2010 Letters From Those Impacted by WCG, HWA & Offshoots

PYC Sermons by Gerald Flurry Really Sick!

January 19, 2009

I read your transcript with comments about the PCG's youth camp sermons. The sermon was really sick! I find it ironic how PCG parents would never let their child see an R-rated movie, but have no idea that their children are listening to this crap. PCG has painted these camps as one of the best experiences our children will ever have. Flurry is committing emotional rape with these youth and parents are oblivious. I hope those transcriptions will wake up a few minds.

I remember a similar sermon in the WCG where we were told about the holocaust and the Germans throwing babies out of windows. They said that there was a German waiting with a pitchfork to impale the babies and dump their bodies into the back of the dump truck. It was sickening to say the least. And to think there were little children sitting there listening to this! I know I'll never forget it. I don't know what their obsession is with graphic violence and babies, but I'm sure it must be tied in with making members (and the youth) fearful to ever come up against "the government."

I truly believe that a demon enters into Flurry when he goes off like that. I feel sorry for those kids. I know it would have made my children extremely upset. I could even see my youngest child (who is very sensitive) becoming depressed and phobic. I hate what GF does to impressionable young minds. --R. M.

PCG Youth Subjected to Propaganda and Paranoia:

January 19, 2009

Here's what went through my mind when I read the PYC sermon article:

I remember seeing a program on TV on "Hitler's Youth" several months ago; it was about children that were taken from their families during WWII, and were supposed to be the new Arian race; perfect and programmed, and ready to rule Hitler's grand "world tomorrow." That thought reminded me of the propaganda and paranoia that must be injected into the minds of these PCG children. GF may have more in common with neo-Nazi skinheads than anybody would think. The thought of what mind control the children are subjected to is sickening. --Impacted by loved one in PCG

Demonic Activity:

January 20, 2009

When I was in PCG, the ministers always claimed to have had encounters with possessed people. Most of the ministers even claimed to have cast out demons as well. While I later found out that there indeed were members who had "problems with demons" (in PCG as well as in WCG) I'm sure the part about ministers "casting out demons" was made up. Nevertheless, one former PCG member told others how he compiled evidence of demonic incidences while in the PCG. He related one story where Marvin Campbell told him that "demons came so close to him that he could feel them touch his skin." I can believe this. I find it interesting that David Pack [Restored Church of God] also brags about his ability to control (cast out) demons. They all serve the same master, and we know who that is.--Former PCG member

Gerald Flurry's Tirades:

January 22, 2009

I read the posted transcript of the PYC sermon and I have to admit, it was very upsetting. Those teens will most likely not escape psychologically unharmed from such abuse. I am so glad that when my children were younger that I could not afford to send them to camp, even though at the time I wanted to and one of them expressed an interest. I can vouch for your description of Flurry "losing it" towards the end. Even when I was fully supportive of him, I would wince and wonder why he is screaming at people who back him during his sermons. I really do believe, now, that he has mental health issues dating way back.

My wife, at the tender age of 17, was president of the YOU at her local [WCG] congregation. She related to me about one YOU weekend where they all had one of the sports weekends in Flurry's Tri-cities area. There was trouble with some of the boys from my wife's group and Flurry began interrogating my wife, yelling and screaming at her, for so long that it took her father (a deacon) and one of the local elders to get him to calm down. His belligerence lasted for about twenty minutes or so. Anyone that knows her would attest to the fact that she in no way ever does anything in the way of bad attitude or disrespect that would warrant his tirade. That is, I am sure, at least one of the reasons, among others, she did not follow me into the PCG. It is a testament to her patience that my entering the PCG was not more of an issue in our marriage.

Also, Flurry always holds big expectations for January 16th and its prophetic impact. I watched the news fairly close on the 16th and all the next day to see if there would be some big event that he could attribute to HWA's death anniversary. It almost seemed to be a news vacuum for the day. I saw nothing that could be considered even close to shattering. Another blow to his ego, I am sure. --V. W. (Former PCG member)

Exodus From PCG May Pick Up:

January 23, 2009

I think the exodus from the PCG may pick up during the next two years. As 2010 comes and goes with no tribulation, the people will begin to scratch their heads more. And enduring the mental instability of the ministry will become more intolerable. It sounds like Flurry himself is on the verge of total insanity. --Former PCG member

Comment: In 2008, Gerald Flurry said he believes they have five years or less.

Handwriting on the Wall for the PCG?

January 26, 2009

I've been thinking about GF's tirade at the youth at the PYC. I firmly believe that he has a real fear about the future of the PCG. The more I think about his words and attitude, the more I believe that he sees dark days ahead for his membership--it must be in sharp decline. He's in "panic mode," doing whatever it takes to keep his cash sources in check. His over-reaction to the FOX25 report on the PCG shows the same thing: he now fears that this bad press will prevent new members (translated: cash sources) from coming into his organization. No doubt the economy is cutting into his coffers, too. I believe GF's starting to see "the handwriting on the wall" for the PCG. --S. S.

Razing the Wallets:

January 31, 2009

Someone needs to write a true and revealing exposure of Flurry before many more people are sucked into his religion. An appropriate title would be "Razing the Wallets." I don't like to think how much money my mother has contributed to this unholy corporation. --S. R.

Dennis Leap Disfellowshipped:

February 5, 2009

Dennis Leap was disfellowshipped after the Feast last year. Seems he was ordered off of the church grounds and all belongings were turned back over to the PCG. He still communicates with his daughters, so the "no contact" rule doesn't apply to him. It "appears" that he has been corrected, but it could be smoke and mirrors. I think GRF does not want to let this man go. He knows too much.

Also heard that Frank Garcia is no longer in. --Informer

Update: Leap was suspended, not disfellowshipped. See April 10 letter below.

Carl Hilliker Removed / Members Tired and Exhausted:

February 7, 2009

Carl Hilliker was removed from the ministry before Day of Atonement. We've only heard "good guesses" of why he was demoted.  We are watching to see if he isn't forced out. The PCG pattern is to either do a quick surgical cut, or nettle the person's composure until they break.

John Cocomise and other ministers openly say that they are loyal to Gerald Flurry. I heard one this weekend say so. Even when Scripture said to do otherwise, he nodded and said he was going to defer to the judgment of "God's Man," "That Prophet," "The leader of the only living Church of God."

Talk to any member in Edmond. So many of them have told us that they are "tired, or exhausted." They are assigned to an unending list of jobs and projects. They are expected to "sacrifice for the Work." They've done so, willingly at first, as any of us would for community service, but theirs have become expected and required. I know of a woman who serves in almost every major event. She finally became sick to the point of near death with something like Epstein-Barr syndrome. Many of Pasadena's female students in the 1980's developed this mysterious scourge.

The Edmond membership is also expected to go along with assigned living arrangements. If the area pastor, Wayne Turgeon, knows that you have an extra bedroom available in your home, he may call to make arrangements for you to accept a "widow in need" or "a student who wants to attend the new church school, but lives too far away." Those who comply are publicly labeled as having "good attitudes." Those who decline are criticized publicly in some way by Wayne, like a rude comment in the lunch line.

We are happy to not live in Edmond and feel sorry for the kind, willing people who do and are taken advantage of. --PCG insider

Gerald Flurry Building House for God to Live in:

March 24, 2009

GF's December 3, 2007 sermon, "Elijah Family Vision" was a classic. He says that Jesus Christ and God the Father lived on the Pasadena campus and are now looking for a place to dwell:

"But in Spirit God lived in that House [in Pasadena]. He and Christ lived in that campus and no place else on this earth! And He wants another place to live."

"It's all about family and looking to the Father and the Son and having them right in your front yard and your backyard right there where you do your work from headquarters..."

"...we have our minds on God's house where He's gonna live right here with us... It means we're going to have more growth, more healings, more blessings, they're just gonna to be everywhere for us to see and hopefully a lot of people in the world."

