Your Webpage is Incredible:

January 1, 2003

Hi ya, my mother brought me into the church when I was 12. ... Your web page is incredible. It helps to know that you aren't alone going through some of the same "stuff" that only those that went through the exact same thing could understand. I married inside the church and the marriage barely survived, but it did. I left WCG in '97 and went to UCG until the end of '99. Now, I am looking my way towards Christ and the grace issue. I've attended a couple of local churches, but have found that my husband and I are both uncomfortable anywhere. UGH!!!

Thanks bunches! --Oklahoma

WCG Leaders: Saints or Villains?

January 5, 2003

I continue to pray that members and ministers of WWCG and its offshoots see the light of the true gospel and to come to know, Really Know, Jesus as their Lord. As you know when Jesus is our Lord the Spirit will lead us into healthy relationships and to a fulfilling purpose of our lives more meaningful and thrilling then any of the confused theology we ingested booklet by booklet in the WWCG.

Now after 5 years out of the WWCG I am still amazed at the joy and gladness in my new walk with Christ. As time goes on, the memories fade, the WWCG becomes a tiny speck in my rearview mirror and life goes on. Yes, problems and trials still are part of life but the joy of personal fellowship with the Lord and the support of a healthy congregation bring great comfort.

God bless you in your ministry. I know other websites that can tear down, attack and discredit the WWCG and its offshoots. But yours seems to be the only one focusing on working with people to grieve and then bring healing and rebuilding in their relationships with God and other believers.

God bless you and the others who contribute to the website and I mean that with my whole heart. --Former WCG member

What is Pagan and What Isn't?

January 6, 2003

Hello to all at ESN,

I just started reading the information on your site. I know that I have a lot more researching and studying to do, but I am hoping that you will be able to help me with a question: Is Christmas truly not pagan? What about Easter? Do these things really matter? If so, or if not, why? Are they wrong?

Thank you for your site.

Sincerely, --Child survivor of WCG

Read: If what HWA taught was false, should we go back to observing "pagan" holidays?  (Q&A)

Glad to See WCG Auditorium Go:

January 13, 2003

Isn't it a bitter/sweet piece of (tentative) news about the Auditorium being destroyed? I'm so glad it's going, but at the same time, it seems so sad that the members, who funded the building of that monstrosity, won't see a penny of it. What a sham. What a testimony--the works of Armstrong becoming as ashes under our feet. Yet, there is a sadness to it all. It ends something of a piece of our history. We gave our hearts and souls (and many, their lives) to this belief system, and now it will be gone. It such a shame that the whole movement didn't die along with the buildings. It was still an idol, nonetheless, and I'm glad to see it go. --Former WCG member

Bulldoze WCG Auditorium to the Ground:

January 13, 2003

I can see that there may be some merit in preserving such an architectural masterpiece (?). But I wonder, how much more is that damnable building going to cost, taxpayers or otherwise? Not to get into symbolism too heavily, but why not strip the building of any materials of value and use the piece parts elsewhere, bulldoze the remaining carcass to the ground, much like the pocketbooks and the very lives of many present and former WCG members were stripped to build such a monstrosity in the first place. 

I have been to Ambassador auditorium--about 20 years ago, and I remember being awestruck. I remember also being equally awestruck when Armstrong himself came out to Lubbock, TX to speak (much of the gathering later drove out to Lubbock International Airport to see him off). I was awestruck in knowing that an almighty God had "plans" for all of us, and there was hope for this sick, diseased world. I was awestruck that death took "The Apostle" before Christ's second coming. Dumbfounded might be a better word. 

I later passed from awe to disillusionment, that the world hadn't ended yet and Christ hadn't come yet, by the time I finished high school. Time to start planning for the future, something I wasn't wholly prepared to do (but then again, how many eighteen year olds have it all figured out anyway?) Again, dull disappointment that the my youngest brother had finished high school, and yet the world was still turning. Absolutely amazing what the human mind is capable of being talked into. Shortly thereafter, the changes hit the fan, and we didn't know what to think. It's as though everything we believed in had been torn asunder. Where then were we to put our faith? To this day, I have yet to be baptized, officially or otherwise. Friends of my family, that we have known, since before I was born, just up and went away. I know which friends that I don't hear from. I can only guess which of my parents' longtime friends even make contact. Not to mention, schisms within families. Some gone down a different path, some blew off religion altogether.

For some, Ambassador Auditorium may have come to symbolize the pain, sacrifice, and destruction of families. Myself, I can hardly stand to look at photographs of the Auditorium. It would not break my heart in the least if all the goodies were cannibalized and the rest of the building razed. Better yet, use a professional demolition company, and bring it down like you see done to old buildings on television. It would be a fitting bit of symbolism to say the least.

Signed, "Outcast" (child survivor of WCG)

Future Plans for Auditorium Surprised and Disgusted Me:

January 15, 2003

I'm especially irritated at Ambassador Campus site explaining WCG's future for the headquarters in Pasadena. To hear of the destruction of that building is something that both surprised me and disgusted me--especially since they made it sound like they would doing Pasadena a favor to build up a residential area. Their self righteousness just turns my stomach and at the same time I'm very sorry that people are still so deceived by their antics. I have no special love for that building personally. I did get to visit Pasadena some years back and I guess personally I would rather see some useful purpose for the grounds that gives God the true glory 'cause in MY way of thinking that would be an affront to Satan and the so called legacy of Herbert. --Former WCG member

WCG Ruined My Life:

January 16, 2003

I was in the WCG from the time I was 11 or 12 until I was 18. I am now 52 years old. As far as I'm concerned, they ruined my life. I've lived in fear most of my life, thanks to them. You're right, they are not a church as far as I'm concerned, but they had a lot of people fooled. As far as I'm concerned, they murdered my dad and almost killed me. My mother was smart enough to get out after quite a few years. I even considered a lawsuit against them for ruining my life. My sibling was also smart enough to leave. They threw me out because I was seeing a girl who was also in WCG, which didn't meet their approval. Her parents came and took her away and I've never seen her again. That was many years ago. Well, that's enough about me for now. Thanks for listening. --Child survivor of WCG

You Have a Valuable Ministry:

January 25, 2003

I am so glad for your site. You give excellent information on cult recovery. I've not run across any site like yours. You have a valuable ministry and I'm thankful it. --Former WCG member

ESN Site Known By Experts:

January 27, 2003

I can't tell you how many times your website came up in talking with "experts" around the country! Know that what you do is well known, and is an invaluable resource. --Anonymous 

Your Writings Extend Grace:

February 1, 2003

What you are doing is excellent work, and your writings extend grace even to those who make it difficult. It is those in WCG or other so-called grace groups who rant and rave about their beliefs, and become so unloving in trying to prove their points. No grace in their attitudes that's for sure!! In reality they are really quite afraid that their system is faulty, and it keeps them off balance. Very sad situation!! When one is convinced of the Grace message, it brings about a peace to your soul that you just don't get angry if not everyone sees it your way. No Assurance, no peace is so very true!!

