Regular readers will recall that the UK Charity Commission is currently undertaking a statutory investigation of Watchtower’s UK arm, which is currently registered as a UK charity, and also of the New Moston Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, also registered as a UK charity.
The aim of the investigation is to uncover “how Watch Tower safeguards children and adults at risk.” The investigation comes as a response to an incident in the New Moston congregation, where former congregation elder and convicted sex offender Jonathan Rose was allowed to directly question his victims in a religious court, his victims being forced to attend as an apparent direct result of Watchtower policy.
Rather than co-operate with the investigation, which would have given a clear signal that Watchtower felt it had nothing to hide, the religious group has instead fought tooth and nail to get the investigation killed off, mounting multiple legal challenges in order to prevent the investigation from even taking place. We have reported on this investigation and Watchtower’s attempt to stop it on a number of occasions
Having failed its challenge at each and every juncture, Watchtower moved the process to the Court of Appeal. Here it again failed, but lastly made an application to the Supreme Court. This was apparently Watchtower’s final available legal move to stop the investigation.
However, it appears that this final attempt has also failed. Jonathan Sanders of the Charity Commission last week reported in a letter the following update:
We opened this inquiry in 2014. Watch Tower then initiated what turned out to be protracted litigation against us. We have robustly defended our position. We were right to open the inquiry. We have won our case in every court that has heard the matter, most recently in the Court of Appeal. Watch Tower then decided to try to appeal to the Supreme Court. I am pleased to tell you that I have learned today that the Supreme Court has rejected their application. This means that there are no more domestic routes of appeal open to Watch Tower. We are therefore going to be doing what we have been doing since 2014, which is continuing with our inquiries.
This is excellent news, as it means that the Commission will now be able to carry out a full enquiry, not only into the disturbing allegations concerning the New Moston congregation, but also of the wider conduct of Watchtower in the general area of child protection.
Given the disturbing findings of the 2015 Australian Royal Commission into the same area of Watchtower conduct, such an investigation clearly has no time to lose.
Great News and looking forward to hearing about the lawsuit in Cal to see how much more the court will fine Watchtower.
Fantastic news!
Nice one Covert –
I wonder if Watchtower will consider this another attack from Satan? The Charity Commission being used by the wicked one! That really would be a turn up for the books.
Making use of a worldly organisation to save on taxes and boost donations. Naughty, naughty.
The squeaky clean image is fading fast …… perhaps they are not really blessed by God after all??? – Can’t rely on Isaiah 54:17 to get them out of this one.
Good news, thanks for the update.
My heart bleeds for those who have been abused by this organization. May the light shine on THEM in a PROPER court of law!
To quote Luke 12:2, 3, “There is nothing covered up that will not be uncovered, nothing hidden that will not be made known. You may take it, then, that everything you have said in the dark will be heard in broad daylight, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the house-tops.”
Hey, Lloyd. Loved your latest ‘Worst Convention’ video. Especially Brother Evans vs. Lloyd (?). Can’t remember. I’m starting to know exactly when the videos are going to cut to another one of your ‘Oh, dears’ or ‘Oh, the horror’. LOL. It’s like I’m already starting to formulate precisely the same arguments in my mind as I watch the clips from the convention and then, boom, it stops and you resume your critique making the same observations I had just been thinking about. And to your credit you articulate them exceptionally well. Far better than I. But that’s the Englishman in you, I suppose. I can imagine your parts and talks made more than a few of your ‘fellow workers’ a little sweaty with envy. Yet another potential hidden heartbreak awaiting anyone leaving behind “the world” to embrace the “love and warmth of the true Christian congregation” – incessant envy and political appointeeism.
How about recruiting a team to rewrite some of the Kingdom melodies. Substitute every instance of ‘Je ho vah’ with ‘Watch tow er’ for starters. Your cream slacks and body bags bit was terrific. Parody goes a long way as you clearly already appreciate. And it certainly can’t be classified as aggressive activism, can it ?
“THE GREAT TRIBULATION HAS STARTED”……the theme for the new Ass-emblies next year…..unfortunately the rank and file will swallow this poison too, waiting for the world governments to ban ALL religions….except, it’ll just be theirs
@ nulandvoidboy;
“waiting for the world governments to ban ALL religions….except, it’ll just be theirs”.
As well it should, I can’t think of an organization more fitting for banishment then this avarice, pedophile protecting, life controlling, soul sucking, Millerite Adventist cult.
Truly, this so called ‘religious’ denomination is now suffering from its ‘Great Disappointment’.