"And that building will be like the crown--of all of our buildings. But think about this brethren: God, the God from that third heaven is gonna come down here and He's gonna live here in spirit."

"We're gonna have the honor to build a House for God to dwell in on this campus."

GF thinks he is building the House for both of them to live in. Imagine that! --Ex PCG

Comment: Christ lives within His children today through His Holy Spirit. (See John 14:16-18.) There are many other places in the Scriptures that show this; i.e., Col 1:27: "...Christ in you, the hope of glory." I John 4:4: "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." I John 4:12: "No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us." I John 4:13: "Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit." John 14:20: "At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you."

GF Can Admire His "House for God" From His Balcony:

March 28, 2009

The "house for God" that GF is building is a tall frame work. The front of it faces the NW so that GF can stand on his southern balcony and admire it. But, as the public drives along Waterloo E - W, they can only see the backside of something very tall and unusual looking. Driving along Bryant N - W, trees and bushes obscure the view. It's just kind of odd. --Exiter of PCG

PCG's Control Over Women's Dress:

March 29, 2009

I was reading the Philadelphia News and the center article (2 large pages) was by Stephen Flurry and it was about appropriate dress for women.

One quote was "God loves skirts and dresses." How ridiculous is this quote! I am continually amazed at how such incredible ignorance is followed by thousands. The article went on to say that facial powder is acceptable if there is an extremely greasy face, but it is not acceptable if the face is not extremely greasy. And that cover up is acceptable for blemishes but not for all over the face. Two ear piercings are okay but not three. Straps on dance gowns must be a half an inch (at one time Herbert Armstrong had approved spaghetti straps but then reversed the decision). A gown may be open down the back, but a modified bra must be worn. Students may try on their
gowns for Mrs. Stephen Flurry for a final decision if they are unsure.

And finally, women should ask their husbands what is and is not appropriate to wear.
I know that it is all part of the mind control thing, but it still amazes me. --Impacted

Comment: Leaders of totalistic groups are obsessed with maintaining control of their members lives, but often have poor behavioral controls themselves. Read: Profile of a Sociopath. Also see: How Do I Know if It's a Sick Cult or Healthy Spirituality?

It Was Like the Holy Spirit Contradicting Gerald Flurry:

April 6, 2009

I have an interesting story for you. My wife (in PCG) was watching Key of David Sunday morning. GF was going on and on about the upcoming holy days, and I specifically remember him saying that keeping the holy days was "important to people's spiritual and eternal well-being." I know that this is false and goes directly against the Bible. I was in the kitchen making some coffee while I was overhearing the broadcast, but at the time he said these words, the Holy Spirit put this old hymn in my mind:

I Know Whom I Have Believed

By Daniel W. Whittle (1840-1901)

I know not why God’s wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.

I know not how this saving faith
To me He did impart,
Nor how believing in His Word
Wrought peace within my heart.

I know not how the Spirit moves,
Convincing men of sin,
Revealing Jesus through the Word,
Creating faith in Him.

I know not what of good or ill
May be reserved for me,
Of weary ways or golden days,
Before His face I see.

I know not when my Lord may come,
At night or noonday fair,
Nor if I walk the vale with Him,
Or meet Him in the air.

Refrain:
But "I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day."

It was like the Holy Spirit was directly contradicting GF, and telling me not to worry; that I knew where my faith lies, and it wasn't in Gerald Flurry.

Wasn't that something? --K. B.

Comment: To read the words of more sacred hymns which reveal Christ's deep love for us, go to our section: Comfort in Music.

Thank You For Your Web Page:

April 7, 2009

Thank you, thank you, for your web page and information that gives us so much hope and encouragement. God bless you and may the Holy Spirit guide us into all truth. I will continue to pray for my husband who has been in these organizations (WCG and PCG) for 39 years. --P. M., Australia (Impacted by PCG)

PCG Bought Dennis Leap's Home:

April 10, 2009

I was told by someone who works in the Hall of Administration that the PCG bought Dennis Leap's home and he and Deborah live off campus in a small rent house in the SE corner of Simmons and S. Coltrane Rd. It's what the locals call "Felony Flats."  

Supposedly, he is having the same health issues he did the first time he was suspended. He isn't allowed to come back to services until his "chemical imbalance" is under control. He isn't disfellowshipped, just taken out of the ministry. --PCG Informer

Dennis Leap Now a Humbled Lapdog:

April 10, 2009

After seeing Dennis Leap dressed in a black leather coat (and dark shirt) in a picture with the Trumpet staff back in February 2006, I immediately thought he looked like a member of the Gestapo. I know that picture raised some eyebrows, even among members, who viewed his attire as being inappropriate for someone of his rank, and especially for anyone in a position of authority in the PCG. Now, he's a humbled lapdog compared to what he was. --Impacted by PCG

One of Flurry's Most Damning Comments:

April 11, 2007

One of GF's most damning comments was in his November 3, 2007 sermon about Charles Manson being misunderstood, that it "wasn't his fault." Here are his words:

"When Charlie Manson, this demon possessed guy, that killed and bullied--I don't know, about 18 women, I guess, that followed him around ... it seems like... the media treats men, well not always, but a lot of the time, I think they treat men that way. But, they [the media] made it look like, well, Charlie Manson was just this demon. He was the blame for all of this and those poor girls just, well, they were just taken advantage of. But, those girls were outright rebels and came from dysfunctional families and were hateful and despiteful and it wasn't Charlie's fault!! Poor guy has enough problems without being blamed for that! Somebody in their families didn't know how to teach them or didn't care and they were vulnerable to the Devil! (From: "The Elijah Family Vision")

I also believe GF doesn't want to be responsible for any misconduct of PCG members, even though he is the head of the group and has put his values into them as Manson did. --Ex PCG member

Gerald Flurry Purchases the Big Sandy Swan Sculpture:

April 18, 2009

GF has now purchased the Big Sandy swan sculpture ("Swans in Flight") to adorn his Auditorium in Edmond. This sculpture was done for HWA in the late 60's by English sculptor David Wynne. (It was only one such sculpture out of several that HWA had Wynne do for all three of his campuses.) HWA considered Wynne to be "the greatest living sculptor in the world" and GF says, "I don't think there is a more beautiful sculpture of its kind in the world." This will give you some idea of how expensive the swan sculpture must be (the price of which GF does not reveal).

Comment: A small chandelier light crystal (86 x 70 inches) was advertised on the web for a suggested price of $56,538.00. It was "on sale" for $34,865.10.

We Hope Someday We Will See Our Grandchildren:

April 23, 2009

Thank you so very much for the encouraging letter of April 22. It helps to give us hope that perhaps one day, our children will let us see our grandchildren, and begin to build our entire family once again. We miss them all so much. There are no words to express our gratefulness for this posting. --Very sad grandparents

Comment: Read: Keep Lines of Communication Open With Those Wanting to Cut Off (letter sent to ESN in 2006)

Gerald Flurry's Speaking Fiascos:

April 27, 2009

There was an announcement given this past Sabbath that GF would be speaking on Pentecost, May 31, in Columbus, OH. Congregations in the northern Midwest (KY, OH, IN, IL, etc.) as well as the northern Atlantic seaboard will be expected to be there.

It will be a complete waste of members' time and expenses. Lately I've noticed that Gerald Flurry doesn't even speak about the meaning of the Holy days anymore. A friend of mine told me that when he traveled to [a certain state] on Pentecost last year, GF didn't show up for morning services, or the meal, but sauntered in 10 minutes before the p.m. service! He talked about his usual Tribulation warnings and "bad Laodiceans." It was very, very warm in the room. GF had a glass of ice water and teased members with it. Very odd and very unbecoming. His recent Passover sermon was the same. He only talked a little bit about Passover. And Andy Locher's sermon during Unleavened Bread wasn't about U. B. It was an administrative policy lecture.

I know some who are rooming with others so they can afford to go to this fiasco. --M.

