Letter Archives

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Ron Fraser Back in PCG:

January 2, 2008

One of my contacts (not sticking to the PCG no-contact ruling) has just told me that Ron Fraser is now back at PCG services. Gerald Flurry brought him back only two weeks after the announcement of his suspension. [Read Dec. 2007 letter to ESN: Three Big Announcements] Flurry must have either realized his worth or else he would have seen that having Fraser on the outside would cause irreparable damage on the inside. Flurry cannot afford more losses after recently losing so many ministers, deacons and members. Why would Flurry announce someone's suspension? I was a long time WCG and PCG member and I cannot remember suspensions ever being announced, not even when the church was "off track" in the 70's. Is this Flurry's new way of humiliating his ministers (and members) that don't tow the line? --Former member of WCG and PCG

Ron Fraser's Column Has Been Replaced:

January 2, 2008

I noticed while I was prowling through the latest Philadelphia News, that Ron Fraser's column has been replaced by a column written by Stephen Flurry.

It's possible that Fraser has been sufficiently humiliated [since his suspension] and has been boot-licking and brown-nosing enough to have the suspension lifted. As to why GF would announce any headquarters minister's suspension is anyone's guess. But I do know that this week also starts the PCG's minister's conference, which may have something to do with Fraser's return.  --S. L.

Flurry Begins Online Ministry Similar to Dave Pack's:

January 2, 2008

GF is changing the way that the PCG is handling some of their affairs to come more in line with Restored Church of God. For example,  GF is beginning an online ministry like Dave Pack's, focusing on the internet. Last year, the PCG through a young man named Brad McDonald, began emailing a report about current world affairs to members called "INRs" or "International News Reports." They're basically reports of all the bad news that's going on around the world pointing to the coming Kingdom of God. Now, the PCG is sending a weekly email of The Trumpet to members. It would seem that the internet is a cheaper way to get reading materials out than the printed word. --L. C.

The Return of Ron Fraser:

January 8, 2008

Ron Fraser is now back "in the fold" and I wonder if he will be as highly thought of now. People won't have the same respect for him now that they know GRF is not pleased with him. It must have been a big sin. GRF, for whatever reason, puts his ministers out for awhile and they are never the same. It seems as though GRF likes to either degrade them, like Dennis Leap and Alex Harrison, by taking their high profile status away, as one person put it "to give them a slap" or put them out so that all the brethren know they are "out of favour." This is GRF playing power or mind games again. Ron Fraser, like Dennis Leap, will be confined to an office just writing. GRF will keep them away from ministering but will have to keep them on because: (A) they know too much and (B) they are good writers. Ron Fraser will always tow the line cause GRF employs most of his family; he won't want to upset things there. But no doubt GRF will be looking to retire him as soon as he can. That will happen when the youngsters have been trained well enough to take over. I don't think Frank Borg is back though. No one has seen him. His "sin" must have been greater than Ron Fraser's! --X WCG, X PCG

Comment: Members are taught that suspensions are "a form of correction," but suspensions that are announced are also a public humiliation. Humiliation, guilt, shame, and fear are methods used by Flurry to cause members to do what he demands. Update: Dennis Leap is now "director of public relations for PCG."

PCG Has Tore Our Marriage Apart:

January 10, 2008

I so thankful that someone like you has posted a site about this "cult"--The Philadelphia Church of God. This group has ruined my marriage and the life of my husband.

My husband "John" and I were Baptist and had joined a church together in our area. About a year later, a man who John knew at his work began debating with him about the Bible. John has always been an intelligent man (or so everyone thought) so he would come home so angry about this guy at work telling him things about the Bible that went against everything we believed. When trying to prove this guy wrong, John got frustrated and began reading some of the literature from the PCG. He started reading things about HWA and to make a long story short, now three years later he has joined this "cult"! It has tore our marriage apart, I can't live with him anymore. We have been through turmoil over his new beliefs, and we finally separated for good two days before Christmas when he had invited two of the members from PCG to our home on Christmas Eve for his final "interview" to join.

These people put him off for three years until they had him brainwashed enough to accept him. I've lost my husband and before we separated I begged him to look at what they were doing. I tried to make him see that if they were truly God's chosen people they would not be tearing apart families. God does not tear apart families. I told him I felt like he was dying from a disease and there was nothing I could do to stop it.

I pray that more people will see your site before it too late. I sent John a link to your site and he just got mad and said I was just putting down what he believed in. He can't even see love anymore.

