Letters From Those Impacted By
Philadelphia Church of God
January 1, 2010 to present

Letter Archives

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PCG's "House For God" Way Behind Schedule:

January 1, 2010

PCG's auditorium is way behind schedule with no finish date. The conference and concerts are just going to be done over at the Field House. PCG had a major problem with some indoor wood paneling. Seems the wood mill splashed some oil on the veneer it was cutting. Not sure if there was some paneling already installed and they were waiting on the rest or if the whole order was messed up and is on re-order. --Insider

No Contact Rule Makes Allowance For Not Getting in Trouble With Law:

January 8, 2010

When it comes to the "no contact rule," PCG communication with outsiders is allowed on a "business level" if small children, the disabled or the elderly are involved. Our family falls in that necessary business level category. PCG does not want to get into trouble with the law where such responsibilities are concerned. We were observed and sized up in person by one of their ministers concerning our needful "family relations" and the minister laid down the boundaries for the situation. --Impacted by loved ones in PCG

Herbert W. Armstrong Bible Correspondence Course Created Confusion:

January 9, 2010

I have just started the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course, and I could not believe what I was reading and hearing and became upset. I researched your website. Their literature seems to have little of Biblical truths and the Word I love. I thought maybe I just did not understand, or was too "lazy" about really studying Bible. It seems Bible verses are misquoted from all I have learned.

I found this study by googling "Free Home Bible Studies." Information says it is an international course of biblical understanding, published by the Philadelphia Church of God in cooperation with HWA College, Edmond, OK, Editor in Chief, Gerald Flurry.

The course seemed to lead in gradually. I had no idea this was considered a cult! My upset is characterized by confusion. I do other Bible studies that I love. Is my "feeling" of incorrect teaching of the Bible and confusion, due to the fact that it is false? Their discussion of immortal souls, etc., was driving me crazy and I realized this must be false doctrine. I got almost angry when I researched the quoted scripture and saw what I thought was twisting and a strange interpretation.

Thank you for your help. --[Name withheld]

Comment: This person has received a personal reply. Also read: How Did Herbert W. Armstrong Recruit People? and Understanding Mind Control and Exploitive Groups.

Update: Read: "Bible Correspondence Course" (an Examination) 

Scripture Does Not Need Special Training to Understand:

January 10, 2010

I read the above letter, and I understand this person's confusion. It reminded me of myself so long ago.

My family and I went to the funeral of a member of the WCG. Many of the "worldly" family members of the deceased were going to be there. We were warned of this ahead of time. The WCG minister preached his usual sermon that was really more a slap at traditional Christianity than a funeral service of comfort. I was saying in my mind something like, "Sock it to them!" Then I heard someone behind me say in a loud whisper, "See, I told you they just quoted parts of Scripture." I was angry. I had my Bible in my lap like a good little member and was following along. Then I realized that, indeed, the verses he used were skipping around, and most times the quote was ending short of a phrase that would change the meaning to a more traditional teaching. I then felt embarrassed. Unfortunately, the feeling did not last long, and I was then back under the group's control.

Now I so often think of comforting scriptures that were never quoted under HWA. If they were accidentally read in the group, the reading would be instantly followed by the "real" meaning. I remember being told that the early Christians did not understand what they really believed. How ridiculous! They had been there with Jesus, Peter, Paul, and the other Apostles. I think they understood much better than we do today.

I will never again believe anyone who tells me that Scripture needs special training to understand. I always try to read at least an entire chapter around a verse to get the meaning of it. I also think about who was being spoken to, and which Covenant was in effect at the time. That clears up a lot of misunderstandings. --Former member of WCG and PCG

Throwing Bible Correspondence Material in Trash:

(2nd email from "Herbert W. Armstrong Bible Correspondence Course Created Confusion" - See January 9 letter above)

January 10, 2010

I feel like God is telling me to throw away all the Bible correspondence material I have, and yet I find myself wondering if I just keep an "open" mind maybe I can learn something even from their material. Nope. In the trash it must go. Our minds are wonderful and strange. Thank you so much again. --[name withheld]

PCG Bible Course:

January 12, 2010

I have looked over the material from the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course that PCG sends out. In the trash (or better yet, the incinerator) is where it belongs. --Impacted by Flurry

Had to Unlearn Garbage:

January 12, 2010

I took the original HWA Bible Correspondence Course and the revised correspondence course [which is the same as PCG publishes]. What a bunch of garbage that I had to unlearn. --Former WCG member/impacted by loved one in PCG

Regarding Confusion After Reading Herbert W. Armstrong Correspondence Course:

January 12, 2010

I had to respond to the January 9th letter about the confusion that person felt from the Herbert W. Armstrong Bible Correspondence Course. I would like to say this:

The reason that you felt confused is the fact that truth does not disturb truth, but truth disturbs error. You had enough Bible knowledge to help detect this. Unfortunately, many people who come into contact with these Bible-based cult groups do not know enough about Scripture to discern error, and they are easy prey. The other reason you have felt unsettled is the fact that the literature is designed to do that. It overwhelms you with every type of sin and woe known to man to make you feel helpless. Then it becomes purposefully antagonistic toward any and all authorities and their total incompetence in solving these monumental problems. Once you are convinced to mistrust everyone and everything you know, they will, of course, lead you in their solutions (which they try to disguise as God's). As you may have already noticed, scriptures are twisted to bring you to their conclusions. Thankfully, you didn't fall for it. I'm glad it all went into the garbage where it rightfully belongs. --Kelly Marshall, author of Mystery of the Ages (a critical review)

Morale is Sagging in PCG:

January 12, 2010

I've spoken with some people in certain WCG offshoots who have relatives in PCG and they're saying that morale is really sagging among the membership. GF's character is becoming clearer to them. --Former PCG member

PCG Sister Cuts Off and Refuses to Read Anything Outside the Group:

January 20, 2010

My sister has been in the PCG for over three years now. She has cut off all ties with me because they have told her so. I "try" to show her letters from your web site, but clearly the PCG is telling them not to read any kind of letters unless it is from their own website. She will not even open any of my emails, but she deletes them right away. Even if I speak to her in the most loving tone with tears in my eyes, I can tell they have "programmed" her into not listening to me because the "devil is trying to trick her and take her away from God." She is also mean to my little children. They asked her if she would like to see their Christmas tree and she told them, "It is probably the ugliest thing I have ever seen! And no, don't like it!" She made an excuse up and said I put them up to asking her that question. She still thinks that what she says is right. How can I help her when she won't listen to me or anyone in our family? She divorced her wonderful husband because of this. I have lost my only sister. --Impacted by loved one in PCG

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

PCG Members Are Being Led to the Slaughter:

January 26, 2010

I am in a state of sheer disgust. Not only in the religious cults that I have been involved in for the past 40 years of my life but also myself. I have had a good scriptural knowledge for most of my life and can only wonder how in this world I let these people lead me in such a blind direction! I have been a member of the PCG for a few short years and followed HWA teachings in the 70's. I am certain now that I must act on what I have found out in the past few months. PCG members are being led to the slaughter so to speak. We are so afraid of the ministry because we are taught that they are God's Government on earth at this time. Don't blame us; blame Gerald Flurry and his family! They are taking advantage of all of the members that truly believe they are doing what God wants them to do and are told that this is the only way to get their family members to repent and come into the PCG before it is too late (by no contact with former members of PCG or for that matter former WCG). I pray that I can find my way out of this mess and hopefully take some with me. Thanks for all the information you have supplied. I pray others will find it, but I fear they won't, given the fear tactics used so skillfully by the PCG and other false churches. --Hopeful still

People Have No Idea How Bad it is Getting in PCG:

January 31, 2010

(2nd email from above person)

I can't thank you enough for all the information you provide on these cults that prey on well meaning people. I am still a member of PCG only because I hope to help plant a few seeds before I leave and it will be very shortly. I have spent all day reading letters and articles on your site. It is such a blessing to have found it. People have no idea how bad it is getting in the PCG now. I am watching people die needlessly because of being ridiculed if they go to a doctor; e. g., sermons that tell us that "Gods people" should not be going to doctors. A woman in Mr. Cal Culpepper's region died a couple of weeks ago of a massive stroke. Of course it was a "precious sight" in God's eyes. I don't think her 14 year old son thought so. I know of several members that are sick and are using herbal remedies or nothing at all. Less doctors; more money for the ministry! More changes are on the way I'm sure. The ministerial conference was over a couple of weeks ago. I hope I never get wrapped up in anything like this again. After reading your articles I have decided that I am not going to attend United Church of God as I had thought. I will take some time to regroup and build a foundation on the scriptures, not on a man's imaginings. Thanks again for your courage and caring. May God always bless you. --Hopeful still

Gerald Flurry Maintains Erroneous Beliefs:

February 2, 2010

I am trying to spread word of an elementary error that Gerald Flurry has made regarding two key scriptures that he omitted from his book, "Who Is That Prophet?" His error is explained at my web site: http://ppietsch.id.au/that-prophet.html

Gerald Flurry has painted himself into a corner. He is not able to retract what the PCG has told me in two letters, because he long ago persuaded the appropriate PCG employees at Edmond that everything in his book and those letters was truthful.

Within the past several months, he has strongly reiterated to Max Rumler, regional director for Australia and New Zealand, that he has made no error. This occurred after I had succeeded in reaching Max by telephone and had directed him to my web site. As far as I know, Max continues to believe that Gerald Flurry is who he claims to be.

Sincerely, Peter Pietsch

The Article on GF's Erroneous Beliefs:

People Continuing to Die in PCG Due to Untreated Diseases:

February 8, 2010

From what was leaked out by a friend in PCG, members are continuing to die from  untreated diseases. One person's diabetes raised their blood pressure so much that they had a fatal stroke. Another person continues to have trouble breathing because of a really bad heart condition which is being untreated. The PCG is absolutely killing people in their greed for more money instead of letting people get medical attention. --Anonymous

Comment: See: Use of the medical profession being is strongly discouraged.

Life Shattered Due to PCG:

February 18, 2010

I grew up in the WCG and when I was [older] my family joined the PCG. I was later excommunicated from PCG because I fell in love with a Christian man, but he was "in the world" so I was out. My life is shattered. Actually, that is an understatement. I was a "good soldier" and made the PCG my life--the only life I knew. ... My family cut off, including all my friends. I am in complete distress emotionally and spiritually, and appreciate all your info online and any other advice or resources you can provide. We were taught in the PCG with such fervor to avoid sites like yours, but it has been very helpful as I am finally trying to sort through all of this. Thanks for all the hard work. I know you must get a lot of hate from PCGers and similar groups, but please, please keep up your efforts. --Child survivor of WCG and PCG

PCG Putting a Lot of Funds Behind Court Cases:

February 21, 2010

Basically, we've been in and out of court twice now. Both times were long court battles--two years each time. Each time, the courts were hesitant/unwilling to get involved in what they will always see as a religious dispute. Basically, I was told both times, by two different sets of lawyers and experts, that the only thing the court cared about was what was harmful to our daughter, and what the court defines as harmful and what I define as harmful are two different things. But both times, we won. You should also be aware that the PCG is putting a lot of funds behind these cases, I was told, as part of an effort to "legitimize" themselves. So, basically, last time it became a battle of resources. My family spent well over $100,000 in order to protect my daughter [from PCG]. The lawyer hired by my ex was paid for by the PCG, and they spent more than us. This has basically bankrupted my family, and left us without resources for the next court battle. Yes, I'm sure he/they will try again. As my daughter is a special needs child, this money would have been out to good use for her education and medical needs. Instead, it went to lawyers and the courts. Yuk! And, from what I'm told, expect to expect more of the same. --[name withheld]

Who Will End the Abuse in PCG?

March 11, 2010

I am a member of the Philadelphia Church and have been for many years. I was originally in Worldwide, then United Church of God. I have become disillusioned with many things going on in PCG. For a number of years Gerald Flurry has preached that we have entered the "last hour"--even the "last half" of the last hour. Yet, he has decided to postpone the "last hour" so that he can build a house for God (using members' tithes & offerings).