Recent Sermons by Gerald Flurry Can Be Listened to Online:

April 28, 2009

Recent sermons by Gerald Flurry are online here. There are several sermons for 2009. --Exiter

Andrew Locher's Rubbish Sermon:

May 4, 2009

Hello there. I hope you are well. Thank you very much for your work regarding this website and its function--very well done. May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you and all His people, and bring peace and grace.

I have benefited greatly from various things posted or linked on here, from letters, etc.

I am writing in regard to the partial transcript and response to A. Locher's "Facebook" sermon. First, you have done a great job. I also downloaded these sermons (thanks for your work there too in making these things known, where and when they do come to light, or exposure). [listen to the full sermon here (offsite link)]

There are a couple of points (quotes from Andrew Locher) that I really do think should be included in your article, or at least examined by yourself. You may be familiar with the quotes already. The audio on my file is poor still, but from what I could discern, he says how there were "eight ex-members in that one person's e-mail [stutters or mumbles something, backing up] in that person's listing of friends." Just an innocent slip of the tongue, or does he read members e-mails, etc.?

That question relates to his next interesting statement.

After saying how God will not bring ex-members "back in" (which, at a quick thought, seems, again, contrary to Christ's leaving the 99 sheep in search of the one lost sheep, and also the meaning behind the prodigal son), he goes on to say, "...I've found addresses, pictures, phone numbers...." and talks about how easy it is to steal people's identity, how he could have done so with the members' information that he had found available, and then surprisingly confides to his audience, "...and I'm...I'm a dope in knowing how to do that... there's people out there that are professionals..."

I would like to know what you think of that comment.

Anyway, thank you. --Paul

Reply: In listening again to those parts, A. Locher did say there were ex-members and suspended individuals listed on over half the profiles (not emails) he looked at on Facebook and one person in PCG had "eight."

Profiles in Facebook are listed in the directory and will have only what the person puts in it, and only those designated as "friends" can read it. One can click on a person they find, and see who they have as friends, without being able to look at profiles. If you are not "friends" with someone, all you see is a name and the city where they live. If someone wants to see your profile and page, they request to be your "friend." You can accept or ignore. However, one would have to be careful about someone with a fake account or someone lying about who they are.

Locher also said, "It [referring to Israel mixing with the nations around them] didn't bring worldly members back into the church. It dragged Israel into eight years of captivity. Don't fool yourself. You're not going to bring them back in [referring to corresponding with ex-members or suspended people]. That is not how God does things." (The last two sentences have been added to the article.)

Then he goes on to say, "I found dozens of students, Headquarters employees, local area teens, and adults worldwide with accounts on some or many of these social networks. If I were to spend $9.95 I had enough information to steal the identity of a couple of students with the information that they posted on their Facebook pages. ... And I would have had enough to cause you a lot of trouble. I'm the dope in knowing how to do that. There's people out there that are professional that make their living by doing such things." (This paragraph has been added to the article with our comments.)

Andrew Locher No "Dope":

May 4, 2009

When I heard the sermon by Andy Locher, I thought, "No, he's no dope, he's a liar." I'm sure he has dug and snooped into Facebook accounts as far as the law will allow. He likes to come across as harmless with a sweet smile, but he is very calculating. He has been involved in several harsh, correctional sessions with the ministry. Often he's the one who has "dug up the evidence" against the member. --An insider

Andrew Locher Shows How Invasive PCG is:

May 4, 2009

All Locher needed to do to do some snooping was create his own account, look up a few names of PCG students in the search, and then start clicking on people's pictures, or whatever they put up, and start seeing who was associated with who else. So he wouldn't have to steal any identity. If I knew the name of one student with a Facebook account, by the end of the day, I could compile a list of probably every student with an account, and who their friends are. Lochner pulling this crap only shows just how invasive PCG is in the lives of its members. --William Hohmann, graduate of AC, author of Mystery of the Ages (a 2nd critical review and other articles on ESN site.

PCG Uses the "Rahab Principle":

May 4, 2009

The PCG uses what they call the Rahab principle (Joshua 2) when dealing with obstacles to doing the "work." Lying is excusable when protecting God's "work or people." Andy Locher could have paid the $9.95 and "borrowed" an identity to ask to be a "friend" to someone on Facebook. --Former member of PCG

Need the File that Shows the Changes GF Made in Mystery of the Ages:

May 5, 2009

Could you please send me a copy of the .pdf file which will show the scanned pages from the 1985 book Mystery of the Ages from the letter on 4-13-2004. Your site is awesome. I have been following it for about two years now. I hope it will help me save my wife of three years now. I think it can with enough research, and prayer. Keep up the great work! --Impacted by loved one in PCG

Rules of Disfellowshipment Which Require No Contact:

May 7, 2009

The following appeared in PCG's September 20, 2008 Pastor General Report:

Rules of Disfellowshipment:

There are four categories of disfellowshipment, or excommunication, in God's Church. All four categories require us to discontinue all casual contact with the individual involved. They are (1) "Suspended"; (2) "Ex-member"; (3) "Disfellowshipped"; (4) "Disfellowshipped and Marked." Some, in the past, have thought that unless a person was formally "Disfellowshipped and Marked" it was okay to maintain a casual relationship with them. This is not the case. Brethren, if you are aware that someone is no longer attending services for any of the above reasons, do not contact them or have any fellowship with them. If they contact you, politely tell them you should not have a conversation with them and notify your minister of the problem. We each have a responsibility to protect the spiritual family of God in this way. (PGR, 9/20/08, p. 2)

--PGR Informer

If They Don't Comply, They Will be Pressured:

May 7, 2009

The following appeared in PCG's December 13, 2008 Pastor General Report:

Personnel Files:

Greetings fellow ministers,
Recently we have been working on updating the personnel files for all of our employees and ministers, so we need your assistance in providing us with the following documents:
1. A copy of your current driver's license or other valid form of I.D.
2. A dated and signed copy of the Confidentiality Agreement (file attached to the e-mail with this PGR.)
3. A copy of your ordination certificate
From time to time we need access to these files for insurance purposes and for personnel-related issues; having this all on file will allow our processes at headquarters to be more organized and efficient.
Please mail these files back to headquarters, to my attention, or if you prefer, you can fax copies to 405-359-6280. Another alternative would be e-mailing me a scanned copy of these files. We will need the following documentation before Jan. 1, 2009.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
Thank you for your continued service, and we greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter. - Andrew Locher (PGR, 12/13/08, p. 3-4)

--PGR Informer

PCG Correspondence Course Not Doing Well:

May 7, 2009

EDITORIAL SERVICES

Members and the Bible Correspondence Course

Stephen Flurry's recent article on theTrumpet.com pointed out that few of those who enroll in the correspondence course ever finish it. For members, the picture is better, but a large number are progressing slowly.

So far, 2408 members have signed up for the course. Of those, 150 have completed it. On the other hand, nearly 800 have not yet completed the first test. Another 300 have not past the second test. That means about half of the members enrolled are at lesson 8 or less. While some no doubt signed up recently, some have signed up but failed to continue with the course.

Mr. Flurry has encouraged members to enroll in the course, as it explains the Bible in a very detailed and systematic manner. There is much, particularly after the first few lessons, that members will find they did not realize before.