If you think there is anything you can say to him to help him I will give you his contact information. He has only begun to start going to meetings. Maybe something you can say or tell him to watch for will open his eyes. I feel like it is a really long shot but it might save him from this. It might not.

If you can't, I understand, but I wanted you to know how much your site is appreciated!

God Bless You! --Impacted by PCG

Comment: ESN does not email members unless they have personally requested it.

Construction for "House of God" Has Begun:

January 11, 2008

On the front page of the latest Philadelphia News, there is a picture of heavy equipment and construction, and the accompanying story says that they have broken ground on the new auditorium. So, it has begun.

Personally, I've seen the artist's rendering of the new auditorium and I think it's a monstrosity that looks more like a mausoleum than any "house of god." --Anonymous

Jacob Toews Resigned From Board Due to Corruption:

January 26, 2008

This is in regard to Jacob Toews in Canada being marked last December (read letter: Three Big Announcements in PCG).

Toews was appointed to be on a board of directors that the PCG formed to run its taxation and financial dealings. (This was to comply with the Canadian tax and charity laws.) He attended one meeting and resigned because he saw it was corrupt and just an intent to comply with the laws. He also said that the PCG is being audited by the tax department in Canada, South Africa and England. As a result, he did a lot of thinking and left the PCG. A few days later he received a letter from Headquarters telling him he was "suspended and marked." Gerald Flurry makes the rules now. Toews has now gone with Restored Church of God. --Informer in Canada

Comment: To see the horrific spiritual abuse and exploitation going on in RCG read ESN's: Exposé of "Clarion Call—The Time is Now!" (Pt. 2) (Includes excerpts from "The 1335 Days—What Most Will Never Hear" - Pt. 1).

PCG Inflated Tithe Receipt:

January 29, 2008

I'd say that Mr. Toews was correct in his assumption about the state of affairs in the PCG's financial department. Last year, my member mate's tithe receipt from PCG headquarters was inflated over $1000 (even he said it was wrong). --T. F.

Your Site Changed My Life For the Better:

February 3, 2008

Thanks for your help and support over the years. I was real glad when I found this site as it has changed my life for the better. I have lots more money now and am out of debt, too. It is nice to be free from man. I hope you are well. --Australia

Ministerial Updates:

February 8, 2008

I spoke to someone who attended Sabbath Services in Edmond during the PCG ministerial conference last month. It is true that Ron Fraser and his son Gareth are both back in the PCG as non-active ministers; however, I noticed that there are none of Fraser's articles posted on the PCG website. Flurry probably allowed him back to deflect criticism, but is still making sure that Ron Fraser feels the sting of his whip. Why he would humiliate one of the better assets he had is anyone's guess. The region that was being looked after by Ron Fraser has now been given to Alex Harrison. I also heard that Dennis Leap has been reinstated into the ministry.

Someone posted a message on your website a few weeks ago about the suspension of Craig and Colleen Winters. This is not correct and they were in Edmond for the conference. Other ministers who are usually at the conference such as Frank Garcia and Serafin Icasiano were conspicuously absent this time. Does anyone know what has become of these ministers? --Ex WCG/PCG member

Comment: Does this reminds anyone of the time when WCG ministers were kicked out or left in the 70's when they spoke up to HQ about certain things or asked too many questions? It's hard to say exactly what is going on in PCG, but many aren't happy.

Herman Barkei, Walter Barkei and Serafin Icasiano:

Gerald Flurry Now Tying the Books of Chronicles in with Revelation:

February 11, 2008

A sermon that had been given by Gerald Flurry at the ministerial conference at headquarters was played at services this past Sabbath. The sermon was over two hours long, and still wasn't played in its entirety. GF is now tying the books of First and Second Chronicles in with Revelation to make it "end-time prophecy." Personally, I'm wondering if GF will begin trying to make the Table of Contents and the Concordance into "end-time prophecy." It's beginning to look like he's scraping the bottom of the barrel for material to call "new revelation." -- S. L.

Flurry Appealing For More Money:

March 7, 2008

PCG members received a 5 or 6 page letter from their HQ toward the end of February. It was an appeal from GF for more money for the new "House for God." (Reminded me of HWA's co-worker letters for his "House for God")

Ministers Who Burden the Flock:

March 8, 2008

I remember a few years back when we where in the PCG they sent out pledge cards to everyone as well. We never sent ours in. I thought that was rude of them. Here we are struggling to make it day to day and they burden the people wanting more and more. God speaks of ministers who burden their flock. He hates these ministers who do that to His people. We were in the PCG for 10 years and have seen a lot. My feeling is let all the ministers work without a wage for a few months and they will have all the money they need. They get their free housing and free food at the college cafeteria and free day care at headquarters, so surely they can let their pay can go for a few months to help the church out. When I saw the homes that these ministers get and how I have to live in a dump to just make it, it appalled me. --Former member of PCG

