawbreakers from the due punishment by the "authority" of the land. We cannot hinder, oppose or condemn the execution of the krima or judgment by aiding or shielding lawbreakers. To do so would put the Christian congregation also in opposition to God's arrangement. Besides letting the krima or "judgment" take its course upon offending members who bring reproach upon God's people, the congregation may disfellowship such lawbreakers. The congregation does not want to deserve a krima or "judgment" with the lawbreakers by siding or cooperating with them and opposing the worldly "authority." It also wants no reproach. --- This was originally posted by Loris who got it from a friend in Alaska. SLC is REPOSTING IT since I kept a copy of it!

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:41:39
Comments
To the person who asked for a copy of the UK LETTER read on 7/14/02: Here's a link where you can read a transcript of it: <http://www.jehovahs-witness.com/forum/thread.asp?id=32092&site=3&page=2> --- /SLC

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:44:27
Comments
The UK WT letter said --- Later, this requirement to consider testimony of two or three witnesses was confirmed by Jesus. (Matthew 18:16) --- The little girl sees Jesus sitting over on the rock, in among the crowd... --- She saw him here last week. --- She wanted to get to him then, but she lost her nerve. --- "Shall I try today to reach him?" she wonders to herself. (She'd been thinking about it all week, trying to work up the courage...) --- Before she realizes it, she is walking towards Jesus sitting on the rock. --- Her pedophile uncle, and disciple of Jesus, tries to stop her in her tracks... --- Jesus rebuked the man saying, "Let the little child come to me, and do not try to stop her...:" --- So the little girl makes it up to Jesus' lap and he puts his arms around her and hugs her. She feels safe now. She thinks she has enough courage. It's now or never. So she leans up and whispers in Jesus' ear that her uncle, who brought her there, has been touching her in ways that he should not. --- Jesus gets a perplexed look all over his face, and sets her back down, and pointing to the uncle says: "Come with me over here behind this tree." --- The uncle follows Jesus to the tree, but he's not the least bit worried. He knows Jesus would NEVER go against Deut. 19:15... --- Jesus looks the uncle straight in the eye and asks him, "Did you do as this child says?" The uncle exclaims, "NO LORD! I would NEVER do any such thing. The girl is making up fantasies." --- Jesus says, "Okay then Brother. Good enough. That's all I needed to know. Continue following me as my disciple..." --- Jesus goes back to the little girl, kneels down to her level, and says, "I'm sorry child, but because there is no one else to back up what you say, I cannot believe you, nor can I do anything about what you have told me. I cannot get myself in a jam without another witness to what you described. However, I do hope you will come and see me again, because you KNOW I love you and care about you. Look, here's your uncle now... run along so your uncle can take you home, and be a good little girl and don't ever tell anyone else what you told me... ESPECIALLY don't tell any of the Roman soldiers... because you know how they hate me and my disciples already, and you wouldn't want to make any trouble for us, now would you?" --- The little girl is trembling, frozen on the spot, she cannot even speak a word as one last tear trickles down her cheek... all hope has vanished, and the look of death covers her face like a veil... --- Jesus calls his disciples to him and they travel along the road a few miles where another crowd has assembled. He rests himself on a hillside and begins to teach the crowd: --- "Moreover, if your brother commits a sin, go lay bare his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take along with you one or two more, in order that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every matter may be established." --- And at that moment the uncle, hiding the wicked smirk on his face, bent down and kissed Jesus' feet, mouthing, "Praise You Lord, Praise You... Your words are sayings of everlasting life (for sneaky little pervs like me)..." END OF STORY.
REPOSTED by SLC.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:48:04
Comments
REPOSTING by SLC, prior posts mentioned District Attorneys across America taking the Catholic Church cases to Grand Juries re: the Cardinal's cover-ups of the sex crimes in the church. That "handwriting on the wall" of what is happening to the CC prompted this "At that moment the fingers of a (District Attorney's) man's hand came forth and were writing in front of the (grand jury) lampstand upon the plaster of the wall of the (HQ) palace of the (GB) king, and the (GB) king was beholding the back of the (District Attorneys') hand that was writing. At that time as regards the (GB) king, [their] very complexion[s] [were] changed in [them], and [their] own thoughts began to frighten [them], and [their] hip joints were loosening and [their] very knees were knocking each other. --- And the (GB) king was calling out loudly to bring in the (legal dept.) conjurers... The (GB) king was answering and saying to the (legal dept.) wise men of Babylon, 'Any (lawyer) man that will read this writing and show me its very interpretation, with purple (power) he will be clothed and a necklace of gold ($$$$) about his neck, and as the third one (power/prestige) in the kingdom he will become.' --- At that time all the (legal dept.) wise men of the (GB) king were coming in, but they were not competent (humble) enough to read the writing itself or to make known to the (GB) king the interpretation. Consequently, King (GB) Belshazzar was very much frightened and his complexion was changing within him; and his grandees (elders around the world) were perplexed. --- As regards the (Erica) queen, because of the words of the (GB) king and his (elders) grandees she entered right into the banqueting hall. The (Erica) queen answered and said, 'O (GB) King, keep living even to times indefinite. Do not let your thoughts frighten you, nor let your complexion[s] be changed. There exists a capable man in your kingdom (halls) in whom there is the spirit of holy gods... and insight and wisdom like the wisdom of the gods were found in him... an extraordinary spirit and knowledge and insight to interpret dreams (of silent lambs) and the explanations of riddles (BOE letters) and the untying of knots (WTS' sex abuse policy) had been found in him, in (Bill Bowen) Daniel, whom the (GB) king himself named (elder) Belteshazzar. Now let (Bill Bowen) Daniel himself be called, that he may show the very interpretation.' --- Accordingly (Bill) Daniel himself was brought in before the (GB) king (via the website/the letters/the media, etc.)... The (GB) king was speaking up and saying to (Bill) Daniel, 'Are you the (elder) Daniel that is of the (silent lamb) exiles of Judah...? ... And now there have been brought in before me the (legal dept.) wise men and the conjurers, that they may read this very (District Attorneys') writing, even to make known to me (GB) its interpretation; but they are not competent (humble) enough to show the very interpretation of the word. And I myself have heard concerning you, that you are able to furnish interpretations and to untie knots themselves. Now, if you are able to read the writing and to make known to me (GB) its very interpretation, with purple (slander) you will be clothed...' --- At that time (Bill) Daniel was answering and saying before the (GB) king: "Let your gifts prove to be to you yourself, and your presents do you give to others (the legal dept. attorneys). However, I shall read the (District Attorneys') writing itself to the (GB) king, and the interpretation I shall make known to him. As for you, O (GB) king, the Most High God himself gave to Nebuchadnezzar (that would be Russell/Rutherford/Knorr/Franz, et al) your father the kingdom (halls full of JWs) and the greatness and the dignity and the majesty. --- And because of the greatness that He gave [them], ALL PEOPLES, national groups and languages (JWs around the world) proved to be quaking and showing fear before [them/GB]. Whom [they] happened to want to, [they were] killing (blood issue); and whom [they] happened to want to, [they were] striking (imprisonment for no military service); and whom [they] happened to want to, [they were] exalting (power to the elite elders/COs/DOs); and whom [they] happened to want to, [they were] humiliating (the Silent Lambs). --- But when [their] heart became haughty and [their] own spirit became hard, so as to act presumptuously, [they were] brought down from the throne of [their] (WTS) kingdom, and [their] own dignity was taken away from [them]. And from the sons of mankind (the JWs) [they were] driven away, and [their/former GB] very heart was made like that of a beast, and with the wild asses [their] dwelling was (no more holy spirit on the GB)... until [they] know that the Most High God is Ruler in the kingdom of mankind, and that the one whom he wants to, he sets up over it (Jesus Christ). --- And as for you, his son (current GB, including TJ) Belshazzar, you have not humbled your heart, ALTHOUGH YOU KNEW ALL OF THIS. But against the Lord of the heavens you exalted yourself, and they brought before you even the vessels of his house (the children Silent Lambs); and you yourself (GB) and your (legal dept.) grandees...have been drinking wine from them, and you have praised mere gods of silver and of gold, copper, iron, wood and stone, that are beholding nothing or hearing nothing or knowing nothing; but the God in whose hand your breath is and to whom all your ways belong you have not glorified. --- Consequently from before him there was being sent the back of a (District Attorneys') hand, and this very writing that was inscribed: ME'NE, ME'NE, TE'KEL and PAR'SIN... ME'NE, God has numbered the days of your (WTS) kingdom and has finished it. TE'KEL, you have been weighed in the balances and have been found deficient. PE'RES, your kingdom (power & $$$$) has been divided and given to the (Silent Lambs and their attorneys).' At that time Belshazzar (GB & TJ) commanded, and they clothed (Bill) Daniel with purple (slander), with a necklace of (disfellowshipping) gold about his neck; and they heralded concerning him that he was (NOT) to become the third ruler (elder) in the kingdom (halls) (any more). In that very night Belshazzar (GB) the Chaldean (false prophet) king was killed, and Darius the Mede (Uncle Sam's Lawyers) himself received the (WTS) kingdom, being about sixty-two years (too late)." --- (Daniel 5:5-30).

