I am not surprised to find out that the c.o. turned out to be not only a homosexual, but preyed on young boys that came into his shoe store. It was rumored for years that he abused his wife and children (physical- not sexual). He was a respected man that critisized women in the congregation for not wearing pantyhose in very hot weather. (there wasn't air conditioning at the time.) I admit that he is very charming and I really do/ did like him. I had heard that his recent dis-fellowshipping was due to his wife coming home to him in bed w/another man. I refused to believe it untill the news carried a story of him selling beer to minors and also inappropriate sexual contact. I myself am a disfellowshipped witness. I don't hide that fact. I believe in the "truth' and will have to deal w/ the consequences of my actions. It's sad to live w/ the knowledge and yet know that so much is covered up. I have many things I know about that have gone on. It is sad and it haunts me every day. I don't know if I'll ever have peace. I could go on and on. i appreciate your ear and hope that some day we'll know real peace of mind and heart. (It's all I have to hope for- or certain death at the hands of Jah) P.S. I do fear Jehovah and hope that He will forgive me my errors and willfull sin. EXJW101
CC: Actually I read a less sinister cause into the decline of activity - the intense focus on the Silent Lambs site since the DateLine story on Bill Bowen. But I believe a significant portion is the perception due to such deletions.
Anyway, have you ever considered reading some of the available stuff on JW history? I'm not talking about in-your-face, you're-all-idiots attacks. I'm referring to Ray Franz writings where he takes on the subject from a first-person with a light hand. Perhaps a more nuts-and-bolts type of book like 'The Gentile Times Reconsidered' would be interesting. It is an exhaustive research piece that focuses on the most weight-laden pillar of the JW beliefs - 1914.
I'ld bet the history of it all would show the GB in a different light.
- Cliff
Wow, I find it incredible that so many people discover this website and post their "experiences" at virtually the same time on the same days of the year. One day last year had like 5 different abuse stories posted by 5 different victims all posted within hours of each other.
And at least try to get your facts straight when you tell your stories.
Things like "the elders said I had the devil in me" (or something like that) just doesn't fly.
Or my favorite "the c.o. turned out to be not only a homosexual, but preyed on young boys that came into his shoe store".
1. C.O.'s do not actively run businesses. 2. C.O.'s don't have any free time to be luring children anywhere. 3. C.O.'s can be accounted for every second of every day on any given week. 4. Acknowledging that there are predators fooling people in the org, the chances one has gotten to such an important position is virtual impossible but it makes for a great anti-JW story!
PLEASE DO NOT ERASE THIS POST!
Sorry forgot: C.O.s also don't have children.
Although i was brought up a Witness by the age of 16 I decided it was no longer for me,however in my opinion this is human error,there are many cases of child abuse reported in other Religions such as the Cathlolics there on the news every other week with reports of child sex abuse,Its the world with live in. I just hope what I was taught is correct,that the end of this system of things is drawing near and that there will be a new order in which nothin like this will ever happen!
Commando,
Too many of the stories are so out in left field they are hard to believe.
I am a JW and also a realist! I know there are predators everywhere in this sick world. AND THERE ARE PEOPLE CLAIMING TO BE JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THAT ARE TRULY NOT!
The fact remains that the organization does deal with the problem SCRIPTURALLY. And yes, there are also Elders with very little experience that make mistakes when dealing with such a difficult and disturbing problem. I wish people knew though how most elders hearts break when dealing with these things.
To the people that claim "the elders seemed to get their jollies listening to the details" (something like that), you are obviously incredibly bitter and misguided. That's pure garbage and you know it.
I once asked a substitute C.O. how he can sit and listen to these things when they ocasionally arise and he said that he feels that Jehovah gives him the strength and that at times he has broken down and wept in the car afterward.
BOTTOM LINE: Jehovah's Witnesses are condemed for disfellowshipping and "shunning" people who break God's laws and then the same people flip-flop and claim we cover over abuse.
Tells you something!
Jehovah's Witnesses and Child Protection in Britain
Paul Gillies, spokesman for the Britain branch of Jehovah's Witnesses comments: "Sexual abuse of children is not just a terrible sin but also a crime that can leave lasting emotional scars on its victims. 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. This is in harmony with the principle recorded at Romans 12:9."
Recognizing that religion is in the spotlight for its handling of matters relating to this complex issue, Jehovah's Witnesses have made sure the public has access to detailed information regarding their means of responding to these matters when they may arise within a congregation. Mr. Gillies explains, "It is of deep concern to us if there is a victim of abuse who says his or her case has not been handled with sensitivity or understanding in our religion."
And Mr. Gillies continues, "Elders in Britain are directed to ensure that secular laws are adhered to. When a report is received, elders contact our National Office in London for guidance to ensure that (1) the alleged victim, and other potential victims, are protected from possible abuse and (2) 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 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."
To the person who posted on 7/15. I was raised a witness, my father is an elder and my whole family is in the truth, except me that is. I am still around witnesses a great deal, and I know them to be very good people who strive to be the best that they can. The reason I come on this site is that it angers me very much to read all of the misinformation spewed forth here. I know that bad things can happen, but I also know that those matters are handled appropriately. I have discussed this issue with my father and he says that in the case of child molestation the perpetrator is immediately disfellowshipped and the society and local law enforcement are notified right away. I hope you are able to view this because it will be deleted shortly. Have you noticed how fast I am deleted? Let me know what you think of Randy's editing habits.
Commando for Christ
Commando,
Thanks.
I have read your posts.
Please consider turning your appreciation for how the society DOES handle thing properly to considering studying again.
Jehovah's Witnesses are vastly superior to any other religion in love and how they discipline wrongdoers. THIS SAYS SOMETHING!
> Church abuse shame > > Jul 14 2002 > > By The Sunday Sun > > > A controversial church which has thousands of North > followers has been accused of covering up child abuse > among its members. > > It is claimed that elders of the Jehovah's Witnesses > have persuaded victims to keep the problem "in-house" > and not go to the police . . . only for the > paedophiles to strike again. > > The organisation is said to have a database which > holds the names of 20,000 followers alleged to have > abused children. > > Yet this vital information has not been used in > certain cases when > children were at risk, claims BBC's Panorama. > > One victim, not featured in the programme, was an > eight-year-old girl abused by Allan Cade, who was then > a ministerial servant in the Jehovah's Witnesses . . . > a position just below an elder. > > Cade, 65, who now lives in the North, was jailed for > two and half years for committing three serious sexual > offences against the youngster. > > Yet when he first got to know his victim's family - > also Jehovah's Witnesses - they were not told he had > served time in jail for a sex attack on another young > girl. > > The dad of his second victim, who is now 14, said: > "She still suffers nightmares about what happened. I > can never forgive him or the church." > > Cade, now living in County Durham, first got to know > the family of his victim when he lived in Yorkshire. > > When we confronted him he admitted the elders knew > about his past offence, committed before he joined the > church. > > He said: "They had no reason to say anything . . . it > happened many years before. > > "When I committed the second offence the matter was > reported straight away to the police. Talk of a > cover-up is rubbish." > > The dad of the victim, who cannot be named for legal > reasons, said: "The police were brought in after my > daughter was examined by a doctor." > > At present, Cade - who was "disfellowshipped" as a > result of his offences - is back attending Jehovah's > Witness meetings and hopes to be accepted back into > the fold. > > He said: "The elders are aware of my past. I > bitterly regret what I've > done and just want to get on with my life. > > "I'm filling my mind with good things and thoughts. > I'm learning the guitar and photography. I've taken up > bird watching and making model boats. > > "I realise I have this weakness but I'm doing > everything I can to make > sure I don't offend again." > > Tonight, the BBC's Panorama programme is due to > broadcast fears among > disaffected church members about its child > protection policy. It will > reveal how a young Scottish woman suffered years of > abuse by her Jehovah's Witness father before she broke > down and told local church elders. > > Even though he confessed to them, the police weren't > informed and the girl was sent home. > > Not only did she suffer further abuse, but so did her > younger sister. > > UK spokesman for the Jehovah's Witnesses, Paul > Gillies, said: "The > sexual abuse of children for us is not just a > terrible sin, but a > crime. > > "Our counsel is always that we should report crime to > the proper authorities." > > He added that the Bible principle they work on is > contained in Romans, chapter 12, verse nine: "Abhor > what is wicked. Cling to what is good". > > Beliefs of millions > > The Jehovah's Witnesses are a Christian organisation > with 120,000 members in the UK and six million > worldwide. > > They were founded as a bible study group in > Pennsylvania in the USA in > the 1870s by Charles Taze Russell. He launched the > magazine Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's > Presence in 1879. > > BY 1880 there were scores of congregations in the US > who gathered under the name Zion's Watch Tower Tract > Society. > > IN 1931 the name Jehovah's Witnesses was officially > adopted, although the corporate entity which runs it > is called the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. > > ALL true followers are required to go "witnessing" > from house to house offering Bible literature and > converting people to what they call "The Truth". > > THEY do not celebrate Christmas or Easter, believe > Jesus was crucified on a stake, not a cross, and that > taking blood into the body violates God's law . . . > those who do can be expelled. They also believe the > end of the world will come soon and that only they > will survive to live on in paradise. > > THE group does not believe in swearing allegiance to > any organisation or nation. As such, they are not > allowed to join the armed forces, vote in elections, > run for political office or sing a national anthem.
CC (and the other guy): More perspective would be helpful here. It is such a Witness thing to claim that these things are handled 'scriptually.' That sentiment is only evidence of the allegience demanded by the Society. Taken out of the JW context, good people would find a way of helping a child that came to them for help. Put into the JW context, otherwise good men are so indoctrinated into WTBTS protocol and that they will actually tell a 10-year old that they have (1) taken the proper steps, (2) asked her dad/told her dad (3) he denied it, (4) she needs to go home and either get another witness or stop dressing so provocatively.
I've heard elders state that their hands are tied in the matter. They are. But not by scriptures, or governmental laws, rather by Society rules.
CC - You must live in a 'reporting' state. Because elders are advised not to report such cases in states that don't require them. They will state that they are doing what is required by law. But I will state that they are not doing what is required by moral commitment. They stepped into a leadership role in the congregation and they fail miserably when they fail to protect the young and vulnerable.