PCG Ministers Have No Clue How to Live By Faith:

March 8, 2008

The PCG ministers get a lot of "freebies." Yet they dare to tell us members that "we don't live by faith" if we don't tithe, send in a pledge, etc. We're the ones living by faith from paycheck to paycheck. They have no clue how to live that way. --North Carolina

Frank Borg Has Gone With Church of God's Faithful:

March 10, 2008

One of my relatives in the Church of God's Faithful told me that Robert Ardis, the Pastor General, announced that Mr. Frank Borg resigned from the PCG, and last Sabbath Ardis read out the resignation letter he sent to Gerald Flurry. Frank Borg is now a CGF member and minister. I don't know what is happening with his wife. It must be hard for her with two children and her father being Winston Davis and her brother being Brian Davis. I bet Mr. Flurry, "That Prophet" didn't see this coming when he ordained Mr. Borg! I know that a few PCG members are in touch with those in the CGF. The church grapevine is still very active! --Former WCG and PCG member

These People Are the Same Old, Same Old:

March 13, 2008

I know (or I should say I knew) Frank Borg and Sandra (Davis) Borg and Brian Davis and Winston and Cheryl Davis and Robert Ardis pretty well. I was actually baptized by Ardis in 1995 and Winston Davis used to be my minister. I had spent the night at Winston's a few different times down in Lake City, SC and knew Brian and Sondra well. I could tell you guys lots of stuff about those days but I guess I shouldn't in public. Back then Sondra was still single and Brian was not an ordained anything and Winston was a logger. Gordon Davis was still alive too (Winston's dad).

It never ceases to amaze me that these people are still at the same old, same old. I have long since moved on and frankly hardly even think about the cults anymore. But when I read about names I know, it all comes rushing back. I was never as unhealthy as when I was in the PCG cult and honestly I was never as stressed out either. Hopefully Frank Borg will smarten up and leave the Ardis cult too. But I fear that most of these people after a while stay in these cults just to make a living. What else do they know? I mean can you imagine Gerald Flurry doing anything else at this point? Hardly. He and all of the "ministers" who are used to getting their handouts will always find enough reason to believe as they do.

Happy to be free, from NC [name withheld by request]

PCG a Money-Making Racket:

April 3, 2008

I can understand the fears of some who have family in PCG. Unfortunately, with the controlling COG's being so secretive, imaginations run wild (even mine has in the past). Thanks to your clear-headed and the information on ESN, though, I'm not panicky and worrying about a Jonestown or Waco scenario. The bottom line is, the PCG is a money-making racket for the upper-ups at headquarters, mimicking methods of mind and people-control. Once one realizes what the PCG and other Armstrong groups truly are, the more their mind will be at ease. --Have a loved one in PCG

Have No Choice But to Mourn and Go On:

April 4, 2008

I am aware that there are two families in Tasmania who lost children and grandchildren to PCG. It was actually 3 or 4 years ago (there are only a small number of members in Tasmania anyway). As a result, they suffered health problems, but all four of them are getting on with their life now. They have the occasional down day, as you would expect. But they have put it behind them. Of course, all of them would like their family back, but it has been nearly 4 years and they have done the mourning and are moving on--mainly because they have no choice. In their darkest hours (a few years ago) they did wonder about a Waco type scenario. But since then, they don't consider it likely. All Flurry wants is power and money. He will get neither if he does anything else. --Australia

I Applaud You For Taking a Stand and Offering  a Helping Hand:

April 5, 2008

Max Rumler Loses Big Tithe Payer in Australia:

April 5, 2008

Max Rumler managed to lose one of the biggest tithe payers in Australia for the PCG last feast. I bet that went down well! He had multiple disagreements with this person, suspended him for almost a year (but not his wife); then had another verbal disagreement, so the person finally told Max where to stick the PCG. I doubt lack of his money would go unnoticed and I doubt it got Max a brownie point. -- Australia

Mrs. Marvin Campbell Dies:

April 6, 2008

An announcement was made one week ago that Mrs. Marvin Campbell had died of an "intestinal blockage." The announcement was confirmed by the Philadelphia News.

Members were shocked by the unexpected news. They had not received a request for prayer prior to her death. I do not know if the condition may have appeared quickly and then deteriorated rapidly.