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:52:54
Comments
REPOSTING --- From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Fri, 5 Jul 2002 22:11:24 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Distribute Freely Questions to Ask Jehovah's Witnesses When They Call at your Door Recently the Public Information Department for Jehovah's Witnesses has made certain comments to the media. Each remark confirms a certain aspect of Watchtower Policy regarding child molestation that most members of Jehovah's Witnesses are not aware of. To encourage Jehovah's Witnesses to educate themselves regarding how their church handles molestation issues we suggest asking them the following questions when they call at your door. 1. Why do elders in your church only report child molesters in States where it is legally required? Tennessean/Nashville-05/11/02-Brown said, “If parents come to congregation leaders with concerns that their child is being abused, the leaders follow state law. If state law requires parents to report the abuse, congregation leaders tell them that.” Paducah Sun-Paducah KY-1-28-01-“Brown said the church does not necessarily equate reporting the matter to law enforcement to protecting the child because "not all the time does government authority provide the protection the child needs.” LOUISVILLE-COURIER-Louisville, KY-May 8, 2002-“Leaders of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, ‘say that in States that do not require reporting of abuse, they prefer taking steps to protect children while not breaching what they see as confidential communications between elders and members.” 2. Do you support your church policy of requiring pedophile's to call at my home? AP/CNN-May 9, 2002-“J.R. Brown, a spokesman for the denomination, said that anyone found guilty of molestation by a church judicial committee is removed from all positions of responsibility and cannot evangelize door-to-door without being accompanied by a fellow Jehovah's Witness.” Asbury Park Press-New Jersey-5/14/02-“Semonian said anyone convicted of child molestation cannot hold a position of authority in the church and cannot perform church work alone.” Watchtower Media Website Statement-Brooklyn, NY-“In a few instances, individuals guilty of an act of child abuse have been appointed to positions within the congregation if their conduct has been otherwise exemplary for decades. All the factors are considered carefully...'Let us say that 20 years have passed... ‘the man could possibly be appointed to a responsible position within the congregation.” 3. Do you know how many child molesters are in your local Kingdom Hall? If so what are their names? Paducah Sun-Paducah, KY 1-28-01-“Moreno of Watchtower Legal, agreed with Bowen's charge that a congregation would also not be told if a pedophile had joined the flock." News Channel 6-Paducah, KY-5-15-02-“Members at Bowen's old Kingdom Hall in Draffenville admit discouraging members from telling just anybody. "The difference between needless gossip, let's say, and withholding information from those who have a right to know is two different things completely," says Jehovah's Witness Bruce Waite.” Help Jehovah's Witnesses to understand Watchtower Policy by sharing statements their leaders have made to media, encourage them to write home office and demand proper changes be made to protect all children who come in contact with Jehovah's Witnesses.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:54:05
Comments
From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Sun, 14 Jul 2002 15:24:13 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Evil Anderson in today's Watchtower Study The following picture appears in today's (7-14-02) Watchtower Study in the article, “Find the Light in Jehovah's Righteousness” on page 16. --- Sister Anderson is pictured to the left, now why would they use Anderson's picture if she was DF?

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:54:14
Comments
Repost from webmaster@antijehovahswitness.com go to: http://www.jw-media.org/releases/default.htm?content=020714.htm where Paul Gillies has this to say about UK witnesses position on abuse and the victim: Jehovah's Witnesses further believe that it is the absolute right of the victim, his or her family, or any others to report the matter to the authorities if they so choose. There are certainly no sanctions against any congregation member who reports an allegation of child abuse to the authorities." A phone number is given. So i guess there will be a lot of phone calls being made and elders being made look stupid. I don't know when this was posted as i don't usually look on the official sites anymore, because its hard to believe any thing they say after the Child abuse, UN affiliation and New, old light that keeps changing. I was just getting an idea of how many official sites the JWs have, considering they admonish their followers for using it. Hope the Guestbook doesn't get wiped again.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:54:49
Comments
From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Sun, 14 Jul 2002 00:31:31 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: outraged brother Saturday, July 13, 2002 Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses 25 Columbia Heights Brooklyn, New York 11201-2483 Fax: (718) 560-5619 RE: Letter of reprimand Dear Brothers: I'm a parent of two grown, spiritual children. My wife and I did everything within our ability to perform our God mandated responsibilities. We endeavored to train them to be persons who someday could stand before the True God Jehovah on their own two feet – apart from us – and be found approved. We taught them that we all stand accountable. No one here on planet earth is free from accountability. Jehovah will judge all of us and none of us are above any others. You are not following your own recommendations in the manner you are dealing with child rape policy. You are belying the very principles that you insist that the flock live up to. You have disregarded every principle that we hold dear by your stonewalling of cries for assistance. I ask you – WHY? Why won't you change! Is it because there are those on the GB and/or high organizational station that have been guilty of pedophilia? I can think of NO other reason why you would not help the flock be protected other than that you are covering over the sins of ones amongst yourselves! If so, you will not succeed in this mission. You may get a few more loyal JW's DF'd. You may mangle and malign a few more reputations. But as with the wicked kings of ancient Israel – you will not succeed. Jehovah will expose you and will hold you accountable. I pray that you will repent of your stubborn Balaam-like course. You have in this matter become like high priest Eli. You should re-read the story since you've apparently forgotten it. Eli allowed his sons to go unpunished in the matter of defiling the young ladies in the temple and being drunk while on priestly duty. As did Eli and his sons, you will come to your end if you do not immediately cease supporting and ignoring the type of loose conduct that they were guilty of. As a parent I will tell you that you have NO RIGHT to mandate the kind of useless “policy” that elder bodies are forced to follow. I am outraged and disgusted by the kind of meddling and manipulation that causes concerned parents to be removed from congregations while allowing our children to be raped. I fully trust in Jehovah the True God to remedy this matter. I only hope that you will collectively be able to be the ones to head up that remedy - before Jehovah kicks you out of office and gets someone else to do it. You are grossly out of line here brothers. I recommend that you meet together and fall upon your collective faces and beg Jehovah for his forgiveness and direction in fixing not only the child rape policy but the sullied reputations of those having at heart the best interests of our congregations. Sincerely, Your brother

