|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 3, 2023 19:05:00 GMT -5
I have no doubt a better example could have been chosen, however I suspect that most would have grasped sufficient details from the analogy. Perhaps I should have said an international fellowship which has considerable interaction amongst the hierarchy, nowadays linked even more closely with mobile phones and the internet, and which practices intimate and unnatural domestic relationships? The fact these type of cases are surfacing in a number of countries within the fellowship hierarchy leaves a lot of scope for impropriety. Also the past history of moving offending workers to other countries, reportedly in a bid to escape the clutches of the law, adds further potential and speculation. It does seem that by your persistence you are keen to take this matter to a higher level than the by product that I intended. I retired from investigations a long time ago and learned the value of keeping an open mind. It helps to avoid being caught out by being led up the wrong path. Even this board has shown the extent of suspicion, justified or otherwise. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 3, 2023 19:06:03 GMT -5
Mtn: I hope you don't take my questions and postings personally. It's not meant to be so. It might help to explain where I am coming from. I worked for a prosecutors office (retired now) for many years on sexual assault/abuse cases. I was involved with investigating for the prosecution. Therefore I worked with cops, detectives, court system, etc. We were always open minded about possible suspects. But that goes both directions. People need to also be open minded about who it NOT a suspect. You need to weed out viable suspects from those for whom there is simply no reason to suspect: there is NOTHING pointing at them. I ask you to not get hung up it either and be open minded about things. . There are verifiable facts and there are "circumstances" that can point you in a definite line, true. You are making it sound as if every single worker on the planet is a suspect. How do you plan to narrow it down to a definite line, keeping in mind a definite "line" still may not hold up in court. A "line" is not evidence. Is a "line a "lead"? I am not saying this to dissuade you from your investigation, but where I am coming from is that in the prosecutor's view you need evidence and something that can be proven in court. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 3, 2023 19:08:46 GMT -5
Peggy, we should be singing off the same hymn sheet and probably are, just separated by differences in perspectives. If you re-read my posts you will see that a mind must remain open until facts and circumstances point you in a definite direction. This is what you are alluding to and which I have been saying previously. Until the circumstances of an investigation unfolds, an open mind is a wise one and helps prevent potential suspects slipping through the net. When a crime is notified to the police, during the initial stages of an investigation where suspects are not identified, the lieges (ie the general public or everyone who may have some connection with the matter) are liable to suspicion. When the Bruer case was disclosed but a few days ago, due to the international travelling, contacts, etc., a lot of speculation and perhaps indications, suggested Bruer's activities may have taken place not only across various States but over a number of countries, over a period of many years. At this stage no one knows exactly what is involved or who or where, and I described it like a potential can of worms which could lead almost anywhere. That is/was the potential only a few days ago. It might be different now, but I really don't know. As other workers may be involved from other States or countries, who have not yet been identified, this surely demands an open mind and places the whole ministry under suspicion until relevant facts and circumstances dictate otherwise. This is what I have been trying to explain but also asked people not to get too hung up about it. It is purely an investigative outlook, though a wise one. I notice you point out the prosecutor's view of the need for evidence. I appreciate this fully, couldn't agree more, but remember, a prosecutor (in the UK) is usually delivered the product of an investigation, rather than going through the investigative process of evidence gathering/interviewing suspects, etc., themselves. The police investigate and gather the evidence and when a sufficiency of evidence is gathered a case report is sent to the prosecutor. The police often start with a blank canvas and have to gather the materials which paint the picture. Many aspects of an investigation may not be referred to in a police report.