@ Big B
Don’t hold back….tell us how you really feel? ;-)
Yee haa…
Greetings to all:
Great commentary CF,
This is no attack from Satan, but from the desert god. Who’s to say contrary that Jehovah is punishing The Watchtower Corporation, doesn’t “history repeats itself”.? 40 years here we go.
But, then again isn’t god in his ‘resting day’ – find your beach with a piña colada or corona beer?
According to Watchtower, if the man named Jesus is now King since 1914 ad, is it Jesus punishing The Watchtower Corporation?
Or does this prove, man made policies as the ones in place inside Watchtower, by Not following ‘the rule of law’ will get you in trouble.
Watchtower, Your Not Above The Law.
For active JWs and Bible students, attending conventions this week or pasted.
Explain, how to shun your fellow Christians, by following these verses about showing love.
John 13:34-35,
1 John 4:19-20, this is another fallacy from The Watchtower Corporation, and another man made policies.
Support The Worldwide Work – to JWsurvey
Peace out,
@ Minion;
“According to Watchtower, if the man named Jesus is now King since 1914 ad, is it Jesus punishing The Watchtower Corporation?”
I believe he so. Why? Since the revealing of their tryst with the U.N. This organization (U.N.) was revealed by the Watchtower’s 3rd President, Nathan Knoor, back during WW2 years before the founding of the U.N. as a peace organization in 1945 at San Francisco, California. it should be noted however, FDR mentioned the formation of this organization in his January 1, 1942 Arcadia Conference.
http://masonemerson.freeyellow.com/christianwitnessescom/id200.html
He plainly stated (during a speech at Yankee Stadium, ‘Peace, can it Last’) that the Allied Powers (calling themselves the United Nations) would become the Scarlet Colored beast that ascends out of the abyss of inactivity.
http://www.archive.org/details/PeaceCanItLastByNathanKnorr
From that point onward the Watchtower has formerly condemned Christendom (Worldwide Council of Churches) for their support of the United Nations as “the kingdom of God on earth” in both addresses from the platform and in printed form.
Since their outing by the Guardian Newspaper of the Watchtower’s ten (10!) year involvement as a N.G.O. (non-governmental organization) as are the
Catholic church, World Wide Council of Churches, the Dali Lama, the Red Cross, etc. How dare they call the kettle black? What absolute hypocrisy!
I cannot remember a time during my involvement with this duplicitous organization (over a half century in my case alone) of so many problems coming to fruition in so many places. These problems were unheard of namely; pedophilia protection; U.N. involvement; C.T. Russell & friends discounted; memorial partakers on the increase by more than 5,000 in ten years; memorial attendance on the downswing; contributions in decline; New Light issued almost on a bi-annual basis; and absolutely NO END of their troubles in sight.
So yes, I agree that IF Jesus was enthroned during the period of the First World War he is definitely shucking off this counterfeit Christianity who has the absolute temerity of calling itself ‘Jehovah’s Earthly Organization’.
Actually, the talk “Peace, Can It Last?” was given at the United Theocratic Announcers Assembly in Cleveland, Ohio on Sunday, 20 September 1942.
Quendi
Thanks Quendi,
So many talks have been made in N.Y. I thought this one was as well.
I meant to say “I believe he is. Why?” not “I believe he SO. Why?”
Oops.
For got to say:
WATCHTOWER FOR PRISON 2016.
Peace out,
I hope the judge opens the court room to video recorders like the ARC. I am going to bring my popcorn to see all the Watchtower boners that occur. Any news on the San Diego court case and Watchtower’s contempt of court news? Enjoy the show.
The counter in the June 25, 2016 JW SURVEY article reports that the San Diego court case fine has now reached over $126,000, as Watchtower leadership continues its lie, stall, evade strategy. However, time may have already run out: “The court sets a status conference for July 22, 2016 to hear from the parties whether the monetary sanctions have been effective.”
@ ScotWm:
When it gets to several million dollars and an issuance of a contempt of court order maybe the shysters at Walkill will get a clue. My question is this; if jail time is called for who will serve the time for the contempt of court order? All of the seven mental midgets or will they draw lots (straws)? Can hardly wait!
ScotWm
We are currently awaiting court documents for the hearing on July 22nd. Watchtower filed a notice of appeal on July 6th. On July 21st WT filed a status report related to the court ordered document production, but the court documents have not been released yet. As soon as we get our hands on these docs we will report the outcome.
JR
Thanks, John.
Wonderful news :)
Giddy up!