You may wish to use some of this information to help encourage members in your area to sign up for the course if they have not already, or to encourage them to finish if they began it already. - Michael Dattolo (PGR, 12/27/08, p.4)

--PGR Informer

PGR: Donation History Requests and Reports to be Sent to Locher:

May 8, 2009

Here is more from the PCG's Pastor General Reports:

Business Office
Donation History Requests:

As a reminder, all requests for donation history for members and prospective members in the United States should be sent to Andrew Locher only -- no other staff is authorized to pull those reports. All requests for the donation history of members and prospectives in Canada should go to Fred Dattolo only. (PGR, 8/2/08)

Donation History Reports:

Only regional directors are permitted to obtain donation history reports on members or prospective members. If you feel you need to check a tithe record, please contact your regional director first. He will contact Andrew Locher (and him only please) to obtain the donation history report. -Andrew Locher (PGR, 1/3/09)

--PGR Informer

Observation on the Andrew Locher Sermon:

May 9, 2009

Here's an observation regarding Andy Locher's comment on possible identify theft. Flurry has tried to steal the identity of Jesus Christ by calling himself "That Prophet" and using all the names to define Christ in the Bible to refer to himself. Locher has revealed himself as a liar. His slip using MySpace when referring to Facebook tells me he is the one spending way too many hours surfing the internet! --Thankful to be an ex-PCGer

The Only Answer:

May 9, 2009

When we were in the WCG, we remember a man who went to court to gain custody of his children, and he had absolutely no witnesses, and his wife came with 10 or 12 witnesses, and he still won with just his own testimony. When God is on your side, and you have prayed about it, He is capable of swaying the mind of any judge. Our suggestion is that those who are trying to gain custody of their children in PCG to pray about it and let go. That is what we have had to do. Only God can fix these kinds of situations. We realize that now, very clearly, from our own experience.

We have not seen our children and grandchildren in several years and all due to the crazy, "no contact" rule concocted by the narcissistic Gerald Flurry.

Patience is a virtue, although we all want our answers now. Prayer is the only answer when it comes to dealing with evil that is the PCG. --Former members of WCG/PCG

Andrew Locher's Double Standard:

May 22, 2009

Why Build and Then Leave it All Behind?

May 22, 2009

I have heard how PCG members believe they will have no problem leaving their "unconverted" mates behind when it's time for them to flee to the Place of Safety. I'd like to know why GF would turn his assets (cash sources) into liabilities? He couldn't provide housing and food for that many people, even on short term. Besides, if he really believed they would be going to the Middle East to be holed up in a cave, why build all these expensive buildings, and furnish them with fancy chandeliers and statuary, then leave them behind? No one would do that. "The time to flee" has to be a ploy to keep members from seeing the logic of these questions. --Impacted by loved one in PCG

Reply: The way members reason about food and housing in the place of safety is explained in our article, Memories of Petra. Also, GF (as HWA did) justifies building these expensive structures because they will all be left behind as a "witness" to those in the world during the Tribulation. Somehow it's supposed to cause those outside to wake up and recognize that PCG was "God's true church." GF also continues to build because "God wants them to continue to press on as if they have many years" and not let up on doing "the Work." Plus, all these buildings and assets are to somehow "enable them" to get the gospel out in this present age about the soon-coming Kingdom. Many old time members in WCG should remember hearing this from HWA and ministers.

A Scripture Not Taught in PCG:

(A copy of this letter has been placed on Letters From those Impacted by WCG, HWA & Offshoots at the request of the author.)

May 31, 2009

On this day of Pentecost, I would like to point out a Scripture that I cannot remember ever being taught in the WCG or the PCG (spoken by Jesus Christ):

"For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life" (John 5:22-24).

Never did we give the same honor to Jesus that we gave to the Father. Never did we believe that we would not come into condemnation, unless we jumped through the right hoops at the proper time. Jesus was only really talked about around Passover, and even then the context was mostly Old Testament. Jesus as future King was pictured as cruel and harsh. His name was spoken as the right way to end a prayer. We never prayed to Him.

The only good that I see that has come out of my many years under Armstrongism is that I now appreciate my relationship with my Lord Jesus Christ in a way that I might never have done without my years under legalism.

Praise the Son and praise the Father and praise the Holy Spirit!

--Judy McNeely (Former WCG and PCG member)

Read: What was Missing? (while written after exiting WCG, it also applies to controlling offshoots such as PCG, Restored Church of God, etc.)

PCG  Says it's a "Mistake" to Exalt Christ Above the Father:

June 4, 2009

While in the PCG, one tends to become captivated so much by the things you hear (world conflict, Israel, and other global crisis) that you tend to not focus on the things you don't hear, even though it's said in your hearing.

The previous letter which quoted John 5:23 is very clear: "That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father."

But this is what Gerald Flurry stated in a 2006 Key of David broadcast entitled "Christ Declares the Father":

"..Your name, your name, Father. Oh, they made a mistake; they exalted Christ above the Father, and what a serious mistake that is."

"It's the Father's name that we honor. We honor His name above Christ's, above everything because He's the Head of the Family. Christ has a marvelous responsibility, as well, but He's not the Head of the Family."

So, the PCG says it's an error, a mistake, to honor Christ, and in complete contradiction of John 5:22, which tells us that we can't honor the Father without honoring the Son, even as they [say they] honour the Father.

The PCG said these things and others; we heard them but were so captivated by other things that we didn't hear them.

They have failed to see:

"For in Him the whole fullness of Deity (the Godhead) continues to dwell in bodily form [giving complete expression of the divine nature]." (Colossians 2:9, Amplified Bible)

"Therefore [because He stooped so low] God has highly exalted Him and has freely bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, That in (at) the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, And every tongue [frankly and openly] confess and acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11, Amplified Bible)

--Former PCG member

Comment: Colossians 2:9 is a clear cut statement of the deity of Christ: "In Him dwelleth all the fulness (plerōma) of the Godhead bodily." (Authorized Version)

PCG also fails to see the following:

Colossians 1:17-19: "And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness (plerōma) dwell;"

Ephesians 1:21: "Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:"

Colossians 2:10: "And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:"

Isaiah 9:6:  "... and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

The Lord Jesus Christ was the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15); He was fully God and fully man (see: Jesus' Two Natures), and all these scriptures show His name is above every name. 

Also read: Flurry's Denial of Christ is Very Subtle (2007 letter to ESN)

I Have Left PCG:

June 17, 2009

I don't really know where to go when exiting a church like the PCG. I do feel really lost and miss having people tell me what to do, yet know that it's not something that I can live with. This is all very confusing for me as I don't know where I should go now. .... I'm moving out of the house and feel so lost as to what I should believe and such, like there were parts of the PCG I truly believed in but there were things that got carried away ("That Prophet," building project, etc.). I don't know if there is a way that I could go to a normal therapist and tell her a technical name for what I'm going through right now. --Ex-PCGer

Reply: I'm glad to hear you have made the decision to leave PCG. Sometimes the best thing is to not "go anywhere" right away but spend some time reading and writing about your experiences. (See: Articles For Those Who Were Emotionally and Spiritually Abused and our Booklist; also Articles for Child Survivors). It's important to understand that PCG has the marks of a controlling, exploitive and destructive group that manipulates people's minds for the leader's goal. It is common to feel lost, confused, and very alone when exiting. The family atmosphere of these groups becomes a deep dependency (interlaced with fear). It takes time to feel comfortable making our own decisions and even feeling worthwhile. Nevertheless, Christ told us He will always be with us. He understands and He's the One to lean on. (When and if you are able, you could take a concordance and look up the word "grace" in the N.T.)

A therapist that is familiar with trauma and abuse would be the most helpful. (See: Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) The therapist should not blame you or force anything on you but do lots of listening, validating, and help you to become empowered in your own life.

More Helpful Suggestions For Those Who Have Left PCG:

June 19, 2009

I thought you gave excellent advice to my fellow PCG exiter. [see above letter] I would like to add that it could be most helpful to read everything they can on who Herbert Armstrong really was. It was the knowledge of who he was and what he really did that helped to keep me from falling back in with one of the other splinters. Once one realizes that he was a false prophet and there is no need to fear him or any of his teachings, you can begin to evaluate what was done to you.

It sounded, from the letter, like this person's family is still in the PCG. This can only make things more difficult, but I would suggest they begin, slowly at their own pace, to re-connect with family and friends that are not in or have left also.

It has been rewarding for me to reconnect with my family and begin to cultivate friendships that are not based on mutual cult memberships.

Thanks for all your hard work giving us exiters a place to vent and share, and an understanding shoulder to lean on.

Sincerely, --Vaughn Woodfield, fellow PCG exiter.