Keep up the good work. --Former WCG member

Gave WCG a Piece of My Mind:

February 10, 2003

I was amazed to find out after all these years that the cult of Armstrong is still alive. I was also glad to find your web site. As you can tell I got so utterly pissed off that I had to give them a piece of my mind. --G. P.

Experiencing Healing With My Family:

February 11, 2003

I've finally been opening up to my family about our past cult involvement. [A relative] told me that my mom (now deceased) prayed constantly for me and my husband to leave the WCG. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to heal the wounds that I have caused my family. I can't tell you how much ESN has helped me. I know I've tried to talk to my family about this before but they didn't seem to understand. Having them go to your site and see what it's about helped them to realize what had happened to us. It
helped to answer so many questions they had. They finally understood the fear behind our actions. I can't thank you enough for everything you've done to help me "close the gap" that had been there all these years. I truly hope others will experience this healing of relationships with their family. --Former WCG member

I Felt Like I Was in a Cult:

February 24, 2003

Hi, I just saw your website, reading some of the letters. I was in the Armstrong's WWCG (WCG) in the early 70's.......glad to be out. Reading some of the info posted here, well, seems no matter what the "church" calls itself now, it's the same old, same old. I hope others are able to leave. I hope they are able to do so without the guilt I carried so many years. I felt like I was in a cult. I do not think being a child of God should make one feel like one is in a cult. It feels good to breathe now. Good Luck to You All Sincerely, --Virginia

Comment: Guilt is very common for anyone that spent time in WCG. It's exactly how they wanted everyone to feel. The article An End to Guilt may prove helpful.

Glad to See There are Still Recovery Websites:

February 23, 2003

I'm glad to see that there are still recovery websites. My husband's family was enthralled with the Armstrong church for years. Very much so from 1968 to early 80's or when things took a turn. My husband's family has blacklisted him because he wouldn't go to the church [they are in an offshoot today]. My husband is a wonderful person and has done very well for himself in his career. They probably think that the "devil" has brought him the success. These people don't have any contact with him. When he started dating me in high school, his mother was visibly upset because I don't even attend any church. Just wanted to drop you a line. ... I wouldn't even care if his family sees this. I have nothing to hide. It is their loss - believe me. They are and have been so strange!! --D. F.

Am Sending Out Links to Your Site to Many Others:

February 27, 2003

I've been working with other WWCOG survivors, especially ones who got dragged in as children.

You would not believe how many links to your site I'm sending out on the web, and they, in turn, will be passing them even further. If anybody is doing God's work, it's you.

I also went to some sites where people are bitter and angry, and found that I, too, have bitterness in me that I thought I was past, and I still have "conditioning" drilled in that I've not overcome. I posted a letter on one of those sites telling them I'm still a Christian, just not an HWA dupe. I'll probably get some angry mail about that, but I don't mind.

I'll be at your site a lot, and I'm already getting "thank you" from forwarding it to others. God bless you and yours. --Child survivor of WCG

How Does WCG Justify $3 Million From PCG?!!

[The following letter regards the $3 million dollars WCG received when selling PCG the copyrights to HWA's literature.]

February 27, 2003

I think this is incredibly incredulous!!! How can these "mainstream Christians" [WCG] justify giving Flurry more bricks to build his empire? Flurry's movement may have died with him--he didn't have too many bullets left in his gun. Now the WCG just supplied him with a whole arsenal. I'm sure Jesus is very proud of these "orthodox Christians" selling this damning heresy (a.k.a. "unusual doctrines" by WCG) to a group who will use it to propel thousands more innocent people into the clutches of a madman who claims he is "Christ's representative."

You can't tell me that Joe Tkach Jr., Mike Feazell and Greg Albrecht don't understand this. How do you boys SLEEP at night? Tell me how you justify doing this??? No wonder you fellows don't teach the doctrine of hell, because if you believed it, you wouldn't be doing what you're doing! How can you vehemently claim that you were abused by this doctrine, and yet have no conscience over selling it to others???

Hey, Mike, didn't you just publish a book exposing Armstrong as a liar and wasn't who he claimed to be? So WHY are you allowing his works to be republished???? Hey, Joe, is your life really Transformed by Truth? If it is, prove it. Pass up at least ONE financial opportunity that exploits others. Hey, Greg, does Plain Truth Ministries think it's okay to sell ads to evangelicals and sell heresy to Flurry? Doesn't the word "HYPOCRITE" cross your mainstream lips? Shame on you all!!!! For once in your lives, why can't you stand up and be MEN and PROVE that you are not cast from the same mold as your predecessor. --Former WCG member

WCG Shows Their True Colors By Selling Copyrights to PCG:

March 1, 2003

I read how WCG has sold HWA's writings to Gerald Flurry and the PCG. Pretty soon all of HWA's writings will be back in circulation. Talk about the WCG showing their true colors. I thought that perhaps maybe the WCG was really trying to change. But after this sale, it's obvious MAMMON is the motivating factor for WCG. If they were so concerned about "protecting the general public from the dangerous teachings of HWA" they would have never sold the books......especially to Flurry. --Canada

WCG Shows Another Example of Hypocrisy:

March 3, 2003

Regarding how the WCG sold the right to the old HWA literature to PCG, this is yet another example of hypocrisy in that if WCG was really about reform and teaching new, proper doctrine, then this would never have happened. --Child survivor of WCG

WCG's Spin Control in Regard to Selling Copyrights:

March 6, 2003

I read the letter expressing outrage at the sale of the MOA [Mystery of the Ages] to the cult PCG. [See February 27 email above] I, too, have been thoroughly disgusted with the sale of such trash, but more importantly, to the outrageous justification. WWCG Treasurer/Financial person is actually quoted as saying it would have been financially imprudent not to take the deal! UGH!

But the real kicker for me was the spin the WWCG pastor put into his response to your resignation letter. The reason being, I have recently written a resignation letter myself, to the pastor of a WWCG splinter group. I cannot believe the similarities! And this group left WWCG in 1980! I guess it goes to show you that AC training does not die easily! --WWCG Child Survivor & now EX-anything COG

Flurry's $3 Million Investment Payback:

March 8, 2003

Flurry knows that $3 million dollar investment will yield $225 million down the road once he sucks in another 100,000 people. --Former WCG member

$$$Dollars Are What is Important to WCG Leadership:

March 8, 2003

To Whom It Concerns:

This has probably been addressed before, but how can anyone currently with WCG in good conscience possibly go along with the settlement (sale?) regarding the copyrights to old WCG literature, considering that it was all branded mistaken, at best, or heretical, at the worst.