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:55:23
Comments
German TV magazine KONTRASTE ( http://www.kontraste.de broadcasted a very well researched report on child abuse within the JW community. The report was only 10min long, but it was German prime time - the very first topic after the most watched daily news magazine. KONTRASTE (Contrasts) is very reputable TV magazine. Two victims were interviewed and a JW spokesman. Protecting the Perpetrator Comes First - Child Abuse Among Jehovah's Witnesses by Caroline Walter and Marcus Weller caroline.walter@sfb.de?subject=Kontraste%2020.06.02,%20Jehova) Once again a scandal within a religious community involving sexual molestation of children by "men of God". Caroline Walter and Marcus Weller report about a crime against children and a sinister cartel of silence. Ursel Wagner was 9 years old when she was sexually abused by a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses. Ursel Wagner: "This brother used to visit us and made the offer to my parents: "I would like to put the little girl to bed, and her read a good night story that will be fun." Cornelia Wagner, Mother: "Imagine, as I am there ironing my clothes and doing the dishes, this young man is in my daughter's room, reading stories to her and abusing her in the next room." Ursel Wagner: "In some way, I knew that it was not right what he did to me. But I was confused, because that was something that did not exist among Jehovah's Witnesses. At that time, Ursel's parents were Jehovah's Witnesses also. When her daughter told them about the molestation, they proceeded the way they were required: they reported the incident to the elders in their congregation. But the elders told them not to make trouble and keep it quiet. Cornelia Wagner: "I was shocked. I could not believe what the elders demanded for me to do: remain silent. They gave some flimsy reasons and said by this we would also protect our daughter." The family got no support by their spiritual leaders, instead the opposite was true: the perpetrator was protected, fellow congregation members are not warned . Ursel Wagner: "It still makes my angry how these people dealt with it back then. I am sure we could have saved some other girls from being molested. But nothing happened, nothing at all." Cornelia Wagner, Mother: "They made us feel that the roles had switched, we had become the perpetrators. It was as if we were accusing them and that did not fit their perfect picture." Jehovah's Witnesses view themselves as a chosen group that lives rigidly by Bible principles. Jehovah's Witnesses believe in a soon-to-come doomsday called Armageddon that is survived by their members only. Their ultimate earthly authority is the worldwide operating Watchtower Society. 210.000 Jehovah's Witnesses live in Germany. They spread their teachings via the magazines "Watchtower" and "Awake". The obedience to the organization is obligatory for all members. Stephan Wolf was a Jehovah's Witness for 20 years. Today he supports others leaving. More and more victims of child abuse contact him. Stephan E. Wolf, Ausstieg e.V. (Exit Inc.) "The woman's attitude is to be in submission and follow the principle of headship, this also applies towards children that are required to be obedient - if necessary violently. I think this prevailing attitude promotes an environment in which child abuse is more likely than in other parts of society." Ruth Schlegel was born into a Jehovah's Witnesses environment. Her family lived strictly to the rules of the organization. Her father was an elder. Ruth Schlegel: "My father started to molest me when I was 9 years old. It began with touching me. It developed into sexual intercourse. That last time was when I was 15 or 16 or so when I was raped." Ruth's mother reported the molestation to the highest leaders in the congregation, the Elders. But yet again nothing was done and the perpetrator was not reported to the authorities. For years after, Ruth's fathers abused other girls. Ruth Schlegel: "In the elders opinion they had done enough. They had a meeting. They had spoken to him and had demanded that he had to apologize to me. They had done everything the Watchtower Society says and so the case was closed. That was their opinion, from the religious point of view because everything from outside i.e. the law, reporting to the police did not matter because the Society says they are above law, they deal with it internally." Protecting the perpetrator and silencing victims - normal procedure of Jehovah's Witnesses? Dr. Andreas Fincke, Protestant Church expert on cults: "They have a closed society. When wrongdoing occurs they appoint judicial committees to deal with conflicts and moral transgressions. The idea behind this attitude is that you don't go to court with Brothers and Sisters but to deal with those things internally first. That sounds good but in reality it often results with those in authority the elders, always men, judging matters they have no business getting involved with." Do elders actually judge in cases of child abuse? We asked Jehovah's Witnesses: Uwe W. Herrmann, Speaker of Jehovah's Witnesses: "Because of our Biblical understanding we believe that there are some specific sins for which the local elders are responsible." PAY ATTENTION TO YOURSELVES AND TO ALL THE FLOCK is the title of the elders' manual. And it is there the Elders are told how to proceed: "Some disputes should not be dealt with at secular courts." And: "...it is the Elders decision if the statements are trustworthy." Dr. Andreas Fincke, Protestant Church expert on cults: "For a Jehovah's Witnesses who has become the victim of child abuse, it is impossible to get justice within the organization. The simple reason is that you need two witnesses that confirm the incident and that is almost always impossible when it comes to child abuse because there are of course no witnesses." The Watchtower Society has built a wall of silence around the perpetrators called confidentiality. By making a simple denial pedophiles can live their inclination and remain in their positions within the congregation. Stephan E. Wolf, Ausstieg e.V. (Exit Inc.) "The main principle is to create a perfect image to the outside world. In their own eyes they are models to the outside world concerning moral standards, one of the buzzwords they like to use in the media. Having pedophiles in their midst does not fit that image, let alone the fact that the public gets to know that they are being protected in the movement. So, they are trying everything they can, to prevent the facts form coming out to the public." But this perfect image is also intended to help Jehovah's Witnesses to get the recognition as a church. For 11 years, they have been going to court through all channels to get the same religious status as the Catholic and the Protestant Church. Recognition would result in several cost saving privileges i.e. to raise a church tax to create revenue. Thus, the accusations of child abuse does not fit the image presented, yet more and more cases are coming out to the open while the organization keeps on denying there is a problem. Uwe W. Herrmann, Speaker of Jehovah's Witnesses: "We, the Religious Community of Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany, don't know of any cases of child molestation here in Germany." Stephan E. Wolf, Ausstieg e.V. (Exit Inc.) "I think the time has come that the public sees there is something going on in the Jehovah's Witnesses organization, pedophiles within have a perfect environment where nothing is being done and they do not have to be afraid." Uwe W. Herrmann, Speaker of Jehovah's Witnesses: "Basically, we don't punish at all. Only God can punish. The Elders of a congregation can only check if someone is repentant or not. If he repentant then the sinner gets further help to get over that sin." It seems that only the victims get punished. Ruth Schlegel has been expelled from the Witnesses because of smoking and adultery. She still fights with the aftermaths of the abuse.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:56:50
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REPOSTING --- From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Thu, 18 Jul 2002 11:01:52 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: WT moves on silentlambs Draffenville Kentucky Congregation Of Jehovah's Witnesses PO Box 788 Benton KY 42025 July 15, 2002 William H Bowen P.O. Box 311 Calvert City, KY 42029 Dear Brother Bowen: We corresponded with you an June 1, 2002 in an effort to set up a date to hold a judicial hearing with you. You informed us that you were not available on the date we selected. Therefore, we have made arrangements to hold the hearing on July 24,2002 at 7:00 P.M. at the following address: Kingdom Hall 86 Foust-Sledd Road Benton, Kentucky In accordance with the usual procedure, followed by Jehovah's Witnesses, when you meet with the judicial committee, no tape recordings will be allowed at the hearing, no attorneys may be present at the hearing, observers are not permitted at the hearing, and due respect must be accorded to the elder who is chairing the meeting. Very truly yours, For Judicial Committee, Ronald Cary Fax: 270-338-5084 CC: L Rush Hunt, Attorney at Law