Make up your mind, Mr. Flurry! Is it the "last half" of the "last hour" or not? Why spend $30,000,000 or more on a building so that members can be entertained with your new Steinway piano imported from Germany at concerts, if we are about to flee? Does that make sense? There's no logic in this reasoning.

Then again, Gerald Flurry would most likely say, "Don't rely on human reasoning--this isn't about logic, it's about faith." But I would say to him, "Make up your mind." Gerald Flurry has led members to believe that we are so close to "the end," and now we aren't? To me this is not faith building, but faith destroying. I agree with previous comments posted that morale in the PCG is at an all time low.

Moses prophesied about a Prophet being raised up in the future. (Deut. 18:18) Let's keep it simple, shall we. Moses was referring to Jesus Christ Himself! Case dismissed!! I'm sure that we all know this. How can Gerald Flurry be so sure that the Jews in Christ's day were referring to a Prophet other than the one Moses was referring to? Gerald Flurry claims that the term "That Prophet" (John 1:21, 25) must be referring to him just because Christ is mentioned separately in the dialogue between John the Baptist and the priests that the Jews sent to him. However, how can Gerald Flurry be so sure that the Jews understood that Moses was referring to Christ when he said in Deut. 18:18 that a Prophet would be raised up? Moses did not use the term "Joshua," or "Saviour," he used the term "Prophet." It is possible that the Jews did not understand that Moses was referring to Christ. The term "That Prophet" is one that Gerald Flurry has utilized greatly to his advantage in swaying the members in this church to continue to exalt him the way he exalts himself. I'm not convinced. I mean, if you really are a prophet, why would you need to try so hard to prove it to the members?

I must remain anonymous. It's one thing to leave or be disfellowshipped, but I have family members in the PCG, and like so many other former members who have been abused and separated from their loved ones, I don't want to suffer the same fate as a result of the no-contact rule.

Are there no ministers other than Gerald Flurry and his henchmen who can see this? Why don't ministers in the Philadelphia Church say something? The reason is because they only care about lining their pockets with money. Micah 3:11 says, "The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money." What does it say in Philippians 3:19 ? "Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things."!!!

Are there no genuinely caring ministers in the PCG with some authority and courage to stand up for the members to end this abuse? The administration of the PCG have been taskmasters for long enough. If a lay member speaks out they get crushed but not ministers with some authority. They should rise up to end this tyranny.

Yours sincerely, --Name withheld

Reply: I can understand your anger, and hopefully others will ponder your words. However, it is necessary for those in PCG to research and educate themselves on whether they are really in a "church" with true ministers, or in a deceptive, mind-manipulating organization that is merely using church as a front. Please read our articles under Understanding Mind Control and Exploitation. The actions and methods you describe have all been used by totalistic Bible-based cults. Until members have their eyes opened to that truth, they will only continue to be abused and remain in bondage.

Ministers in PCG Cannot Change PCG From the Inside:

March 12, 2010

Good response to the above letter. I have known some PCG and UCG ministers that I liked, but they were, by and large, the unpaid ministers on the lower end of the PCG "totem pole." That doesn't mean that I agree with their theologies; I just realize that they have been sucked into HWA's nightmare world along with many sincere people who are members. These ministers on the lower tiers will not be rising up and changing the PCG from the inside because they have been cowed into doing all that they are told by the goons on the upper tiers and believing what they have been told to believe by the submission-producing writings of HWA and GF, just like those same members who have been deceived. People have been wanting to change these organizations "from the inside out" for a long time. The problem is that these cults (PCG, UCG, RCG, etc.) are all based on the same foundation: the writings and works of Herbert Armstrong; therefore, they are flawed at their core and foundation. This cannot be rectified by changing the hierarchy within the organization. --W. N.

Comment: No one dares go against the leader of a totalistic group as he holds absolute power and authority ("speaking for God"). Plus, many (not all) ministers are abusing the members under them. WCG ministers in the 70's challenged many abuses in the organization, but ended up being disfellowshipped and/or exiting in mass numbers. The more exposure these groups receive in the media (as WCG did in the 70's), the more likely they are to try and change doctrines, but mind control and deception remain.

Members Continue to See Flurry Wasting Money:

March 13, 2010

I think the economic downturn, in a strange sort of way, has been a blessing as far as membership in the PCG goes. Many of them are struggling to put food on the table, and I am sure they are wondering "Where are all the blessings that were promised to us if we sent in our tithes and offerings?" They continue to see Gerald Flurry waste money on expensive dustables and edifices, while their family is barely getting by. I hope many wake up and get themselves away from the PCG. --R. M.

Blind Obedience Prevalent in These Groups:

March 13, 2010

Eric Hoffer's book The True Believer has a lot of this information about mass movements. From what he says, there must be a "reinstitution of blind obedience" if the group hopes to survive. (We certainly see this openly in the splinters, and covertly in the WCG).  He also says that eventually members won't listen to historical facts (i. e., critical info about the founder or the past) since it contradicts their faith. They will be lead to believe that God is more pleased with blind faith, not in facts that will contradict their beliefs (we see a lot of this in the WCG and those who leave PCG). They will soon believe that "facts" are dangerous and unnecessary. --Observer

Comment: The following words are taken from the Robert Gerringer letter, posted on our site, and which give more insight into this:

One of the most meaningful and thought-provoking things I have ever read I completed this past May. The author is Eric Hoffer. The book was first Published in 1951. It is called The True Believer;  ... He begins the "Preface" by saying: "This book deals with some peculiarities common to all mass movements, be they religious movements, social revolutions or nationalist movements."

I strongly urge you to read it. No member, past or present, of the Worldwide Church of God should be without it; on nearly every page I found one or more statements which were applicable to Ambassador College and the Worldwide Church of God. His perception and incisiveness were so uncanny, I found it hard to believe that The True Believer was written clear back in 1951 and that Mr. Hoffer had no knowledge of Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong and the Worldwide Church of God at the time.

Pages 75-79 are superb; virtually every sentence is uncanny in its incisive perception into the Worldwide Church of God's approach to doctrine, dogmatism, absolute-ism, hereby, reason, close-mindedness, fanaticism, etc., etc. "Mass movements ... interpose a fact-proof screen between the faithful and the realities of the world. They do this by claiming that the ultimate and absolute truth is already embodied in their doctrine ..." (pg. 75). True believers ''refuse to believe any unfavorable report or evidence about their movement ...