This just goes to show what is really important to the upper echelon of the WCG leadership: $$$Dollars!!! I believe the entire copyright lawsuit was a sham anyway, just to put on the face that WCG is now principled, has courage in their conviction. Just more spin for the remaining lay membership.

If y'all at HQ were really serious, and were truly convicted that the documents are in error, not only would you not settle this sham of a lawsuit, you would dry up the church coffers, searching out and destroying the remaining flawed literature. In my opinion, you all are a bunch of moral cowards. The world does not need another half-assed, lukewarm, ecumenical ministry, such as the Plain Truth Ministries.

I suppose with the settlement with PCG regarding the literature lawsuit, WCG gets to profit once more from erroneous literature and flawed doctrine. 

Good Day, --J. B.

Where Did HWA Get His Money From?

March 9, 2003

I was thinking about something. Your website was discussing the recent purchase of HWA's books from the WCG to the PCG for 3 million dollars. You made a comment that you wondered "Where did the PCG get all of that money to buy the copyrights"?

I've been thinking about that too.

Where did the WCG, under HWA, get all of their money from? I know members paid up to 30% of their income ...or more, but do you have any information that the WCG was supported by other outside sources?

The Plain Truth went out to over 2 million people monthly. Each issue must have cost at least a dollar a copy with printing and postage? That's $24 million a year right there. Not to mention TV costs, radio costs, printing costs, six figure salaries, properties and buildings......where did ole' Herbert get all of that money from? --Canada

Update: Read 2006 letter to ESN.

Appalled That WCG Decided to Profit From HWA's Writings:

March 30, 2003

I was born into the WWCG... For several years now I have felt like there was much more to HWA than what has been published and taught by the church. His people control techniques, racial theories and earthly utopian teachings were all too classic.

Your site helped me to start putting the pieces together somewhat, and made me realize that the WWCG today still hasn't changed it's goals, only it's appearance.

With that fact in mind, I was appalled to hear that WWCG has decided to profit financially from HWA's writings by selling them to PCG for millions of dollars. I learned of the deal through a pastor's report, and I felt moved to send my pastor an email expressing my thoughts on the whole subject. Attached is my letter to my pastor as well as his response, all of which I think you will find interesting. My pastor is a very kindly and sincere man, but his response is classic "headquarters" spin. Admit a little guilt on the part of the church, but then put the burden back on the victims by accusing them of bitterness, lack of Christian forgiveness, etc. I think you'll see what I mean. To beat it all, he sent my personal letter, which I sent only to him, to the WWCG district superintendent without asking me first! He's tattling on me! Not that I care in the least, but isn't it classic WWCG? Oh well, I shouldn't complain, because now I'm sending his letter to you. He's a wonderful man who is, unfortunately, still blindly loyal to the system.

If you wish to post any of my enclosed correspondence, I request that you please change the names of all involved except perhaps the district superintendent. Thank you. --Former WCG member

Read: Exiting Member Writes His Pastor 

Your Website Gave Us Answers to a Multitude of Questions:

March 10, 2003

Dear ESN,

We have been visiting your website for about 3 months; as a result our whole family has received Jesus Christ into our lives. We found your website quite accidentally or should I say providentially. The night before I was praying to God to lead us to His truth and guide us in His direction. I found your website as a result of looking for something else; I can't recall what it was. We were amazed at the amount of information on ESN and so grateful for it. We finally have found out what was really going on in the WCG. We left the WCG in 1993 and have been floundering ever since, until we found ESN. Thank God. We have been listening to J. Vernon McGee and it has been a great blessing to us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

We always had a lot of questions and probably were considered a liability. We became enraged when we were subjected to a sermon presented by Ronald Kelly. During the course of the sermon he laughed at the congregation and inferred we were stupid for believing in polytheism and that the church never taught it. That was the straw that broke the camel's back. As a result, we stopped attending. We refused telephone calls from Mr. Jim Lee [the minister]. After a few weeks, Mr. Lee left a message on our answering machine and informed us we were going to be disfellowshipped. We never replied. We assumed we were. Not one person from our area ever spoke a word to us. We had no contact with anyone except one family that left a little later than us.

When we left WCG, we stopped doing all the rituals, but we still had so many unanswered questions. We had been wondering for years if we were wrong to leave or if it was self pride that caused us to leave. We now see that it was by God's grace that we did leave. We are so thankful for your website; we finally got answers to the multitude of questions we had. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your hard work. It is our prayer that God will bless you and your work.

Sincerely, --Missouri

Experience of WCG Left Me With Serious Questions:

March 25, 2003

I have recently come across your web site and have been very interested in your various articles.

My wife and I joined the WCG in the seventies--but some years ago experienced a serious problem with the WCG ....

Anyway, the whole experience of the WCG has left me with serious questions about many things. I guess I want to get back to basics, because my experiences have left me with reservations about the veracity of the Bible. How can we know this is God's inspired word to mankind? Do you have nay material to help me get back to square one and then proceed again with the 'truth'?

Looking forward to your reply. --Anonymous

Reply: Attack on the Bible by John R. Rice is helpful (see Booklist description and where to order for 50 cents).

Some have found the expository radio messages of the late J. Vernon McGee to be very helpful in understanding the dispensation of grace and our position in Christ. I know we tend to be leery of outside Christian ministries, but others have found this ministry to be trustworthy and not exploitive. If interested, see our links.

My Stumbling Block Was the Law:

March 27, 2003

I've been questioning [the group I'm in] and HWA for about a year now and three days ago I gave myself to the Lord to serve him alone, by faith alone, forsaking my former life. Almost immediately, I felt the Holy Spirit minister to me for the first time. What brought me to the Lord was the understanding of my own foolishness and the foolishness of those who live faithless lives, trusting in their own intellect. In my former life, I was always arguing with people over Scriptures. I was always trying to understand things for myself. I knew that it just didn't make sense. I knew that there must be an easier way to salvation. My stumbling block was the law. I thought that I had to keep the law to be holy. I didn't know that all I had to do was believe that Christ lived a perfect life and fulfilled the law perfectly for me so that I might live my life through him, and not of my own sinful self. ... --Anonymous

Not Moved By Anti-Christian Arguments: 

April 1, 2003

I have spent many hours reading ESN information, and it has helped me and my family immensely.

Regarding "Mr. Agnostic," I stumbled across him some time before I found your group, and I must say I was disgusted and rather discouraged. I wasn't the least bit moved by his tired old anti-Christian arguments, but it just seemed like everywhere I turned in my search for information, I found disinformation. Your site is obviously different, and your concern for others seems very genuine.