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:57:36
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REPOSTING --- From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Fri, 19 Jul 2002 15:53:16 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Joe Anderson speaks out A. J. Anderson June 5, 2002 Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses Service Department 2821 Route 22 Patterson, NY 12563-2237 Re: Letter of resignation Dear Brothers, This letter pertains to my wish to no longer serve as an elder in the Manchester, Tennessee Congregation. Knowing what I do about our organization's child molestation problem and other matters here in the Manchester Congregation, I find it difficult to keep serving as an elder. Undoubtedly, how we as elders handle allegations of molestation in our organization has troubled me for quite some time. I was pleased to note from J. R. Brown's February 7, 2002 letter to Dateline NBC that our organization would hear views and opinions from individuals within the framework of the congregation, so I take this time to ask that you resolve some of my differences of opinion according to Scriptural principals. Since I have been in close proximity to the child molestation issue because of my wife Barbara, I have come to know of hundreds of molestation cases mismanaged by elders. Without a doubt, many elders are incapable of correctly dealing with molestation allegations, but others followed verbal and written directions from headquarters that caused immeasurable sorrow and lifelong unhappiness to the victims and their families. Almost every day for the last several years, I've read accounts sent to my wife from victims describing their disagreeable encounters with elders and the Society, which, in effect, has punished them and protected their molesters. I know that Jehovah's Witnesses as a whole, plus those outside of our organization say that they hate child molesters even more than murderers, but whether they really do or not is shown by their feelings and actions. Inasmuch as child molestation is an act done in secret, and since we the elders and the Society compound this by keeping such acts committed within our group a secret, the Witnesses are under the illusion that our organization doesn't have a problem with molestation. Of course, each elder knows if there are any accused or confessed molesters within his congregation, but elders don't know if there are molesters in other congregations. Consequently, because elders are unable to gage the scope of this situation because of the secrecy, most think there isn't a problem. Now, due to media coverage of many distressing cases of molestation within our organization, many elders are very disturbed. Without question, I'm sure that you are also. Here's one example of why keeping molestation a secret from the congregation does not work: I'm personally acquainted with a woman who was divorced, and when her little girl was molested she went straight to the elders. They did not report the accused to the police, although Tennessee requires ministers to report child abuse. It took a sister in the congregation, who found out about the rape years later, to go to the police. This resulted in the molester being sentenced to eight years in prison. As far as I know, this man was previously accused of molesting three girls in another state and when he moved to Tennessee, the elders were notified of his past, yet they warned no one in the congregation as per the Society's instructions. Before he was arrested, he molested two girls in Tennessee. So who was right? The sister who reported him or the elders who kept the secret? In our congregation, one elder told the other elders that if anyone molested his child, he would call the police first and elders later. Are you aware of how many elders feel this way? I personally know that many elders feel that they really can do nothing to help in these cases. Yet you instruct that an accusation of molestation within the congregation be reported first to the elders. The October 8, 1993 Awake! states that child molesters want something else from their victims—“SILENCE.” Are we not sharers in guilt with the molester when we don't encourage victims to go to the authorities where they will get help? Wouldn't this be the Christian thing to do? Are we not sharers in guilt with a molester, who silences the victim with threats, when we silence members in the congregation with threats if they warn others? In the May 24, 2002 letter to all the congregations in the United States, you stated that “...even one abused child is one too many.” This same letter says, “At least since 1981, articles have been published in our journals..., with a view to educating Jehovah's people... on the need to protect children from child abuse.” How can you educate Jehovah's people by keeping such secrets? To be able to protect their children, Jehovah's Witnesses have a right to know as part of their education if there are any people within the congregation accused of molestation. Incidentally, it seems to me that if concerned people had not gone to the media about the child abuse problems in our organization, this subject would not have been addressed at the elder's school last year. It was obvious that there was a change of attitude by the statement made that “Child abuse is a crime.” Now elders no longer treat molestation as a sin like adultery or fornication, but as something far more serious, a crime. This was a welcome change. Recently, a woman who used to be a Witness told me, after she read an article in our local newspaper about Jehovah's Witnesses and allegations of child abuse, that she was molested by someone who attended the Manchester Congregation many years ago. I've known her family for over twenty-five years and remembered her as a young girl. The man she accused is a very good friend of mine for over thirty years. If I go to my friend with another elder confronting him and he denies the allegation, I'm in a dilemma because I want him not to be guilty. How can I provide justice when I'm partial? Of course, I could remove myself from this situation, but why should we even be put in a position to judge our brothers in such matters where it takes the wisdom of Solomon to sort it out. According to the October 8, 1993 Awake! it is improbable that a child who accuses a person of molestation is lying. However, I believe it is better to err in behalf of a child than the accused. But the question arises, why are we as elders even investigating this crime of child abuse? Can we as elders really identify a person as a molester when an accusation is made? Of course, something has to be done when accusations are made but can't be proved, but most Witnesses want to leave situations like this in Jehovah's hands. To me this is shifting responsibility. Our organization has guides to settle disputes and discover truth, but in the above case, if the accused denied the allegation, the investigation is over until someone else comes forward accusing the same person (something that happens infrequently). Since elders have been told that molestation is a crime, why can't our brothers go first to the authorities with an accusation and then inform the elders. We expect our brothers to go first to the authorities with an accusation of murder. Moreover, it is inconceivable to think elders would investigate an allegation of murder to determine guilt or innocence, so why would we investigate an allegation of child abuse to determine guilt or innocence? <SO TRUE!!!> This is just not our field of expertise. We are ministers of God, not police. The authorities and their child abuse experts sometimes make mistakes, but nothing like the mistake of just asking the accused “Did you do it?” and the reply is “No.” If there is not another witness to the act, consequently, all charges are dropped, the matter is closed, and the victim is warned not to talk about it or else. This brings me to the subject of victims having to provide another witness to his/her molestation. There are contradictions associated with this rule. In the past, Watchtower literature stated that two witnesses to each act must be provided before judicial action could be taken. Now there's something new: “...two persons as witnesses to separate incidents of the same kind of wrongdoing can be deemed sufficient to take action.” Which is it? Also, just what kind of action is to be taken? Judicial action which could lead to disfellowshipping? Or investigative action leading to the determination of guilt and then reporting the allegation to the authorities? If our teachings mean we must meet the above criteria before we report to the authorities, as many elders think we do, I say, “NO!” We shouldn't invoke the two-witness rule when it comes to whether elders should report an accusation to authorities. In fact, let me reiterate, I believe that elders should not be investigating an accusation of child abuse before the authorities are called in. The flock is told that elders are loving, kind and sensitive. Yet, time and again, I have heard of extremely ignorant or worst behavior on the part of elders when involved in sexual abuse cases. For instance, a child in our circuit accused her grandfather of molestation. Her mother went to the police and the man (a brother) admitted his guilt. I was told that the case was handled satisfactorily by all concerned except when the mother was approached by the presiding overseer of the congregation and he said, “If it's any consolation to you, your daughter enjoyed the act!” <BG wants to STRANGLE that guy!> The mother left the organization because she couldn't handle the idea that this man was her spiritual shepherd! <who can blame her?/bg) Another case comes to mind: A sister told of being molested when she was eight years old. The man confessed, but one of the elders asked her then, “What kind of clothes were you wearing?” <BG is FUMING!> She was advised to make peace with the perpetrator, and her family was counseled to invite him over for a meal. <Arrrgggh!> It's obvious that a question and advice like this proves that elders are not qualified and shouldn't be involved. If I know of hundreds of cases like these, you must know of thousands. Children and women are very vulnerable in this male-dominated world, and this is true also in our organization. I have quoted James 1:27 many, many times and have heard it quoted from the platform an equal number of times. Of course, you well know this scripture where James said, “The form of worship that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation, and to keep oneself with out spot from the world.” Generally, we emphasized the end of this scripture and rarely analyzed the situation orphans and widows found themselves in when the husband and father died. Primarily they were without a protector, which made them extremely vulnerable. Although the situation has changed somewhat today, there still are many areas where orphans and widows need help and elders should give special care to their needs. And especially is this so with regard to those who are sexually abused. Who are their protectors, if not those who can be likened to spiritual fathers—the elders. God puts them under our care and yours too. <I am SO GLAD he discussed this!> Whatever it takes, we should go the extra mile to help abused ones. However, it appears that our organization will sacrifice a child to keep the person who denies an allegation of molestation. <Hurray for Joe!