This is unreal, i mean when are they going to stop this torment on the children and those who are going through this nightmare. The GB have a lot to answer for.
I just don`t know what to say. Yes, I am very fine with the investigations to protect all the children and who ever are offended. But, I do not understand the politics. Why do the Watchtower do this? Everyone can look into Jesus words and find nothing of this nonsense Watchtower practice, so what is the reason? A sin is a sin, but all we can do is ask forgiveness and obey the law. I mean, as long the law is good, what is the problem then to obey? I am a former witness but to day I am a born again Christian. I was listening to Sinach and found vey much peace. “Festival of Life” London 2016 – That convention in London was not bothering. (you will find it on YouTube (skip the ad) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rekkBNhYmX8) Everyone was dancing and praising Jesus all the time.
So, what is so important about this? Yes, here you can go even if you are not a Christian because of the joy, music and concert. So, thanks to everyone here and praise Jesus all the time. If we do not have Jesus, we have nothing. God Bless.
1.2billion Muslims would probably disagree. Are they all wrong?
Believing in sky fairies helps no one. Let’s all grow up.
We do not even know for sure if Jesus existed…
How then, flavio josefo, Cornélio Tácito, Obra Vitae Duodecim Caesarum, urna de tiago, Mara Bar-Serapião (sorry, I am Portuguese…) etc, mentioned the christ?
You see, lot of historians knew the christ existed. Of course Not everyone was allowed to talk about him, like today’s News are often controled by a few rich people who protect Their interests against the masses
Has anyone else heard of Serapis Christus? The supposed original Christ? I haven’t done as much research yet, but what I did find was astonishing. However, I am still very cynical. Even so, once in delve further, would I find it true?
Greetings Roman. You ask many questions that as yet no-one has found the answers to and opinions are numerous. It is the proverbial minefield and how will you recognise it as “truth”? Thousands will still oppose you..Please don’t take offense if I state, does it really matter? Whether we believe in “something” or just plain “nothing”, is always our own choice. The fact remains, true or false, son of God or not, a man called ” Jesus” made his way into a book that was destined to be read by millions. He was portrayed as saying,” love thyself, know thyself, physician, heal thyself and love others as I have loved you.” Can anyone deny that those words, if followed by us all, would not be of tremendous advantage to humankind?
Lynaire Williams. Yesterday I wrote a short story, inspired by the tooth-fairy, in which a girl named hermioine is depicted as saying “be a good dude”, “don’t fuck things up” and “live and let live”. Tooth-fairy told me that hermioine actually existed, and she also can walk over water, violate the mass conservation law and resurrect corpses. Did hermioine actually exist? Or did Tooth-fairy lie? Or did I lie? Who knows! But if hermioine words were followed by us all, that would be of tremendous advantage to mankind. What an exceptional person Hermione is!
“Destined to be read”? More like Forged
The question about Serapis was raised due to the question of whether or not “Jesus” existed. The historians who acknowledged such a man lived past the events during a time when perhaps certain believers were so convincing in their beliefs that it was mistaken for truth.
And as for whether or not it’s a worth while life investment, religion serves as a means to keep its adherents submissive. The better aim is Spirituality.
Hello,
hope , hope , hope for all victims !
Sad, sad , sad for all Jw that are real believers but were prisoner of this cult.
Because, WT will accuse the Devil in this attack … and
many of these true believers will follow GB and WT in the “bunker” …
I have no real solution … WT and GB must disapear it’s a fact … but I can’t forget all jw that could be lost :(
But this decision is a great new !!! :)
@ keinlezard;
“but I can’t forget all jw that could be lost.”
We will all mourn the passing of those that will be lost. However, it is their personal choice to follow the Watchtower into the ‘bunker’. Nobody is forced at gunpoint to follow anyone anywhere. Unfortunately follow they will.
Will the sheeple ever wake up or will they stand in line waiting patiently for their Dixie cup of Kool-aid?
As long as the sheeple are satisfied with others doing their thinking for them and being lazy in doing research into the organization, well… I guess we have our answer don’t we.
It is over domestically. They have recourse to the European Courts and the CC is accountable to that decision. I wonder if they will do that?
Its unlikely Watchtower will take it to the European Courts and if they did they are more likely to lose there than in Britain.
The only sad thing is that our friends and family still captive under Watchtower cage will have to pay for this case, and they don’t even know where the money is going to…
I hope this gets really well advertised to help others to open their eyes!!
@jw.fail;
Unless you are willing to contact the newspaper yourself with this information, there is a good chance it will be overlooked.