The members have been comparing her death to that of Loma Armstrong. It is dangerous to be a minister's wife in the PCG, or any of the other controlling splinters, such as David Pack's RCG. Though many people may know of the death of Mrs. Gerald Flurry on September 5, 2004 and the recent death of Mrs. David Pack (RCG) on July 22, 2007, there are other deaths less well known. In fact, I have known personally of several wives of ministers and deacons who have died of several forms of cancer, or various illnesses and maladies. --Former Member WCG/ PCG

Comment: Members are comparing her death to Loma Armstrong, because that is what they are programmed to do. They don't stop and ask why these people are dying.

Number of Members in PCG?

April 19, 2008

Are there any new demographics for the number of members of the PCG as of 2008? Are they gaining or losing membership? Thankfully, I'm a nearly healed former member of WCG and two of its splinter groups. I'll be fully healed when my mother is free of PCG, which isn't likely. --Name withheld

Reply: No one knows the exact number, as that is kept well hidden. But we do know they are losing members (as are most all of the splinters).

Ways I Suffered Spiritually Because of PCG:

May 1, 2008

Thank you for writing. I accessed your sites and really received helpful information. I had noticed that even though I didn't join PCOG, their literature left a "filter" in my mind through which everything seems to flow. Even reading daily devotional books like The Daily Bread made mental comments pop up like "there no 3rd person in the trinity" or "grace isn't totally free, you have to obey or God won't bless you" or celebrating Christmas was sinful. I'm thankful that God is helping me recognize these thoughts when they pop up, and to replace the "filter" with the truth of His Word. As I read your information, more things come to light about just how damaging even a little bit of this propaganda can be, and I really appreciate the help your ministry is giving.

Another area in which I suffered spiritually was that it interfered with my ability to pray for others. PCOG teaches that only certain people are "called" and will receive salvation when Christ returns to earth. The rest of the people will hear Him preach the gospel and decide whether or not to accept it, and Jesus will rule over them with an iron hand and make them all obey these "laws." Therefore, it's really useless to pray for anyone on this side except for the PCOG leaders.

They also squelch any personal talents saying that only the leaders are gifted to write or teach or encourage. I had been seeking an outlet for some of the things that I believe the Lord had inspired me to write a number of years before my involvement with PCOG, a copy of which I had forwarded to you. Maybe I was looking for approval, but not in a prideful way. I wanted to serve my God and be used by Him. I was looking for spiritual confirmation that the work was truly inspired by the Holy Spirit and that it could possibly be used to help others. Before PCOG, others with whom it was shared always found a blessing, and by this time in my involvement with PCOG, many doubts were surfacing and I wasn't convinced that this group had the same "Spirit." I think I was "testing the spirits" as the Bible says we should do. Anyway, his response was "well, that's very descriptive," and changed the subject. There is no validation of any possibility of gifts in their members--the emphasis is only on the "leader" and his calling. Everyone else must abdicate any talents to him.

I will continue reading your most helpful information, and I thank God that He has shown me there is work to do before I am completely free from this bondage. Again, God bless you for your wonderful work.

Your sister in Christ, "Camille" (author of Rescued From Philadelphia Church of God)

It Takes a Long Time to Get Armstrong's Brainwashing Out of Our Minds:

May 5, 2008

I am so thankful for people like "Camille" that open their hearts to people about their experience with PCG/Armstrongism. The lying spirits in the Armstrong groups continue to wreck havoc on innocent, well-meaning people seeking God. I am a child survivor of Armstrongism in the 1970's/early 1980's. Most of my young life was wasted on the very thing that "Camille" mentions in her letter--the constant filtering of information through the Armstrong doctrine. Armstrongites need a man to guide them because their doctrine is the doctrine of men. Armstrongites do not acknowledge the Holy Spirit as Deity nor do they acknowledge the Holy Spirit as our guide, our comforter, our teacher. Years ago I left Armstrongism and was still searching for the "true church." It is amazing how long it takes to get Armstrong's brainwashing out of one's mind. It is beautiful to realize that Jesus is the Kingdom, Jesus is the "true church," Jesus is our everything! I rejoice that I had a softer landing then some that are atheists and very bitter about their experience in Armstrongism. I pray for those people and pray for those in my family that are still imprisoned in Armstrongism. I pray that they will have a "soft landing" when they come into themselves and that Jesus will be their to catch them!

Thank you for your website.  It is very well done and very important!!!! --S. K.

Comment: Readers may also want to read: Where Do I Find the "One True Church"? and Exiters Tell What Has Helped Them to Heal From Armstrongism. 