> In your letter to All Bodies of Elders, February 15, 2002, you instruct us to, “Never suggest to anyone that they should not report an allegation of child abuse to the police or other authorities.” Why should elders be put in a position to suggest or not to suggest reporting an allegation? The victim or caregivers and the rest of Jehovah's Witnesses should be informed by elders to always call the police if a crime has occurred, no buts or ifs about it. <Yeah, why is everything the WTS writes on this subject always in the NEGATIVE rather than the POSITIVE, i.e., "NEVER suggest to anyone that they should NOT report...," vs. "ALWAYS encourage them TO report..."> Also, in this same February 15, 2002 letter, you say, “If you are asked, make it clear that whether to report the matter to the authorities or not is a personal decision for each individual to make...” This is inaccurate information and illegal in seventeen states. In these seventeen reporting states, everybody is obligated to report even suspicion of child abuse. <Again, Hurray Joe for pointing that out!!!> In Tennessee this has been the law since 1972. In Kentucky the law is the same. And why would Kentucky resident, Bill Bowen, as seen on Dateline, be told by someone in the Legal Department to not report a case of molestation? What is the Society's Legal Department doing giving us wrong information such as the above? <Way to go, Joe!> In the January 1, 1997 Watchtower, a policy statement is found that a man known to have been a molester can not hold a position of authority within the congregation. This policy is certainly appreciated and shows your concern for protecting the flock. However, the word “known” appears to be a confusing problem. Who is he “known” to, the elders—is the determination of his guilt or innocence in their hands? What if the victim can't prove to the elders that he/she was molested because of being unable to produce another witness to the act, does this mean the accused remains in his position? I believe this is so because he is then “known” or considered by the elders to be not guilty. (He is then not “known” to be a molester.) Elders should never be given the power to determine who is to be a “known” molester or not because they are untrained and unqualified. This policy puts children in the congregation at risk and should be reevaluated. <Besides, the abuser is "known" by the victim to be a molester, so why hasn't THAT fact counted?> In your statement in the May 24, 2002 letter to all congregations you say, “We have long instructed elders to report allegations of child abuse to the authorities where it is required by law to do so...” <How cowardly and self-serving that statement was!!! Arggghhh!> Where God is concerned, if this is a crime, it's a crime everywhere. If wrong in one state, why not in others? Also, if it's wrong we should do the right thing whether the laws of the land require it or not. <DITTO!> Aren't we supposed to be morally better than the world? Do we not go an extra step or two because of conscience? Another point taken from the same statement as quoted above is this: You say, “We have long instructed elders to report allegations of child abuse to the authorities...” Where is it written as policy that elders are instructed to report allegations of child abuse to the authorities? Your statement as quoted above is a half-truth and misleads the reader. <SO TRUE! Yes, MISLEADING!> What is not understood is that elders have written instructions to call the Legal Department where they will be told that if their state requires a minister to report the allegation, they should report it. That's a far different matter than “...long instructed elders to report allegations of child abuse to the authorities...” <This letter is SO GOOD!> Another point I want to discuss with you is the recent disfellowshipping of my wife, Barbara. The scriptures used for disfellowshipping her are found in 1 Corinthians 5:1-12. The letter from L. Seely, presiding overseer of the Manchester Congregation, said that Barbara was disfellowshipped for causing divisions, not for committing any of the wicked acts Paul described in 1 Corinthians 5:1-12, i.e., gross wickedness, sexual immorality, etc. It was the Society's spokesman, J. R. Brown, who accused my wife of committing some unspecified “spiritual violations” or “sins” for which she was being called before a judicial committee. This most certainly blemished my wife's character before the whole world, especially since no proof was offered then or ever. <A lynch mob is what they are acting like!> It was the Watchtower Society that forced Barbara to go to the media about the judicial hearing convened by the local congregation at orders of the Watchtower's Legal Department. It is obvious that because she went to the media about the sexual abuse issue that she caused divisions among the flock. Why didn't J. R. Brown just say so instead of accusing her of “sins” and blacken her character? It was because headquarters knew there was absolutely no proof she caused divisions by propagating her views about child abuse before she went to the media. If Barbara was disfellowshipped because of causing divisions, the Apostle Paul should have been disfellowshipped for causing divisions among the flock because he publicized sensational sexual immorality in the Corinthian congregation. <Wow! Good point. I never thought of that!> Not only did he discuss with the Corinthian Congregation how he felt about the congregation hiding fornication in their midst, he recorded his accusations for millions of people to read in the Bible during the past 2,000 years. Why is it okay for Paul to have gone public revealing disgraceful conduct that was being condoned in the congregation, but when my wife goes public about the organization condoning and protecting immoral people by bad policies, she is punished? Moreover, wicked and immoral acts have been equated to her by applying 1 Cor. 5 as the reason for her disfellowshipping. I believe this to be unchristian. I also believe that disfellowshipping my wife violated the Apostle Paul's command to each one of us to work to keep the congregation clean no matter what the cost. Furthermore, disfellowshipping her for causing divisions because she publicly spoke out about uncleanness in our organization is a violation of the freedom of speech Christ brought us. Inasmuch as I cannot be guided by your polices on child molestation, it is difficult for me to remain an elder. I'm not expecting a response to this letter. If any changes in your policies occur, I'm sure they will appear in our publications. Thank you for considering this letter and I hope nothing less than the Christian thing will be done in behalf of the victims and those speaking out. Sincerely, A. J. Anderson XC: Manchester, TN Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
07:58:39
Comments
REPOSTING --- From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Thu, 18 Jul 2002 21:13:51 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Anderson Postpone's Hearing Barb Anderson has decided to postpone the hearing for two weeks. So the appeal hearing is off for this weekend. So pass it around for anyone who might be planning to make the trip. It is stressful to try to get ready for a meeting with a three day notice. So Anderson's attorney is going to ask for a postpone in the morning. That is the latest info. Regards, bill . From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 15:51:08 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Anderson Judicial Committee is back Well it appears the Watchtower is back at their executions. The appeal committee has demanded to meet with Barb Anderson at a Motel. After JR Brown besmirched her moral character by saying she was being disfellowshipped for “other sins” unrelated to the Dateline program, now three men want to meet her at a motel? Why not the Kingdom Hall? Is Anderson not worthy to walk into the building? Is this funny or what. Anderson is going to request the meet at her home instead. Now the question is, will the committee give in to fear of “woman” and refuse to meet? Or are they too consumed with this opportunity to “beat their sister” that they will meet at all costs. Would anyone like to appear as a character witness for what Barbara Anderson has done? If so please email me and I will be glad to let you know how to get there. I plan to be there on Barbara's behalf and I welcome anyone who would like to stand with her husband and I in her behalf. Regards, bill
July 15, 2002 Mrs. Barbara J. Anderson 1527 Normandy Rd. Normandy, TN Dear Sister Anderson; On June 5 2002, we corresponded with you in response to your letter of May 30, 2002 in which you appeal the decision made by a judicial committee from the Manchester congregation. A meeting was arranged to hear the appeal. However, we were informed that you could not be at the scheduled meeting due to the short notification period. We are please to arrange another meeting in accordance with your request. Meeting has been set for 3:00 pm Sunday, July 21, 2002 at the following address; Ramada Inn, 2314 Hillsboro Blvd„ Manchester, TN. R. E. Matthews Chairman appeal committee (931) 424-9303 cc; Jerre Michael Hood, esq.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
08:00:44
Comments
Please read the first two chapters of 'Babylon the Great has fallen-God's Kingdom rules' cicu 1963. This highlights the root cause of the problem in Witnessworld and indeed the rest of the world. It would seem from personal experience of surviving abuse as a witness, along with others, that masonic Satanism is the problem. Or as they see it, Lucifer is right! The murders, sexual abuse and every other crime committed in the name of God is their way of undermining faith on this earth. They think they are untouchable, try exposing masonic hierarchy and see. Jesus talked of them in Matthew 13. He will destroy their empire as 2nd Thessalonians 2 states. See 'man of Lawlessness' in the Insight book re 'composite man' i.e. not Babylon as such (a woman)but 'mystic Babylon' (a man). This class are identified as a Judas class. My personal thought is possibly ex-anointed. They know Gods purpose and having been seduced/corrupted by Satan seek to thwart Jehovah's plan. As if they ever could! Such is the ego, arrogance, vanity of fallen man. Very tragic. Somewhat like the fallen angels they have been duped by...'they got to believing the lie'. In what ever form that takes their fancy, communing with 'angels', 'aliens', sacrificing children, or people in wars, whatever. Unbelievable? Ephesians 6:12. Governments buy it, religion buys it, from Babylon down to today it's all about confusing the truth of Jehovah's will and purpose for humanity. Child abuse gives us an unfortunate glimpse into the nature of these fallen spirit creatures and as one elder told me re brothers who are masons 'They don't realize what it will do to their minds'. Obviously most masons have no idea of their origins or the purpose of their hierarchy either. A New World Order. Sound familiar? Where Hitler and whatever was controlling and manipulating him left off. Were the 'ovens' for Molech? The power of good over-ruled then as it will now. 2nd Peter 3:17,18. Isaiah 9:6,7. Isaiah 65:16,17,18. Rev 21:3-5. 1st Corinthians 13. Luke 10:18-24. Did it help to take the Nazi scientists to the US and Russia? Is this site true? http://www.apfn.org/apfn/camps.htm The best source for everyone to build or rebuild their faith primarily with the bible is in Bro' Russell's 7 volumes of 'Insight on the Scriptures'. After his tour of masonic halls sincerely giving them the truth, talks they were amazed at, he was soon 'got rid of'. He was not a mason or Knights Templar as those who would detract/poison you from the truth try to imply. Probably the masonic/KT hierarchy itself, they started tampering then. They need to wonder who is tampering with them? Ezekiel 28:13-26.