During the ARC revelations, my son contacted the Washington Post, and his inquiry made it appear in the Religious Section of that national newspaper. It did not, however make our local newspaper here in Tidewater, VA. Too bad. Why, since the Washington Post is the ‘big sister’ to our local tabloid?
Because, locally speaking, J.W.’s are not newsworthy, period.
In this day and age some tabloids may also consider it a hate crime or bad blood. I honestly don’t think the JW’s are as big a news item as they think they are. Sure they get a mention for the conventions but they are just classed with all other religions when it comes to abuse etc. We understand the religion so we see how the ramifications of being part of it effect family etc but Joe Public, unless they know a witness, couldn’t really care less. Sad but true.
@ Tara;
Very true; Joe Public doesn’t understand the doctrines or ramifications of joining this ‘religion’. All Joe Public sees is a lot of volunteer ‘cold calling from door to door which is something he wants no part of.
Joe doesn’t see (and probably doesn’t realize) the polices concerning disassociation, or shunning and the heartache caused for families due to un-scriptural cultist beliefs.
You can’t even mention the child abuse investigations to Joe because of the Watchtower’s effective cover-ups which have been going on for decades. Joe would have a hard time wrapping his head around something that’s not covered by the local news.
Yes, very sad but very true.
Big B, Hello there. I live in Tidewater VA. I am glad you tried to get this information into the local Pilot newspaper. I read the WPost and it was good it got in. It is funny how I ran into someone from my old congregation and she asked whether I knew about the convention. Yes, I replied. Hope to see you there she says. I will not be attending, I inform her. Please, I have not been to a 2 hour meeting in 2 years, so sitting for 3 days at Hampton convention center is not something I would do.
But, watching these poor people slowly walking around in the 99*heat passing out invitations is heart breaking.
Yes indeed, beautiful Tidewater, VA!
Home of the Atlantic Fleet and Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock the ONLY place in the U.S.A. that constructs nuclear aircraft carriers.
Also Jamestown, beginning of the first permanent English settlement in the New World, (1607) and where English colonialism ended, 13 miles away, at Yorktown (1781).
Tidewater is place where the first battle between ironclad warships, the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia (formerly USS Merrimack) right in the James River near Hampton where the assemblies are held at the Colosseum.
To anyone reading the above, ya’ll come on down to the land of easy living and great eating! Everyone is welcome in Virginia! (end of commercial) :)
I too, remember those scorching 99+ F heat of summers past. Our last convention was the summer of 2013, Friday afternoon. Our last talk, ‘Believe Inspired Truth Not Inspired Error’ delivered by Bro. Tate; who at the time, was head of the Congregation Building Committee. I heard him plainly state “anyone seeking a higher education in this system of things is making themselves a tool of the Devil”.
That was our family’s last convention and last address. Thank God.
2013 was my last convention too. I had finally come wide awake by the end of 2012, but I went to the convention to appease some family members. I don’t think I went all three days – kind of a blur now. I just remember trying to do anything but listen to the psychobabble coming from the stage. I am couple states away from you all in VA, won’t say exactly where as I still try to maintain some level of anonymity.
WS
Big B., Great commercial, although with rising ocean levels, I am considering moving to higher ground. My last convention was 2013 and I was only putting in a appearance, get any releases,and to see a sunday drama, and check out after wards. The comment about higher education being a devils tool, plainly tells of their fear young people will learn to use their minds. I sent my daughter to ODU. She is a very gainfully employed young lady w/ a civil engineers degree.And, she does not appear to be possessed by the boogie man. Chuckle and a smirk.
Take care,
peggy
Very true Susannah their appeal to the European Courts may mean the Watchtower could still win, Britain will be in the EU for a couple of years yet.
What else can we do to free people from watchtower and others organisations That make profit on christians? As JFK told se were born to be free and independant. And jesus si the Only Way, No need of organisations to stoll our lifes and money.
Great News . Hopefully article 50 is triggered soon so as to stop their appeal to the European courts .
Thats interesting Simon, I hadnt thought of that. Presumably they will only be able to appeal to uk courts when we have left EU
The Catholic Church still have their tax exemption status,
despite the alarming amount of pedophilia and the
unconscionable suppression of evidence. Offending priests
moved to other dioceses, (Free to offend again). Victims
bribed to keep quiet.
Scientology had tax exemption revoked in 1967, but after
swamping the IRS with law suits it was reinstated in 1993.
The law at present seems to be “hog tied” in this area.