It is many years since I was involved in investigations. I had 30 years experience investigating all manner of crimes including a wide variety of sexual offences. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 3, 2023 19:12:12 GMT -5
Mtn. You are in the UK? Ok. In the US investigating continues until a case goes to court. It doesn’t stop after the cops bring it to a prosecutor. Anyway, it is your imagination which is large here as you indicated every worker everywhere is a suspect. I disagree. I think what I'm understanding Mountain to say is that, here we are again with yet another incidence of CSA/SA by a worker. This worker had over 400 glowing comments on his memorial page. This worker was never in a million years suspected to be a predator by the friends. So if he now has been implicated and survivors of his actions have come forward, the logical question is, who can be trusted anymore? It will take a long time before complacency settles in for this group and imo that's good and bad. Bad because they feel so betrayed and good because it will make it harder for it to happen to others in the future. I think that this time it's reached a very large number of the friends vs only a few in an isolated area. Because he traveled so extensively, he has people from all over the world that trusted him implicitly and now they find out what he was. It's going to be a long time before people have the same level of trust for the upper echelons of power, if ever. While I hope that some level of trust can be reached again, I hope it's never at the level that allows for predators to have better access to future victims. Trust can come again, but only if some things change. I recognize that the workers might not like those changes and I imagine the friends might not like them either, but if they continue to stay in the friends homes that have children, they open those children up to the possibility. Protecting them is far more important than the 'good feeling' that might be there for the workers that stay and the families that house them. It's got to be obvious now that even with the training and codes of conduct, that predators don't listen to them. So everyone suffers when the few do offend. But children need to be safe, bottom line. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 6, 2023 7:54:02 GMT -5
Dear Friends in AB, YT, NWT and NE BC I have often thought about writing a general letter to you all since news of Dean Bruer's tragic situation first broke a couple of weeks ago, but I hardly have known what to write. I just feel so sad as you no doubt do. I still don't know what to write, but perhaps l'II make an attempt at putting something together today. These are my thoughts...... A line of a hymn comes to mind several times every day...'Art thou pained to see the kingdom suffer loss?' I'm pained when I think of those women that Dean hurt so badly. I'm pained when I think of how much he has complicated their lives and how much they will suffer for it through the years. I pray that God can help them heal and move on again. And, I hope that you are praying for them also. I'm pained when I think of Dean, a man who appeared to be so useful and so faithful for so many years and then let something awful into his heart that destroyed him and hurt so many others. This pain is scary for me because like many of you who will be reading this letter, I am in the same age group that Dean was in. I pray desperately that God would help me to keep my heart pure until the journey's end. I pray that he will keep you also. I'm pained when I think of Mark who has now been accused of acting improperly. I'm so glad that he quickly, humbly stepped back. I'm pained when I think of my good friends who have been disappointed by workers who should have been examples to them. I pray that God will keep you all through this storm just as he has kept all of us through the past storms of life. I want to reassure you that we will do everything possible to make sure this does not happen again. I'm pained when I think of all those wonderful, Godly workers in areas where Dean has worked, who are now suffering for his actions. I'm pained for people who get some sad satisfaction out of spreading evil things that they find on social media and I ask, why aren't they pained to see the kingdom suffer loss? May God have mercy on them. Our study of Prov 16 has some very good food for thought in verses 20 and 27 I'm thankful when I remember that 'there is nothing new under the sun', as Solomon wrote. Jesus chose 12 disciples and one of them made a horrible error. With tens of thousands of friends and workers in the world today, it is inevitable that some will make a terrible mistake. I'm thankful when I receive message after message from friends encouraging me and wanting me to know that they are praying for us workers and support us in these difficult days. I'm thankful to know that most of our friends in our area are just patiently continuing. God knows His own and is taking care of His own. I'm thankful when I remember that this too shall pass and when it does, I want to make very sure that I am still on the right side. I'm thankful that when I pray, God brings peace into my distressed heart and I'm so grateful to remember Jesus' promise that He would give us His peace.... His peace, not as the world gives peace. I'm thankful when I remember that God is still on the throne and has everything under HIS control. This is HIS kingdom and HE will not let it come to harm. It has stood through many a storm over the centuries and it will come out stronger and purified again like it has before. I'm thankful when I remember that 'This world my home could never be, for Christ is coming back for me' May God help us all to "Pray for the peace of the city" and to pray that God would send his Son again to take us to be with him. A Brother, Michael Hassett. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 7, 2023 19:15:02 GMT -5