Gerringer went on to give many more quotes from Hoffer's book which readers will find very interesting and even applicable today to the PCG. Just go to this part in the Gerringer letter and begin reading.

Members Need to Wake Up to the Hypocrisy in PCG:

March 16, 2010

The Bible contains prophetic messages. However, a fulfilled prophecy is one thing and a self-fulfilling prophecy is completely another. The Philadelphia Church of God, apparently under the leadership of Gerald Flurry, has undertaken a massive building project costing millions of dollars which is being funded by its members. The basis for this decision by Gerald Flurry to commence building a "house for God" is due to the whims of his silver-spoon fed son, Stephen. Gerald Flurry's son Stephen is in control of the PCG. Gerald Flurry has abdicated his authority to his son.

Stephen Flurry is the author of a book entitled Raising the Ruins. Is it just a coincidence that in Amos 9:11 it reads, "And I will raise up his ruins, and I will build it as in the days of old"? Stephen Flurry has turned this verse into a self-fulfilling prophecy. How? He decides to author a book entitled Raising the Ruins and then all of a sudden, a massive building project is undertaken costing many millions of donated dollars, which apparently is a raising of Herbert Armstrong's ruins due to the collapse of the Worldwide Church of God. Are we members that naïve? Sadly, it appears so. It's time for members to wake up to the hypocrisy. Gerald Flurry has become his own son's lackey. He has bowed down to Stephen. Gerald has prostrated himself. He has abdicated his authority. He has surrendered to the whims of his silver-spoon fed son. And who pays for all this absurdity? The lay-members, the tithe payer, the individuals who actually do work in a real job to fund Stephen's pet project. It's nothing more than a self-fulfilling prophecy. Stephen and his lackey have latched onto a particular scripture and are force-feeding it down the members' collective throats, and then they expect the members to just empty their pockets to fund their extravagant lifestyle.

What is really disgusting, though, is the fact that none of the hierarchy dare open their mouths to question this ridiculousness. And why is that? Well, lest they lose their positions of course! They're no different to the Pharisees in Christ's day. Where are the high-ranking ministers to rise up against this dictatorship and say, "Mr. Flurry, why have you led the members to think it's the last hour and now you've emptied out the treasury for Stephen's massive pet project? Where has all the money gone?" These high-ranking ministers are nowhere to be found. Why? Because of course, they wouldn't dare risk losing their most important positions in order to stand up and defend the flock. Shame on them for allowing this corruption to continue. Yours sincerely, --W. K.

God's Timing Will Be Right:

April 30, 2010

I just had to share this with you. I have a loved one in PCG (for several years now), and the situation has been on my mind. Well, this morning it was as if someone spoke to me and said, "In His time, and in His way."

That same day I opened a little daily devotional book that I read each morning, and that morning's verse was: "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law." (Galatians 4:4). The last paragraph of the reading said: "Perhaps you've been asking the Lord to help you. You've waited for weeks, months, or perhaps years. You're still praying, but you're wondering, too. Rest assured that His timing's always right."

This was too marvelous to be a coincidence. I'm sure it was the Holy Spirit that spoke to me. The Scriptures call Him "The Comforter" and those words were very comforting and reassuring.

I was very thankful to the Lord for sending that message to me and I felt better. --Impacted by loved one PCG

Crooked Shepherds in PCG are Paid Puppets:

April 2, 2010

These top ministers, crooked shepherds, keep their jobs and high wages and seem like they rule over the members but they are all puppets. Paid puppets to keep the members in awe of their status which shows how gullible they are! They are not God fearing men--their outward appearances are fake. They are "yes" men to GRF and Stephen Flurry rules the lot of them including GRF himself from behind closed doors. He and Andy Locher are very dangerous, controlling men and members should be very aware. It's absolutely crazy the way people give their honest earned cash to build their empire. I have relatives that are mind controlled in this sect and I pray that God will open their eyes to these crooks who do their rotten deeds in the name of religion! --Ex WCG & PCG (Thankfully!)

Comment: Religious cults deceive people into thinking they are giving their all for God. In reality, there is no "God's tithes" in these organizations, only that which is going into fraudulent leaders' pockets for their own greed and selfish purposes.

Marvin Campbell Disfellowshipped:

April 23, 2010

Marvin Campbell is now looking into Restored Church of God information. I also was told by the same person that he has been disfellowshipped from PCG. --Anonymous

Did HWA (and now GF) Have a Royal Line to King David?

April 24, 2010

I attended WCG and PCG for a total of about 10 years. I was told during this time that both Herbert Armstrong and Gerald R. flurry could trace their family lines to King David. How would one be able to prove this? I have never seen any evidence of it, and would like to know how, if possible, they proved it.

Thank you. --A thankful ex-PCGer

Reply: HWA is quoted as saying this in Mystery of the Ages, chap. 5, and GF in That Prophet, pg. 52. It appears that the only "evidence" for HWA being able to trace his lineage back to King David was through Herman Hoeh's fabricated research. (See: Where are the Tribes of Israel Located? (A Critique of Herman Hoeh's Article), and especially footnote #8 where Hoeh ended up saying to "throw it [his research] out!").  However, there has never been one shred of evidence to prove HWA's kingly ancestry. Members merely assumed it was legitimate because HWA declared it was true. GF has gone on to deceive members into believe the same myth.

Our 1st Review of MOA shows that one reason HWA made this claim was so that he could build his British-Israelism theme in later chapters in the book and then further claim his "sacred connection" through bloodline to the very throne of England (and to Jesus) which elevated his position as "God's Apostle." One of the characteristics of false religious leaders is to use sacred lineage or to claim their specialness.

Marvin Campbell Will Fit Right in With Restored Church of God:

April 27, 2010

I saw on ESN where Marvin Campbell is looking into the Restored Church of God. That's a good place for him. I have had a lot of experience with him since I met Marvin and his wife nearly 20 years ago in PCG. I doubted back then that he was a true minister of God. And now I know he is not! He will fit right in with the false apostle that leads the RCG. --Ex PCG

Are People in PCG Lost?