These examples I’m sure will be used as precedents by WT,
and they could drag it out for decades before they get their
deserved comeuppance. So I’m holding back on the
Champagne for now.
One good thing is that the Watchtower Society has neither the resources nor the following of the Catholic Church. And at least the Church does some REAL types of charity work – not so the Watchtower.
WS
Time for the pompas GB to come down from they egomaniac pompensity of exclusiveness.Realize their areno betterand the phaedophiles they protect.Time for full disclosure and exposure.
I don’t think the R & F will be swayed by any bad
publicity. Their only worry will be facing up to people
in the ministry. We were always a little apprehensive
if there had been a bad story about us in the press.
Our presiding overseer would calm us down by
saying “Don’t worry, they only read the back pages,
for the sports news”
It’s the same with Catholics, although there’s been
a world wide outpouring of really bad stuff against
their religion. To them it’s still the one true apostolic
church. I still see them going down to mass every
Sunday.
I was brought up Catholic and the indoctrination was
intense. First lesson every morning was Question and
answers from the Catechism, stressing the unique
position of the Church.
But when it comes to Brainwashing, they are just
amateurs compared to the WT
I do want to say this, please do not attack each other, I wish. In my dreams. Some former members of Jehovah’s Organization have an appetite for destruction for their former faith. They’re not the most reasonable persons to deal with. It’s not so important to me what the decisions of others are, what matters to me is what the truth is. One reason why I rarely participate on any discussion board is because I notice to many times some have a preconceived vendetta against Jehovah’s Witnesses and I hate that. I notice people sign off with lmFao. I hate that. It’s so insulting. I hate that. I notice people call JWs sheeple. I hate that. It’s insulting. I’m writing this to explain why I hate this and why I stay away and I will never return. I don’t need the upset and stress. By.
Dudes… At first a mob in Africa didn’t understand ebola. The mob invaded the hospital tents, ran through the blood on the floor. Some grabbed a matrice and the patient laying on the matrice hugged the matrice and he ended up being left in the middle of a street, laying on the matrice. It took the mob three months before they understood it was a virus and not voodoo. I saw that on a documentary. It was interesting. Well, if you compare ebola with brain washing. You won’t belittle, reidicule, insult, or degrade the victim. You work at helping the victim. That’s why it makes me feel so angry when I read sheeple and lmfao and that kind of garbage. Enlightenment is beautiful. It needs to be done with maturity, without insults. It’s a skill. Insults closes the minds of people who are starting to wake up. No need to be so negative and insulting. It drives me NUTS.
Can you imagine? The patient ended up laying in the middle of the street, on the matrice, and he was looking around and he looked confused.
P.S. my name isn’t Saul and this is the fifth time I’ve said I’m never coming back but I always do come back. It took me five minutes to calm down. I hope I didn’t make anyone to mad by my first post. I had a thistle up my butt. :)
What did you say?
I have been brain washed since I was born until I was about 20. I know what it is like. After unbrainwashing myself, it still bothered me when people mocked jws for preaching, because I thought they didn’t understand what jws intentions are.
Now, I mock jws myself and think that is a good thing to do. Mockery creates doubt (which is great), emotional discomfort (which is good for getting people out and preventing people from getting in) and a social negative attitude towards them. The only downside I can see with mockery is that it increases feelings of martyrdom and “not of this world”. All in all, I’ll go for mockery.
(Of course, education, emapthy and blah blah are also great. But their being great has nothing to do with mockery being useful or not)
Saul – they ARE sheeple. Sorry, truth hurts. I hate when people say “I hate that” over and over again. LMBFAO.
What is LMBFAO?
Laughing My Big Fat Ass Off
Fantastic news, keep pushing
Saul. I have no idea what ImFao stands for but what get’s my goat is peeple thet kan’t spell werth shet.
Too means excessive. As in too many o’s.
To is going somewhere.
Don’t use spell check to correct it is yewsless.
Oh yeah! Good news about losing their rotten appeals. Let’s hope they lose charity status. I have given far too much in the past to that grasping, materialistic cult. Like the ‘Jesus freaks and Holy Rollers’ they hide their greed for money behind over-emotional ‘Christainity’.
I like that bumper sticker… “Jesus Loves You…But I’m his favourite”.
Back again. On the subject of mockery and whether it is good or bad.
Mockery, sarcasm, cynicism, lampooning and parody (even sneering) are perhaps not the best weapons of choice if your objective is to convert to your way of thinking.
However, when dealing with non-thinkers who just think they are thinkers (like JWs) it can be a stimulus as it may shock one into a fresh realization of how absurd their viewpoint was/is.