One more point: I would like to comment on the scriptual basis referred to so commonly by JW apologists. I don't believe for a second that Paul had 10-year-old sexually-abused incest victims in mind when he ordered the second witness rule. In context, it is clear that he was talking about civil matters to a group that had become litigious, not about an innocent child suffering the worst. To apply such a rule to a helpless group would be as unchristian as act as I can imagine. My stand is that such an application is by definition self-contradictory. Sincere people, committed to Christ, would help - unless they were clouded by a stronger commitment to an organization.
- Cliff
Cliff, I live in Ca. which I believe is a reporting state like you say. I called my dad and asked him about states that don't have that requirement, and he told me that the normal procedure no matter what the rules of the state, are to contact the authorities. It the moral and right thing to do. Those were his exact words. He also told me that you DO NOT have to have two witnesses when it comes to pedophiles. If a child reports that they were abused, then the person being accused is immediately dealt with by the witnesses and the authorities. While we are on the subject of the two witness rule, I was a wild kid and believe me I was the accused in more then one committee meeting. I never saw or heard any reference to this two witness rule. For example, I had sex with a witness girl when I was fifteen and she was sixteen. She felt guilty so she ratted us out, at first I denied it but it didn't matter, the elders KNEW I was lying and I was reproved, about a month later I felt guilty about lying to the elders ( and more importantly to Jehovah ) and I told them the truth. I know from experience that this rule is not used. I am still around witnesses all the time, I live in a small town and work with some witnesses, not to mention that I am constantly around my family as we are all really close. I know them to be good people, and when I was going to meetings when I was younger there were some scandals, an elder and a pioneer having an affair that nobody knew about, but when they were found out ( by the wife ) they were both disfellowshipped. He never came back she however did. None of the cases of wrongdoing were ever covered up or dealt with kid gloves. With the witnesses it is very simple, if you mess up, no matter what your standing may be in the congregation, you are going to be treated the same. No elder would ever let a child suffer the shame and humiliation that a child would feel if they were to be molested, that child would get the help they needed, spiritually and professionally.
To the other guy, I wish I was able to be a witness, I really do. Maybe someday I will be able to do just that. I have never worked against Jehovahs spirit and I never will. There are certain lines I will not cross, demonism of course, no blood, holidays or other churchs. I don't speak for the witnesses, but I do defend them whenever the need arises.
Keep on keepin' on,
Commando for Christ
Cliff,
"good people would find a way of helping a child that came to them for help"
That statement alone shows the ignorance of all of your 'anti-JW' posts. NOT WORTHY OF A RESPONSE!
15 million associated (memorial attendance) and we are all so stupid and blind that we've been duped into "thinking" that Jehovah's Witnesses more than any other religion show Christ-like love and compassion.
PLEASE DON'T LISTEN TO CLIFF BOY!!! JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES ARE THE MOST MORAL, LOVING, WELL INTENDED, CHRISTLIKE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD!!!
BOTTOM LINE: Jehovah's Witnesses are condemed for disfellowshipping and "shunning" people who break God's laws and then the same people flip-flop and claim we cover over abuse.
I am gld that everyday we have more people denouncing the abuses of the so called Jehovah Organization, I was a JW for several years and I saw so many things that do not comply with the Bible that forced me to study they doctrine more deeply, it is only a sectarian and fanatic organization that control the minds and lives of six million people that do not question any ideas, they are like robots, if anybody question any doctrine that person will be expelled and if any resign voluntarilly all his former friends and so called brothers will never talk, it is like the mafia it is easy to get in but it is difficult to get out, I do not recommend any parents to let his children to get into this religion, you never know if your child is preaching with a child molester or a covered criminal
SPEAK OUT-HOLLER- CRY-JUMP-SCREAM- BIT, SPEAK OUT NOT HERE BUT TO THE POLICE THE POLICE. SO STOP YOUR CRYING AND GO TO THE POLICE .YA GET IT
CC: Nice to hear from you. I had a hunch you were in CA. I have had one conversation with an elder from a non-reporting state and he told me that they are advised not to report. That jibes pretty well with my impression of the video of the Society Legal Eagle I saw on the Dateline report. From his 'we report if the law requires' statement I inferred that if the law does not, they don't.
Believe it or not, I agree that the vast majority of witnesses are heavily committed, caring, good people. But I know that too many (vast majority?)have a misguided allegience to the Society. That is why criticism of the Society is equated with an attack on God.
It doesn't surprise me that you have been in the hot seat. I, either alone or as part of a group, was on the receiving end of an inquisition more times than I care to remember. I just wish I had given the 'two-witness' rule a test or two. I was tempted once, when one of the inquisitors doubted an answer I gave, I wanted to fire off the 'Love believes all things' line. But I always came clean like a good little doobee.
I still can't belileve I subjected myself to judgement by those morons.
- Cliff
to CC: Your comments are edited for abusive speech and off topic. Quit crying.
I am 15yrs. old and was born into the 'truth'. My grandmother is the one that raised me, not my mother. I would just like to say, some of you are talking about how you were abused by people in position in the KH, others are just bad-mouthing Witness, of talking about how their parent are making or have made them against their will, attend congregation meetings. I'm not one to say just who's telling the truth and who is'nt about the abuse and violation,but for all you who are being forced to be witnesses, if your parents are true Chritians, just sit and really talk to them and explain. If that does'nt work I don't know what else to say. I just moved to Maryland in a Congregation that has no one my age, I've been there for about 1yr. now. Just this past week a girl my age came in. I could do alot of complaining for a girl that did'nt have many friends back home and no one her age to associate with for a long time. But instead I'm going to make it my goal to stay in the truth. No offense, but if any of you were true Witnesses in the beginning, you would'nt have been sidetracked by what other imperfect humans may have done. Also, if you read a few accounts in the Bible, you can see were some people have done some really bad things even to the point of killing one another. God forgave them. We are all IMPERFECT. And honestly I don't think it's being judgemental if someone tells you right from wrong or trying to help you. If you had a friend who was a witness, and she told you she thought you should'nt hang around a particular crowd, because they did wrong things, and you saw it firsthand is that being judgemental? All my years I have gained so much by being a Witness, and i have'nt realized it until this year. I know I have nothing to say to those that won't take it into their hearts. I can't say I will be a survivor of the great tribulation for sure, but all those turning there backs against Jehovah and his people will be dealt by, not me or other true Christians, but by a god more powerful. Who do YOU believe in? Have you really Gained anything by not being a Witness? Have you given it a second chance. What the Bible has prophecied specifically at both Matthew CHP.24 and 2nd Tim. 3. These things have been around for a while, but definitely not as bad as now. Do you really think that the government or anybody or anything else could possibly bring about peace in this devastated world? Government is going against each other. If you've gotten to read this far, I would just like for you to read the Scripture at Revelation 14;and also at Daniel where it talks about the harlot, and the wild beast with seven heads. this is not literally, but it's written artistically. Are'nt these prophecies exactly what you see today? No one is calling anyone a liar, telling you to be perfect, or making your decisions. Just do more research. Man can lie. read parts of the Bible. If you don't see evidence, then maybe you were'nt meant to understand it. use your brains.Please. I know this sounds weird to some, but we are very, very deep in the last days. PAY ATTENTION. SHeena
Sheena, I have high hopes for you. You sound sincere and thoughtful, and so very young. It is not likely that you will feel the same way in a few years. Eventually you will come to a cross road and need to decide between your own rationality and the dicta handed down by a group of men in Brooklyn.
If you are ready, try to explain how you decided to come to this site, read the posts, and contribute yourself. If you do, you will be in for a lesson in free thinking.
Good Luck. CFS
To NOT WORTHY OF A RESPONSE: Excellent logic - so you use an annual Memorial attendance figure as your count of 'associates'? You cite 15 million and decide that such a multitude could not have been duped. Am I allowed to use the remaining 5+ billion of us and use that figure as a total that could not be duped? Should we weigh them now?
I'ld bet you that there are more ex-witnesses than there are active witnesses - especially in the U.S. Should we weigh them?
Of course all the above is silly. The organization should be measured for its own worth. It's processes and procedures, it's teachings, it's history, how it treats its members, how it treats the rest of us, and most importantly how it measures up to the mode of Christianity established by Christ himself.
Some day you may step back get the perspective to see that the organization you adhere so tightly to doesn't measure up all that well.
- Cliff
Sheena, I am very impressed! You sound so mature, and wise for a fifteen year old. I admire your resolve, for wanting to stay in the truth, especially when you are probably having a tough time trying to sort things out. Keep your head up kid, fight the good fight. You will definitely make it. Just wanted to tell you that I agree with you 100%, I am sure the "other guy" does too. It doesn't mean anything because we don't know each other, but you have my support.
Commando for Christ
Cliff,
Obviously we're outnumbered and you can choose to to believe whatever you wish. You're right, 5 billion other people do. Hellfire, Trinity, Heavenly hope for all, love Jesus and practice anything you want in your life, whatever tickles your fancy!
My point is people like you would get a lot further if you didn't rant on and on that JW's are not sincere lovers of God and admit that we do try our best to practice Christlike love.
Even most ex-JW's admit that at least.
Count me among the believers in the sincerity of active JWs. It is way too much work and commitment for anyone not fully into the belief. Committed and misguided. The almost complete separation from society and family, the continued belief in a string of of predictions, and comlpiance with a stack of man-made rules that are passed down as though they were directly inspired of God are all key components of being a JW.
Step back and take stock of the fact that Witnesses are comfortable with the term, 'present understanding.' The implication is that they feel that they are to believe exactly what they are told, when they are told, regardless of what they were told yesterday and what they may be told tomorrow.
Witnesses would be the first to decry such beliefs if Witnesses weren't the ones that had them. To follow along this way is to abandon your obligation to understand your own relationship with God and allow an organization to act as your intermediary.
- Cliff
I was very disappointed to learn of the amount of abuse that goes in JWs organisation. I had thought they were isolated incidents - however this appears not to be the case. I think the posts from witnesses who believe people to be "liars" etc are being insensitive to the victims' plight. Think again before you gush forth your venom. I personally know of three incidents of abuse. One was my sister in law who was raped at the age of 9 when she was left alone to be "looked after" by two 16 year old "brothers". When she told her devout JW mother about it she said "well, these things happen". The second incident was when a middle aged couple with a young daughter let an older christian "brother" live in their home (because he was single and had no family) - it eventually transpired that he sexually abused their young daughter for 5 years and lastly, a "brother" who was a ministerial servant who sexually abused his own daughter for years (he was moved to another congregation but not disfellowshipped).