April 28, 2010

My husband and I have family members in PCG and were both raised in WCG. We have had discussions about our loved ones (who of course do not speak to us although they do send notes and packages to our children). PCG does not believe that Jesus is God is that correct? I know that we believed growing up that it was God the Father and that Jesus was His son. Since coming out of the WCG years ago, although I was baptized and said I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I didn't believe Him to be God. They are truly lost as the Bible would define it is that correct? They don't know Jesus and they have no understanding of Who the Holy Spirit is either.

I have not been able to go through all of the articles here on your site but if there is one addressing this issue that you could point me to that would be great. I feel a strong sense of urgency toward them lately. We have always kept a door open writing letters and sending pictures in hopes that if someday they have doubts or see more clearly they would know we still have a place for them in our lives. This isn't always easy but I pray that God opens their eyes and they understand that we are still here.

Thank you for your time and this great resource! --Concerned loved one

Reply: HWA taught that Jesus is God (Jn. 1:1), but Jesus was not emphasized as much as God the Father. But HWA taught a false gospel, a false God, a false Jesus (at least not a Jesus who desires to have a personal relationship with us), and he didn't believe in the Personage of the Holy Spirit. GF follows HWA's teachings. Do you think, therefore, there might be a false spirit working inside these groups? There have been some people who were true Christians before they joined WCG (and now the offshoots), but the Holy Spirit would have been hindered in their lives. See our article on the Holy Spirit.

A false gospel sets up certain things as being necessary for salvation; i.e., the Law is taught as required in order to "maintain" one's salvation, which is the same as saying one must keep the Law in order to be saved. This sets up the Law as a savior. Those who live by the Law are judged by the Law, and the judgment of the Law is always condemnation. Perhaps if those in PCG realize this, they can have their eyes opened. As it is, they are presently under mind control and have had a veil placed over their minds.

A person is lost if they have never received the Holy Spirit. Does God give his Spirit to those who believe a false gospel? How much did the person understand and accept the true Jesus as their personal Savior? These are difficult questions to answer. Therefore, I cannot say whether any of these people are saved or lost. One would also have to examine their fruits. Only God knows who His true sheep are.

A very good book on the subject of Jesus being God is on our Booklist: Jesus Christ IS God. I highly recommend it. Also read: How Do I Receive Eternal Life?

Marvin Campbell Update:

May 10, 2010

The "big news" to many members this past Saturday was the official announcement that Marvin Campbell had "resigned." The last that most had heard was that he was residing with his sister (in Arkansas) after the Feast of 2009. --Anonymous

Update: We were later told that Campbell is now living in Joplin, Missouri.

PCG Deaths:

Members Corrected for Asking Prayer for Jason Without Permission:

More on PCG Deaths:

May 16, 2010

Jason had been suspended and was back. He fell from the 8th floor onto the 4th floor swimming pool deck around 3:00 a.m. His older sister Crystal is dead, too. Cause of death not known yet, but she was an alcoholic prone to depression. She had been suspended before; not sure if she currently was. That may be the case and more reason for her "possibly" taking her own life. --Friend of Jason  

GF Concentrating on His Book Claiming HWA Was Right on His Prophecies:

The June 21 letter, "Lacking In God's Love," hits the nail on the head. "A good tree can't put forth bad fruit" comes to mind. It is all about control. These people (Flurry and ministry) apparently think they are Gods! Even if you believe what they teach, Christ has not returned yet so I don't think they have been given the ultimate authority.

Many changes have taken place lately. PCG is combining groups in an effort to save "the work" money. All of these changes have been done in their usual secretive and deceptive ways. Only the men making the arrangements and the ministry knew of these changes. When they were done, the members were told they would be expected to travel hundreds of miles in order to attend every Sabbath. The ministry answers to no one and considers no one in their decisions (except maybe their pocket books. Is that called mammon?) I really think this will backfire and cause some to rethink their commitment to such a unsympathetic, hardhearted and greedy group of men claiming to be the example of Christ's Love.

My heart goes out to those families that have loved ones in the PCG and other offshoots. It is not going to change any time soon. Just pray for those in PCG and hope God will have mercy on them so they see what is happening.

To those who are even remotely considering involving themselves in PCG, don't. I speak from experience and it has not been a good one. --Impacted by PCG

Latest Royal Vision Uses Emotional Blackmail Regarding Cutting Off:

Video on PCG and the Place of Safety:

Place of Safety Video Was Good:

Video on PCG Both Funny and Disgusting:

YouTube Video Hit the Nail on the Head:

More of Members' Money Being Used to Move PCG Ministers Around:

Gerald Flurry's Double-Talk:

PCG's "House for God" to Open September 5:

GF Will Badger Members to Pay the Bills for Armstrong Auditorium:

July 13, 2010 

I heard of the opening for the Armstrong Auditorium. September 5th is the Sunday before Feast of Trumpets. I'm sure they're elated. I wonder what the projected monthly dollar amount will be to keep it open? I think the money to keep it running is going to be a big drain on the membership's wallets. GF will badger them to pay the bills. --Exiter of PCG

Auditorium is Such a Waste of Members' Money:

July 13, 2010

All these extravagant buildings do nothing but show that Gerald Flurry is more concerned about buildings than he is about people. This whole thing is sickening to me. Whether it costs $15 million, $20 million, or a billion is no difference: it's still a huge, hulking, memorial dedicated to a dead child molester, false prophet, and deceiver. The performance of "Elijah" in HWA's honor should show everyone, including the locals, just how far this organization has sunk to idolize that man. But the Scriptures do say, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Luke 12:34) The PCG's and Gerald Flurry's "heart" is in idolizing a man--HWA first and foremost.

I can think of so many things that a "real" church could have done with those millions of dollars, including feeding and clothing the needy in the community. Such a waste of members money. I'm reminded once again of the Scriptures and Jesus' reply to the rich young ruler: "Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." (Matthew 19:21) It's just so obvious where GF's treasure is. --Impacted by PCG

PCG Members Burying Their Heads in the Sand:

July 15, 2010

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for your site! Though I've been out of the PCG for a while now, I still frequent the PCG letters section to see what new antics Gerry Flurry and crew are up to. It is just sickening that he can burn through $20 million for a building out in the middle of nowhere that will only drain the members of more money and will accomplish nothing.