Frank Borg / Rules in PCG Only Apply to the "Little People":

May 7, 2007

In regard to your March 20 letter (Frank Borg Has Gone with Church of God's Faithful), I can tell you what is happening with Borg's wife, Sandra. She and the children have been living with Frank just as if nothing happened. Remember, he is the son-in-law of Winston Davis and the brother-in-law of Brian Davis, the Regional Director.

The rules only apply to the "little people." The important people and the wealthy people do not have to follow the so-called biblically based "no contact" rule.

I am an acquaintance and distant relative of Frank, and I know he is still living with his PCG wife!

The no contact rule does not apply to him or his PCG wife. How's that for "unity" in the PCG justice? --Former member (most grateful to be out of the PCG Cult of Fear)

Incredible Distance With PCG Family Members:

May 10, 2008

It's been a few years since I found your website. I again want to say thank you. I love my family that is involved with the PCG very much. I'm surprised at the incredible distance there is between us in the last 10 years, as we use to be such a tight knit group. --Have family members in PCG

Wayne Turgeon's Father Was Forced to Abandon His Children:

May 12, 2008

Wayne Turgeon's father was forced to abandon his children even though his one son (Wayne) is an evangelist. That is because he had lots of money and the PCG did not want any of it to go to the children outside the PCG, but all the money to go to the PCG and Wayne.

The last time we saw Wayne's father he was extremely sad because of being forced to abandon his beloved children and he is quite old.  PCG is a sad, sick organization. --Former member of PCG 

Ex-Ministers Who See Through Gerald Flurry's Craziness but not HWA's:

May 17, 2008

I've noticed that a number of ministers who leave PCG somehow can see through the craziness of Gerald Flurry, but they still think well of HWA. Many WCGers who ran to the PCG thought that GF was the only one out there still holding up HWA. Now many of them are starting to see that GF is adding to the "original HWA dogma" and they're tired of his tight-fisted control and Scripture twisting. But even though they come out, they still hold on to the PR image of HWA and speak politely of him, even justifying him. I've heard of them speak of HWA's "health laws" or "family closeness," as if somehow, there was some kind of goodness or rightness to HWA at some level. These are some of the ideologies that got members hooked into the group in the first place. The health laws were a system of control used against members to keep them busy and in check. If somebody became sick with a common, contagious illness, then it was blamed on the person for "breaking a Health Law." Obviously, some exiters do not see it exactly this way, but still hold on to some form of this practice.

As far as HWA teaching "family closeness," even HWA's own family wasn't part of his "church." GTA ousted out; Dorothy mysteriously gone from the scene; Beverly never a member; Loma dead from some kind of curable ailment had she gone to the doctor; HWA divorced from his second wife Ramona. How could HWA teach others the way to have close family relations when he didn't set the example himself? In reality, HWA's teachings broke up families--D&R, causing people to divorce mates outside the church; causing families to shun one another if a member was put out, deciding who can marry who and who can't, etc. To not be able to see and acknowledge all this evil and the hurt it causes is to be pretty blind to HWA's nonsense and destruction.

And to simply say, "Too bad HWA didn't practice autonomy in his church like he taught in the early years" should be a big tip off that HWA's church was not about autonomy. These ex-ministers do not seem to understand that they were under a dictatorship, and were part of that dictatorship. They don't seem mortified by this at all.

I'm glad some of these ex-ministers and their families are out, but they still have a long ways to go if they cannot perceive these things. --C. G.

PCG Lists Their Business as Religion:

May 27, 2008

I happened to stumble across a PCG listing on the Internet: http://www.manta.com/coms2/dnbcompany_66ym10

I found it interesting because the PCG is listed as a "company" not a church and then it says the "company's" business is religion.

Ho ho! That's rich! They're certainly right about that: their business is religion. --Impacted by PCG

Found $5,000 Money Order Receipt:

May 30, 2008

My brother died awhile back and while I was going through things in his house, I found an old receipt showing that he had sent in $5000 to the WCG in Pasadena from back in the 70's. He didn't have two nickels to rub together his whole life, but somehow he managed to send thousands of dollars to HWA to build his empire. Incredible! My mouth just about hit the floor! I looked hard to see if there was a decimal there (like $50.00), but there wasn't. Five thousand dollars in the '70s would have been a lot of money (not that it isn't now). I wouldn't have believed he had that kind of money to send if I hadn't seen the receipt for the money order with my own eyes. My brother didn't have the proverbial "pot to pee in," and to now know how HWA jetted around the world and lived in the lap of luxury with this poor man's money was nothing less than shocking (and sickening). I'm seeing more and more every day the exploitation of those who believed HWA--and persist to believe him through GF--and it still makes me sick to see how people have been used (and continue to be). --Escaped Flurry in Georgia