Of course, the amusement provided by witty sarcasm may greatly please those who see the fallacy of the JW teachings, but it can tend to lock the believers into a self-protective mental state. Though ashamed and worried by the exposure, they protect themselves with old comforters like “It’s the Devil’s world attacking us”. They skip down the road with their fingers in their ears shouting “Lalala I can’t hear you!”
I’m from England so we love biting sarcasm, witty retorts, clever lampooning. Mockery is seen as a bit cruel and self-satisfying for shallow people yet sheer frustration with stubborn, ‘ignorance is bliss’ JWs can induce extreme mockery.
I say, let the p*ss-taking begin!!!
@ KTMmadBrit & Saul;
I believe that LMFAO is the abbreviation used for (Laughing My F$#k’in Ass Off).
However, as far as the expression ‘Sheeple’ that Saul has a problem with, may I explain respectfully what I mean when I use this adjective when describing Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Firstly, all of us will agree, that as Jehovah’s Witnesses we did little ‘outside’ research into their beliefs or policies before joining this ‘group’. We
were satisfied with explanations given to us by our parents or study conductors, period.
Then, for many of us, months became years which, in turn, became decades of listening to the poisonous purple fumes of propaganda. The ‘faithful slave’ said “jump” and we responded with a resounding “how high?”
My experience has shown me that all Jehovah’s Witnesses are currently or were, at one time, ‘sheeple’. Willing to follow unquestioningly blind shepherds who are intentionally leading their flock aimlessly to the land of ‘nowhere’ as fast as they can but are still guessing as to the directions, which they are to proud to ask for.
My use/definition of ‘Sheeple’ refers to anyone that follows anybody, political party, religious authority etc. without question. The cure for anyone like this is a shocking experience or revelation which forces them into ‘research mode’.
For me it was the U.N. membership that I stumbled upon while doing innocent research. What poor blinded ‘sheeple’, like myself, would even consider such a thing as the Watchtower has identified the U.N. as the Scarlet Colored Wild Beast? And who supports (rides) the beast but a whore named Babylon the Great, etc?
Conclusion: what does that make ME, a whore-monger for enticing others to join this/our religion?
Now through research, my family and I can proudly say “Been there, done that! We have a tee shirt.” On the tee shirt is a picture of a sheep with the circle enclosing it and diagonal line across it (international for ‘NO’). Directly under that is written proudly in bold letters “NO SHEEPLE”.
Big B – It’s actually Laughing My FAT Ass Off – but I like yours better.
@ M Saurus;
Leave it to me to get this wrong with the worst possible scenario. Oh well. It wasn’t on purpose and I hope I didn’t offend anyone.
@Big B,
I always assumed the F in LMFAO was the F-word too. I certainly understood what you meant by the term sheeple and never took any offense to it.
@Saul – lighten up “dude”
Jesus pulled no punches when describing the Pharisees and scribes, why should we have to walk on egg shells around Jdubs? Call a spade, a spade, I say. I spent too long in a mind control cult where I had to make sure every word I uttered was in line with their “present truth.” Now that I am free from their clutches, I have no desire to relinquish my freedom of speech for anyone.
WS
@ WS
I don’t plan to discontinue my use of the expression ‘Sheeple’. It beats other alternatives in describing ‘lazy, un-thinking, automatons; which is what JW’s have become.
Others may try to silence us with their ‘political correctness’ which is nothing more than a discussion/conversation killer.
However, if you don’t like the discussion or enjoy other’s opinions then, like the T.V., you can change the channel or leave. In other words: don’t go away mad, just go away. :)
The above comments were meant for Saul and others who, are too easily offended. Don’t be offended at the message or the messenger.
Everyone is free to comment here and believe whatever they choose; unlike the Kingdom Hall.
wow…”present truth” I totally forgot about that phrase! Isn’t it funny how jw’s have their own language which seems normal while your in, but super creepy once you wake up? Isn’t something that’s true always true? Shouldn’t “present truth” and past truth be the same? Unless of course the past truth was a lie and you have to make up new stuff in the present. Now whenever I hear jdub speak my eye starts twitching a little. Here are the ones that I hate the most: “make the truth your own”; “taking in knowledge”; “present system of things”; “Christendom”; “new world”; “interested ones”; “theocratic”; “kingdom interests”
I forgot one: “everlasting life”
As I recall, words and phrases that have special meaning only known to members are indicators of a cult.