Comment: Much info on HWA can be found in our section: Questioning Herbert W. Armstrong (was he who he said he was?) Also, see our Booklist.

Members and PCG:

June 20, 2009

There's some PCG member around here who distributes the Philadelphia Trumpet in seeming every little restaurant, etc., that I go into. So I ask the owner or manager to review the PCG on the Web and then decide whether to allow those magazines to be distributed in his business. When I go back, invariably, they're gone.

My story with PCG is not nearly as bad as some we've heard. For example, there was a PCG family who went to a funeral with tape on their mouths to keep from talking to "Laodiceans." (true story)

We continue to declare God's favor over our family in PCG and hold out hope and faith that at some point we will be reunited.

May God's favor rest upon you with the work you do.--Impacted by PCG

Jesus Taking Third Place in PCG:

July 24, 2009

I just finished reading the article: Quotes from Another Gerald Flurry Ho-Hum Sermon. Yikes! It's all about the building!! ("House for God") Poor Jesus sure has to take second, no third, place in these groups. First is the Leader (Apostle, Prophet, Guru, etc.) and second is the work!!!!

You are right about them never getting out of the Old Testament. Whenever I check on my member mate while he is "studying," he is in the middle of one of the Prophets in the O. T. Never is he reading the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-12). Never is he reading one of the Gospels, or one of the Epistles of Paul. It is no big mystery about which covenant that these groups are toiling under, is it? The yoke of Jesus is easy and His burden is light. (Matthew 11:30) Amazing Grace!

God Bless your ministry in His Son's name! --Former member of PCG

Kicked Out College Students Better Off in the Long Run:

July 28, 2009

I read your latest sermon critique and have come to the point where I can find some humor in his statements. Not laughing at those who are still trapped, but happy for those who were rescued by him. I think of the "Oklahoma Seven" as I now like to refer to the college students who were kicked out and think that, while devastating to them in the moment, this is probably the best thing Gerry could have done for their future. They may have been caught doing some free thinking, or some non-isolationist socializing. I only hope they do not get bewitched by another Armstrong splinter.

My best wishes for them and hope they take full advantage of their new freedom to find the real Jesus and not the Armstrong counterfeit. Maybe this will set some more of the regular members to thinking for themselves.

Regards, --Vaughn Woodfield, PCG exiter

What Wouldn't Jesus Do? Ask Gerald Flurry:

July 31, 2009

Hey kids, Gerald wants Grandpa's money for his building project!!! Now that’s a sermon topic.

I find it interesting (yet not surprising) to learn that PCG's "no contact" policy doesn’t apply when it comes to "emergency" issues like the administration of a loved one's estate. Sure, when Grandpa (a/k/a "that pesky Laodicean") is alive, the PCG family will shun him and break his heart, but after he dies they feel free to show up and get their part of his money! According to Gerald, an executor of a will, Laodicean or otherwise, is always an acceptable companion for God's people. (I think that verse is in Romans.)

If you ask Gerald, God is a blackmailer. PCG members must use "emotional blackmail" (no contact) to coerce their deceived loved ones back to the "true" church. Yes, Gerald, just like Jesus wouldn't do. Or am I forgetting all those great blackmail parables? Like "The Good Shunner" and "The Lost Sheep" (Goes to the Lake of Fire).

Why are people attracted to this type of religion that promotes spiritual self-flagellation? Is it because they simply cannot accept God's grace? Is it too simple?

Let's keep it simple.

Jesus said that "my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:30). What is easy and light about shunning your loved ones? That seems like a tremendous sacrifice beyond what God would ever ask of us.

Like many other controlling religious organizations, PCG takes something very amazing and simple (God's love and grace) and turns it into a hellish quagmire. A man like Gerald Flurry doesn't care if you’re hurting, he doesn't care if you're confused, he doesn't care if you have the Holy Spirit. He cares about your grandpa's will. He cares about how much of your inheritance (spiritual and physical) he can convince you to fork over. He has said as much himself.

I have a tremendous amount of sympathy for those poor people in PCG whose spiritual burden is anything but light. In particular, I feel badly for the children, who will eventually have to suffer through the psychological consequences of building their lives upon a lie.

I wish there was a way to shine a light into that very dark room. --Johanna S.

Comment: People are recruited into these groups. All that will be expected of them is not made known beforehand. By the time they are members (or heavily into the literature), they have been programmed with too much fear to leave, and they distrust all other outside Christians. See: How Did Herbert W. Armstrong Recruit People?

My Response to Gerald Flurry's "Honoring the Father" Article:

August 14, 2009

I wrote a brief response to Gerald Flurry's recent article, "Honoring the Father," which, I think, might be a "re-write" of other articles of said "prophet." I thought it was worthy of a few comments and so I sent a letter to the comments section of the Trumpet website, but I doubt that they will post it.

You are welcome to post my comments/letter if you wish. Of course, you may want to edit some.

I feel it is in line (to a degree) with the June 4, 2009 PCG letter and ESN comment which shows how Jesus Christ gets very little glory in PCG (specifically because of GF's "windy doctrines"). That was a good letter, and the comments. I just think it should almost be the number one topic, or, at least, a high priority subject among all those associated with the Church of God--that is, the God of Isaiah 9:6. I was glad to see that quote in there. It adds such extra depth to the whole thing.

[Letter to the Trumpet:]

In regard to the article "Honoring the Father."

I am concerned that there may be something missing from this article and the understanding which it is based upon.

The author says, "Over and over, He [Christ] said, my Father sent me. Don't make your religion revolve around me. I'm not the central figure! The FATHER sent me! HE'S in charge! He's the Head of the Family!"

WHO is the "Head" of all things?

"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into HIM in all things, WHICH IS THE HEAD, EVEN CHRIST" (Eph. 4:14-15).

WHO is the "Head" of the Church?

"For by him were all things created... by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And HE IS THE HEAD OF THE BODY, THE CHURCH: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that IN ALL THINGS HE might HAVE THE PREEMINENCE" (Col. 1:16-18). (Also; Eph. 1:22; 5:23; Acts 4:11).

WHO IS "THE CHIEF CORNERSTONE"?!?!

According to Isaiah 9:6:

"For unto us a child is born, unto us A SON is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and HIS name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting FATHER, The Prince of Peace."

So, the "Son" will be called "the everlasting [or eternal] Father"!
And Jesus Christ, the Lord God, said in response to Philip's request to "show us the Father, and it sufficeth us";

"...Have I been so long time with you, and yet have you not known me, Philip? He that has seen ME, has seen THE FATHER; and how say you then, Show us the Father?" (John 14:8-9)

"I and my Father are ONE" (John 10:30).

I am certainly not perfect in my own understanding here, and of course, the character and nature of our Lord and Saviour (The "Son" who is also "The everlasting Father" -Isa. 9:6) is obviously rather complicated--God must reveal it to us...

There are many things which I have either misunderstood, or been misled on regarding the ONE True God--the "before Abraham was, I am"--the "Alpha and Omega"--etc.

May we all heed the encouraging and exciting scripture to "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our LORD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen" (2 Peter 3:18).

Furthermore, I put it to you (based upon scripture), that if one does make Jesus Christ the "central figure" of their "religion," that they are in fact still worshipping and "honoring the Father," in the sense that:

"...it pleased the Father that in him [Jesus Christ] should all fulness dwell" (Col. 1:19);

"At that day you shall know that I am in my Father..." (John 14:20);

"...Christ, who is the image of God...to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ" (2 Cor. 4:4, 6);

"Who is the image of the invisible God..." (Col. 1:15);

"Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person..." (Hebrews 1:3).

And, again from the article:

"But what do most Christians today believe? Why, they think that everything revolves around Jesus!"

Is Jesus God?

"...God was manifest in the flesh..." (1 Tim. 3:16).

Is Jesus Christ our ONLY Saviour and Redeemer, and therefore our salvation and redemption solely revolve around Him? --Him who said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes unto the Father, but by me" (John 14:6).