The other point I have to make is one of the posts was from a girl who had been told not to go to college because armageddon is just round the corner. My mother told me (and my brothers) not to bother at school because armageddon was going to be here any minute, so we didn't. I am now 43 and armageddon is still not here. I bitterly regret not having achieved more and I have encouraged my son with schooling (he got straight As and is going to university shortly). Many of the witnesses are not well educated - hence many of the brothers in many congregations end up as window cleaners or similar which brings me to a final point - how can these brothers be equipped to deal with the complications of sexual abuse (when professional counsellors have years of training)?
I can assure readers (having myself worked in the department of child psychiatry in Great Ormond St Hosp in London) that it is an absolute rarity for ANY child to make up stories about such a serious matter. Jan, Surrey, UK
Our mom had 9 kids. Dad was never around and J.W.s came knockin on our door in 1974 and converted her into the loserish religion. We were real poor and they pretended to like us. When me and my sister told her our brother was molesting us she didn't care and even let him beat us with a hairbrush until we bled. She divorced dad and put us all in foster homes in 76, but a yr. later we got to come home and live with her. Whenever it came to the matter of concern about disciplinig us kids she would take the advice of the other gossiping "sisters" and she would use the belt on us to the point of leaving welt marks on us. Our two oldest blood sisters she sent away group homes after a few months because the elders told her that they were bad influence on the other congregational members and the sisters didn't want to be J.W.s We never ever had any attention from our mom at home and she was always neglecting us because she was too into the J.W. religion and never had any time for us. She was married to the church and treated the word's of the elders like they were God. When I was 12 the J.W.s had some party and we were all in a whirlpool and I had on my bathing suit. A sicko married MS was sitting right next to me and stuck his fingers up my vagina so I moved away from "it". I never told any one because of the earlier abuse and I was to scared. Until 4 yr. later. I told my mom and she didn't go to the cops. She told me to talk to the elders. At the elders meeting they kept asking me all the details and asked why I didn't scream. I told them I was too afraid. They asked why I never told anyone at the time. I told them because I was molested when when I was younger and was too scared. Then they asked me if I felt guilty about it. And I told them no because I didn't do anything wrong. So they told me since I didn't have any remorse that they were going to put me on reproof (that is where a person cannot partake of any J.W. activities and are shunned for a little while in the church). Also this same elder who put me on reproof had a brother, whom was a J. W. and he would always go around pinching and teasng young teenage girls. He molested my blood sister and did this to her. the pervert. I was a baptized J. W. and never cared for the J. W.'s after this so it started a rift between me and my mom and her religion. A few months later they disfellowshipped me and my mom burned all of my belongings and claimed I was demonized just because her and a few of her "so-called" friends found a picture of a silly cartoon head I had drawn that was just a joke. The religion always stressed how important it is to always be at the KH and never ever miss a meeting no matter what. My mom and my stepdad had an old car which didnt work quite right. It was freezing rain out in November of 1994, but my mom insisted on going to the church anyway. Her car was hit head on by an oncoming car and she was killed instantly. So actually going to that church is what killed her. So much for "another day closer to God's New Order." So all you J.W.S that get on this site and downplay child molesters, how dare you criticize us, who have been molested, when you know in your heart that that's the worst sin-to molest an innocent child-short of murder, that is if you even have a heart Sincerely,
Sabrina and Lynne
It is reported the WT oftens uses 1 Timothy 5:19 to justify no action be taken on one accused of child molestation. "Do not admit an accusation against an older man, except only on the evidence of two or three witnesses." However, witness children are taught along with adults. Surely they are taught the sins of pornea (sexual misconduct). So why doesn't the WT acknowledge the very next line in 1 Timothy (5:20)? "Reprove before all onlookers persons who practice sin, that the rest also may have fear." Does not a child know if a sin has been committed? If not then these children are missing some education. Every parent should teach their children what is and is not proper touching.
One post indicated the WT showed sensitivity when handling these cases. In their rebuttal letter to the BBC program Panorama, they indicated that any member found guilty of this misconduct is to be removed from any position of authority. However, they will be monitored and are allowed to attend services. How sensitive is it to the mental health of a child to have to face the perpetrator each week in the Kingdom Hall? Who will monitor the individual 24 hours a day? You can view this letter at www.jw-media.org/releases/default.htm?content=bbc020509.pdf.
As the custodial parent of a child whose mother is currently studying with the JW, I recently had the opportunity to meet with a couple of the elders. They were very nice and even though we agreed on very little I enjoyed the discussion. It prompted me to intensify my comparisons of the NWT, NIV and KJV. During the discussion I asked about the anointed class and who witnessed the anointing. Their response was these individuals are witnessed by the Holy Spirit. I queried that they just take their (anointed one's) word for it? They said yes, but if the anointed one was lying time would show their deceipt.
If you have truly been soiled by this awful crime make sure the Holy Spirit is with you and offer him as your second witness as have the anointed ones if you go to the elders. However, no matter their response you should always go to the local authorities.
As we all know there have been times when allegations of child abuse have been proven false. This is truly a sin because it can ruin a person's life with irrepairable damage. So keeping all things underwraps until the authorities have investigated the allegations is not a bad thing. This will serve to protect the innocent that may have been faslely accused. However, if the accused is found guilty then I suggest they follow 1 Timothy 5:20.
It is hard to believe the WT is truly caring for the children after all the scriptural quoting about distancing yourself from fornicators, non-believers and idolators. Why is it people who celebrate Christmas and Easter are worse than child molesters? Even when the bible tells us these things are ok. Colossians 2:16,17 "Therefore let no man judge you in eating and drinking or in respect of a festival or of an observance of the new moon or of a sabbath; for those things are a shadow of the things to come, but the reality belongs to the Christ."
I was raised Catholic and currently will not take my child to Catholic Church until I am satisfied the Vatican is going to do the same that the WT should do. Do what is right according to their hearts and hope they will be judged according to the love shown by their action and not the fear of word displayed by their inaction.
Brian
Some additional comments. During this meeting with my ex-wife's elders I proposed that my ex, my child and myself each read the same portion of the bible and meet each week to discuss the reading. This would include a comparison study of the different versions of the bible enabling our child to receive different perspectives. Also, it would help establish a bond between the three of us which would be beneficial to my child. This was of course rejected. However my ex did indicate that possibly one of the elders could be present if we did such a study. I agreed as long as we could alternate with a priest. Whammo!! They said no way! Why would we accept a priest when he belongs to an organization that condones homosexuality. I replied, they don't approve it but they accept it in hopes of teaching the wrong in their lifestyles. One of them said he would seriously have to reconsider his association with a group that accepted homosexuals. I then asked them if they became aware that the WT was sheltering pedophiles if they would disassociate themselves from the WT. One replied he would considered it.
The question regarding this situation is which is worse? Two homosexuals consenting to engage in an immoral act or an adult forcing themselves on a helpless child using their authority to place the fear of losing God in their mind? Studies show that the vast majority of pedophiles are not homosexuals. They are those we least suspect and trust the most, family members close friends of the family and now clergy.
This is truly is a sad time we live in.
The WT responded to the BBC that the reported figure of 23,720 private records about pedophiles is actually considerably less. Also they contend that these files include records of other offenses like two under age teenagers engaging in acts together and other sexual misconduct such as adultery. I am writing them a letter to ask for a quantification of "considerably less". Is it 1,000, 5,000 less? Surely 10,000 less is still an alarming amount. Also I will ask how many of these are related to pedophile cases? Since they exposed this letter on their PR website I feel an answer to these questions is appropriate.
To all those witnesses who view these pages you should know that I cannot argue with some of the questions the elders presented. However, these questions were fashioned in a way that there was only one possible answer. You can prove just about anything you want to by citing the right scripture. However, if you read the total context and then refer back to the referenced scriptures, often a different interpretation will come to light. Do not rely the WT publications for guidance READ THE BIBLE! When you were in school, did your math, science, geography or english teachers give you another book to explain your textbook? Not likely. Typically, you are assigned a reading or exercise and then it was discussed the following class time. Now of course many things cannot be argued. 2 + 2 = 4. However, in many math and science problems children are taught to try different methods to achieve the answer. Also in literature we are encouraged to interpretate what the author is trying to convey. So should it be for bible study. You don't give a child the answer to a problem and then show him/her how to figure it out. You entice them to reason for themselves.
Finally, I feel that JW's are very nice people. I just feel they are misled. The bible warns us of those who come saying they have knowledge of the faith but they aren't truly righteous because they are "puffed up". Case and point about being misled, the United Nations problem. I asked my ex-wife about this and her elders told her it was some other watchtower society. However, when I questioned other witnesses the answer was that the WT joined in order to gain access to information about some third-world countries they were going to start minister service in. If that was the case, why did they have to resign. The reason is because they had proclaimed the U.N. to be the scarlet beast of Satan, but joined the U.N. behind the backs of their followers.
As in any endeavor you pursue in life, keep your eyes and ears open, do not be afraid to ask questions and rely on your feelings. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.
Sabrina and Lynn - what happened to you was truly awful. Please don't let it ruin your lives. Try and live life in an upstanding way despite what happened to you - that way you have respect for yourselves (VERY IMPORTANT). Brian - a valid point and your quotes from the bible were enlightening. My "worldly" husband (who was brought up as a baptist) has the view that there is a place in the bible to quote any scripture to back up one's argument, and I am now inclined to agree with him. A rastafarian once quoted a scripture to my husband to back up his view that one can smoke "weed" and it was so convincing (according to my husband - although he can't remember the scripture). My mother (a devout JW) has used the bible to argue her viewpoint for years. Even though, at times, I could have responded with a scripture to argue against her viewpoint, I have not done so because I do not think that is what the bible is intended for. If we have love for one another we will accept that everyone's viewpoint is valid. I just hope that Jehovah will have mercy on us all and He will punish those deceitful men who continue going to meetings whilst abusing innocent children. I was disfellowshipped for marrying an unbeliever - I confessed to the elders for seeing a "worldly" man because of my bad conscience, and they gave me the ultimatum. I chose my husband, we got married and have been happy together for 16 years. I am obviously more sinful than a man who can stand on a platform and preach to others whilst abusing innocent children. Before I met my husband I was a single parent and these same men who disfellowshipped me did not mind the fact that I ferried around an old blind lady in my car late at night after the meetings (even though there were plenty of "brothers" to undertake the task). But, no, I had to take her to a run down council estate in the dark of night and walk through dark alleys to escort her home, but I felt I was doing the christian thing. When I look back on it I realise that those "brothers" were not "shepherding their flock" because if they were they would have insisted upon a brother undertaking the task, not a young girl with a baby. Fortunately a local policeman used to make sure I was OK.