Apr 5 Dear Friends in Colorado, Utah and Eastern Nevada I have been thinking and praying for our friends and workers in Colorado, Utah and Nevada. I hope you are keeping your faith in the Lord. I have been comforted knowing that the Lord sees and knows all. Jim Chafee and I are glad to be having meetings in the North Utah field. Domenic is on Special meetings in MO/AR. We are glad for some new ones that want to come and learn more about the bible and our friends that keep wanting to learn more about Jesus. It is still our desire to follow Jesus and to try to get others to do the same. We are glad we can still try to follow his example in the ministry. Thanks for helping us to make that possible. I think several of you are aware of some things that happened in Oregon/Idaho last year. We have been made aware recently that Dean Bruer, who was in the ministry in Oregon and South Idaho until he died last year, was living a very immoral, dishonest, double life. We are very sorry about that and feel especially for his victims! The friends in the areas where he worked have been notified. Any others who have been a victim of abuse or inappropriate behavior have been encouraged to reach out for support & to seek professional help if needed. I don't think he ever worked in Colorado/Utah or visited here but of course with travel and friends moving around some of you would know of him or heard him speak in a meeting. We are sorry for the trust that has been betrayed. A few people have asked what we can do to help prevent this from happening in the future. The workers in CO/UT have been doing some abuse awareness training for several years. All the staff are up to date on continuing education regarding recognizing & helping to prevent child sexual abuse. Workers are encouraged to report any CSA directly to law enforcement for investigation. (Friends can do that too) Workers have been encouraged to speak up if they witness or experience inappropriate behavior towards them or others, no matter who it is (Friends can do that too). I think we can help each other be accountable but also trust each other. It was a sad day in the New Testament when Judas, who was among the 12 apostles, betrayed Jesus. This act did not make all of them bad. We just read recently in our studies that they all forsook him and fled. Yet those same 11 arose and turned again to Jesus and were kept by him to fulfill his will. I do like what someone pointed out that Peter knew right away when Ananias and Sapphirah were dishonest. Please pray that the Lord will give us more of the Spirit that would help us to be more aware when things are right and when they are wrong. Your Brother Titus |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 13, 2023 22:18:56 GMT -5
New Here: There is a lot of talk about the laptop being in the hands of the authorities. From some posters here, it sounds like there is incriminating stuff on the laptop. Can the authorities even look at the computer without a warrant? Without a victim coming forward? I am genuinely curious how that works? Is there any type of police enforcement looking into the Dean crimes or because he is dead there is no actual investigation? Some of you seem to have connections that I don't and may know more. Doyle has said there was nothing criminal on the computer, just porn and emails (which are not morally okay, but not criminal)--why do you not believe that, VinnyT? |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 14, 2023 6:34:55 GMT -5
Please post: Dear WA/N ID/AK workers, elders & friends, During these difficult weeks I’ve been keenly aware of your prayers & support. Words cannot express how meaningful your help has been during this time. Thanks so much! First, I want to personally apologize for the times I have ‘tuned out’ the muted cry of a wounded, frightened person and left their plea for help unheeded. I am saddened and deeply sorry to know that my responses (or lack thereof) have hindered justice and/or healing in some way. I hope you will forgive me for this. Along with our collective staff, I understand that many things must be different going forward. Even though many steps are still not defined, the following are a few of the things we are committed to: 1) We are going to ask everyone on our staff and the elders to take training courses regarding CSA (Child Sexual Abuse). We will not become investigators, counselors, etc., but we will educate ourselves, which is crucial for raising our awareness and safety levels. One of the courses we will take is called Ministry Safe ( ministrysafe.com/the-safety-system/awareness-training/). There is also a robust and free course (both General and Clergy segments) available from California (https://mandatedreporterca.com/). We also encourage each of you to sign up for one of these programs. 2) We are preparing a website to share important resources and guidelines regarding CSA. The site will contain information for workers, elders, parents, and children. Our goal is for all of us to do our part to keep each other safe. The information will be updated as new resources become available. We will also list several options for people who wish to report an incident of CSA or other types of abuse. I will send you a link to the site when it becomes active in the next little while. 