Also, the email you sent me in response to my letter to [my pastor] was very encouraging. I have shared it with several interested family members and they were quite impressed. They are now eagerly reading info from your site. Thanks again! --Former WCG member

Those Left in WCG Will Stay No Matter What:

April 3, 2003 

I bet most that were going to leave WCG have already left. Those that stayed will stay no matter what. I have a friend there who now gives sermon messages. He told me some time ago that he believed that we should be obedient to "The Church," no matter what. Whatever they say he believes. It's a real shame. --Former WCG member

Your Site Helped Me Rethink Armstrong's Dogma:

April 4, 2003

I have been "steeped" in the doctrine of HWA since a teenager. Your site along with others has been helpful to me in the past year to rethink the dogma that is so engrained. I have especially appreciated the many articles on the ESN site which address the flawed teachings of HWA. I think the floodgates for me were opened when I downloaded and read the copy of D. M. Canright's Seventh-Day Adventism Renounced. I cannot wait to meet Mr. Canright someday and tell him that almost 100 years after he wrote his book, it was still bringing people to the truth regarding this Sabbath issue.

God is really moving in the lives of my family (parents, sisters, their families and my son and me). All of us have decided to leave the organization [a WCG splinter group] and to join the mainstream of Christianity. Both of my sisters have found wonderful, grace-filled churches in our community. My parents, though they have not "officially" left, will, and I have no doubt they too will find a better way to live their faith. I don't believe "going to church" is the "key" to salvation. Only Christ and a faith in who He says He is, is what brings salvation.

As for me, through hours of talks with my family, I believe we all have had the Holy Spirit move in us and give us much peace in this most difficult decision. All of us wish the pastor well and feel that our leaving may just serve as a catalysis to open his eyes to the soul-killing dangers of legalism--at least that is what we pray. --Formerly involved with Armstrongism

Your Site is Excellent:

April 11, 2003

I just found your site today, and I couldn't believe it. My parents brought me into the WWCG when I was nine years old. I am now 51. I was deeply involved about 7 years. Just when I think I've put this horrendous experience behind me, it rears its ugly head. I have always wanted to talk to somebody about it, but didn't think that anyone would believe me, outside of my own family, who witnessed it first hand. Your site is excellent, and I am so grateful to have found it. I feel like I need to read EVERYTHING on it, including all the books and articles listed. You have done a wonderful job of putting this together. Thank you so much. --Child survivor of WCG

Choose Not to Live Under Old Covenant Rules:

April 11, 2003

I wrote a letter to my pastor of [a WCG splinter group] which I am leaving. It basically stated that I disagreed with most of the tenants of the church and since I no longer supported it financially, I felt I was a hypocrite for calling myself a member. I also stated that the Holy Spirit was leading me in another direction. Basically, I will not live under the old covenant rules and regulations while claiming to have the Holy Spirit and being a part of the new covenant. Its either one or the other and I chose freedom in Christ. I have never stated that I am leaving the Christian faith, but the reaction of the pastor in [this WCG splinter group] indicates to me that that is exactly what he "fears."  

While my experience in this church has not been as restrictive as some others, the legalism which its leaders practice and teach is stifling.  

Let me close by saying thank you for your website and all the research and information you provide for people like myself! Your website is definitely a source of comfort and confirmation for me. Thank you for all you do! 
Sincerely, --Former member

We Were Influenced By Mind Control:

April 30, 2003

I believe that exposing the evils of the Armstrong is correct and that it shouldn't stop there, but go on (as your site has) to help those who have been abused by him and show them that Jesus can heal us and that in time God will help us to triumph through this. HWA may have taken our money, but he can't take our salvation when we know our identity in Christ.

I have also noticed that there will always be those exiters that try to say we weren't under mind control, or that we weren't victims, and that we were all just naïve and made a bad choice to join the group because of our lack of biblical knowledge. I agree with some of that reasoning, but I disagree completely with those that say we weren't influenced by mind control. Yes, we chose to join the group, and yes, we were too trusting because we lacked experience to discern, but the WCG did use mind control to keep us there--and certainly frightened us into the group with their "be part of the true church or be left behind!" literature. --Former WCG member

Grieving Horribly:

May 5, 2003

Hi,

I am not a child of the WWCG, but a horribly saddened and grieving parent. My husband and I were in this group for 30+ years. (Some ask why so long, or blame us for choosing to join.) Anyway, we have 3 children who are grieving so horribly and their lives are full of personal problems. We didn't understand all the trauma connected with what we had been through until this year when I think the Post-Traumatic Shock hit my husband and me. I then found this site and it was like a miracle that lifted our spirits. We are not out of the woods, but at least God has given us reasons for our thinking, behavior, depression, and hopelessness. Now, we would like to ask for prayers for our three children, who have children of their own. ... All this is too long to write in this post, but please ask for help for them, and for release from the pain they are enduring. Two have had a lot of counseling, but maybe not the kind that understands cult control. Thank you very, very much, and praise God for what you are doing. It may be a life net for millions.

Sincerely in Christ, --Former WCG member

Some  Counselors Hurt Survivors:

June 8, 2003

I have really enjoyed reading your recovery page because I can relate so well to the emotions and feelings you had/have. There is a part of me that wants to get therapy, but there is this part of me that is deathly afraid of anyone having authority over me and I'm also afraid of being told that what I am feeling isn't valid or strange. I have chatted with people online who also were in the WWCG and they went to therapy and were hurt worse than before they went in because the therapist didn't understand cults. I'm sure you have to be selective on who you choose to counsel you, but I am still too afraid to put that much trust in someone. I can discuss my feelings online to a degree much better than I can with face to face situations. --Child survivor of WCG

WCG's "Please Like Me" Syndrome:

June 13, 2003

The  "new " WCG  repents to the Baptists  and Catholics. Why? They would have continued with their religion regardless of what we had to say. It just made me feel they were acting just as immature with the attitude of, "please forgive me, other churches, for I have sinned against thee."  What ???!!!! What's going on here? They need to ask us for forgiveness because we are the ones who let ourselves think colleges other than Ambassador were worldly and therefore wrong. We are the ones who thought one of the great honors possible for an American citizen, that of serving this country in the military was wrong, because we couldn't "control life and death." No, we cannot control life or death, but what better way to honor this great country where we can have this free talk of religion than to help defend it. I entered Y.O.U. in 1984 and left in 1990 when I was 18. I have a lot of fond memories of my years in the WCG which I believe were good and pure, but this repenting to Catholics and taking communion makes me angry. I can't help but feel that the WCG went from being "called out" with problems to "will you please like me?" syndrome to other churches. That to me is a problem as well.  --Georgia

WCG Was a Bad Investment:

June 17, 2003

Thank-you for your informative and helpful site.

I left WCG when an Ambassador College Student, (they were treated like gold, while we were treated like mud) gave a sermon on staying in WCG in spite of all the changes because it was like an investment in our time and money. That's when I woke up and realized I had made a BAD investment and it was time to GET OUT!

Nobody really understands what we've been through unless they've been there too. The scars are real, painful, and we are still reeling from it all and it's been 6-7 years since we got out.