I am very disillusioned with the witnesses and very upset that the religion I thought to be the true religion is flawed like all the other religions. I still believe that Jehovah is the true God and I hope that He will look at my heart and know that I am trying my hardest to be a good person. I still go to the Memorial which I believe to be the celebration we are instructed to keep ("keep doing this in remembrance of me"). It does not say in the bible you must go to meetings every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday etc. It also says you should preach the good news, but I don't think that Jesus had a map of every vicinity - he preached the good news as he went about his daily life. I also believe that if one of Jesus' disciples turned out to be a paedophile he would not have tried to cover it up to protect his father's name - even with Judas he announced that "one of you will betray me before the cock crows" etc, (so the other disciples were aware). The brothers should make the congregation aware that there is a paedophile in their midst also.
My brother has the viewpoint that if there wasn't the chance of everlasting life a lot of witnesses would not bother to go to the meetings. I think there is some truth in this. When you look at this beautiful earth with the majestic trees and the lovely flowers and landscape you feel full of awe at His wonderful creation. We must remember that Jehovah must have love for us even if his "representatives" fall short of their duties in looking after their "flock".
Jan, Surrey, UK
Attention: A child molestor, ACTING as a JW, is now residing in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, in the 900 block of Highland avenue. He visits their meetings ocationally and befriends the youngones. He is a black man, tall, in his mid 20's. Please watch your children!! and watch this maniac! sign: MothersAgainstChildMolestors
Thank you for saying "ACTING as a JW".
As a JW with two little girls, I am regrettably weary of a few who ASSOCIATE with my congregation and "ACT" as JWs.
We certainly live in critical times!
Keep up the good work!
To all JW parents: Trust in Jehovah, don't lose faith in our loving brotherhood but keep your senses and don't be naive. Look at what some of the Israelites were doing.
I have been married to a Jehovahs Witness for 21 years. I loved him to distraction. He was two people: gentle loving kind at times. at other times violent and abusive both physically, verbally and sexually. I approached the elders on many occasions showing evidence of bruising. On one occasion I was banished from the elders house (it was/is improper you know to be in the house alone with a memnber who is of the opposite sex, despite being hysterical and bruised. Several weeks after this incident my husband was made a Ministerial Servant. He has forced me to have sex regardless of what time of night it was and on one occasion he demanded it whilst I was bedridden with slipped discs. on another occasion it was while I had cystitis. His physical abuse ranges from throwing an o bject at me, merely for disagreeing with him or at the worst, to wrapping his hands round my throat and strangling me to within inches of my life. I could n ot speak for a week after this incident. Two years ago I was so afraid of his violence that I called the police and they arrested him. The incident was reported to the elders and I was advised that if it happened again I should not report it to the police but rather report it to the elders themselves. I have approached the elders (at their request remeber)since this time and while promising on the one hand to do something...on the other hand they took no action at all and my husband is still seenn preaching his faith from door to door. By their fruits you will know them. What a cover up. I am terrified of him. Eight weeks ago after he bruised me on both arms for disagreeing with something he said...he left me. He has made no financial provision other than paying off a business debt which was in my name and paying the bills. I am left with £20 a month after I have p aid the mortgage. He refuses to tell me why he has left and continues to say that it is between him and Jehovah. What do I do now. I have a physical disability which is by no means debilitating but nevertheless prevents me from living a normal life. The law, thankfully says that I get half the value of any property we own. Secular law has provided for me whilst JW law has not. To reiterate a comment made on a recent panorama programme about j.w's: you can get disfellowshipped for smoking but not for abusing your wife.
I have been married to a Jehovahs Witness for 21 years. I loved him to distraction. He was two people: gentle loving kind at times. at other times violent and abusive both physically, verbally and sexually. I approached the elders on many occasions showing evidence of bruising. On one occasion I was banished from the elders house (it was/is improper you know to be in the house alone with a memnber who is of the opposite sex, despite being hysterical and bruised. Several weeks after this incident my husband was made a Ministerial Servant. He has forced me to have sex regardless of what time of night it was and on one occasion he demanded it whilst I was bedridden with slipped discs. on another occasion it was while I had cystitis. His physical abuse ranges from throwing an o bject at me, merely for disagreeing with him or at the worst, to wrapping his hands round my throat and strangling me to within inches of my life. I could n ot speak for a week after this incident. Two years ago I was so afraid of his violence that I called the police and they arrested him. The incident was reported to the elders and I was advised that if it happened again I should not report it to the police but rather report it to the elders themselves. I have approached the elders (at their request remeber)since this time and while promising on the one hand to do something...on the other hand they took no action at all and my husband is still seenn preaching his faith from door to door. By their fruits you will know them. What a cover up. I am terrified of him. Eight weeks ago after he bruised me on both arms for disagreeing with something he said...he left me. He has made no financial provision other than paying off a business debt which was in my name and paying the bills. I am left with £20 a month after I have p aid the mortgage. He refuses to tell me why he has left and continues to say that it is between him and Jehovah. What do I do now. I have a physical disability which is by no means debilitating but nevertheless prevents me from living a normal life. The law, thankfully says that I get half the value of any property we own. Secular law has provided for me whilst JW law has not. To reiterate a comment made on a recent panorama programme about j.w's: you can get disfellowshipped for smoking but not for abusing your wife.
Whoever said "JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES ARE THE MOST LOVING AND CHRISTLIKE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD" (recent post) is a pompous self-righteous person. NOT ONE SINGLE ONE OF US is "christlike". You are deluding yourself if you believe that. We can only TRY to be a good person (and usually fail abismally). We cannot be "christlike" because Jesus was a perfect man - we are not. There are many worldly people I know who are loving good people (or at least try to be). You are making the mistake that many JWs make - thinking you are above everyone else - STOP THINKING THAT WAY AND YOU MIGHT BECOME A BETTER PERSON. J
Remember - you can have a personal relationship with Jehovah by talking and praying to Him. You do not need to be told how and when to do this. You can be your own person. You do not have to be told what to do by the elders. They are sexist against women, do not look after female members of the congregation. THINK ABOUT IT - the Sisters make up probably two thirds of the congregation, most of us work full time, run the house, pay bills, half the mortgage etc but when we go to the meetings we must be subservient - the brothers rule us. Get real! we are living in the 21st century. They are living in the dark ages.
Dear I have been married to a Jehovah's Witness for 21 years,
How regrettable and irreprehensible your situation was. It is truly terrible what you went through.
The fact of the matter is, however, that your husband was not practicing what he was being taught from God's Word nor was he REALLY one of Jehovah's Witnesses but rather only professing to be one.
It is a shame that many are able to fool imperfect humans but rest assured, God sees and will judge all things.
Dear J,
The post read "MOST" Christlike in the world. Your rant was for not.
Please explain to me what GROUP of "Christians" demonstrates the same level of love for neighbour as the JWs. Please don't say the Catholics!
Thx
BOTTOM LINE: Jehovah's Witnesses are condemed for disfellowshipping and "shunning" people who break God's laws and then the same people flip-flop and claim we cover over abuse.
Dear Get real! we are living in the 21st century. They are living in the dark ages.
Sorry but the Holy Scriptures (you maybe have heard of them) say that Jehovah HAS NOT CHANGED. But I guess you know more than God regarding woman's lib.
A prominent Australian public affairs television program is investigating child abuse cases involving Jehovah's Witness church members in Australia. We are keen to hear from abuse victims and anyone who can tell us about how elders handled individual abuse complaints. All confidences will be respected and you will be treated with sensitivity and respect. Please come forward and help us to highlight this global problem. In Australia, please telephone 0414 259 795 or 0404 004 307 or email us at jwvictims@hotmail.com
Thank you
It was not a "rant" as you so eloquently put it. Do you think you are "christlike"? As I said none of us are christlike because we are imperfect and Jesus was perfect. If you think you are you are "puffed up with pride" (refer to bible). Most certainly the Catholics cannot be regarded as trying to adhere to God's word - however I hate to burst your bubble but I do know of a couple of religious people (CofE) who are upstanding people, forgiving, thoughtful, kind to neighbours etc. I am not saying that there are not many good witnesses who TRY to do the right thing - however to think you are "christlike" is too pompous for words. Try to be humble...
It has got nothing to do with women's lib - however JWs have relaxed their rules on a number of issues (most recently the blood issue - in case you are not aware the organisation now say that it is not a disfellowshippable offence to have a blood transfusion). Thus, they have relaxed that rule and over the next few years you will no doubt see other rules relaxed. An old sister once told me that many years ago when there was a convention, the white brothers and sisters queued up for food followed by the black brothers and sisters - do you not agree that is unenlightened behaviour? That is my point as regards women JWs - women are not as subservient as they used to be because the men used to go out to work and the women used to stay at home and take care of the house, cook, clean and look after the children - now women do the men's jobs as well as the women's (ie. pay the mortgage, work full time, even lay concrete etc - then they go to the meetings and have to play the subservient little woman). Think about it and enlighten yourself (or perhaps you are also sexist - or maybe have feelings of inadequacy?)
I was an elder for ten years in this hypocritical organization. having an independent train of thought allowed me to finally recognize what this society really was - just another religion which made advances on the backs of its brotherhood.
I am disgusted, but not surprised with the attitude of the governing body and its recent "silencing" of those who speak out to maintain fairness and love. There is no love in such an organization - they merelu massage their consciences with thoughts of "lova amongst yourselves" and being "good neighbours" by telling people "in the world" about the kingdom. Their love runs out immediately you question the "slave" or have an opion on a matter that differs from the things they are taught.
This sect should be continually exposed for what it is - untruthful, hypocritical and untheocratic. I am pleased that there are websites like yours that fight for what is right - I only wish that the blinded ones in the congregations would consider what they are told by these liars and perverts at the top. According to their own ideology, Satan "blinds the minds of the unbelievers" - yet the Governing body is guilty of blinding the minds of the believers too!
I no longer believe in God - but I do believe in justice and fairness. One day this organization will be exposed for the sordid entity it really is, and will fall just like any other. I hope That day is not far off.
What surprises me is how surprised some of these JWs are that the elders protect child molesters. The structure of the religion is riddled with policy that renders the powerless vulnerable to predators. Women are to be submissive to men in all things, women and children are forbidden to speak under many circumstances, and the rod is not to be spared, lest the child be spoilt. It's a pedophile's paradise!