3) Going forward, we will have a zero-tolerance policy regarding CSA. If we are made aware of CSA violations involving a victim who is presently a minor, we will report it to authorities immediately, in compliance with the law. If an adult confides in us about a personal CSA incident that occurred in their youth, we will urge them to consult professionals who can help them proceed in an advisable manner. We will support all who need support, and if the abuser is a present danger, will report this to authorities as mandated by the law. Trust doesn’t come from demanding it, but by earning it. We’ve broken trust and we realize rebuilding that trust will be a process. We know you need more than a list of promises from us. You need to see proof that we care deeply for the most vulnerable people among us and that we will do all we can to protect them. You need to be assured that we will not shame or condemn victims... ever. You need evidence that we are being motivated and kept by divine love. These things are not too much to ask. This is what we want as well. Likely there is a lot that this letter doesn’t say that it should say. Hopefully you will feel free to contact me or any of the other workers with your concerns. Undoubtedly, part of our present trouble is the result of us not listening enough, or not listening with a full understanding. We want to hear from you and NEED to hear from you. We have a great opportunity ahead of us, but it won’t come from quickly dismissing the reality of where we are today. We are at an important crossroads and only through genuine confession, humility and repentance will we make the right turn. We’ve got a lot of work in front of us, but I’m convinced by God’s grace our best days are ahead. With care and appreciation in Christ, Darryl |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 14, 2023 19:23:10 GMT -5
Excerpt of latest email from Darryl Whatshisname: 2) We are preparing a website to share important resources and guidelines regarding CSA. The site will contain information for workers, elders, parents, and children. Our goal is for all of us to do our part to keep each other safe. The information will be updated as new resources become available. We will also list several options for people who wish to report an incident of CSA or other types of abuse. I will send you a link to the site when it becomes active in the next little while. Darryl An official Truth website. Never thought I'd see that. Yes it's a good letter. What was the distribution, we wonder? For the cynical, this will potentially cover a lot of backsides, if the situation becomes much worse (many more worker perp's, many historical cover-ups) than currently known. At least they can say, at last we're acting appropriately. Which in itself, is good! |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 17, 2023 21:46:31 GMT -5
Congrats to Dean Bruer for getting his own website! www.deanbruer.info/First overseer and probably first worker to ever have a personally named domain! |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 22, 2023 15:54:37 GMT -5
Yet another with a twist Site logo image Wings for Truth Jerome Frandle letter to Kentucky and Tennessee friends and workers – April 2023 wingsfortruth2 Apr 21 April 15, 2023 Dear Friends and Fellow workers in Kentucky & Tennessee, We have received word that Dean Bruer, a worker in Northwestern US, who died last fall had been living a double immoral life. There is substantial evidence that this Is true Also another man who was in this ministry and having a place of oversight, has been accused of abusing children, Needless to say. we are shocked by all this and have a heavy heart for the victims. Our prayer is that the victims will continue to seek the Lord in their distress and experience His healing and comfort that He alone can give. Wo are saddened that such horrible things have occurred among our people, that men who have been held in such high esteem and trust have turned out to be like those we hear of in the world, from time to time, without the fear of God, whose horrible deeds have been brought to light To add to this, on Friday this week, a father told us of his daughter, when a girl of being abused by the son of a man who was attending our meetings. This Information just surfaced recently. Since that time, these horrible incidences have plagued her and been so distressing, to say the least. When we received this word, Darin Jensen and I reported the Information to the police in the county of occurrence, We encourage all to report to the authorities (police in the county of occurrence! anyone whose behavior is inappropriate with children; family, neighbor, Worker, friend, etc. Or phone the CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE KY 877-597-2331 or TN 877-237-OCXM. The Workers in the ministry are responsible to notify the authorities as we are mandated reporters. The Workers in Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan. Ohio, West Virginia, Florida and other states have taken the Child Sexual Abuse Training with Ministry Safe, based at Ft. Worth Texas 6001 River Oaks Ft. Worth Texas 76114 Some states have taken their training every two years for the last ten years. Other states have this source of instruction. We have found this organization to be most helpful. Though we are aware that we are limited, we will standby and support in any way we can, those who have suffered such humiliation and hurt through abuse, who seek help of the Lord and professional help if needed. We are glad we can look to the Lord Jesus for comfort, who is pure, holy and undefiled. Also to those among us who are true, upholding the life of Jesus by word, example love and all purity. Our Lord and chose who follow Him, suffer reproach, because of the corrupt actions of individuals. Sincerely Your brother [Signed by Jerome Frandle] Well if anyone understands the importance of reporting it should be Mr. Frandle. He spent time in jail for not reporting didn't he? When he says there is a limited amount they can do I would say, pay for the victims therapy. It's not like the ministry is broke. Why don't they seem to understand that this is something they should be doing? |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 25, 2023 18:14:35 GMT -5