“Present truth” was a term frequently used by Russell and Rutherford. It has been less used in recent years, as the concept is more commonly referred to as “new light” now.
I hear you on the reaction to certain words and phrases. I find that when I hear certain phrases in other contexts, they still conjure up the old connections from the Jdubs. Example, last week a colleague of mine used the phrase “fear of God” which brought up different thoughts for me than he may have intended.
WS
How about “route calls”, “on/in the work”, “uplifting comments”, “brotherly love”, “fleshly family”, “happiest people”, “wait on Jehovah”, “donation arrangements”, “meeting clothes”, and the really annoying supid one “need greaters”. Ugh!
@ free@last;
Stop it, stop it right now, you’re killing me! Ha, Ha, Ha, chortle, guffaw! Those buzz words are hilarious! Only JW’s understand this Orwellian New Speak.
My brother and I exchange greetings when we pass each other in our autos. We scream “NEW LIGHT!” at each other. The neighbors don’t get it, but its an inside joke. INGSOC ya’ll!
LMFAO! (the F is for FAT)
And don’t forget the witty sayings, like:
“Seven days without service makes one weak.”
“Start a study. Stay an hour.”
“Do the Pioneer shuffle.”
“HBH – Home but hiding.”
And its variant:
“HBN – Home but naked.”
“Keep reaching out for more privileges.”
And from my personal experience “door surgery” is where the stupid little tract won’t slip past the door’s weather stripping, requiring some close, focused persuasion. Truly an awkward moment for the householder to show up.
And finally, a “tract bomb”, invented by my friend to give the widest possible range of interesting subjects to a not-at-home. Just wad up about 50 different tracts and place them in the inner handle of the door. When the householder returns- BOOM!
Something is bound to interest them!
HBH was one we used all the time, but HBN was a new one on me. I actually did call on a naked man on one occasion. He opened the window in his downstairs flat just sufficiently to hide his agenda. I think he did it to make me blush. I just said I’d call back when he was more decent! Tee hee! Oh the joys of ministry!
That was good news. I hope the increased publicity will cause people to investigate the claims and come to a fair conclusion, including the Witnesses themselves.
I googled Jehovah’s Witness two witness rule the other day. The Wicki page ranked second on the Google search, it reads like a JW publication. I’ve heard that you can edit Wicki, surely someone from the JW IT department has.
They are definitely masters of propaganda and PR. Perhaps not as clever as Scientologists, but close.
WS
This may be a little off point, and I haven’t gone to a convention in years. The last one I visited was in the eighties. My question is this: Are they selling their new slick, emotionally manipulating videos or are they giving them away? If they’re selling them, for how much? Thanks in advance.
They are giving them away and simply suggesting a donation be made. Much is now available for direct download, I believe. Videos are now a frequent part of both meetings and convention programs.
WS
Cult phrases, — “Quota’s”– Did we reach our quota’s
this month Bro’s.? Could any sentence sound less
spiritual ? Did Jesus set the apostles specific targets
when he sent them out?
There is a bible example of people being set quotas,
but they were slaves in Egypt. Ex, 5,1-17
Another puke inducing phrase was “Happyfying” Ugh.
A purely made up WTS word. Not in the English dictionary nor an American one. I remember being at a meeting in Geordieland back in the 90s at one Watchtower when this was a buzzword and the conductor asked if anyone had any idea what it meant. Nobody did so he say “Howay it’s probably just one of Freddy Franz’s made up words, man!” He hit the nail right on the head!
Remember when “glean” was the latest buzz word? “What can we GLEAN from this scripture?” “What can we GLEAN from this paragraph in the Watchtower?” Eck!
I think these buzz words worked well on poorly educated, indoctrinated people who got a feeling of superiority and elitism by using them.
WS
You do not have the answers.
Ah! You’d be surprised, we have answers to most things!
Of course they may not be the answers you where looking for but ‘hey ho!’
Do you?
@ openmind – “fleshly family” I’m cringing! That has got to be one of the dumbest ones for sure. And aren’t you glad that we don’t have to suffer anymore in those uncomfortable “meetings clothes”? Here’s to sleeping in on Sundays and staying in our pajamas :)
@ Big B – you and your brother sound like a good time!
@ Winston – I totally remember “glean”! that’s an oldie but a goodie.
They have a total cult language, but in my family we kids we told over and over again that we needed to make comments “in our own words” which is an oxymoron. It seems like we are all from the same JW 80 & 90’s generation.
And what about, “and what goals have you set for yourself lately”?
Always pushing, pushing. Never quite good enough!