And lastly, why do you think "most Christians today" are called such?!?
If, as you say, "...they think that everything revolves around Jesus", and you, Mr. Flurry, consider that to "insult both Christ and the Father!" and be "rebelling against God!", then maybe you should no longer consider yourself as a "Christian" (I assume you do), and instead perhaps adopt the term "Fatherian," as you say that the Father is the central figure to your religion, and not Jesus Christ.

Either way,
May God bless and keep all.

I read briefly an article on ESN about the "trinity." I will check again more thoroughly, but are you saying that there are three God's? I don't think that is what you are saying, so forgive me if I am wrong on that. I will actually go and read it again when I finish this. ... Sadly, I failed to find these answers when in fellowship with PCG, as I followed the recommendation (commandment) of "God's Man" to stick strictly to PCG literature and even read the booklets twice (God forgive me), wasting much precious time. Unfortunately, as you well know, a familiar story, but I am o.k. with God's grace and mercy. Thank you. --P. M. (To Jesus Christ be all the glory forever. Amen.)

Reply: I'm glad you wrote a response to GF's foolish article. Your letter was very good. But as you may know he does not tolerate anyone correcting or questioning him, so you will probably not hear back from them.

Yes, Jesus was God in the flesh, Immanuel, but He was fully man and fully God.

No, we are not saying there are three separate gods. God is One. But as William Hohmann said in his critical review of Mystery of the Ages on the ESN site: "The concept of God as a Trinity does not limit God any more than HWA declaring God is a family of two."

The article on our site on the "Trinity" (the title is, Is the Holy Spirit Only the Power of God? and it also covers Jesus' two natures). We recommend that anyone reading it look up each of the scriptures given and pray about it.

Gerald Flurry Declared Christ is Not our Savior:

August 17, 2009

I would like to add a short comment to the current discussion about PCG doctrine.
One thing that grated against my conscience while a member was the time that I personally heard GF declare that Christ is not our Savior. I remember he quoted one verse, out of context, which called the Father our Savior. With that one verse he negated every other verse that proves that Christ is, indeed, our Savior. That is the way these religious cults work. They pick and chose verses and string them together to "prove" what they are teaching. God have mercy on the members! --Name Withheld.

Flurry Hung Up on Ezekiel's Temple in Latest Royal Vision:

August 24, 2009

In the September - October Royal Vision, Gerald Flurry wrote a 9-page editorial which revealed how hung up he is on "Ezekiel's Temple" and how members need to feel the exact same way. I spotted the extreme narcissism and grandiose, paranoia, need for stimulation, and a goal to rule the world. (Refer to your article Profile of a Sociopath)

Following are some quotes I gathered: [emp. mine]

"we are the only ones who have had these chapters [in Ezek.] revealed to us!" (p. 1)

"God has revealed that truth [about the vision of Ezekiel's temple] and a lot more to me." (p. 1)

"Only spiritual sons of Zadok [qualified PCG members] come near to God." (p. 3)

"The sons of Zadok will be the only ones who are going to be near to God." [admitted to the temple] (p. 3)

"I believe God has shown me exactly where His temples were located in Jerusalem. And it's not where most people think it is." (p. 4)

"Ezekiel's temple is going to be built on the same spot [as where their archaeological dig is taking place]. We have to proclaim this Earth-shaking news to the world!" (p. 5)

"But don't be afraid, God is going to make us like iron pillars against the leaders of the land!" (p. 7)

"...we are the sons of Zadok. ... We're going to help Jesus Christ establish the Ezekiel temple for the whole world." (p. 8)

"God wants us to get our minds on the Ezekiel temple. We have to start planning for this new temple and for the new building program so that everybody is geared up for it when Christ returns." (p. 9)

--Exiter

Appalling that Gerald Flurry Would Write an Article on the Family!

September 2, 2009

The cover page of the September Philadelphia Trumpet states, "The War On Family." On seeing this, my first thought was, "What could this possibly be, coming from this magazine?" You see, I know from personal, painful experience what this false religious organization has done to the family. Then, as I looked inside the cover I saw the bold words, "Honoring the Father," followed by the words, "Family is the most beautiful thing in life!" Say what?!! These words from this man!! I know personally what the teachings of this man has done to the family. To my family! Not only to my family, but also to thousands of families. This man, the Editor in Chief, the Pastor General (or whatever he calls himself) of the Philadelphia Church of God, and his associates, have and are ruthlessly, cruelly, ripping thousands of families apart. Yes! Thousands! And they continue relentlessly to do so! I find it appalling that this man would even attempt to write an article on the family. War on the Family? Yes indeed there is, and he is a major contributor to it. It is by his directive and commands and those of his minister associates, that thousands of family relationships have been terribly shattered. Relationships senselessly severed, with mothers, fathers, parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins and even relationships with long and one time close friends. His heartless, senseless demands and cruel commands continue to bring multitudes of tears, needless suffering, and intense grief to those outside his organization, and yes, even many of those within his religious organization. We, and many, are praying for the release of these captive followers, and for the realization and repentance of the deceiving teachers. It is happening, and it will continue to happen. Our God is the great loving, forgiving, just, righteous, and victorious God of the Bible, and eternity. --Former member of Armstrong's Worldwide Church of God and Impacted by PCG [name withheld by request]

What Are PCG's True Cash Sources?

September 2, 2009

I have often wondered where PCG is getting all their income from, as there is no way there are enough members to send in the amount of money he has been pulling in for his building projects, etc., especially for that "house for god" with its expensive furnishings. I read something (I believe it was in a Philadelphia News) several months ago where GF said that the PCG had taken a bank loan for the new building, but was going to be able to pay it off early, thanks to God and the members' donations. I found that a little hard to believe, as I know they are still a fairly small group, all things considered. I believe there could be underhanded business dealings (offshore accounts, money exchange between other cults, etc.) which would explain their ability to pay off any loans early, and could possibly be a way to "launder" their dirty money. Telling the members that the paying off the debt early is due to their donations and fundraising work would help hide where the true cash sources were. --J. T.

Comment: While we have no proof of what PCG may be involved in, it is well known that destructive apocalyptic cults very often engage in criminal activities;  i.e., money laundering, drugs, sexual abuse, deliberate mind control inflicted trauma, etc.; however, they are skilled in cover-up.

PCG and RCG Insist on Required Reading Before Attending:

September 6, 2009

I suppose I should be thankful that when I came across Herbert Armstrong' stuff on the internet that I did not fall for it head over heels. More so, it is interesting that the three churches you are mentioning are the three prominent ones available in South Africa.

To make a long story short, I ended up going to their sites. I did not let my guard down on them, though. I questioned the things I read.

Understand me, I am not for the man (HWA). If he did what you claim he did, then I not only question him, but also question the church as well. How could they allow it to happen? How could these things be allowed to proceed? Then it is not a church, but a mockery. And yes, I never regarded him as a so called prophet.

When I requested information from the PCG on congregations in my country, they asked me to forward an address so that they could send me information by postage. It did not arrive. A few months down the line, I e-mailed them again, indicating to them that I hadn't received anything yet. I received a letter suggesting that I need to read several books first before I make a decision and then contact them. They also indicated that they "noticed" that I did not read all the books that are required to be read. This told me that I was being monitored. The RCG [Restored Church of God] had the same reaction. I contacted them and received an e-mail from them with the same type of approach: "Read the attached information first before you contact us." Needless to say, I do not think I will contact them again.