Letter by Lyle Schober, Overseer of Texas and New Mexico – April 2023Read by Elders to Sunday Meetings, April 23, 2023
Dear Texas and New Mexico friends and workers, It seems clear that there needs to be some communication from us about what is happening in our quest for transparency in the process for protecting the vulnerable among our fellowship. We have taken this challenge seriously and feel we are on the road that leads to safety. Where this road will lead us is a bit uncertain at this time and it will require patience from all of us, but maybe by sharing our most recent endeavors, we can keep you abreast of our efforts. The workers in New Mexico and Texas will meet together in Round Rock May 11-13. These three days we have sessions planned that will incorporate professionals from varying fields of expertise presenting information on a variety of topics, including but not limited to Sexual Abuse and CSA (Child Sexual Abuse). We are also researching ways to make our ministry more effective and open to the challenges of our generation. We are facing difficult challenges, but we believe that this pursuit, which is under the direction of the Spirit, is a step in the process of assuring our best days are still ahead. Please feel free to ask us about the content of our time together after we return to the fields following our workshop. The Ministry Safe program has been approved by the State of Texas to train individuals to increase awareness of child sexual abuse. It helps everyone working with children to recognize grooming behaviors that abusers use to gain access to a child, how the abuser gains trust of the child, the irrational thinking, the behavior of a child suffering, and what action must be taken to stop abuse. We have made an ambitious effort to assure that all our workers are certified with the MinistrySafe program. We have also made a point of getting the elders and their wives enrolled and certified in this program. One of our friends in Texas is helping us with this project. We encourage any parents |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 25, 2023 18:34:03 GMT -5
Lyle Schober:
"It seems clear that there needs to be some communication from us about what is happening in our quest for transparency in the process for protecting the vulnerable among our fellowship."
As admirable as this truly is, "the process for protecting the vulnerable among our fellowship", should not the focus also be on addressing the reason why we have victims of abuse (CSA, SA, overseer-on-worker, young sister workers' experiences with over-bearing companions, shunning of 'friends', etc. etc.)?
That is, to address the issue AT ITS CORE. Perhaps something like "the process for stamping out ALL forms of immorality, whether illegal or not - including accountability with finances - within the current ministry" (addressing current personnel, habits and traditions, doctrine, getting back to scripture, etc.).
It will be a busy three days!
(I know many good F&W will be praying for those who attend that 3 day meeting in May)
|
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Apr 25, 2023 18:38:11 GMT -5
Letter by Rob Newman, Overseer of California Re: Removal of John VanDenBerg from the work – April 2023
Dear fellow workers, elders, and friends, Our prayers are that God will help us make the right decisions as we go forward. We realize that his hand is active. This gives us hope. We are looking forward to seeing you at the upcoming conventions. We are saddened that it has become necessary for us to ask John VanDenBerg to step aside from the ministry. Recently we have received several credible allegations of unacceptable sexual behavior, including a complaint of inappropriate touching of a minor, which has been reported to the authorities. We want to make sure that all victims and their families feel free to come forward so we can support them in every way possible — they will not be blamed. and their identities will be kept confidential. We also want to confirm again, that sexual abuse in the ministry and the betrayal of trust it represents, will not be tolerated. These things bring sorrow and concern to our heart, and we think especially of those who are victims. In recent times, when more of these kinds of errors have been brought to light and dealt with, we are left with the feeling that God has brought about a special season of cleansing. and change going forward. In our grief, we are comforted to know that His hand is working a greater work for the good of everyone involved. Once again, we are reminded His name is a holy name, not to be profaned, and this causes us all to deeply search our own heart. 2 Timothy 2:19 'Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." We are thankful for the perfect foundation in Jesus. and the comfort of knowing our Father is working in these events and that He is well able to help, heal. and preserve every soul who comes to Him with a humble, contrite heart. Thanks for your support and input. Elders, please communicate this letter to each family or individual in your meeting soon, in an appropriate way. Your brother, Rob |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 1, 2023 19:44:02 GMT -5
Letter by Rob Newman, Overseer of California Re: Removal of John VanDenBerg from the work – April 2023