We have attended a Baptist church the last two Sundays and it has been like a balm to my soul. My spouse is still very cautious and unsure. But this is a BIG step for both of us. I realize now that we both need additional help if we're ever going to recover from WCG. Stumbling upon your web site just might be the start of our spiritual healing process. Thanks again! --Exiters of WCG

Child Survivor Deceived by the "Word-Faith" Movement:

June 25, 2003

Hello,

I found out about "Word-of-faith" movement and I thank you for telling me about it in the first place. I researched it on the Internet and it was only a short amount of time before I found out the truth. Thank you so much. I don't know if I would have ever known if you had not told me.

I feel like an idiot. Please tell me how to get over the sense of loss, and stupidity
that I feel right now. I know I'll find all the answers in the Bible. ... --Child survivor of WCG

I'm Trying to Survive the WCG:

July 11, 2003

I have just recently been able to find your site on the internet and have been pouring over it, crying, because I have seen my whole life in everyone else's stories. I grew up in the WCG from the early seventies until when I voluntarily left for a life of "shame"
at age 19. I have spent most of life feeling condemned to a life of sin, and have struggled with a feeling of there being absolutely no hope for me but desperately wanting to be assured I am worthy of God. My mother left the church eventually and now attends a "Sunday" church. I have been very angry and bitter towards her but have learned to let it go. Physically, I have everything that I have ever wanted or needed (a family, home etc) but spiritually I feel battered and scarred and searching for some explanation. I have been praying and think that God has directed me here. I wish that I could come into contact personally with other children of the church. Thanks. I'm HANGING IN THERE. --Child Survivor of WCG

I am Still Afraid:

July 11, 2003

I remember hearing that one of my best friends in the church had a beautiful little sister who committed suicide at 13. I think the pressures put on us contributed to that.

All of the basic knowledge of religion that I grew up with was based on fear and condemnation. I am still afraid. But I have decided to know truth, the closest example I have is the words of Jesus Christ in the Bible. I'm learning more about love and grace even though I have this cloud hanging over me from the past. I have a hard time believing or trusting anyone concerning religion, although I have been praying about it and I feel facing the impact of what the WCG had on my life will help.

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you. --Child survivor of WCG

Comment: The book, An Everlasting Love is helpful for understanding the true Jesus.
Update: Read our article, It's Hard to Get Close to God After Being in PCG (also helpful for survivors of WCG)

Your Site Has Been Like a Breath of Fresh Air!

July 18, 2003

Please understand this: There is nothing anyone can say that will change my favorable view of the great work you have been doing. Who else is trying to help the victims recover from the mistreatment of WCG and its splinters? None that I know of.

Also, Jesus Christ, the very Son of God, was hated for the great Work He was doing. Even He could not please the religious leaders and evil doers of His day. You and your work has been like a great breath of fresh air for those who have turned to you. Jesus Himself might have led them to your site. Wow !!! Isn't that great !!!!

Your detractors do not in the least faze me about your good works. I feel sure this is true of many you have held out a helping hand to. Your helping hand has reached out to many who have been drowning in their fears, confusion, abuse, distractions, loneliness, friendlessness and many concerns left by the abusiveness on the part of WCG. It seems the Spirit uses you in your quest to aid others in your selfless way for the aid of those still in need of help.

I thank God and I thank you for being there. You are an instrument of His.--Florida

Relief to Know Others Feel the Way I Do:

July 25, 2003

It really has been a remarkable relief and help to me to know that I am not alone and that others felt and feel just the way I do. The isolation of feeling so different from everyone I come in contact with in everyday life is not as crippling now that I know others share the pain and grief that I do. I already feel so much stronger and so much happier now that I have done so much research on cults and cult induced personality traits and understand why I reacted the way I did when I left. I still get depressed at times because it can be overwhelming and I feel like I will never be able to get rid of all that I have engrained in the back of my mind for 20 years while in the cult, but I feel like I'm a living and loving human being now instead of a robot. --Child survivor of WCG

WCG & Splinters Refuse to Accept Responsibility:

August 30, 2003

In my effort to "mend fences," I returned to the splinter church I just left to "visit" with its pastor. I tried to be as direct as I knew how to tell him that WCG was a poison that continues to infect its members including the pastor. His reply to me was, "That's ancient history, its been 30 years ago." (actually its been 22; we left WCG in 1980, but whatever)." The organization, he said, had its "problems" and that is why we left. Problems, oh my, what an understatement. I have come away from the "visit" more convinced than ever that he and his fellow "ministers" who were AC trained will not--except through a miracle of the Holy Spirit--take any real responsibility for all the pain caused to people like 19 year old Jordan. Moreover, he and his kind will continue to delude themselves into believing that all that WCG stuff is in the past, when the effects of their abuse continues to keep many in bondage. 

I pray that many more will find true freedom in Christ! --Former member of WCG splinter group

P.S. On a personal note, thank you for recommending the variety of "recovering from abuse" books. As you know, I have read several and each one helped me see the manipulation and Scripture twisting I came against during my "visit." Had I not read these books, I do believe I would have come away much worse that I did. Please keep doing what you do!

What Can You Tell Me About Robert Brinsmead?

August 30, 2003

What can you tell me about Robert Brinsmead? I spent most of last night reading his material and it seemed to be quite insightful. Was it ESN that was saying he later in life got off on some tangent? --Former WCG 

Reply: Brinsmead was a theologian who left the Seventh-day Adventist church in the 1960's due to disagreements. His past literature (he published Verdict in the 70's and 80's) and tapes on why Christians didn't need to observe the Sabbath looked/sounded very well written. In fact, the WCG leaders were sending copies of his articles to the entire WCG ministry around the time of the changes. But those that got caught up in his material noticed that Brinsmead was also "growing" in his understanding. In fact, he grew so much that he came to the radical conclusion that we "no longer need the Bible because Christ is the Word." Brinsmead, age 65, later went on to denounce the virgin birth of Christ and His blood atonement.

WCG Sounds a Lot Like International Church of Christ:

September 3, 2003

WCG Getting Into the Toronto Blessing?

September 9, 2003 

It looks as if WCG is getting into the Toronto Blessing. Very interesting indeed. --Canada

Comment: Harvest Rock Church in Pasadena, California (formerly known as Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Greater Pasadena) has offered to buy the Ambassador Campus. They are known as a Pentecostal Charismatic renewal movement and their worship style is known as the "Toronto blessing." WCG is totally immersed in the ecumenical and modern Charismatic movement today, and mixes regularly with new evangelicals. Update: WCG sold a portion of AC to Maranatha High School and Harvest Rock Church (May 14, 2004).

Interview With GTA Printed in Hustler Magazine:

September 16, 2003

I never had to serve under GTA, so I only know from hearsay what kind of minister he was. But he sure let the entire world know what kind of man he was. I first heard of GTA in the 1970's before I had any interest in the Worldwide church. He had done an interview with Larry Flynt which was published in Hustler magazine. When a magazine such as that finds plenty to write about on a person's decadent lifestyle, someone needs to wake up and smell the coffee!! I'm sure the church members were virtually unaware of this article, since Hustler would not have been on the approved reading list.