Some stories from my own unspeakably miserable youth as a JW. In the girl's bathroom I saw all three girls of one family covered in bruises. I went home in a state of high panic but my mother said they just bruise easily. Well, children do when you beat them with a metal belt buckle, um, duh. Another time in the bathroom at an assembly we could all hear a mother whipping the living crap out of her little, tiny boy not more than three years old. He was collapsed on the floor and we could hear the belt swish and thwop. L It makes me nauseaus now to think of it. No one did a thing, of course. Not one solitary blessed thing. No doubt the little bugger must have been asking for it. And then, when I was in my teens a friend told me what her father was having her and her sister do, because the mother was "too ill" to meet his god-given needs. When she went to the elders they said to just keep quiet, and of all things, carry on, so he wouldn't go outside the congregation to get his needs met. She did of course. We were such good girls.
Of course, raised as a JW, I am well aware that JWs think they are the most christian, loving people on earth. It's pathetic, it's wierd, it's simple-minded and it's really dangerous. JW policy is bad, but JW's overweaning smugness and absolute certainty that they are chosen to live forever while God wipes everyone else out (yes, I know the rest of us poor schlemiels get a second chance in a thousand years but what kind of a loving deal is that, really?) make them pretty much the least moral people i have ever met. What they are, in fact, is polite. To mix up politeness with morality is, well, convenient I suppose. After years of arguing with them at the door, heart pounding and pulse racing at the utter transgressiveness of it, I realised what I already knew in my heart, that they are, indeed, petty fanatics. And there's no point arguing with fanatics.
Which brings me back to, what on earth did Bill Bowen expect? He's been an elder for some years. Does he really think that a church that can separate families so cruelly - and there have been some sad stories - would stop at anything? As an elder, he's been there for the disfellowshipment of rape victims, I can't doubt it. Why did he expect more mercy for child rape victims?
I'm glad he and others are speaking up, perhaps it will make a difference to future abuse victims. Perhaps some of the more vulnerable parents will open their own eyes and start caring more for their children's safety than the imaginary sense of safety they themselves get from belonging to JWs. Some people are saying that pedophiles look and act like JW's but they aren't really, and god knows the difference. Well, guys, it looks like god is coming for the whole lot of you now. And frankly, I don't think Armageddon is going to come in to time to save you.
I realise that many JWs would tell themselves, each other and me that I made all this up. I will get over that, tomorrow or the next day. I have a vocabulary, I will tell myself that they are self-serving, terrified fools. I have an income, I can go to therapy, maybe even hire a lawyer. I have a husband, who will support me with his astonishment that any child would have to go through this. These poor children have nothing. They are going through it with nothing and nobody. So here I am witnessing not for Jehovah, who has all the power and 6 million advocates, but for the children, who have no power, no advocates and no rights at all.
This message has also been posted to the Watchers of the Watchtower list.
I am wondering if AA is doing alright. I went through all this, so I know how scary it all is. AA, are you hanging in there?
Wondering
I am new to using a JW web-site and would like to state that I have alot of anger towards the "organization". I was not sexually abused, but was physically abused until age 16. I called the cops on my father and he never touched me again. He did tell me that if I called the cops again, that I better make it good, because he would kill me before they got to our house.
I was raised a JW from age 3 until age 40--at that time I broke away and in 1999 totally disassociated myself (a very freeing experience). I am wondering HOW MANY others are out there with their own stories. The elders naturally only "counselled" my father, told Mom to rely on Jehovah, and nothing was ever done. I carry alot of scars and have great disappointment looking back. I had no safety net as a child. The elders let me down and did not protect me; neither did my mother or family members.
I cannot stand religion now, much less the rigidity and legalistic views and ways of JW's.--C. C. RIDER
I think that ex-JWs get very bitter with the Organisation to the point where they begin to even hate religion, the bible and even God. I think it is important to put things into perspective - we should respect and love and trust Jehovah, and put our faith in Him. Think of the elders (those who are power-hungry rather than the ones who are genuinely trying to lead the flock) as being poor souls who would no doubt be classed as being unsuccessful in "worldly" terms but endeavour to be successful within the congregation by lording it over everyone - they are the ones that will be judged accordingly when the time comes (I hope). Jan, UK
Jan, UK: Your post was subtle. But it was still an affirmation that you associate dislike/distrust/hatred of the Society with the same attitude to God. That is right at the core of the problem. It is this 'we can do what we want over you because you have nowhere to go' attitiude that empowers the central organization. It is the excuse that elders use to be more dictatorial and less loving. Your support of the notion makes you part of the problem. You have a between-the-lines message that the victims should excuse others and 'wait on Jehovah.' It takes a lot of indoctrination to get you to this point, I wonder if you can get back out of it.
- Cliff
Cliff - you have got it wrong. I am a disfellowshipped JW (because I met a "worldly" man and we have been a happy couple for 15 years - and married). I had to choose between him and being disfellowshipped (even though the only eligible men in my congregation at the time were what I can only describe as "misfits" because of personality problems or problems relating to women or they were older, unattractive and usually poor men who felt they could have their "pick" of the sisters!!! - as you know there are many more unmarried sisters whose dream it is to meet a "brother" of good standing etc).
I was making the point that we shouldn't become filled with dislike and/or hatred for the only religion (as far as I know) which uses Jehovah's name (and I believe that to be important as most other religions make a point of NOT using God's name - WHY?). OK, dislike some of the elders or members of the congregation because of their untheocratic and/or hurtful behaviour and even leave the congregation if you feel strongly enough but try your best not to let your feelings turn to hatred - perhaps that is what Satan wants us to do? I have noticed that most people who leave the congregation gradually become less and less religious to the extent that they end up even disbelieving in God. Look at this beautiful earth - an intelligent person will know that it was "created" rather than "evolved". Even though I wish it was not the case, it seems to me very difficult to maintain a relationship with Jehovah when one never attends meetings at all and has no contact whatsoever with the Organisation (ie. mixing with like-minded people). I am speaking from personal experience and from what I have observed from others who have either been disfellowshipped or "fallen away". I don't know what your background is Cliff - but I would be interested to know - however consider what I have said and you might get my point. Jan, UK
I recently moved out of my house to work out some personal issues with myself. I moved in with my "worldly boyfriend" who the elders had already found out about the past week. I told my parents I was living with a friend and that was enough for them. But not the elders!! They suddenly became FBI agents and went on a man-hunt trying to find some valid proof that I was living with a man. They even went to my boyfriend's house and questioned him for an hour about my whereabouts while I hid in the bathroom listening. They would even call his house and not say anything. This cannot be a religion of God but of the devil himself.---ANTI-SCETIC
I grew up as a witness with a non-JW dad in Franklin, MA. I was in high school during the '75 debacle and was pretty much out of the program by the time I graduated college. The rest of my family has stepped away from the society, though I think my sister's in-laws still attend the Stoughton, MA congregation. Recently, while scanning the web, I came across some allusions to the Ray Franz incident. Since then I bought and read about every book on the subject I can get ahold of - every item on the Commentary Press list, and most of the stuff Randy Waters puts out. Fascinating stuff. That is boring to every one else, but you asked.
Anyway, it strikes me as so odd that even after all these years you still associate God with the WTS. It seems that you are quite imprinted with the 'Jehovah' name and the fact that the JWs wear out the name like their favorite easy chair. How could you possibly feel that you need to go through those clowns to have a relationship with God? It sounds like you still haven't gotten beyond letting them (1) define God for you, and (2) define the relationship.
By the way, that was an interesting comment about the single sisters being able to choose only from the indigent, uneducated brothers in the hall. I remember in my teen years, it was clear to all in the hall that I was going to college while the rest of the boys my age - there were six or seven of us - were going to start a trade and avoid further education. Truth be told, there wasn't a lot of college material there anyway. You see, my dad was not a Witness, was making some pretty good money and he had always been committed to getting me through a four-year school. An interesting thing happened during that period. In retrospect, I believe that there were a couple mothers (probably a few more) that were pushing their daughters my way. Not so much because for me, but so they wouldn't be stuck with some schlub that gave up on advancement and accepted a job cleaning restaurants after hours. (The big thing in our area was to get a contract cleaning a Friendly Ice Cream - of course it was just something to fill the time until the end of this system of things - you know, just around the corner). I am glad that you didn't settle for one of those guys.
- Cliff
I have been a jw for 16 years I am 24 now and never never has anything like this ever happen in any congeration that I have even been in this is "out of conrtol" that someone would put this on here I was led to this site by looking at an artical regarding if prince is a JW . You guys want to put this on here to make us look like all the other reglions they are all involved in this type of stuff .....but JW's are clean when this world comes to an end I hope that you all will take the side of Jehovah instead of satan :) I feel for you
This is to the niave person directly above this post.
Good for you that you have been around 16 years and have not been hurt. I and 5 friends WERE hurt, molested and told not to bring "shame on jah's name" by coming out with abuse by a former Elder. Also, I have been in 6 different congregations, ALL had problems with child molesting of one sort or another. Yes I DID talk to Circuit Overseers and they deal with this stuff ALL THE TIME. So without meanig to be mean, PULL YOUR HEAD OUT OF THE SAND. Sure some of the people on this site may be faking but NOT ALL ARE!! Be sure of that when you get to the other side and lots of the "brothers and sisters" are not there with you.
To the ignorant person who posted on Monday August 5
My dear, keep your head buried in the sand, and believe "this type of stuff" doesn't happen in Jehovah's clean organisation.
I'm nearly 4O, and was raised in the truth, and my dad was an elder since its inception in early 197O's. I can still remember one occasion when a sister came to the house after her husband,a ministerial servant, and later made an elder, had beaten her up. She showed my father all the marks on her body and bruising. Being the inquisitive child I was I peeped and listened in. But this brother was never removed and never put on reproof. I was too young to know what councel was given.
When I was molested by one of dads freinds, a ministerial servant, this too was hushed up and nothing was done. He too was later made an elder.
After pioneerig for 2 years I later married an elder and had occasion to witness how a freinds son was molested and this person too was not disfellowshipped.
While I was a witness I was never on the "outskirts" of the organisation. My brothers were all missionaries and elders so I heard about alot of the "stuff" that does go on. Oh ignorant one, you would be shocked and horrified to know how so many of these clean people are involved in debauched practices, and after a slap on the wrist they are allowed to carry on as if nothing has happened. Thats if they come clean, most of the bad ones just lead a double life.