PCG is Dwindling:

June 16, 2008

The PCG is dwindling in numbers. For example (from what I've heard through the grapevine), the Louisville, KY church now only has about 15 members now (down from 50). This is a result of members getting disfellowshipped by Cal Culpepper and from members leaving. Furthermore, disfellowshipped members are not seeking counseling for re-admittance to the PCG. It would appear they've had enough of Gerald Flurry. --Indiana

PCG is a Dying Organization:

June 19, 2008

I want to confirm that PCG is dwindling in members. In a recent telephone conversation with a friend, who is in contact with someone in PCG, the whole state of Arizona has only about 100 members now. That is not very many for the state of Arizona. I know that PCG's members are getting old, and they certainly must not be attracting new people at the rate their members are leaving and dying off. It's a dying organization.

I pray that more of them will be delivered from their blindness and come to the realization of the joy of a sound minded spiritual relationship with the Lord Jesus. --J.

PCG Spreading Their Members Out For the Feast:

June 23, 2008

PCG is spreading their members out more this year among their various feast sites in order to hide their declining membership. If they didn't, members would surely question GF's illusion of a "flourishing church."  

GF is also talking more and more about "the end" being "nearer and nearer." Money must be getting tight, as he's really turning up the volume on the paranoia. --M. G.

Another Suicide in PCG:

June 27, 2008

A troubled wife in PCG just took her life. Another suicide. So very sad. There just is no help of the type needed in that black hole--especially for women. What a tragedy. The ministers probably will say it was all her fault. --Name withheld

Comment: If anyone in PCG is feeling desperate, please realize that there is no need to fear you will die if you leave PCG. The fear placed in you is only a mind control method to keep you from leaving. Suicide is not the answer! There is freedom and life and a loving, accepting God outside of PCG. Contact your loved ones and let them know you are alright.

We Finally Got the Courage to Leave PCG:

July 4, 2008

We are ex-members of PCG, and saddened by the news that another woman has taken her life in this stupid, mind-controlling so-called "church." There was a woman in PCG in CA that took her life about 3 yrs ago, but it was all hushed up. No one was allowed to discuss it. Life must have been "hell" for that woman for her to take her own life, leaving behind a teenage boy. Its a very sad thing that these women see no way out of their terrible situation because the men rule over them.

We finally got the courage to leave, after many years of brainwashing and harassment, and it wasn't easy for the first few weeks because of the guilt trip, but we finally got over that, and then it was a like a breath of fresh air come over us. We felt the burden lift and felt so free. It has been wonderful every since and we feel sorry for those left in it and for the newer members that are deceived. If any of them are reading this, please gather all your strength to get out of that false church. It will take time to heal, but get out now as it is causing too much damage to your state of mind. Any disagreement or hesitation on matters that occur in your mind is a warning sign. Read the signs before it gets worse--but really, it can't get much worse. They've done it all!!

Your Friends and Ex-Members of PCG/WWCG

PCG Under Financial Pressure?

August 10, 2008

PCG's Public Financial Records in Canada:

August 10, 2008

Good site you have. Did you know that churches' financials are public record here in Canada? I've looked at the returns for PCG Canada [found at Canada Revenue Agency] and the years 2000-2007 are posted. There is not much growth in their receivables over those years. Anyway, its easy to access this info for yourself on the government of Canada web site. Keep up your good efforts. --Bill (Canada)

Note: The link is: Registered Charities Information for Philadelphia Church of God. Sometimes this page is changed, so just: Search the Charities Listings and type in the words Philadelphia Church of God.

Update: This info appears to have been removed from the site. (Read 9-28-08 letter below) We anticipated this and had saved the page. A mirror page is posted here.

Gerald Flurry and His Five-Year Prophecy:

August 11, 2008

I have some interesting news. In a sermon this last Saturday Gerald Flurry said the tribulation "would begin in around 5 years." If that is true, why does he need to build all the expensive new buildings just to leave them behind whenever they flee? I haven't heard a straight answer from any member yet. Hopefully, somewhere in the back of their minds, they are asking themselves the same question.

I have also wondered if GF is trying to coincide his date with the Mayan calendar that ends in 2012? I'd say there will be a lot of speculation around that time, kind of like the doomsday scenario that was being played up for Y2K.