I didn't wish him dead, but I'm not mourning his passing either. --Former member of PCG

Utter Blinding Deception:

September 16, 2003

It is very important that we seek the grace to forgive. I am convinced we cannot do it on our own strength. HWA, GTA and AC establishment totally warped my personality for decades. Even now I am sometimes plagued with remnants of inferiority and rejection for not having "made it" in "the work."

However, in spite of all that, they and their system are forgiven, and my eyes are opened to the utter blinding deception that has been overlaid on the eyes of most of humanity. The "deceiving spirits and doctrines of devils" are alive and well. I would not trade anything for the experience in WCG. Having been cloned in that spirit for years, it doesn't take me too long before I can pick up on a cultic spirit--even, believe it or not, in Christian circles.

The only solution is trusting Jesus, the Head, the ONLY HEAD, of the church. Controlling organizational structures like the old WCG and others will someday all disappear. Oh come Lord Jesus!!! --Former WCG member

Can Empathize Better With Others Now:

September 20, 2003

One thing that did come out of the grieving process for me was a much improved ability to empathize with others having severe life challenges. But then, I guess that is what you are doing at the website!! It's not about getting even, or being bitter, it's about getting on with our lives and trying to help others do the same.

Keep it up, it does help. --Former WCG member

Thought WCG Was Moving Into Grace:

September 29, 2003

Hi: I have just found your pages. Amazing. I have been duped all these years. Thirty to be exact. I thought we [present WCG] were moving into grace. Now I see things that have been started in our area fit right in with what has been written: Seeking new members; moving to another building and changing our name; evangelizing. I am anxious and not sure what to do next. I have friends and my husband has friends. We don't want to lose them. The new location is far from us so we can fade slowly into the woodwork. But it is hard to wait. I want to do something now. Can you send me your literature to help me? I have been reading your site for about a week steady. Thank you for putting so much effort into this. --Canada

The WCG Has Changed Little in Their Tactics:

October 3, 2003

While its true that the WCG is letting the members make up their own mind, [should this be?] and their statement of beliefs states that they don't hold any position on hell, they write in their news paper and Plain Truth magazine all the time saying the reverse of what they write. This, of course, sends all kinds of mixed messages to their members. Mike Feazell, in fact, wrote an article basically condemning any doctrine that taught that a person is lost if he dies without salvation. Does this sound like a church that does not hold any particular doctrine towards hell, as their statement of belief says.

The Plain Truth wrote an article that condemned basically any denomination that taught that those that die unconverted are destined to hell. They said, "The God of the Bible would not do that."

I wrote to Steve Brown's Ministry, he writes articles in the Plain Truth, to ask him what he thought about it. He said he was not happy, and was surprised that they wrote such things.

Unfortunately I did not save these articles, but just check around to the other members that recently left, they will confirm what I'm saying is true. This is one big reason why those that excepted WCG into the main stream evangelical community jumped the gun. They should have watched them for a while, they should have gotten in touch with ex members, they should have viewed some of the stuff WCG was pointing out to their membership. What they say and print for people outside the membership and what they say to the members is quite different.

They say in their statement of belief that tithing is none essential for salvation and is no longer commanded, yet they tell their membership, "the tithing laws are not commanded, now you are free to give 10%, 20%, 30%, even 40%." Along with this they throw out the thought that anyone that is not giving to the church "just maybe, is not saved." I heard them once say, "anyone who has left the Worldwide Church of God does not have the heart of God."

The WCG has, in fact, changed little in their tactics, they still use a certain amount of mind control., they still go on the attack towards anyone that questions them, or who sheds a bad light on their business, and that in my opinion is exactly what it is, a business.

Most of these comments I heard with my own ears while I attended there, that is why I left, because they sent out mixed messages and did not make a stand. I thought at the time it was they didn't know, but now I can see that there is something deeper then that. --John Miller, Jr.

Read John's letters to HQ: WCG and Their Universalism Views and Worldwide Church of God and Their Evolutionary Views.

Christ Led Us Out of a Spiritual Wasteland:

October 4, 2003

Funny how we all thought "churchianity" was deceived, but we had "the truth." In reality it was quite the opposite. I've often thought about Christ's Olivet prophecy, where the very first thing he warned his followers about was being deceived by those who would use his name, as you said, to exploit people.

The Armstrongs wanted to be famous biblical figures, like Elijah or Joshua the High Priest. They got their wish, but not quite as expected. They fulfilled the prophecy of Jesus that predicted some would come in his name and deceive many. To me that's their only legacy. Like the story of the sheep in Ezekiel 34, Christ led many of us out of a spiritual wasteland to be directly cared for by Himself.. I'd love to see the tithes and offerings given to remaining cult leaders like Meredith just dry up because of having their flocks leave in droves. --Oregon

Experiencing True Godly Grace Saved My Life:

October 9, 2003

Once again, I'm searching your site, reading stories from fellow child survivors of WWCG (and its many mutations). I feel such a bond of sympathy with those suffering because of the mind altering teachings known as "Armstrongism." Having spent 35 years of my 37 years on earth as a member of either WWCG or a splinter group, I know all about the pain, especially the childhood memories of being so different and having to defend our weird beliefs at every turn. But I am here to say, though I have only been gone from the splinter group for six months, I have experienced SUCH freedom! I don't think I truly understood the burdens we bore--the burden of perfectionism, of image, of "religious" purity to name a few--until gone from the "church." 

Since leaving, my self-image has taken a definite turn upward. I no longer torture myself with self-doubt, or worry endlessly about "doing the right thing". Now I focus on being the right person, not just looking like I'm "holy." Experiencing true godly grace has saved my life! My health was beginning to suffer from all the years of stress, anxiety and worry that have been my companions since childhood! I certainly cannot say I have now found all the answers, but I KNOW I have found THE answer and that is to rest in Jesus! Only by knowing that one cannot have all the answers, neatly packaged in a booklet or "sermon" or bible study, can one come to know real faith. And faith is not what you believe, it is Who you believe and therein lies the difference between Armstrong legalism and grace! I pray that all those suffering from past, present and future pain caused by this evil cult will find the real Jesus and rest in HIM. --Child survivor of WCG

Your Website Has Helped More Than You Can Know:

October 15, 2003

I want to thank you for creating this site, it has already helped me more than I can begin to thank you for.

I was born into the WCG, I left when in my early twenties. I am now in my early thirties and just recently I have sought professional help with a therapist. I had no idea what was wrong with me, I only knew that I wasn't right. After my first session, I was unable to sleep that night, so I grabbed my laptop and went online. Something I must have stirred up in that first session caused me to run a search on the WCG. Then I found your website. It's very difficult to describe the emotions that came out, but I will do my best. I found the child survivor page and began to read. I was up ALL night. I broke down several times. Relief, sadness, joy, anger, many conflicting emotions. I wept as I read some of the others stories. I thought I was the only one that was going through this. My therapist has suggested that I contact others that have been through this also and I also think that is a good idea. 