I may sound jaded but I am realistic in my approach now. I am no longer married to an elder. I do not have opportunity to get to know any of the workings of the congregation. Although I belive that yes, Jehovahs Witnesses are on the whole well intentioned people and the organisation is full of sincere individuals, they are no different to any other religion.
Other religions also have sincere individuals aswell as hypocritical ones. The only differences between the "cleanliness" of the two is the doctrine.
Do I believe everything on this site? Yes! Yes! Yes! For 34 years I witnessed it all with my own 2 eyes, before I walked away.
Remeber one thing, a vitim of abuse also has to go through through stages of acceptance at some some point in their lives, just like a person who loses someone in death. They have to experience the disbelief, hate, anger, etc, and then only the acceptance and maybe forgiveness. This site gives people a forum to go though those phases. I've been there - the elders can't do it.
So you ignorant twit, stop judging others and concentrate on your staying on Jehovahs side. Not on injured individuals who are trying to heal themselves. And remember, by voicing how they feel they are not taking sides with Satan.
It never ceases to amaze me how the one thing the truth doesn't teach is empathy. Try it out. You might feel a little differently.
Cliff - Acknowledge your reply. OK, you might be right - I do associate the name of Jehovah with the WTS - it is difficult not to. All these years I have been taught that it is the "true" religion and all other religions are evil and part of "Satan's system". I could go on about many things that conflict with eachother in my mind but don't want to bore you with info you probably already know. Surely there must be one God and what is God's name? Yahweh or Jehovah - read the other day that some Monk made up the name of Jehovah (which was apparently acknowledged by the witnesses according to a post but don't know if this is true). I really don't know what to believe - I just don't want to hate everyone who is a JW - most must be TRYING to do the right thing? Re brothers in US who end up cleaning etc, in England a lot of them are window cleaners!! - No chance to be able to afford a mortgage on a window cleaners salary!!! When I was on my own with my son (before I met my husband) I had a reasonably well paid job, my own flat and car etc and I remember the brothers were always telling me to work part time and go on the ministry - but I used to say "I am the father and the mother of my household" (as all the brothers worked full time to support their families) but somehow it used to really bother them that I was an independent woman and they were not able to fully "control" me. I think that any JWs reading this site should remember to do what THEY feel is right rather than what they are told to do. Cliff - glad you chose to get an education etc. My mother always told us not to bother because armageddon was going to be here any minute (ie. 1975). My advice to anyone is to try the best you can and be kind to others - surely that is what a loving God wants... Jan UK
Jan, UK: You have to promise never to tell me I'm right - my wife won't let me talk to you any more. Anyway, so England has window washers and we have Fast Food restaurant janitors. Sounds like a great way of avoiding the sin of Pride.
As far as what to believe, I think the key is that we need to find out/decide for ourselves. I was quite amazed when I first read some non-witness (and I don't mean anti-witness) bible commentary. I was especially interested in the approach taken - in that it was much more of a 'what was Paul writing about in this letter,' and a concern for the overall import of the New Testament. Missing was the Cosmic Jigsaw puzzle approach where scriptures are connected in the most casuistical ways.
I don't hate the Witnesses - except the molester from our congregation. (He didn't get to me - may dad would have killed him, no question - he stayed in his family.) But I remember being stood up at by my best friend (best friend while I toed the Society line anyway) when we were to meet for a beer (pint at the pub?). He was afraid of being tainted by an apostate - that bothered me. What I hate is the time I told my dad (non-witness) that he was fortunate that his mother died. All he had to do was study, get through Armageddon, and he would see her again. If I could pull taht one back! I categorize the Witness individuals into two groups - those that want to tell others what is black and white, and those that want to be told. I hate the times I let myself be told what is right and wrong by people that I now feel were on a power trip and getting their jollies telling my friends and me every little detail about how to live our lives.
Pleasure to hear from you, - Cliff
Cliff - Hello. I am sure your wife is always right - it was surely a one-off that you could be right!!
On para. 2 of your post - I agree that the witnesses do try and analyse the scriptures to correspond with world events and what they perceive as fulfilling bible prophecies - ie. the east overcoming the west - they decided the east was Russia at one time but not sure if they still feel that way.. It is interesting that whilst it is OK for the governing body to do this and to make decisions as to dates (ie. 1975 etc) can you imagine what would happen if an insignificant person in a congregation somewhere suddenly announced that armageddon will take place in 2005 - everyone would dismiss them as a nutcase or possibly apostate. That is the power that the WTS have over the congregation - anyone who is not towing the line is considered a possible apostate - hence your friend's attitude towards you. Also the WTS decided that oral sex is wrong - doesn't say anywhere is in the bible about that - therefore there are many JW members who are no doubt indulging in it but go the meetings riddled with guilt as to their sinful nature. Jan, UK
Jan: Absolutely! The control over individuals is remarkable. I think it comes from the sense of urgency that they have been able to drive people toward. I think it as the root. The continual missed prophecies keep people in a continual sense of 'its just around the corner.' That sense of immediacy leads people to irrational behavior (should I spell it behaviour?). We have an expression here, you likely have a comaprable one there, "When alligators are biting your butt, its tough to remember that you are here to drain the swamp." One can justify a just about anything, actions and attitudes, when in the 'alligators are biting my bum' mode.
I believe in the sincerity of JWs - really. I am certain that if they backed away from the constant push-push-push, they would have an entirely different approach to life. If they realized that God isn't planning any minute to come down and wipe out 99.99% of humanity. They would get a better view of the overall gist of the Greek Scriptures - love, community, and a personal realtionship to Christ. They may stop seeing other people as evil, drowning due to their own fault, and as just about to perish because of their evil ways. They would feel that advancing themselves is a part of life. Good leaders, men or women, would never dream of letting a known pedophile run loose in the congregation, unpunished (except perhaps some short period of shunning for some unspecified reason, maybe even as bad as not letting him answer at meetings for, oh, months) among Witness children, and just as importantly, among the children of the world.
Again, I feel that the false prophecies are at the root. The false prophecies put people in a mode if urgency. That sense of urgency causes the individuals to act with an irrational, ends-justifies-the-means demeanor.
That's my story and I'm stickin' to it. - Cliff
AA, I hope that everything is working out for you. Good luck in whatever it is that you are doing.
Commando for Christ
I just read the story that was done by Date Line the other day and thought I would be sick. I finaly understand why things went the way they did when years ago my sister and brother both accused my father of molesting them. My home was also a violent one and my mother was told to be a good wife and the kids to mind. when my mother finaly divorced my dad she was told she could not marry again becouse her divorce was not scriptual at least that is how the JWS see it. The police were never called and my family is a brocken mess! All of my siblings and myself have mental problemes. The WTB&TS needs to make some serious changes! People are suffering becouse of there beliefs. The damage done from abuse can not be undone in my oppinion you can learn how to survive but the abuse is always there waiting to afect your futur relationsips etc. For people like my mother who stay involved with the JWS after going through something like this the guilt and damage is a wound so deap the only way they can survive is to escap reality and burry there heads in the sand so to speak. The probleme goes way back. My family went through this in the 60s. They should have learned a better way by now. How many more will have to suffer?
PLEASE STOP BLAMING THE WT FOR ALL OF YOUR TERRIBLE STORIES.
IT IS INDEED DISGUSTING TO GOD AND MAN WHAT SOME OF YOU HAVE ENDURED.
HOWEVER, IT IS YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS (if they did the abusing) OR THE PERPETRATORS THAT ARE TRULY TO BLAME.
I agree it is the perpetrators who are truly to blame - however when one comes into the "truth" we cut off all ties with the "world" and therefore when the "brothers" decide that we are to blame because women are weak blah blah blah, there is no one to turn to because we do not have any "worldly" friends and the sisters and brothers will shun us if the elders so dictate. THINK ABOUT IT!!! The choice is to go along with what the elders decide or be shunned and made to feel an outcast. (However I am sure there are some elders who would side with the abused but they have to shut up because of the concensus of opinion.) I read a recent post from a JW - it said words to the effect of "I only visit these sites once in a while but I am amazed at how many active JWs visit these apostate sites - shame on you" etc. That is the hypocrisy that exists in the JWs - he or she can visit and criticise other JWs for visiting the website - CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? "Remove the rafter in your own eye before you look at the splinter in others" - or whateve the bibilical saying is. Jan UK PS. Hi Cliff - like your answer - hope all is well with you.
No one here would excuse the perpetrators, those that the children should be able to trust. But the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society is very much to blame. We're not taking any blame from the deviant elder or parent - we're adding more and putting it on the Society. They perpetuate it. They hide it. They treat the poor soul pleading for help as though they were the ones guilty of something. They separate themselves from the world at large and won't even participate in the identification and prosecution of the perverts (unless a law specifically requires them to do so). They just try to keep it quiet and earn every bit as much blame as they get. - Cliff (Jan: Thanks and go get 'em)
Sorry Cliff,
That's bull!
Jehovah's Witnesses are condemed for disfellowshipping and "shunning" people who break God's laws and then the same people flip-flop and claim we cover over abuse.
I don't think it is bull. I doubt that the public at large would condemn anyone for DFing a child molester. As a matter of fact, I doubt you could find anyone that thinks that making someone sit quietly through their shunning for a matter of a few months is quite far enough - for the perpetrator that is. Curious though that the rest of the congregation doesn't get to know about it - even families with vulnerable children. Curious that the authorities are not notified, unless in a madatory reporting state. Such notification may uncover past abuse and/or pave the way for protecting non-witness children in harm's way. I call that cover-up. Don't you?
And yes, JWs are often called to task as for their DFing practices. The two-witness rule is unreasonable - even as it is currently understood (two witnesses to two separate events). People on the outside cannot understand when they read reports of a victim, or parent of a victim, getting shunned for pursuing a matter of child molestation. Much less can they understand how a man-made rule, supposedly based in scripture, can require that another must be victimized before they can do anything.
These are Witness policies. Decry them, don't hide behind them.
- Cliff
To the moron who said to stop blaming the WT for our stories: YOU IDIOT, for some of us they were the cause of our abuse.