I watched that video [on PCG, HWA and the place of safety]. It was right about so much! Even my own father who is still a believer will respond: "Yes, he was wrong about certain dates" Ok, drop the "about certain dates part" and just say the first part: "He was wrong." If I had a dollar for every time my parents or other members would say "Well, David sinned, too..." Ugh!

But anyway, that's the mindset of those in the PCG and other groups. Bury your head in the sand, ignore things that you don't want to hear because you might have to think for yourself, start doing research, and then the whole thing might unravel. The saddest part about the Armstrong Building, is that the PCG membership will just sit back, point to that building and say "Look at the fruits of our church! Look at all we have! Surely, we're the one true church!" Sadly, what they don't have, is a clue.

Well, thanks again for everything! --Child survivor of WCG and PCG exiter

Comment: Our article, "None of God's Servants Were Perfect" (for those who like to use this reasoning) answers those who say, "David sinned, too."

Wik Heerma Has Cruelly Abused Others:

Similarities to Nazism in PCG:

July 16, 2010

In response to the July 12 letter regarding the article in The Oklahoman about the new Armstrong Auditorium opening on September 5th with a professional orchestra performance as an encore presentation of Mendelssohn's "Elijah," it brings into my mind here the parallels of when the Jewish people arrived by train at the concentration camps to the sounds of orchestral music being played on the platforms.

Trickery, deceit and cruelty were awaiting these innocent victims just as is happening to those who see the exterior show only that is being presented to another group of naīve innocent potential victims as well.

The PCG is similar in its make up where there are ministers (modern day Nazis) who thrive on cruelty and control ruling over members in a dominant manner, plus within the members as a group, there is a structure that has its own Jewish police who fear to be cast out so they become useful to the ministers for feedback to help keep members in line and under control.

The members become starved for the true "Word" based on love and the New Covenant message Jesus Christ delivered. So just as the Jews suffered, these members over time languish and there are some who die spiritually, or become sick physically and spiritually from the pressures and cruel expectations placed on them. Trust is broken and life becomes a nightmare to live in.

We all need to pray God helps these innocent victims to see. --Impacted by PCG

PCG Hammering the "No Contact" Rule Again:

July 16, 2010

I really think it is going to get worse in the PCG. One of the recent Royal Visions is hammering the no contact rule into the members' heads again. They are starting to view children raised in the PCG or WCG that "go out" as "Laodicean." --Anonymous

They Told Me My Children Were Laodicean:

July 16, 2010

I read the previous letter about the children being treated as "Laodicean." I had that happen to me first hand--hence why I am not in PCG anymore. They told me I wasn't allowed to talk to my children, ages 17-27 anymore for they were "Laodicean." That was back in 2006.

Flurry is taking so much power and enjoying it. I still have family in the PCG and I wonder how long before they get smart and leave. --Much happier out of PCG

Frank Borg and His "God's Man" Phrase:

July 20, 2010

I very much enjoyed reading: "We Are Finally Done With the Churches of God!" It was so reassuring to hear about people that the Lord has led out of WCG, PCG and FCGL and to know that there are more and more people being set free from these religious organizations. These "churches" are built not on the real gospel of Jesus Christ, but on Herbert Armstrong; therefore, they cannot stand.

As I read through the story, I recognized the similarity of Frank Borg to Gerald Flurry. Borg has studied him well. His "God's man" phrase is straight out of the writings of HWA and GF, as this is also the title that GF gives to himself. By saying they are "God's man," GF and Frank Borg have been replacing themselves into the position of the Holy Spirit, whom they have diminished to a mere force or power. If people knew to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, they would know that they do not need a "God's man" for spiritual guidance and instruction.

Anyway, I just wanted to say that it was so good to hear more from people who have come out of these groups whose "eyes have been opened" and are willing to share their story. Hopefully, these stories will serve not only as encouragement to those who have left one of the groups, or are thinking about leaving the group, but also serve as warning to those who are reading their literature and considering joining. --Have loved one in PCG

PCG Takes Steps to Improve Their Online Reputation:

July 24, 2010

PCG Working Hard to Improve Their Image in the Community:

July 27, 2010

Apparently, PCG is beginning to bring in some high powered classy arts programs to the new Herbert Armstrong auditorium such as the Russian Ballet and other popular things along that nature and they are starting to reach out to businesses and the press for support to bring this to the community. --Edmond, OK

Flurry Will Feel Special Among the High and Mighty of Oklahoma City:

July 27, 2010

Does anyone ever think at a price tag of $20 million, and with most people sending in 10% and occasionally building funds and offerings, and the usual demographic of a PCG member (low to middle income), how many work hours (mine included) of well-meaning, but mind-controlled followers it took to make Flurry's "fruit" [Armstrong Auditorium] come true? Just sad. Flurry will point to this as "proof" that God is with him, but how many churches have big, expensive buildings?? And at least most of them have a community service outreach to care about the hungry and the poor. Give a hungry man a meal, and then preach him the gospel--Christ and the disciples followed this model so many times while He walked the earth. But, then again, if it was Flurry's gospel they were spreading, I would rather him touch fewer lives anyway. Just sad and angering all around. But Flurry and the top ranks will feel special amongst the high and mighty of Oklahoma City, and they'll pass their anecdotal stories on to the members in hopes that the members will, by proxy, feel special, too, and stay on a while longer and send in the money to upkeep the place. And they will, oddly, have put all this money into the building, all the time thinking that it will be blown to dust in the "next couple years."

When I was still in PCG, Flurry read a quote from a local arts periodical stating they were excited about the Auditorium because it was going to be one of the best art venues in the Oklahoma City area. Has anyone been to Oklahoma City? Is that really a point to brag about? It's going to be one of the only art venues in the area. At least in California that claim actually held some weight to it! But apparently his Bible reads differently than mine. Just pray that the members start reading theirs soon. I am angry about many things, and at a few people, but I love the lay members dearly, including my own family.