I just ordered about ten books from the booklist and anticipate them arriving soon. Words cannot fully express my gratitude to you for creating this site. ... Please use my name. Thank you again, --Jim

Ryan Dobson Is More Than Meets the Eye:

October 18, 2003

I'm always interested in learning what the Dobsons are up to. From your site I learned that Ryan Dobson [James Dobson's son] divorced in 2001. I see by surfing the net that he is now a 30 something surfer dude and skate-boarder who is a chaplain intern at a certain Casady School (I don't know where that is but they seem to be well-heeled); he is on a list of so-called Christian speakers; he's got a book out from Multnomah Press, he tours with an EXTREME SPORTS / CHRISTIAN ROCK MUSIC / EXTRAVAGANZA, and women's groups pay him to speak to their groupies. His bio actually presents him as a guy who is a southern California surfer and skateboarder. Maybe his ex-wife didn't like being married to a perennial teenager/surfer dude. Lucky for him his famous Dad enables him to make a living in this way. I wonder who wrote his book? --From one who has been exploring ESN's site

Reply: Ryan Dobson, son of James Dobson is a member of the Council for National Policy (CNP) Youth Council. He is also an employee of the Family Research Council. The CNP is mentioned several times in: Let's Focus in on "Focus on the Family".

The Pain Has Never Gone Away:

October 30, 2003

I just found your site and wanted to let you know that my life is still a mess and the pain has never gone away. I was a teen when we went to the church and we were known as one of the older families in Ohio. All that happened when I grew up can never be replaced. I was put out at age 20 and no one really cared, but I can't go on
because of the memories that come back. I will be back to your site again. --R. B.

Now Out of WCG - Thanks!

October 30, 2003

I'm now out of WCG, thanks to your valuable info. Am anxious to read more OIUs newsletters. ...

Sincerely and prayerfully, --Virginia

You Are Doing Excellent Work:

November 7, 2003

Thank you for the excellent work you are doing on your website. As a former member of the Worldwide Church of God, I am especially appreciative. ...

With love, --Former member of WCG

Your In-Depth Analysis Helpful:

November 16, 2003

Thank you for the in depth analysis of the responses of WCG to exiters. I would have never recognized some of the responses I am getting. From someone who knew the depravity of the leaders and have moved on in the WCG I would have blamed myself for not being able to do that. From someone who says, yes, but look at the good that happened to you and that this is a trial to test you. My answer is, no it isn't. God doesn't test me like that. That was the explanation of WCG to bad experiences of the sheep. Thank you. --Anonymous

Amazed and Incredulous:

November 21, 2003

I was recently directed to your site, and am amazed and incredulous at what I have read. I appreciate what you are doing. I have sent everyone I am concerned about, who can, to go look at your site. --Former member

Thought I Was Alone in My Feelings:

November 21, 2003

I was raised in the WCG (from age 3) and I cannot tell you how much your website has helped. I thought I was alone in my feelings of discomfort at attending a "mainstream" church. I thought something was wrong with me that I couldn't sit through a traditional service without wanting to run for the door. I would like to speak with other child survivors - survivor is the right word for it! Luckily for me and my brother, our parents (our mother especially) didn't take all the "teachings" to heart. We went to the doctor when we were sick, etc. But I know some of the kids in our church were abused and had drug problems, etc. I am also unnerved because my brother is now visiting the "new" WCG. Thanks again for a wonderful website. --Child survivor of WCG

Schnippert Setting Up Another Church Fund:

November 24, 2003

Have you heard that Bernie Schnippert is developing another fund under his name to hold the funds made from the sale of houses on the grounds? Is this true and can't he be stopped? --Anonymous

Comment: He is setting up a fund which he will have pretty much exclusive charge of. This is said to be a "separate entity" from the WCG and is to have it's own board of directors, with Schnippert on the board. The sale of church property, including the campus, is to go into it. The Worldwide News stated that these houses will sell for $1 million dollars (some for even more).  

Just Realized There Was Abuse in the WCG:

November 29, 2003

I was in the WWCG from childhood until recently. I have just read your page Children Raised in Worldwide Church of God. I read it thinking that it would help me understand my daughter better, but I saw myself in that article. I started to realize a few years ago that there was abuse in the WWCG, and that it had affected me, but I was up almost all night reading, and thinking about how deep and how far back this abuse goes. I've had several revelations since yesterday, about why things are so messed up in my life. I had really dug into the past and discovered a lot of sources of pain, but last night I think I had some real breakthroughs. I will be looking at the website regarding books to read. I have a lot of work to do.

I'm in touch with a couple of former members from time to time. The people I'm in touch with who are still members all have a lot of questions and some are thinking of leaving, or in the process. I'm trying to encourage them to question things, and use their minds, instead of being sheep. I haven't attended services for several years, due to physical handicaps. The last time I was there, was this summer for my Dad's funeral. Haven't been back since. My husband and I have disagreed with the dictatorship mentality for over a decade, so we started to question things a long time ago.

My husband is also dealing with this right now, and is very angry about how we were used by the church. He was in the WWCG for almost as long as I was, but was older when he joined. He has just made his decision not to go back, ever. 

Thank you for your help. --E. B.

Another Controlling "One True Church":

November 29, 2003

Having left after 17 years a very controlling "one true" church [Church of God in Christ, Mennonite], where generations after generations stay, we now operate an outreach web site: http://www.theholdemans.com/index.htm

We have just compiled quotes from other "one true" churches to show the similarities of their tactics. Can you suggest where we can find quotes or testimonies of ex-members we might post?

Thank you, and may God bless your outreach for Christ. --W. S.

Comment: His article is Comparing the One True Churches. 

Reading Worldwide News is Like Eating From a Garbage Can:

November 29, 2003

I'm an ex-WCG member (two years out ) living happily in an AOG [Assembly of God] church (how's that for a leap!), being empowered by God to Live in Christ. I'm trying very hard every day to think correctly - not WCG style. Whenever I check the WWN on the internet I feel (later) as though I've been eating from a garbage can.

Answer this! Just what does WCG's "God" exactly do with His time? Little or nothing it seems--compared to all the Spirit-filled ministries in other denominations.

Bless you. --B. G.