Thanks for the information I found on your site. I am still "digesting" it and found several interesting pointers to other information I've come across. I am in the process of verifying what I've found. Thanks to you, I now know I definitely do not want to become part of any form of the "original church of God"--in any case, not until I am sure of their intentions and that their doctrines are clear and pure. --South Africa

Some Members Dreading to Go to the Feast This Year:

October 2, 2009

From what I personally know, some in the PCG are dreading going to the Feast this year, and looking forward to going less and less each year. I think there are a number of people that don't want to go, but they're compelled at "spiritual gun-point." There are a lot of elderly in the PCG, so I'm sure they are dreading going, too, mainly because of all the walking. Members have to struggle to pay to stay at an expensive resort or condo for sometimes two weeks (if they are traveling). I honestly believe that fear of the future is what's keeping many members in the PCG. When times improve (if they do), people will probably start getting out in greater numbers.  --Impacted by PCG

PCG Becoming More Unhinged:

October 2, 2009

I read somewhere that Flurry has hinted that the date of "the end" would be January 16, 2010 (anniversary of HWA's death). Can this possibly be true? I thought he was pretty careful to not to put such stuff in writing. But I am also aware that HWA prophesized many such dates, from the 1930's through the 1970's, and that of course none of them came true. I know some PCG members who are seeming to become more and more unhinged. I have been told the same about Flurry. In the past, I thought Flurry's first priority was money, but he does seem to be a bit more psychotic lately. Its hard not knowing when to be alarmed and when not to be. Can you be of any help here? --Impacted by PCG

Reply: The 2010 date is mentioned in several places on our site. (See: Philadelphia Church of God and the Place of Safety). Flurry has made members believe "something will happen" in 2010, but he hasn't come right out and said they will be fleeing at that time. In fact, he is now denying he said they are in "the last hour." Many cult leaders, especially those who say they have received revelation, or new understanding, from God may appear to be "psychotic," but it is more accurate to say that those who are knowingly using religion to fleece and control others are sociopathic. I don't think Flurry is going to be taking members anywhere. But he will try to get as much money out of them for as long as he can; telling them "the end is near." That is how HWA did it.

Haven't Heard From Parents Since They Left For Feast:

October 7, 2009

I am a former WCG/PCG member. My parents are at the FOT right now. They have not answered my calls in several days, and I am starting to get worried, because that is not at all like them. Since I have left the PCG, I always talk to them every day while they are at the feast. And before they left, they stressed that it will be very, very, very soon when they "flee." I am worried that either that have gone somewhere, or they have been told to cut me off and have no contact. I just wondered if anyone else has had a similar experience. Have the ministers made any new rulings about contact with non member children? --Anonymous ex-member

Reply: I wouldn't be overly concerned about this. It is common for those at the feast to not contact their parents outside the organization. (After all, many of us did the same thing when we were in WCG.) Your parents may want to be left alone. I would look at the possibility of their deciding to cut off from you (due to their considering you "Laodicean") as being much more plausible than "fleeing." No, I haven't heard of any new rulings on this. Please see the article, Philadelphia Church of God and the Place of Safety" which will list towards the end some of the reasons why we do not believe GF is going to be taking members anywhere.

Dumbstruck to Hear Wife Attends Feast After Husband Dies:

October 8, 2009

The members of this family are all in the PCG: husband, wife, and 5 children. The husband died of untreated hypertension on the 4th of October because he refused to take prescribed medications due to PCG doctrines. His wife showed up at the Feast a couple of days ago because she had to make arrangements to have his body put in storage until after the Feast so a PCG minister could preside over the funeral service. When I heard about this, I literally didn't know what to say. This lady's husband dies, and the control is so deep that she attends the Feast during this time of grieving. I was just dumbstruck with unbelief when I heard about it. --Impacted by PCG

Mother's Health Has Declined Since Joining PCG:

October 14, 2009

Thank you so much! You don't know how much I appreciate what you do. I check your site almost daily for updates!!! We just spent two weeks taking care of my dad while my non-speaking mom was at her Flurry feast. She is going into five years now of not speaking to us. And it is killing her. She has declined in health with all this added stress and seems to be experiencing depression and wants to sleep and go to bed much of the time. That is not like her. --Impacted by loved one in PCG

Construction on "House For God" Slowed:

November 1, 2009

Delivered From Fraud:

November 4, 2009

After reading your statements, I am at last released from what could have become a spiritual and emotional devastation in my life. I was tithing to PCG, although not a member, just a coworker. I also gave support to LCG and CGI trying to get it right and trying to support "God's ministries." Their TV programs had me in a spiritual fog. ... I know I have been delivered from fraud. --C.

Frank Borg Establishes Faithful Church of God in Laodicea:

November 28, 2009

You may be interested to know that Frank Borg, and a few others, have established their own split after their departure from the PCG to CoGF (Church of God's Faithful, founded by Robert Ardis). It seems to have started around the time of Trumpets. They call it the Faithful Church of God in Laodicea. You can now find more of the same old, same old in a new and exciting package!

When will they learn that the whole Armstrong system is corrupt and needs to be forsaken? How many splits and false prophecies must come to pass before the average member (like I used to be) wakes up? --Vaughn (former PCG member)

All These Groups Think They Have a Mandate From God:

November 29, 2009

I wanted to comment on yet another split from Robert Ardis' Church of God's Faithful. Several years ago at least one other group formed. It was called Church of God's Patience. They had a small website back then. I don't think they are still in existence. Now Frank Borg and others have defected from CoGF.

My understanding is that Frank is originally from Malta, and was among the first graduates from Flurry's college to become an elder. I find it strange that this last group to leave Ardis' group did so because of his teaching about The Day of The Lord occurring in 1997.

Hello...didn't these people know this when they joined up with his group? This is one of his claims to fame. It is almost common knowledge to many Church of God members who aren't even in his group. The COG Faithful has a revolving door. Many who escape the wrath of the PCG wind up here. It takes them a little while to see the errors, and then they exit to form another group or join up with somebody else.

It's just scary to see someone who came from Flurry's college think that he is a teacher to God's people and has to warn the other churches in the Laodicean era. All these groups think that they have a mandate from God. They seem to forget we are to compare ourselves to Christ and not other men and their churches. Somehow they believe that by warning these other churches they are preparing themselves to be ready for the return of Jesus Christ. 

My family and I are so glad to have escaped this kind of destructive thinking that leads to self-righteousness, arrogance, and vanity. --Former member of PCG and RCG.

Another Case of What the Flurry Organization Does to People:

December 1, 2009

Here's a bit of information about the "blood sucking Flurry" organization. Nothing new or unknown, but just further evidence of what PCG does to people. A man I have known from our years in WCG, who went to PCG, just recently died. He was a divorced man, not at all well, nearly blind, living on retirement, living alone, and had cut off his only sibling sister. She was former WCG also. After his death, the family was taking care of his after death affairs, and found he had no assets, living in a small trailer, in a trailer park, was $25,000 in debt to credit cards. They also found in looking at his check stubs, that he had given large amounts of money to PCG. Just one more sad result and fruit of cults like PCG. --Impacted by loved one in PCG

Eyes Opened Fully and Now Trusting Only in Jesus:

December 2, 2009

My mother and her husband (former members of WCG and then PCG for many years) are now secure and trusting only in Jesus, as He has opened their eyes fully to all of the false gospel they lived under for so very many years.

Unless one has gone through this, no one understands the horrible hold it can have on you for many years--a hold Jesus can break.

Thanks again for the tremendous work you all do.  --Exiter

Thank You For the Encouraging Words:

December 2, 2009

Thank you so much for the encouraging words your website provides. I just read the letter posted today about the mom and step-father who came out of the WCG and PCG after many years. It is a great blessing to hear those stories and after 10 years of watching my husband steeped in this horrible legalistic system it is great to be reminded that it will end. Thank you for all you do everyday! --Impacted by PCG

Flurry Will Blame Others When His Time Line Doesn't Work:

December 3, 2009

It would not surprise me if Gerald Flurry backs off from preaching the whole "last hour," and "last half of the last hour," due simply to the fact that it could only last just so long. I remember that it was in 2001 that he first brought out the "last hour" prophecy. I also remember a very big deal was made about how, just less than five months later, the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center was to have been the first of an exponentially increasing rate in the succession of attacks that would bring the U.S. to her knees, we were told. One can read about this in the Nov/Dec 2001, Royal Vision. It is partially available online. He also printed a booklet entitled the "Last Hour" in 2004.