Thanks again for all you do. --Former WCG and PCG member

PCG's Feast of Tabernacle 2010 Sites:

July 27, 2010

Where are the PCG Feast sites going to be this year and the dates? --Not in PCG

Reply: There are 4 feast sites in the United States; the rest are overseas. The Feast of Tabernacles begins at 7:30 p.m. on the evening of September 22. The Last Great Day will be on September 30.

Tucson, AZ (their new site this year)
Edmond, OK
Sandusky, OH
Pine Mountain, GA
Landgoed 't Loo, Netherlands
Fredericton, NB, Canada
George, South Africa
Vernon, BC, Canada
Crown Point, Tobago
Nadi, Fiji
Clark, Philippines
Tweed Heads, Australia

For those who are questioning whether or not to keep the O. T. feast days, or to see how we were forced to keep them in the group, go to Articles and Writings on the Holy Days.

"House for God" Will Probably Be Policed:

July 28, 2010

In regard to the "House for God," the members will probably be afraid to set foot in there. They may run the risk of getting the carpet dirty or knocking something "valuable" over. I'm sure the whole facility will be "policed" by PCG henchmen. --Ex PCG member

By Their Fruits You Shall Know Them:

PCG's "Feast Rules":

July 29, 2010

Here's some of PCG's "Feast rules" that I pulled out from their site:

Young adults:

Per Mr. Flurry’s direction, all non-baptized young adults should attend the same Feast site as their parents. If you have questions about this, please counsel with your local minister.

Children:

If your child will be 18 and out of high school at Feast time, he or she must call headquarters at [number removed] to update his or her status. Call between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and ask for Accounts Receivable. When this status is updated, the festival department will then send your child his or her own form. If you live outside of North America, please contact your regional office.

Last Great Day Offerings

Mr. Flurry has approved that Last Great Day offerings may be supplemented with excess second tithe. This supplement should not take the place of your offering, but may be used to enhance it.

Name Badges:

Name badges will once again be required for those 18 (and out of high school) and older who will be attending Feast services. These pre-printed name badges can be obtained at the information table prior to opening night services on Wednesday, September 22, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Activity Tickets:

Tickets for the following activities will be sold at this year's Feast of Tabernacles:

Family Day (all are encouraged to attend) Seniors Luncheon (senior citizens, age 60 and older) Singles Activity (singles age 18 and older and no longer in high school) Teen Activity (teens ages 13 to 18 and still in high school)

These tickets will be sold at their respective activity tables prior to opening night on Wednesday, September 22, on Friday, September 24, and on Sunday, September 26. Please purchase your tickets as soon as possible!

[People are questioned as to why they didn't attend.]

(Hotel) Complaints:

Please do not register complaints or dissatisfaction to anyone except to those in the Church who are ministers and/or hotel monitors. Check your Feast brochure (which will be handed out at the Feast) if there is any question as to whom you should contact. This will help us avoid problems before they occur. Always contact the particular supervisors in your area for advice on handling any problems which may arise in relation to your housing or general treatment in your facility.

I counted the "expected" number for the 2010 Feast. He claims 5395.

I selected the above rules as examples of PCG controlling behavior. I'm so, so, so glad we're away from it. Our whole family is changing for the better. --Former PCG member

GF and His Iran/King of the South Prophecy:

August 3, 2010

If the U.S. or Israel bombs Iran, how exactly will Gerald Flurry explain his Iran/King of the South prophecy to his loyal subjects? I've noticed that although news of a possible U.S. attack is being reported via various news agencies around the world, the ''News Bureau'' staff at Edmond HQ seem not to be doing their jobs as effectively as the claim. I wonder why they never report anything about this particular story? Is it because it goes against one of GF's major ''prophecies''? --Anonymous

Need Some information About Flurry's Armstrong Auditorium:

August 3, 2010

While I was at Ambassador College (Pasadena and Big Sandy), it was my understanding that the Ambassador Auditorium was too small to draw enough of an audience to pay for the cost of the concert series--that is, the concert series did not so much as pay for itself, and therefore WCG members actually subsidized the people of Pasadena who attended the events at the Auditorium. (Maybe the auditorium could have paid for itself had it not been so frequently occupied with church functions.)

Not sure if this is correct, but I would be interested in knowing (and I'm sure others who frequent your site would like to know) whether Flurry will bring in enough in ticket sales to pay for some of the acts he intends to book, or whether his members are going to have to fork over cash to subsidize performances at the auditorium.

Any way you can find that out? --D.

Reply: We contacted a few former members for their comments and they are as follows:

Personally, I don't see how GF's auditorium can generate enough public interest to come out that far, especially to a field. The concerts put on at the Field house never filled out the room with the public. Members were always offered free tickets and told it "looks better to have the room filled out with people. Please come and wear your best." I believe the members will have to foot the bank loan.

GF used the same hype tactic to sell Stephen's book Raising the Ruins. He gave a couple sermons about the importance of making the bookstores think the public was very interested in buying/ordering the book. He told us to call bookstores and reserve copies. Church members were encouraged to buy as many copies as possible. Bookstores stocked up, but sales didn't "soar" as GF predicted. --Former WCG/PCG member

Armstrong Auditorium Will Be Difficult to Draw Talent to:

I believe Ambassador Auditorium had to be subsidized and there are many ways around the "books" to hide subsidies.

The Auditorium in Pasadena had the Southern California area to draw talent from. An old bean field in north Edmond will be more difficult to draw talent to. Meaning, if an orchestra is already in Los Angeles playing at another venue, Ambassador Auditorium could book them without flight or extra costs. For GF, he will have to fly almost everyone in to perform.

That means heavy costs, lower quality of talent, etc., for GF. --Ex Auditorium employee

Not Enough Revenue for Auditorium to be Self-Sustaining:

Flurry plays his cards pretty close to his vest. I would have to agree that there would not be enough revenue from ticket sales for the auditorium to be self sustaining. Herbert (the W stands for nothing) Armstrong, as I recall, was not shy about the fact that his auditorium was not self sustaining and that he, Armstrong, had to provide the additional funding needed. I think I remember him sharing the credit with us tithe slaves though. How generous on his part! As I think back on what was said when I was in the PCG, the point was never to have the auditorium pay for itself, but rather, to be a light on a hill to a dark world. Frankly though, the Mormons have him beat, hands down, in that department, if you've ever visited Salt Lake City. I think Flurry would ask: how do you put a price on having God live in my, oh... uh... sorry, our, backyard?