P. S. I could write more, but don't want to have flash backs.

Sexual Abuser Protected by WCG Minister:

December 5, 2003

I personally knew of a young lady in the Modesto, California WCG church who told me that there was a man in their congregation who had molested several children, including her. The minister knew about it, but kept silent over it until several children had become his victims. This sexual abuser was protected instead of being put out of the church. The entire situation was handled in a very bad way. --Former WCG member

Read: Stepfather was a Sexual Abuser in the WCG While a Deacon (8-9-05 letter)

GTA's "Golden Voice":

December 6, 2003

I was somewhat enamored of GTA's golden voice over the radio in the late 60's, early 70's, as a young teenager, raised in a conservative Lutheran family. He was very seductive and sounded like he knew what he was talking about. Looking back, his goal
was obviously to shake people up, to get them to question the authorities in their respective churches so that he could hook them on his teaching through his free booklets, of which I still have practically all of them in my attic.
Thank you. --Wisconsin

WCG Leadership Becomes Bolder:

December 13, 2003

It just amazes me how bold WCG leadership has become, and how no one in the Christianity community bats an eye. The old saying... "Say it loud enough and often enough, and it becomes the Truth"... is reality for WCG. And the Christian can be so smug and not think they are deceived. --Former WCG member

Comment: The numbers in WCG congregations continue to decline as more are leaving. There are still a few discerning Christian ministries which have not been deceived by WCG changes.

WCG Lacking in So Much:

December 13, 2003

Hello, and thank you from the bottom of my muddled heart for your site. I now know I'm not alone in my puzzlement.

I was baptised shortly after HWA's death, and have been a member up until this past year. I can relate to the biblical brainwashing of HWA's heyday, but also have ridden the roller coaster of change, change, and more change these last 17 years. I finally came to my senses when I realized that Christ has so much in store for my life that WCG could never assist me in achieving.

I have doubted the sincerity of the church for probably the last 10 years at least. I have toyed with leaving for the past 5-6, but couldn't bring myself to "disobey" my husband or bring disharmony to my children. After spending nearly the past 2 days immersed in your website, I am wracked with guilt over why I didn't trust my instincts and leave long ago. What have I put my innocent kids through?! How do I help them heal? How do I make peace with the hundreds of people I have alienated? How do I make sense of this season for my life? How could I have been so gullible?

When I left, I started regularly attending a church that our family has had association with for 7 years through their Vacation Bible School program. My original intent was to fulfill my children's Christian education needs, as the WCG was blaringly lacking in our local congregation. I love my new church; though it's doctrines aren't fully in line with my ways of thinking, I can attribute that to being fallible humans. What draws me to them is their devotion to fulfilling God's Commandment/Commission, and their ability to nurture ME as a sister of Christ. At WCG, I always felt I was 2nd class (behind the men, of course!). ....

I am receiving excellent counseling. I have made many life-changing decisions in the last year or so. I am on my own "right track."  I thank God as often as I can that because of Christ's redeeming blood, I am made whole. But I am still scarred, and I'm still scared: scared to speak against "the church" to my husband, to assert my individual and feminine opinion, to cause a schism in my family, to expose the truth. I pray for strength and courage, and am so grateful for yours! ...

I appreciate all the information and resources you maintain, and I am so grateful God has led me to your site. I want to get past the bitterness and get on with the abundant life that Christ died for me for.

May God continue to richly bless you! --Former WCG member

What I Discovered in Therapy:

December 20, 2003

To all at ESN:

It has been 8 months now since I broke all ties with WCG and its splinter groups (my parents joined when I was 2, then joined the splinter when I was 15 and I am now 38). Due to my experiences with the "COG" brand of "religion, as well as lots of family issues, I have been seeing a therapist for about three months.

The reason I give you this background is something I, just this week, discovered in therapy: That the "church" gave my mother--and I would add, many others of like personality--permission to live their lives in the dark, controlled by fear, just as your answer to "why people remain in these groups" stated! ...

ALL COG's teach, either directly or by implication, that it is what we DO---in compliance with their version of "do"--that makes our light shine. However, I am learning that it is WHO we are---a child of God, made to shine in HIS glory--that allows us to be that "beacon on a hill" that we have all heard preached at us. So to all who, like me, are making the choice to walk in HIS light instead of the "COG light," I say, DREAM IN COLOR, LIVE IN COLOR--which God Himself has created us to be, and then HIS light, through you, will be seen.

--Tina (Child survivor of WCG)

P.S. Thank you again ESN, for all you do! It is through your words of comfort and truth, which have given me courage to seek the light! God bless you all!!

Loved One in Living Church of God:

December 27, 2003

My daughter recently married a "member" of the Living Church of God. At first I was not concerned about the unusual teachings. I have always been a tolerant individual. But recently, some "red flags" have gone up. It seems to me that my new son-in-law is trying to alienate my daughter from her family, but he is doing it very gradually. As long as he is not around his fellow church members too often, he is not too bad, but when he has had prolonged contact with them, it seems so different.

I need advice. How do I handle this? Is there anything I can do? I fear the worst: that he has been brain-washed and that slowly but surely, my daughter is being brainwashed as well.

I would appreciate any help you could give. --M. T.

Read: If You Have a Loved One in a Deceptive, Exploitive Group 

Wonderful How I Found ESN's Website!

December 28, 2003

I would like to tell you about how we found your website. We never attended any churches since leaving WWCG and floundered for years. We found this one small organization called The Christian Bible Society. They had this material saying they found out about Bible translations and they re-translated the Bible themselves over a 16 year period. We corresponded with them by mail for awhile asking Biblical questions, but they would not talk to us by phone or let us know where they were located. It was really weird. All the while, I was praying to God for his help in understanding. We finally gave up writing to them because it seemed God was telling us to stay away. I continued to pray. One night I was praying and said to God, "Father, since I was 4 years old I have been trying to find you. Please help me, I just don't know what to do anymore!" No one knew about my prayer except God. Right after that my oldest child started telling me that I needed a computer. I said no, I don't and she said yes, you do! I told her I couldn't afford one and didn't know a thing about them! She said I'll give you mine. I said no. Well, this went on for few days. She kept insisting that I really needed a computer. We finally gave in. It wasn't about more than a day later after we hooked up the computer that we found your website by accident. I didn't even know how to use a computer! My husband and I were astounded. We read article after article. One of the first articles we read was, What Were the Lies and What is the Truth? I just sat there and cried. You see it was I who wanted to go to the WWCG. I was the one who read all their material. My husband never wanted to go. He only went because of me. It was about 10 years to the day from when we left the WWCG. Wow! Isn't Jesus wonderful? Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. I found out later, as a result of your website and some of the links you had on the Bible, that what The Christian Bible Society publishes is just a rehash of the NIV [New International Version].

P.S. We like Vernon McGee a lot and we are so grateful we found him on your website. 

--Former WCG member, Missouri

Comment: (Read this person's first email to ESN.) The site mentioned uses such words as "great discovery," "truth revealed," "God is calling you into action," "You've waited long enough for the whole truth," etc. HWA used such phrases and also always kept hidden what was really behind his program--the Worldwide Church of God--only saying to write to "Herbert W. Armstrong," or "The World Tomorrow." 

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