Anyway, I think this 5 year "prophecy" is just an incentive for members to keep giving their money and not worrying about mounting debts as they figure they'll be holed up in some cave in Petra 5 years from now. It's a classic ploy that reminded me right away of HWA's book 1975 in Prophecy which he used to acquire money from the WCG members. In this book he "foretold" about the coming destruction. If any member hasn't heard of this book, it is still available online. I'm hoping more will have their eyes opened to these false prophets. --M. L.

Flurry Formerly Said End Would Be in 2008:

August 11, 2008

When we were in the PCG three years ago, Flurry had been telling us for a couple of years that he felt the end would be in 2008. He has to predict the "new" end is five years from now because "hello"--2008 is here now!!!

What a joke. It is sad but it is a joke.

Every time he makes an end time prediction it never comes true. It is to keep the money coming in and the poor, lost, deceived sheep in confusion and fear. --Former PCG member

Need Info and Help From Someone in Australia:

September 11, 2008

I have been following your site for a few years now and appreciate the work you do.

(1) I was hoping you could tell me where the FOT will be held in Australia in 2008.

(2) My ex-wife is in this cult and was before we separated. You would be correct that we split due to the PCG. I managed to keep custody of children through the courts but now she is starting a new court battle to get the children back. I am amazed at some of the stories she has made up and the trouble she has caused with false accusations to various government departments. I may need to go back to court in an effort to keep custody of my children and was hoping that someone who used to be in PCG would write a letter for me to say what the negative affects of the cult is. I had downloaded letters the first time in court but they were dismissed because they were downloaded from internet. So I am hoping for a letter addressed to me with details or even someone who lives in Brisbane, Australia that I could talk to. Your help in this would be appreciated. Thanks, --Australia 

PCG Philippine Site Changed / New Sites

September 12, 2008

The feast site in the Philippines has now been changed from Baguio City to Pampanga (Province) Philippines because PCG says they had "problems" with their previous site.

Gerald Flurry says they have 20 different sites this year. The feast locations are: Edmond, OK; Sandusky, OH (new); Greenville, S.C., San Diego, CA, Fredericton, New Brunswick (new); Vernon, British Columbia; Veracruz, Mexico; Crown Point, Tobago; George, South Africa; Jerusalem, Israel; Baguio City, Philippines; Nadi, Fiji; Tweed Heads, Australia; Europe. This year the feast will be from Oct. 14 through Oct. 21. Their first service will begin at sunset on Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. The "satellite transmission" from Edmond with GF speaking will be on Oct. 14 and 15.

For 2009 or 2010 they are planning a new feast site and that will be the Armstrong Auditorium. (There will also be services at the John Amos Field House.) --Philippines

PCG Feast of Tabernacles Extreme Rules:

September 12, 2008

All those 18 years and older must wear "name badges," which they will receive when they arrive at their assigned site on the opening night of the feast. (Bumper stickers will not be issued this year.)

When registering for the feast, there is no question about whether or not they will serve, but only "where do you want to serve?" They are also asked about what activities they plan to attend.

Everyone that expects to attend must list their date of birth and their baptism date on the registration form (and they had to register by May 23, but not before May 1). Also, phone#, cell phone#, work phone#, and fax# are all required.

Grown children still living with their parents, roommates, relatives, handicapped members (other than their spouse), and all children aged 18 and out of school at feast time must fill out their own form.

The "singles mixer" (which lasts only l ½ hours on the first day) must be prepaid ($20.00) to HQs, or none of the singles can't get in. They also must list each person buying a ticket for the function.

If any of the young adults are not baptized, they have to attend the same feast site as their parents.

If  they want to join the choir, they must fill out a special form, and fill in their "height with shoes."

If they want to participate in the "Entertainment Night," they must sign up at the feast, but the "Entertainment Night Manager" must approve the lyrics, costumes, jokes, etc.

The registration form requires them to figure in their "budget"--meaning they are to list the following: their tithe of the tithe (which is 10% of their second tithe and which must be mailed to HQ), their travel expenses (round trip), how much they will spend for food, lodging, entertainment and other expenses, and then total that all up. They also must list their emergency reserve, their total 2nd tithe (which is 10% of their gross income), and "other funds" and then total that.

They also are given a "personal feast budget worksheet" (for their own use) to plan out how much they will spend for breakfast, lunch, dinner, lodging, and miscellaneous, and then total up all their daily expenses. Then they list their expenses "from the feast, to the feast, and from the feast" and write down their 2nd tithe plus "other funds available for the feast," total all of it and come up with their "total projected expenses."