He then wheeled out the "last half of the last hour" in conjunction with the, now infamous, "no contact ruling," towards the end of 2005 and the beginning of 2006. I remember the coupling of the two because the latter, specifically, was the event that gave me the reason to leave. We heard sermon after sermon about "cutting off contact to prepare the outer court for the end, in this last half of the last hour" (paraphrased from memory.) It was about that same time that reading their propaganda became less and less interesting to me. 

Flurry really has no choice [to back off from preaching the "last hour"] since the time line is not going to work for him. He will first blame the membership for misunderstanding and then any ministers lower that him in rank (everyone else) for exaggerating. It worked for Herbert Armstrong; it may very well work for him.

As far as the "Rahab Principle" (i. e., "it's okay to lie to protect the work"), I never heard of that while I was in, but it is a good one. It sounds like something they could have overheard from Ralph Helge! --Former PCG member

Comment: While Furry has backed off from saying they are in the "last hour" and "last half of the last hour", in a July 26, 2008 sermon at PCG's Philadelphia Youth Camp (PYC), he said he believed the Tribulation would be here "in five years or less."

Shepherds in Field Were No Ordinary Shepherds:

December 10, 2009

The great excitement about the shepherds in the field (when Christ was born; Luke 2:8) is that those were no ordinary shepherds. When we visited Israel in the 1980's, our guide told us, as did several seminary professors we have sat under, that these shepherds were the keepers of the very special Temple sacrificial sheep. These shepherds were in the field the year round caring for these special sheep. And the star [the Shekinah glory of God] appeared to them to announce the birth of Messiah. That is how the news of the birth of the Savior was taken to the Temple.

There is much beauty in the story. Bethlehem means "house of bread." That is where Jesus was born, our Bread of Life. And He was laid in a feeding trough. These little things really fill out the story. Just wanted to share. --Anonymous

More on the Temple Shepherds:

December 13, 2009

Alfred Edersheim wrote a book entitled "The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah" back in the late 1800s. He was a converted Jew who knew a lot about Jewish tradition. On pages 186 and 187 we read: "That the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem, was a settled conviction. Equally so was the belief, that He was to be revealed from Migdal Eder, 'the tower of the flock.' This Migdal Eder was not the watchtower for the ordinary flocks which pastured on the barren sheep-ground beyond Bethlehem, but lay close to the town, on the road to Jerusalem. A passage in the Mishnah leads to the conclusion, that the flocks, which pastured there, were destined for Temple sacrifices, and, accordingly, that the shepherds, who watched over them, were not ordinary shepherds. ... Thus, Jewish tradition in some dim manner apprehended the first revelation of the Messiah from that Migdal Eder, where shepherds watched the Temple-flocks all the year around. Of the deep symbolic significance of such as coincidence, it is needless to speak."

In a footnote, Edersheim writes: "In fact the Mishnah (Baba K. vii.7) expressly forbids the keeping of flocks throughout the land of Israel, except in the wildernesses---and the only flocks otherwise kept, would be those for the Temple-services (Baba K. 80a)."

The reason for Temple-flocks was the need to have sacrificial animals for those Jews arriving from the Diaspora. Also, there was a morning and evening sacrifice made on every day of the year, requiring a steady supply of animals. If you recall, Jesus overthrew the money-changers, who were there to convert the funds of Jews from the Diaspora who had come to purchase animals for sacrifice. Jesus objected to their presence in the Court of the Gentiles, which was reserved for Gentile worship. The money-changers also were guilty of unfair exchange rates, taking advantage of the worshippers. --Impacted by loved ones in PCG.

Comment: Much interesting information can be found on the net about the temple shepherds and their flocks. Since no one field could hold all of these temple sheep, they were dispersed to various fields around Jerusalem. (Bethlehem is only a few miles south of Jerusalem.) It is estimated that 200,000+ newborn Pascal lambs were needed every year for the Passover sacrifice due to the influx of pilgrims from all over the world into Jerusalem. Also, the temple shepherds swaddled these sheep (wrapped them in broad bands of cloth) to protect them from injury before they were sacrificed.

How interesting, when you stop and think about the parallels here. Jesus was the final sheep for slaughter, and look where He was born in relation to where those sheep were kept? God revealed the birth of the Son of God to these ritually "unclean" shepherds instead of those who thought they were close to God, doing all the Law.

Finally Able to Enjoy the Christmas Season Again:

December 13, 2009

I was an early student of HWA and his son GTA who I started watching on TV back in the mid 70's while a student at Baylor and just out of the Air Force. Although I never joined at that time due to misgivings about keeping all the "holy days" I was a co-worker. But I always thought that maybe this was the true church and finally decided to attend regularly. I even was baptized into the PCG in the mid-90's. After only a week or two I began to be convicted that this was all a fraud and stopped attending. The local pastor called me and accused me of lying to him about why I wanted in and said the usual things that the devil had convinced me to leave before I was even fully in. I believe many thought I was a spy since I had done that type work in the USAF.

I am thankful to this site and for being able to finally enjoy the Christmas season this year for the first time in many, many years. I will just take it as it comes and enjoy the visitation and exchanging of gifts and enjoy the music of the season. (This after reading your sites related writings.) I will fully take in the beauty of the calmness of that day when everything seems to come to a stop and all worldly worries melt away for a few hours as they used to do years ago when I was a child. Kind of magical really. Maybe it's just a glimpse at what we could have in the world if we all focused on what is really important, God's gift of redemption for mankind.

Nice to have a site like this one. I started and ran a forum years ago about Gerald Flurry but one day it all was accidentally wiped out and I never bothered to start it up again. Just rather forget about the whole thing. --Free of PCG

Construction on "House for God" Still Behind Schedule:

December 17, 2009

I was able to drive by Gerald Flurry's "House for God" and take a good look at it.

As of December:

The parking lot is not finished.
The landscaping is only in the beginning stages.
The glass facade on the building is incomplete.
There is a strip of brick siding missing around the building.
(I should have gotten out to look in the windows because it's probably not near completion in there either.)
The twelve support pillars appear unfinished, or maybe that want that dirty pink look.

Oddly, the front of the building is in a northwest position and there is no good view of its front--not from Bryant, nor Waterloo, not even when one is driving onto the property and into the parking lot. There is only one direction to fully appreciate the front view. One must be standing an appropriate distance away facing southeast. Actually, standing on Gerald Flurry's back porch is probably breathtaking, especially with the sun rising to the left of it, or at night when the auditorium is filled with people and those fantastic crystal chandeliers are shining through the windows. As GF himself said, "That house will be able to fill us with faith just to see it there in our own back yard, brethren!!"

GF's plans were to have the Ministerial Conference held in this Ambassador Auditorium ("House for God") the first week of January, have the dedication on the 16th (the anniversary of the death of Herbert Armstrong), then have the first concert afterwards.

So it appears they are not only behind schedule, but membership is down. --Informer

Money Still Tight in PCG:

December 17, 2009

Regarding the previous letter, I can guarantee that money is tight in the PCG right now. This year the members sold Christmas fruit to friends and family to raise money for Gerald Flurry's "house for god," with members expected to purchase hundreds of dollars worth themselves. Cal Culpepper has told the members that the PCG will do this again next year. Members have also been urged to save their pocket change and send it in to HQs. This is nothing new, HWA had members do the same thing, I know; but it's further proof that the PCG is having financial problems.

I also know this: in the local small congregation here, there has been at least one member quit within the past couple of months, and another has almost quit before being talked out of it by friends inside. I think that part of the problem is that the members are wondering why the PCG is having such financial problems if Flurry has promised them that God is supposed to be blessing it? Also, they may be wondering how the PCG can advise members how to budget their income so that they have money for tithes, offerings, the feast, etc., and still have something to live on, when they can't be responsible with their own finances? --Anonymous

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