You can email me if your not to afraid to hear some "truth", Shanesiemens@email.com
I have read many articles of abuse both sexual and physical (to children and wives) this evening and many stories are heartbreaking. What is over-whelming in most cases is the way in which there are many JWs (I refer to the perpetrators of the abuse) who put on a different personality whilst they are at the meetings - these people can have no conscience or have no sense of right and wrong - how can they be so false? I had a very difficult relationship with my own devout JW mother who also has two personalities - the kind, christian woman who is zealous at the ministry but the cruel, unkind, spiteful woman at home. I remember sisters coming up to me in the kingdom hall saying "isn't your mother wonderful" and I'd reply "Mmmm", knowing that I would see her true colours once at home, or even on the way home (as long as we were out of earshot of all the "brothers" and "sisters"). The personality could be changed with the flick of a light switch. I remember my mother telling me she NEVER told lies, dinosaurs were made up by scientists, she was "nearly perfect", I was thick and stupid (as well as telling my brothers and I not to bother with school anyway because of armageddon). I believed EVERYTHING she said because she was "nearly perfect" AND she was a JW so she MUST be right. I was in the top A stream at school but because she said I was thick and stupid I sincerely believed that there must be some mistake and that I was useless. I didn't bother to take my exams because I was so thick I wouldn't have passed them anyway. I carried on trying to please my mother until I was about 30 then gave up - she hated me anyway (despite her christian beliefs). Giving up was the best thing I ever did. I have since taken further education and have become a member of Mensa which has given me so much more confidence, confidence I believe any parent should instill in their children; far better than demeaning them and undermining them at any possible opportunity. How sad that there are many JW children living in these miserable dictatorial conditions. My advice is this - get out of the family home as soon as possible and live your own life as you see fit (whether you continue as a JW or not - it will be YOUR choice). I have managed to shut the hurt out of my mind and am relieved that I am no longer under her "spell". I believe that many JW children stay JWs to please their parents - wrong move - do what YOU feel is right. On the odd occasion I speak to my mother via the telephone she keeps saying that she wants me to come back into the truth so that she can talk to me again and how much she loves me - she has however forgotten that when I was a dedicated JW she made my life a misery and didn't want to see me for months on end anyway - in fact she only wanted to see me when she had a personal trauma in her life and wanted some sympathy that apparently only I could give at the time. A bit of a user really, don't you agree? Jan, UK
Yeah, like I want to hear your rant about how the GB is personally accountable for your dad sexually abusing you. WRONG! Contrary to your delusions, they actually weren't there in the bedroom.
The WT have done their best to follow Bible principles and procedures. Don't blame them for your relative who has a sickness!
You must be a truly genuine christian though calling me a moron and idiot.
YOU ARE A CASE IN POINT!
Email me at ibashjws@everyoportunity.com
"To the moron who said to stop blaming the WT for our stories: YOU IDIOT, for some of us they were the cause of our abuse.
You can email me if your not to afraid to hear some "truth", Shanesiemens@email.com"
"What is over-whelming in most cases is the way in which there are many JWs (I refer to the perpetrators of the abuse) who put on a different personality whilst they are at the meetings - these people can have no conscience or have no sense of right and wrong - how can they be so false?"
Exactly the point, Jan! I feel sorry for you for blaming God for those who CLAIM to be Jehovah's Witnesses and Christians but who live a lie in the congregation. They will be held accountable though!
To: The Moron, I retract the "moron comment" as it was just not appropriate and just nerves.
Just so you know, It was a Presiding overseer named ___ _____. He molested over 6 kids in the St John, NB area in Canada(this was in the early 70's and late 80's and he now lives in Welland ontario ans an active JW). Divine justice was was pursued right up to Canadien Bethel service desk and the legal dept. NOTHING, nothing happened to him organization wise. I tried many times to help the Society see but to no avail. Oh yes, our elders, quoting many bible references AND spiritual food from the GB, told not to report it "for fear of bringing reproach on the organization". Later, it was admitted we could after the damage was already done.
Anyway, you seem very defensive, perhaps you have doubts or concerns that you don't even want to admit to yourself. Just remember you can be part of anything you want to but loyalty to God alone is what counts. You already have my email, yours did not seem to work. I actually do NOT bash the JW's at every oppourtunity as I am still one and besides minor concerns like anyone may have, I only really disagree on this one topic.
I would be interested to know if you read this.
I don't think anywhere in my post did I blame God for anything - please point it out to me if I have missed it. I just believe that being a christian is displayed in one's actions to others, irrelevant of religious denomination or indeed one's OWN PERSONAL viewpoint. The ability to be open minded to individuals' views and the acknowledgement that EVERYONE is one of God's children will go some way in being able to allow ALL to express their feelings. There are many JWs whose venomous remarks (ie. the Moron comment) lack compassion for others - in my view EVERYONE is valued in God's eyes and I defy a mere human being to argue to the contrary (eg. think about the prostitute in the bible and how she was put in a good light for her humble attitude). Jan, UK
Dear Jan from the UK. I just want to point out that I retracted and apoligized for the "moron comment". It was nerves from seeing somone post a somwhat mean spirited uninformed opinion.
Anyway, I actually love your story and posts, they are very intelligent and well thought out. Thanks
I was still looking for cami, has anyone heard from her please give her my e-mail at arwarnock@hotmail.com. I am just wondering how she is doing and that I was thinking of her. I found her e-mail address on a cached page online but it doesnt work anymore.
Dear Post of 12 September - sorry about that. Believe me there have been many things I have said at the "heat of the moment" that I have regretted later (must be that quarter of Irish in me!!).
On another note, we have had so much in the UK about 11 September disaster - this catastrophe upsets me so much. I just can't believe how many families it must have torn apart. THE most horrible happening in my whole life - I will never forget it (pictures of those people trapped and not able to escape, having to jump, what they and others must have had to suffer - it is just devastating). When older people go on about the second world war, I can totally sympathise because they must have seen worse - I just didn't appreciate it until now. Jan, UK
If you were abused in a Jehovah's Witness congregation, or reported abuse to elders to no avail, perhaps we can help. I am an attorney from Ft Worth, Texas who represents Jehovah's Witness sexual abuse victims throughtout the nation. Please contact me if you were victimized, or know the names of perpetrators. No legal liability or consequences attach to such information passed on to an attorney, due to attorney client privilege. You can reach me at
kdnorris@airmail.net
or
817.335.2800.
See our website at www.lovenorrisattorneys.com
Kimberlee D. Norris attorney at law
I would like to reply to 'been a jw for 16 yrs now aged 24'.
I was born and raised as a JW (in Australia), I am not df'd, however have not attended a meeting in the last 5 yrs.
My parents used to work full-time so my sister and myself were babysat by an elder and his wife each afternoon after school.
I would not believe the stories about child molestation within the congregation if I hadn't experienced it personally.
From the age of 6 (to 9yrs of age), I was molested by this elder. He would take me for a work to the park to play on the swings, but I never got to the swings.
I am now 29yrs and my sister is 35yrs old. About 9 months ago I discovered that she to had been molested by the same elder. He told her (at the time) that if she kept quiet and didn't cause any trouble he would leave me alone. She truly believed that she had saved me from this man, until we spoke about it recently. It was a very emotional time for both of us.
As a young person, it is very hard to bring these matters to the surface, as you feel that you would not be believed (especially within the congregation). It is also hard to talk about the events. Nothing was ever reported to the elders or the police (the bastard is now dead), and looking back it frightens me to think of all the other young ones that may have been abused by this elder.
My sister and I have recently told my mother (who is a current JW), and her first response was denial and shock that we could make up such a horrifying story about this man that she admired. I don't know which was worst, the abuse of the disbelief of a parent. However over the last two weeks there have been a number of media reports (yes I know that the media quite often blows thing out of proportion), however where there is smoke there is fire. Our mother is starting to finally realise this.
The faith that you have is a wonderful thing, and to have faith in something that you truly believe in is a very stablising force in your life,however you need to look deep and not take everything at face value.
I know that there are just and caring elders (I have met many of them over the years), however please be careful.
Voice from OZ
I would like to extend my thoughts and prayers to all of the brave victims who came forward in the Silent Lambs March. The Watchtower can no longer claim that other religions are guilty of pedophiles and falsely claim they are clean. They are, rather, deceptive. I commend those who encouraged other victims to speak out by being there. They are very brave, all of them. Bill Bowen and his family, Joe & Barbara Anderson, Cori & her parents, Carl & Barbara Pandelo. I saw them on Channel 11 10'clock news.
About 10 years ago my sister was sexually abused by a close family relative and although everyone was told about it including the CO nothing was ever done. This man still walks from door to door professing the love of Jehovah is with him, I hope that he has not come into contact with any children on his door to door routine. This was my trigger in losing faith in such a hypocritical and unjust society. All my family are still Jehovah's witnesses and when I bring these issues up they close them down because simply they are too afraid of the consequences of speaking out against 'Jehovah's Organisation'. All the people who think that this thing doesn't happen or blow it off as an words from a sinner had better take a good hard look at yourselves and your faith. It is time the Watchtower stopped covering these things up and shed 'new light'. I pray for those elders that have enough courage to stand up and help those in the most need, our abused children.
I am english but live in the canary islands(part of Spain) my wife has been befriended by a family of JW's, 4 generations. they are the most messed up people i have ever met, the whole family has learning diffulcties, yet they are able to read passages from the bible but not even sign there own name or do basic maths. the younger children 5&8 seem totally detached from normal life, all they talk about is "THE MEETINGS THEY HAVE" and "FATHER CHRISTMAS IS'NT REAL" brain washing or what. i've now stopped my children playing at their house because when they return they seem detached and vacant. after reading the comments on this site and watching the BBC Panorama programme on tv i will ensure extra vigilance. my deepest sympathies to all the victims and remember belief in your own strenghs is the strongest power. Andy
I am not a witness, but my aunt, uncle, and four female cousins are. The oldest of the girls, Ti, married a repeat sexual offender when she was 18. At the time she did not know that he had molested four girls within the church or she would not have married him. Jay, her husband was the son of one of the elders in the church. She was married to him for 4 years when all three of her sisters came to her and said that he had molested them. He had inappropriately touched two of the girls and had full intercourse with another of them. My cousin, Ti went to the elders like a good witness to get help for her sisters and to remove Jay from a place of trust in the congregation. Instead of helping her they disfellowshiped her, came to her custody hearing, and locked her sisters and mother up with Jay and Jamie his father and elder. The three younger girls are not allowed to talk to Ti or their nephew. The pain is so strong in the family and the hell so real. We are taking legal action but our concerned because the girls feel they have and will displease Jehovah if they speak out against Jay. Any help with the situation would be appreciated.