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
08:01:46
Comments
From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Fri, 19 Jul 2002 16:53:53 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: My letter 7-18-02 Draffenville Body of Elders Ron Carey-chairman Dear brothers, This letter is to acknowledge your letter of July15, and your renewed interest in establishing a new judicial hearing. As you may recall my attorney sent you a letter on June 6, 2002 with clear and concise requests for information. In not answering the June 6, letter you canceled a second arranged meeting on June 28, which I readily agreed to, but you failed to confirm in anyway. Due to circumstances beyond my control I am unable to meet on July 24th. I will be happy to reschedule a date acceptable to all concerned. I noted with interest that Ron Cary from Central City has now been appointed to serve as chairman, has he moved to Draffenville? Does he represent the Draffenville Congregation for the Watchtower home office? This needs to be clarified as I am confused why Ron Cary would be involved as he lives over one and one half hours away from Draffenville. The reason for my concern in this regard is the stated instructions in the elder handbook “Pay Attention to Yourself and all the Flock” it makes this comment in that regard on page 109: “If a judicial committee is needed, elders who are present at the Kingdom Hall should determine which elders will serve on the committee and which one will be chairman. The elders will take into consideration which elders are best qualified to handle the particular type of case that has arisen. (km 9/77 pp. 5-6)” Why does Draffenville Congregation need an Assembly Overseer, Ron Cary, when they already have five elders on the “local” elder body? Did the local body of elders call Ron Cary and request him to make the long road trip from Central City? If so I would appreciate an explanation as to why this is needed or who requested Brother Cary. In the July 15, letter Ron mentioned that he wished to be treated with, “due respect...accorded to the elder who is chairing the meeting.” If find this noteworthy as a fellow elder I make the same request on my behalf. The question is, have I been treated with “due respect” since you brothers at the direction of home office have chosen to press these false allegations against me? To explain, let me share a few examples: Failing to appear or give notice for the first prearranged judicial hearing “in writing” when at great expense I was there in good faith to meet with the committee. Totally ignoring all questions asked since January of 2001 about serious actions committed against my good name in the congregation and local community. Attempting to arrange a judicial hearing with a twenty-four hour notice in an attempt to prevent my witnesses from appearing in my behalf. Attempting to arrange a judicial hearing on Wednesdays in an attempt to impede my witnesses from appearing on my behalf. Failing to appear for a second judicial hearing that my attorney notified you in writing that I was willing to appear for, but once again you failed to confirm or communicate in anyway. Harassing my family and myself, by trespassing on my property, making harassing phone calls, sending correspondence, after repeated requests for all communication to go only to my attorney. In the handbook you use to decide these matters a comment is made in this regard on page 107: “They must treat every person with impartiality at all times and desire that the spiritually ill become well again, since a failure in this regard is unjust and violates the law of love .I Tim. 5:21; Jas. 2:1-9; 5:14, 15; w77 3/1 pp. 146-52”. By the actions committed to date by you and other representatives of Watchtower, have you treated me with “due respect” and given any hope of a “fair and impartial hearing”? How in any sense am I being made to feel that you want to make me “well again” if by your actions you show denial of basic human rights? According to our own guidebook it is described as “unjust and violates the law of love”. I would like a specific answer to that question. Now it appears you want to establish a new hearing with a third chairman officiating. Since you have failed to appear on two previous meetings that were arranged in writing, what reason do I have to believe you will appear for this one? Your actions to date have proven otherwise. Therefore due to the inconvenience you have caused my witnesses and myself by your gross negligence in these matters I must request the following in accordance with “due respect”: What are the charges against me, please be specific as I am unclear what this new hearing is about. For any hearing that you wish to arrange I will require at least a two week notice from the date I receive the letter so as to arrange my schedule to be able to meet. I request than you not set the meeting for any weekday as this imposes a hardship for my witnesses to be able to appear in my behalf. Therefore I request a Saturday or Sunday meeting only. As you are aware the “Flock” book on page 110 states: “Suitable arrangements should be made as to the time and place of the hearing.” Would that not mean arrangements that are kind to the accused and his witnesses? I request that the meeting be arranged on a time table after “noon.” I request that you use no recording devices in the course of the hearing. I request that no attorneys may be present in your behalf or Watchtower. I request a basic committee of three with no observers present. According to the “Flock” book on page 109 it makes this statement: “In a complex case, a judicial committee need not be limited to three members; it may warrant having four or even five experienced elders serve.” As this is a simple case of false allegations it would not appear to be to complex for three elders to handle. If you plan to have more than three elders present, I wish to be informed in advance and the basis for that decision. If you fail to do this and upon my arrival, there are more than three on the committee, I will certainly consider that a lack of “due respect” for not informing me ahead of time what to expect. My witnesses have asked that I act as an agent on their behalf, therefore I request a check in the amount of $2, 945.25 to be sent to silentlambs to assist with travel expenses for my witnesses to return for the new hearing to bear testimony in my behalf. I request that ALL COMMUNICATION go through my attorney. It is no doubt at the advice of Watchtower Legal you have chosen to ignore my repeated demands in this regard, but regardless you must STOP HARASSING me. If you do not I will be forced to look to “Caesar” for redress in this regard. I am saddened to have to make the above requests but your actions have had the affect of “beating your brothers” by harassing my family, arranging judicial meetings which are stressful to face, and not making appearance, inconveniencing survivors of abuse who traveled great distances to meet with you and provide testimony. In his February 7, 2002 letter to Richard Greenberg of Dateline, JR Brown made this statement: “We therefore do not view them as adversaries, but as individuals whose views and opinions should be heard within the framework of the congregation, or church, and not in front of a nationwide television audience. Our Governing Body is willing to resolve differences of opinion within the framework of the congregation and according to scriptural principles.” So is this the way “our Governing Body resolves differences of opinion”? They send out-of- town elders to establish a judicial committee with false allegations and disfellowship all who appeared on the program? Does this not confirm exactly the allegation I have made since day one, that is, when victims of abuse speak up they are silenced with the threat of disfellowshipping? Is it not the cowardly course to disfellowship brothers and sisters in back rooms rather than face legitimate allegations in a public forum? It seems “our Governing Body” is perfectly willing to authorize JR Brown of Watchtower Public Information to slander those who appeared on Dateline by stating they were being disfellowshipped for “other sins” not related to speaking out on child abuse to nationwide newspapers. Could it be that “our Governing Body” lied to JR Brown and Richard Greenberg? Could they be lying to you? I know the questions above are troubling as they have troubled me greatly over the course of the last year. It is for that reason I have requested to have a meeting with the Governing Body “within the framework of the congregation and according to scriptural principles” on September 27th of this year. Since they and the Service Committee are well aware of my request to meet with them in a FED-Xed letter dated June 6, 2002, why are they authorizing you to have a judicial hearing? You might want to ask them that question. Would it not make better sense to resolve our differences at that time? On the other hand if you are aware of my meeting with the Governing Body, then I would welcome an explanation for the inconsistency of your actions. I realize you brothers are “caught in the middle” so to speak, but I would encourage you to think seriously about pressing this matter at this time. I am willing to meet and am traveling to Brooklyn, New York as an evidence of my sincerity in wanting these matters settled. I will be glad to meet with you, I simply request “due respect” as you have failed miserably in that regard up to this point. Think about these things brothers as many children will either benefit or suffer from the actions you choose to take. As the “Flock” book states: Elders called upon to care for this responsibility must exercise heavenly wisdom, have good judgment, and be impartial. (Deut. 1:13, 16-18) A sound knowledge of Jehovah's righteous laws and principles is necessary.(Ps. 19:7-11) They must weigh matters carefully, realizing that certain factors make situations differ from one another. Instead of looking for rigid rules for guidance, elders should think in terms of principles; judge each case on its own merits. Before handling a judicial case, elders should carefully review Units 5(a), 5(b), and 5(c). They may also need to do research in the Society's publications and recent correspondence from the Society to find information that may apply or be helpful. Elders can be confident that with accurate knowledge, with experience and discernment, and with the help of God's spirit, they can judge in righteousness, wisdom, and mercy. I encourage you brothers to consider these matters carefully and make a decision that will benefit the flock. As fellow elders is that not what we are required to do? I await your quick response to this letter and send my warm Christian love. Very Truly Yours, William H. Bowen