Reading the cult language again has made my blood run cold. It’s the stuff of nightmares! Thank goodness I’ve left the ‘light’, sorry shite behind!
Bad Penny,
The pushing you mention reminds me of the passage in scripture that says they are “always learning and never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
For all the studying that Jdubs are required to do, they never grow as individuals. The “studying” is mere route of memorizing Watchtower rhetoric and platitudes with no real substance. And since Watchtower frequently changes their interpretation of scripture, they have to constantly go back and relearn that which was at one time already known.
I guess that was one thing that did it for me. From my perspective, learning should be progressive. Once I had put myself through a university education, I continued to expand the depth of my learning and simply outgrew the JW inanity. It was at that point at which my awakening first began.
WS
agreed. How can you call it a study or a discussion when the org provides both the questions and the answers. The could save themselves a lot of time if instead of publishing magazines and books they just send everyone home with a bunch of flashcards to memorize.
@free@last
That would be a fairy accurate assessment of the years in which I came of age in the JW cult.
WS
Meant to write “FAIRLY accurate.”
Covert Fade, do you have a direct link to a news article highlighting that the Supreme Court turned down their appeal? I would dearly love to be able to send it along to some “still in” family members. They have asked about the ARC, but seem to be unaware of the events in the UK.
Here’s the latest one I could find from the official website dated March 2016:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/court-of-appeal-gives-judgment-in-court-case-by-jehovahs-witness-charity
Thanks Covert. That is very good news! Add to that, In Sweden many are leaving now after the conventions; whole families and especially elders. I believe the Internet has opened the eyes of many just like it did for me 15 years ago.
So, let us be brave and keep up the good work.
Interesting news Sven.
I am sure the Charity commission investigation will help our former friends and family evaluate the cost of being part of this organisation.
As I was driving past the recent convention in Milton Keynes (UK), I was thinking the exact same thing. The average JW surely smells a rat here.
The convention in my experience was usually a time of introspection and self examination for those of geniune heart, however the commands to believe unconditionally, rat out former friends and family, EFT machines at the hall, jw.org idolatry and the increasingly patronizing tone of the talks are starting to take their toll.
To leave would be an inevitable conclusion most normal JWs would come to in increasing numbers.
Leaving as an entire family means there is no one left to shun you.
People who create their own drama deserve their own karma!
@Lloyd – Good luck with the arm!
One of my favorite witness phrases:
“are you regular?”
LOL
No. I’m suffering from constipation. LOL.
Here’s another one: “weak publisher”, or “weak in the truth” if not handling in one’s monthly ‘preaching’ report to the bosses in the Kingdom Hall.
What stupidity. Like salesmen. I was about as dumb myself.
@ Sven;
If you’re not getting paid for your ‘cold calling’ door-to-door sales, then why in the world are there monthly time sheets required?
I know that they are tabulated to produce the brag sheet for yearly publication however, could there be another reason? Perhaps having to do with tax write-offs or proving they are a ‘charitable, volunteer organization’ or something else?
And of course there is the control aspect of turning in reports. Gives them a way to monitor and control you. I used to be the congregation secretary’s assistant and then later the secretary. So I can also say that it creates a fair amount of busy work for the elders, juggling a bunch of meaningless numbers and chasing down delinquent reportees.
WS
yeah, the “weak in the truth” one used to drive me nuts. It’s so judgmental. Who are we to decide who is and who isn’t following their religion to the best of their abilities? That is what is so sad about most witnesses, they really could care less about how you really feel, what you believe, or what is in your heart just as long as you look the part and maintain appearances. I almost lost it with my mother in law said that she is just sad because my husband and I “don’t have a relationship with Jehovah” I then asked her, “how do you know who God has a relationship with?” Of course she didn’t have an answer. I told her that she is allowed to have her own beliefs but I will not allow her to come to my home and tell me who I am in His eyes.
Feel overall they have shown them self’s up 100% hear,trying to appeal against the investigation is saying theirs something to hide as its put hear,any thing such as Qoute-“how Watch Tower safeguards children and adults at risk.” would be open arms to cooperate in “normal circumstances”and with the Charity’s Commission it will be professional and detailed and by “Law”to,and yet the watchtower wanted to stop this..well its going to be interesting to see the out comes…
As far as I’m concerned, if Cedars eventually makes a fair bit of money from this site, or from writing a book or whatever, I say good luck to him and he deserves every penny. The whole team does. They’re providing a service of far greater use than the Watchtower and deserve tax free status for their efforts.