The Oct 8 1993 Awake! very clearly encourages a child to tell their parents about abuse, and also that the parent or adult must report it to the authorities even if the abuser is one's own spouse and it may result in his going to jail and losing his job. It states that the abuser is reaping what he has sown if that happens. Nowhere does the article encourage a cover up. So how about telling the truht for a change? PUBLISH the Oct 8 1993 away - especially the part about what to do if your child is abused.
I have not been molested physically by the elders, but mentally and spiritually I have and am at the lowest I have ever been. I have been a Witness all of my life and put faith in these men that they would do "the right thing", but I find abuse, physical and verbal abuse and I do not know what to do anymore.
Ok, see i dont know about any molestation cuz im only 12 but the way i c it is... I dont really believe in anything... Jw's are messed up in there own way if they cover up for child molestation, my dad was raised in the truth but isnt a witness now, and my mom wasnt raised in the truth and she is. My life sux cuz my parents are divorced and my mom makes me go to all the meetings, but my dad doesnt. so i get really confused alot. ALSO, all the people in the "kingdom hall" stare me down like im sum sorta ho ur sumthin. I just give them dirty looks back and sress even more revealing... LOL i dont care what theythink cuz as soon as i get old enough, im gonna leave leave leave!!!!!!!!! My mom beats me and shes a christian, i put here in jail one, and i told the elders but they didnt do anything about it. my mom gets 1 inch from my face and kussesd me out, punches me in the face, and puts bruises all over me. but il tell u what, no one believes me cuz all my moms says is " she fell" and she gets off scotch free. Its not fair. BUT the other day, i just stood up and shoved her down, she fell pretty hard, and hurt her tailbone. well she told the cops and i might just go to juvi!!!! Is that fair??? Oh and now every1 at the kingdom hall says that im satans kid!!! Is that freakin fair?? Oh and to the person who said, that how all the kh are supposed to be united and that if an elder makes a mistake blah blah blah and what the diff if we move to another cong. if were al united and all we all think alike.... well ya, i agree with ya about that!!! BLAH BLAH BLAH
I was raised a witness (never was baptised) and left the truth due to the fact that i do not agree with the practice of disfellowshipping and the fact that I am bi-sexual. I have never heard of such a thing as physical and sexual abuse in the truth, not that it can't happen. With all the faults of the witnesses, I do believe they are good hearted and good natured people. In fact I still share a few of the beliefs i was taught as a kid, regardless of the fact i have become agnostic. I do not believe that an elder would sacrifice the "life" of a child to protect a publisher. Debate is good, but how dare you slander a people because you do not agree with all of their practices. Most of you should be ashamed of yourselves for suggesting that the kingdom hall is filled with pedophiles!! And where does your faith lie now??
I understand why you people feel the way and i am very sorry that you have gone through something like that but just as it is in all other religions there are "bad seeds" and the society weeds them out the best they can and if anyone ever took this religion seriously they know that Jehovah sees peoples hearts and that it is satan that is doing this to make people fall away from the truth and if you have a problem with people in a congregation go to another congregation and let those elders know what is going on you just have to have faith.
WELL I JUST WANTED TO SAY THE WITNESSES HAVE DONE SO MUCH FOR ME AND MY FAMILY.I HAVE ONE QUESTION WHY ALL THESE CASES AND NONE OF THE VICTEMS CALL THE POLICE?WHY DO YOU GO WITH THIER SUGESSTIONS?IT IS THE SOUL DUTY OF A PARENT TO CARE AND PROTECT THIER CHILD AND IF I KNEW SOMEONE DID THIS TO MY CHILD I THE PARENT WOULD NOT THINK TWICE ABOUT CALLING THE POLICE.THIS IS SATANS WORLD THINK ABOUT IT.J.W. DO NOT CLAIM IN ANY WAY TO BE PERFECT THAT IS JUST AN EASY EXCUSE FOR PEOPLE TO BRING UP WHEN THIER ANGRY.MAY JEHOVAH BLESS THIS SITE.
take a wild guess at how it feels to be betrayed I think from that I under stand the feeling of a victum don't you for the victums ask yourself what would you be satisfied with justis of revenge revenge is mine says jah.
I am in my 30's and was raised as a JW. I quit going to the KH in high school (by fighting, threatening to embarrass them or by not coming home the night before). I was put on Public Reproof in my early teens and "shunned" by the congregation and any family member living outside our home. That meant NO ONE could even talk to me that didn't live under the same roof. They said this was because of my disrespect towards my parents. It was actually because my father was a violent, physically abusive, alcoholic and when I brought this forward I was punished instead of them helping me, my siblings and my mother. I also had the nerve to question them and ask them to prove some of their teachings to me. My accusations, broken bones, bruises etc were covered up because "we wouldn't want to bring shame on the Jehovah's Witnesses or God himself by these lies and false accusations". I guess they thought the Public Reproof would keep my mouth shut. I did play nice and say I was sorry after a year so I could have a relationship with my grandparents, but at about the same time I found the loophole that said if I stayed away from the KH then they really couldn't do much with me since I never got baptized. I just kept threatening my parents to cause them more "shame" if they drug me there. The JWs kept my parents married even though my mother was abused and infact even made to feel that it was her fault since she nagged him about his drinking and questioned him about the discipline of his children when he left them with bruises and broken bones or when he hit them with the large buckle part of his belt. One of the sisters also worked for the local Department of Health and Welfare and when our neighbors called to report my parents and sent a social worker to our house, a call was made to that sister's house by my parents and everything was "taken care of". By the way, even the doctor we were taken to while growing up was a JW and so the bruises were from "falling or playing rough etc". Of course we were not supposed to go to college because of Armegedon, we weren't supposed to have any friends, we got no presents and celebrated no holidays and we were miserably unhappy. I am happy to report my father is dead (thanks JWs you really helped there maybe he could have gotten into rehab before dying in his early 40's if you hadn't covered up and made excuses for him), my mother and one sister barely attend the KH but are fine examples of hypocrites who celebrate holidays behind peoples backs because they are so afraid of being disfellowshipped (Big Deal), that same sister is in yet another abusive relationship with her JW, alcoholic, womanizing, wife beating, verbally, physically and mentally abusive husband. My mother is socially and mentally cripplied with no self esteem and no self respect thanks to the years she was allowed to be beated down. Which is a shame because she is a beautiful person on the inside without all the brainwashing. My other sister, who left the JWs with me is happliy married with a child and attends another faith, she also went to college- same with me. But both of us have had to deal with the aftermath of the JW lifestyle and it wasn't pretty and it wasn't easy. The JWs have divided our family between JWs and Christians and it is a shame. Thanks to this cult I have no real family with aunts, cousins, uncles and grandparents. The scars from the years of abuse still haunt me and I hate to think other children and wives are going through this right now at the hands of Elders who coverup. Ready to Speak Out
Nov 3 2003 Well I feel that its child abusers all over the world not the religon its the people serving Jehovah has nothing to do with that just like jesus said separating the sheep from the lamb people in sheep clothing these were people in sheep clothing just like satan not the religon may Jehovah bless you all because all you blastphmers is going to have to answer to Jehovah for this yall all know its not the religon its those wolfs an your are just as bad as they are BLASTPHMERS
I do not know what they did to our grand-daughter when we were not there but I do know that our grand-daughter was only five years old when her unmarried mother, our daughter became a JW. A cousin of mine died because she did not have a blood transfusion because of tha religion and all we asked our daghter and the elders was that although her mother was able to decide for herself about her own religion, our grand-daughter should be allowed to decide upon such an exclusive way of life when she was old enough to be aware of what it entailed. To normal people this would have seemed a reasonable request, but of course we were not dealing with "normal" people and so the battle began. We were prevented from seeing our grand-daughter and though we pleaded with these so-called "good People" to help, they would not. Ten years later we do not see or hear from our grand-daughter. A marriage had been arranged between our daughter and another JW and after that things went from bad to worse. He was so aggressive. Within weeks of marrying him our daughter moved away from the area with him and our grand-daughter. He injured our daughter so violently she needed hospital treatment. I could write a book and fill it with the wonderful memories of our darling daughter and grand-daughter and the deep love we had for each other and how all that changed the day she became a JW and it was demanded of her that she now accepted that cruel and devisive religion was now her family and we who had borne and nurtured her were evil and being controlled by satan.
I am not a JH, nor have I ever been. Several years ago, though, I worked for a JH man and he had a 14 year old daughter who he and his wife had adopted when she was 2 years old. SHe became pregnant and my boss was very secretive about who the father of the baby was. One afternoon in his office he told me that since his daughter was adopted, that it was perfectly acceptable to GOD that he have a sexual relationship with his daughter. I was shocked and shortly quit after that over other matters. I 'll never forget how justified he looked when he told me that. I have always believed that he was the father of his own daughter's baby.
I was raised a JW my whole life.Everyone on my mom's side of the family is an active witness.When I was growing up in CT there was a min. servent in our congragation who was sexually abusing all the young girls in the hall.This includes his own two daughters.I was one of the many that he abused over many years.When he was finally caught or should I say when It couldnt be hidden ay longer.He was never turned in by the elders.We were all asked by our mothers once if he had done anything to us and of course we all said NO!!Thats what was drilled into us as kids by this man.I'm unsure what became of him.But I do know alot about the damage he did to many of us.Every girl that was used by this man's lives are destroyed not one of us is okay!!Not to this day.We all have had severe emtional problems and have stuggled with addictions.Some worse than others.If anyone knows how we could make this man and the org.That protected him pay.I would love to know.My family tells me to forget it and move on.There is no way I can ever escape the torture that was done to myself and many others.So if anyone can help give me any answer on how to make them accountable for there actions.I would be forever grateful.I feel for all of you survivers.
how do all you people who write in feel about when you say that the jw's is a cult you guys must have something on your mind that you did wrong because you all know the truth how can you say that stuff about a cult because if it was a cult they would have not let you leave it they would have made you stayed and tourtered you but they just said oh well your loss cause god will decide on your life. but the jehova's witnesses know that sexual abuse is bad and if your molester is telling you he's a jehova's witness then you make sure because he' probably lieing or he used to be one.
to the person who posted the febuary 6 2002 comment. I would like to say to you that i very much agree with you. apostates knoy they are wrong and that jehovahs whitnesses have the real truth. I wish that people would stop saying bad things about them and see this. but they will know this when the time comes.