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20 Jul 2002
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From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Thu, 11 Jul 2002 11:52:50 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Abuse survivors Florida I currently have a report4er who is looking to do a story and JW's and abuse in Florida. If you would like to be interviewed or know someone that would let me know. Regards, bill

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From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 01:50:08 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Scottish Press CHURCH AT CENTRE OF PAEDOPHILE ALLEGATIONS http://www.thisisnorthscotland.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=62692&command=displayContent&sourceNode=62244&contentPK=2125157 <http://www.thisisnorthscotland.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=62692&amp;command=displayContent&amp;sourceNode=62244&amp;contentPK=2125157> CLAIRE STEWART 09:00 - 15 July 2002 The Jehovah's Witness Church in Scotland has vehemently denied allegations that it shelters Pedophiles. A Panorama programme screened last night on BBC TV claimed the church had records of known Pedophiles within the faith that it refused to share with police. The programme profiled an Ayrshire teenager who allegedly told elders at her church she was being abused by her father. She claimed to have been told not to go to police, despite the fact that the man had already confessed to elders that he had abused her. A spokesman for the British branch of Jehovah's Witnesses condemned pedophilia as "abhorrent" and stated the programme had failed to examine cases in which the church had approached the police. The investigative programme claimed that the Watch Tower Society kept a worldwide database of members accused of child abuse. The list, which is claimed to contain more than 20,000 names, is based on details held by each Jehovah's Witness congregation and has many names that have never been reported to police. Panorama claimed a code of silence existed within the faith based on Biblical teachings that members should turn to elders and not the police, and that members believed a crime had not taken place unless two members of the faith could give evidence of it. Spokesman Paul Gilles yesterday denied that any Jehovah's Witness congregation would shelter a PAEDOPHILE from the police. "Sexual abuse of children is not just a terrible sin but also a crime that can leave lasting emotional scars on its victims," he said. "Jehovah's Witnesses everywhere abhor the sexual abuse of children and will not protect any perpetrator of such repugnant acts from the consequences of his gross sin." Explaining why the church had chosen to snub the programme, Mr Gilles said: "We decided not to take part for two reasons. "One is Jehovah's Witnesses are featured in the programme. We follow the Bible in everything we do and the way to resolve difficulties between spiritual brothers and sisters is not in the public. "Our views are based on deeply held convictions which can't be expressed just in a few sound bytes which might be edited. That's why we have chosen to address the allegations on our own website so we can give detailed answers in context." However, the church did provide the programme with information on its policies towards child abuse. Mr Gilles, speaking before the programme was aired, said he did not expect it to give an even-handed view. "I don't expect it to be a balanced programme from what I have seen so far," he said. "They have highlighted cases which could have been handled better. We told them we can't discuss specific cases. "They have trawled newspapers to find cases where things had gone wrong, but they didn't trawl newspapers to find cases where we had gone to the police." The spokesman did accept there were cases of child abuse within the faith that could have been dealt with better and expressed regret at them. Explaining the Jehovah's Witness process for reporting such matters, Mr Gilles said: "When a report is received, elders contact our national office in London for guidance to ensure that, firstly, the alleged victim and other potential victims are protected from possible abuse, and secondly that counsel is given to report crime to the proper authorities and to comply with any additional legal requirements. "Jehovah's Witnesses further believe that it is the absolute right of the victim, his or her family or anyone else to report the matter to the authorities if they so choose. There are certainly no sanctions against any congregation member who reports an allegation of child abuse to the authorities." About 8,600 Jehovah's Witnesses made the trip to Perth yesterday for the final day of the Zealous Kingdom Proclaimers Convention. The conference attracted visitors from throughout the UK and as far afield as the US. Organizer Bill Reid said: "The people of Perth have responded very well to us being here, from taxi drivers right the way through."