--Vaughn Woodfield  (Former PCG member)

Members Encouraged to Buy Full Price Tickets:

I remember that PCG members were encouraged to purchase (full price) tickets when an event was not sold out--I think even if they couldn't attend the event. Flurry has asked for extra money from members to support the auditorium. --Former PCG member
 

Armstrong Auditorium is PCG's "Tower of Babel":

August 3, 2010

PCG Keeps Members From Thinking For Themselves:

August 3, 2010

I find it funny with all that is happening within the PCG and have to laugh at the petty mind control tactics that the ministers employ to keep the members from thinking for themselves. I wonder what Jesus Christ would think?

I got a very good taste of the madness philanthropating itself as a religion. When I first started attending, one drone kept pestering me to get anointed for healing (something a doctor could have easily opened his portfolio and found a way to alleviate my symptoms). So I asked the minister for anointing--and I guess I smelled something funny, or he didn't like the way I asked him. He used the pulpit during his sermon to use Paul beseeching that the thorn be removed from his side in order to label me an enemy or whatever. I asked him again and he said he didn't have time. Then he went ahead and so graciously sent me an anointing cloth the size of a paper dose piece of LSD. How is that for a warm welcome? What an old goat. I had just started attending and continued for some time until I was disfellowshipped for thinking for myself.

These groups aren't even good at using the Bible. I would get a better understanding with a better approach from a community college. After all, understanding a religion shouldn't be so bad without playing mind games. Let's hope that these petty individuals acting as Pharisees die out before the next generation that has real world problems to solve without a magic wand that anyone could use if it existed. Where would we be if such individuals took over everything? Look at the former Soviet Union. That would give a good clue.

The funny and sad thing is that the members are like lemmings.

What is so bad with thinking for yourself?

I thank you for your web page. --J. D.

Trumpet Website is Editing, Deleting and Censoring My Postings:

August 6, 2010

Lately I've been battering Flurry's Trumpet website with logical and sensical postings.
Not so much to attack the writers of the articles but moreso to respond to the myopic partyliners applauding the articles. They keep editing, deleting or censoring my postings. I find it funny.

Even if they stop posting my messages all together I'll keep sending responses since the people in their censoring/correspondence department must read them.

Somewhere in the future this will impact them since I write truth as opposed to their negative brainwashing.

I'd wish more would do so, but on the other hand why boost the number of hits on their website and bother with people who would spend $20 million out of their 6000 pockets for an ornate building on the prairie.

I believe operational costs for the Ambassador Foundation was $10 million dollars per year. But it is hard to know if the 20 year lease on the Auditorium was included. The moment the lease was paid off it all faltered in 1994. Stanley Rader leased the GII to the church [WCG] which was not owned by the church. Perhaps he had some stake in the Auditorium, too, some 15 years after he left. --Affected by PCG

Flurry Preparing to Scare His Followers at Upcoming Feast:

August 25, 2010

I think that Flurry is preparing to scare the living daylights out of his followers. Last week they were instructed to ''Prepare to hear and fear'' at FOT. Whatever that means.
According to one of the PCG's top "evangelists," the auditorium is the greatest hope that this world has. How exactly? How does the auditorium help the people in Pakistan, or the homeless in Haiti? Before I attended the PCG, I had never even heard of Edmond, Oklahoma! --Impacted by PCG

Comment: He'll probably focus on "prophecy being fulfilled" and how they are very close to the end of the age. But wasn't this what HWA continually did? Religious cult leaders will always take the bad news in the world, add lots of fear, and then use it to their financial advantage.

PCG Says You Can Supplement Your Offerings With Excess 2nd Tithe:

August 26, 2010

Here's how it works: FOT= Tithes and offerings + any money that you have left over at the end of the Feast (PCG now has a "ruling" which states that you can supplement your offerings with your excess 2nd tithe).

Flurry knows that there are some people in the PCG who don't bother to go to the FOT and he is afraid that he will miss out on cashing in. --Anonymous

Reply: This is the same "ruling" that WCG had later on. And if members were found not attending the feast (for good reason), they were questioned by the minister and usually suspended. Why do you think they always sent us the offering envelopes w/our name on them? It was so they could find out who was attending the holy days and who was sending in their offerings. HWA also didn't want to miss out on cashing in.

Rumors of "Something Important" Started Every Year at Feast Time:

August 26, 2010

I think there are more members who simply can't afford to go to the Feast. I know someone who is struggling with trying to get out of going this year because of finances.
The PCG produces that kind of desperation.

Regarding GF's "hear and fear," a few years ago I remember that GF was supposed to
say something at the feast that was very important. When my mate got back, I asked about it, but they couldn’t think of what he said that was especially important. Then I
noticed the same rumor beginning to float around every year about the same time. I think that the "ministers" actually start it on purpose. --Impacted by loved one in PCG

PCG Brother Asks Wife to Withdraw $50,000 Because "End is Near":

August 28, 2010

My brother returned to PCG--hook, line, and sinker--about ten years ago. (As children we had been raised in WCG.) He is now preaching sermonettes and being the usual Nazi. He stores the CDs from the weekly sermons and sermonettes in the freezer and then breaks them so no one will hear what really is being said.

His wife is not, nor will ever be, involved in this mess. She is the major bread winner (as he barely works) and knows that a divorce could very well mean alimony to him.

A few weeks ago he asked her to consider withdrawing $50,000 from her retirement and just spending it like she wished because the end is so near she might as well get what she wants. He didn't directly say it, but implied she might want to give him some of the money?!! Of course we know who/what would really reap the benefit of her labors.

I have reached the conclusion, at least with him, that the tip toeing, almost awe like treatment, as a means to somehow keep them speaking to us non-PCG folks is not helpful. After all, members go back and forth with Flurry telling them not to talk, then OK to talk to us, and then back again, ad nauseum.

It certainly has made no positive impact; in fact, it has made it worse. It seems to reinforce their feelings of superiority and serves no purpose. They are brain dead as well as spiritually dead and only God can effect change.

--Candace

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