If they want to transfer to another feast site, they must fill out another form. (Transfer "cut off date" was April 7 this year.) But it must be approved by their local minister. Final written approval will be made by HQs and they cannot make travel or lodging plans until they receive then. Flurry also says, "If you are traveling overseas but want credit on your taxes for your holy day offerings, you should send them to your regional office. Then, so as not to appear before God empty-handed, you should make some type of anonymous offering at the feast site services."

They have to make reservations only with "HQ approved accommodations" listed in the planner and identify themselves as "a member of the Philadelphia Church of God."

If they aren't attending, they must fill out a "not attending form" and specifically state why they aren't attending, and check: "have you discussed it with your minister?"

And if they have a "complaint" or "dissatisfaction," they are not to register it to anyone except "those in the church who are ministers and/or hotel monitors."

They must state the date of their arrival at the feast and the date of their departure.

As far as "swim suit rules," one thing listed was that their outfit should not only not show any cleavage, but should "completely cover the buttocks in the back" and "ladies should be careful about bending over."

During their time at the feast, they will have "18 hours of messages."

PCG HQs makes the feast look and sound very exciting and alluring (colorful, beautiful travel brochure photos are used in their planner), but these poor people are unaware that it is really a mind control game where their whole life is being extremely controlled in order that they might be exploited by power-hungry leaders. --Anonymous

Comment: For further info about the holy days, go to: Articles and Writings on the Holy Days (especially in regard to how we had to observe them in the group).

Flurry Uses Fear to Manipulate Member' Emotions:

September 14, 2008

I recently read Gerald Flurry's August 13, 2008 co-worker letter. He is continuing to turn up the volume of the rhetoric and doomsday scenarios to the members. He now has written a newer version of his earlier (and revolting) booklet (Lamentations) and titled it, Lamentations: The Point of No Return. It will be given out to members at this year's feast. He says this book is really about America, Britain and Judah "reaching the point of no return." (What an enjoyable feast present to the members!) But he will never set specific dates, so he only says, "we are about to be destroyed," and "we are awfully close to the Tribulation." It was merely a rehash of HWA's false prophecies (which he gave over and over again until others finally woke up to the charade).

I couldn't help but notice that Flurry is so concerned with the supposed "coming holocaust," but he still thanks the brethren for their contributions to the building fund, and brags about the money that the members have sent in. He even tells them that the PCG may not have to use the money that they had borrowed from the bank for the new construction. From fear mongering to exhortations for money, he is leaving no stone unturned in playing on the emotions of the members in order to manipulate them. I only hope that more members are beginning to see through Flurry's facade, and are leaving the PCG. This whole letter was sickening. --R. L.

Have PCG Financial Records in Canada Disappeared From the Net?

September 28, 2008

I emailed you not long ago [read 8-10-08 letter "PCG's Public Financial Record in Canada"] about seeing the Canadian financial info for the Canadian Philadelphia Church of God. You responded with a link. Well, now the site shows nothing is listed under that name??? I have worked with this site to no avail. Check the link yourself.

To simplify and help your readers to access this info better (if such info exists), could you copy the link of the online page where the info is? For us simpletons? (Not too simple though because I choose not to go to the Philadelphia church, leaving it in the dust after checking into it and attending for six Sabbaths' in 96-97 because of family.) --Still curious about Canada PCG financial records

Comment: The page was later removed but we had saved it. Here is a mirror. This person was also sent an email which showed PCG's assets, liabilities, income, and expenses for 2000-2005 (graphs are included). If anyone would like this sent to them, please let us know. (You will need HTML enabled in your email account.) Otherwise, we have posted the page without the graphs: Philadelphia Church of God Financial Reports, Canada 2000-2005. As far as we know, this info is no longer posted online.

October 2, 2008

I was roommates with Amy Flurry in college, before she was Amy Flurry [Stephen Flurry's wife]. I loved her like a sister, but I know now that I wasted a huge opportunity. At that time, I know that she was questioning some of her WCG beliefs (I think this was before the WCG split and she joined the Philadelphia branch). In my stupidity, I remember passing up a chance to clarify differences between our beliefs. I knew that they differed greatly in the practice of Sabbath and rules, but I didn't see how the belief of who God is differs so much. This is a huge regret of mine. Now I see more clearly and I fear for her soul. I also see now that she appears to have married into the most powerful family within the church [WCG]. Does anyone within your organization have any contact information for Amy? An email, address or phone #--anything? I would love to be able to reconnect with her. I feel like I let a huge opportunity slide away and I would love to have a second chance. God has put her on my heart again recently. Thanks, --Mindy Condon

NOTE: The Oct. 4 letter to ESN was removed as we are presently trying to get some facts straightened out.

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