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20 Jul 2002
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" Error always seeks the dark, while truth is enhanced by the light. Error never desires to be investigated. Light always courts a thorough and complete investigation." [Millions Now Living Will Never Die, on page 13 ] --- REPOST

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20 Jul 2002
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" For he that practices vile things hates the light and *does not come to the light, in order that his works may hot be reproved.* But he that does what is true *comes to the light* IN ORDER THAT HIS WORKS MAY BE MADE MANIFEST AS HAVING BEEN WORKED IN HARMONY WITH GOD." [John 3:20-21] --- REPOST

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20 Jul 2002
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Mrs J of Cambridge, England wrote at the Guest Forum at the BBC Panorama Site after the JW story aired: --- "...Our elders are not representatives of God... they are labeled as servants and nothing more." --- MY REPLY: See the August 1, 2002, Watchtower, page 13: "REPRESENTING THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD are appointed elders... " --- Mrs. J also wrote: " ...ELDERS ARE NOT POLICEMEN. They are men that give advice from the Bible, you can do whatever you want with it." --- MY REPLY: See the August 1, 2002, Watchtower, page 13: "...the elders also MUST HATE ANYTHING that resembles PARTIALITY IN JUDGMENT... (and) RATHER THAN CHALLENGE THEIR AUTHORITY, we truly appreciate our hardworking elders." --- Not Challenge their Authority? Representatives of the ROYAL Priesthood? Almost sounds like (spiritual) policemen to me./SLC

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20 Jul 2002
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(The JW story was in Dave Letterman's monolog Monday 7/15 and Tuesday 7/16): --- From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Tue, 16 Jul 2002 01:29:14 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: WE made David Letterman! --- Tonight, in his monolog, David Letterman made a quip about the abuse scandal affecting the Watchtower-led organization. -- "I sure hope this turns out to be false, because otherwise, people would start avoiding Jehovah's Witnesses. We wouldn't want that to happen." --- From: "silentlambs" <info@silentlambs.org> Date: Tue, 16 Jul 2002 23:39:20 -0500 To: <info@silentlambs.org> Subject: Letterman did it again --- Aren't you tired of all the sex scandals in religion? The Jehovah's Witnesses are having a big sex scandal, it has gotten so bad when they come to your door first they grope you, then they hand you a pamphlet. -- The Jehovah's Witnesses sex scandal started its first day in court today, when they knocked on the door of the courthouse, nobody answered the door.

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Date:
20 Jul 2002
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08:15:35
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LISTEN to PANORAMA pre-show newscast here: Jehovah's Witnesses and child abuse The Jehovah's witnesses are the latest in a succession of religious groups to come under attack for the way they have responded to allegations of child sex abuse within their ranks. A Panorama investigation to be shown on BBC1 tonight (Sunday) reveals that a number of legal actions against the organization are underway in America, but the problem is not confined to that country. Report by Panorama's Shabnam Grewal. Listen here <http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/realmedia/sunday/s20020714g.ram> (7m 21s)

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Date:
20 Jul 2002
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08:16:32
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WATCH THE ENTIRE Panorama show here --- Suffer The Little Children --- With the Catholic Church still reeling from revelations that it kept child abuse quiet, Panorama investigates a world-wide religion that stands accused of shielding abusers: the Jehovah's Witnesses. View the video of the entire program here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/audiovideo/programmes/panorama/newsid_2114000/2114320.stm Suffer The Little Children Watch the programme on Sunday 14 July at 22:15 BST, on BBC One or from this page. With the Catholic Church still reeling from revelations that it kept child abuse quiet, Panorama investigates a world-wide religion that stands accused of shielding abusers: the Jehovah's Witnesses. The programme tells the harrowing stories of children put at risk by the Watchtower Society's bible-based policies and unearths evidence of a database of members suspected of child abuse - many of whom have never been reported to the police. The organization claims to monitor the men accused of raping and molesting children but now faces allegations that it covers up crime and pressurises victims not to go to the police. Panorama takes its evidence to the heart of the organization and reveals the damage caused by the silent witnesses. Production Team: Reporter: Betsan Powys Producer: Murdoch Rodgers Assistant Producer: Shabnam Grewal Editor: Mike Robinson

Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2002
Time:
08:17:32
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WATCH the AFTER-PANORAMA QUESTION & ANSWER SHOW HERE --- The Jehovah's Witnesses are accused of having a "child protection policy" that protects Pedophiles. You can as