Dear fellow workers, elders, and friends, Our prayers are that God will help us make the right decisions as we go forward. We realize that his hand is active. This gives us hope. We are looking forward to seeing you at the upcoming conventions. We are saddened that it has become necessary for us to ask John VanDenBerg to step aside from the ministry. Recently we have received several credible allegations of unacceptable sexual behavior, including a complaint of inappropriate touching of a minor, which has been reported to the authorities. We want to make sure that all victims and their families feel free to come forward so we can support them in every way possible — they will not be blamed. and their identities will be kept confidential. We also want to confirm again, that sexual abuse in the ministry and the betrayal of trust it represents, will not be tolerated. These things bring sorrow and concern to our heart, and we think especially of those who are victims. In recent times, when more of these kinds of errors have been brought to light and dealt with, we are left with the feeling that God has brought about a special season of cleansing. and change going forward. In our grief, we are comforted to know that His hand is working a greater work for the good of everyone involved. Once again, we are reminded His name is a holy name, not to be profaned, and this causes us all to deeply search our own heart. 2 Timothy 2:19 'Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." We are thankful for the perfect foundation in Jesus. and the comfort of knowing our Father is working in these events and that He is well able to help, heal. and preserve every soul who comes to Him with a humble, contrite heart. Thanks for your support and input. Elders, please communicate this letter to each family or individual in your meeting soon, in an appropriate way. Your brother, Rob |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 1, 2023 19:47:29 GMT -5
Braydon Dutton - Montana, USA
Message from Scott Rauscher April 14Braydon D. is now with his folks here in Billings. He will take time out of the work. We are deeply grieved that these necessary steps are being taken. Braydon will need to remain out of the work at this time. We are encouraging him to get needed counseling and therapeutic help for his inappropriate & unbecoming behavior. Braydon has terrible remorse that he has caused such great concern & harm. We do not believe that there are any criminal acts involved. We will support him as best we can to go forward and find his steps ordered in the right direction. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 1, 2023 19:48:12 GMT -5
From: Jeremy & Leonie Tomlinson Date: Thu, Apr 13, 2023 at 10:13 PM Subject: BC Sister Workers To: Merlin Affleck, Joshua Tschetter, Reid Goodkey Dear Merlin, Joshua and Reid, Thank you, Reid, for including us and sending the recent emails April 8/10, 2023. Finally, the issues of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) and Sexual Abuse (SA) are being taken more seriously and appropriately so. It cannot be easy for anyone who reads of Senior Workers’ transgressions that go back decades. Even reading convention notes of these workers creates a turmoil in one’s soul. We are pleased that there is more transparency and there is more help being offered to the victims. The elephant in the room that requires serious attention is the state of our Sister Workers. Why have we have lost so many Sister Workers in a relatively short space of time? Now with Connie home it is time for transparency around this matter, as something is seriously wrong. We would like to know what their reasons were for quitting – but we know at least some are too traumatized by the events that caused them to quit to speak up. The reasons they left should be shared with their permission once they feel strong enough to verbalize them. Preface: A. Several Sister Workers were indeed shut down and in some cases disciplined for speaking out about CSA and SA cases in the past. Hindsight, in light of most recent exposure of sexual predators, would tell us that the Sister workers were justified in their efforts and the retribution they received from Brother Overseers was wrong, completely unfair and dare it be said, a coverup. We are talking about BC specifically. B. We need to remember Sister Workers who, dating back decades, have tried to help CSA and SA victims in the Truth and they were silenced, disallowed to offer compassionate help to victims and punished by the Brother Overseers. 1. Punishment involved in some cases being sent out of province to entirely remove them from the victims they were trying to help. 2. We earnestly request of you not to brush this off. It is not an empty allegation but a fact that can and will be corroborated in time. 3. It is often offered as an excuse that the Overseers that made these decisions in the past were making these decisions to the best of their ability at the time. The problem with this explanation is that Doctrine has been the same all along. At least theoretically those that serve God in Truth, and especially God’s servants, should not even need the laws of a country to guide their conduct with respect to CSA and SA. Please note this as you read the rest of this letter. C. A senior Brother Worker in BC very recently stated that he “has no idea” why the Sisters have been leaving. This is either a person who is unable to empathize or is completely out of touch. D. Another senior Brother Worker recently, when asked the question of why the Sisters are leaving simply and bluntly stated: “the Sisters need to stay true to their calling”. E. Another senior Brother Worker, when given a copy of a media article about Aaron Farrough, simply stated “I don’t read this MeToo stuff”. MeToo?? F. These responses are indicative of a culture of male dominance and efforts to control the Sister Workers and the general narrative. Why and to what end? How has this culture become so prevalent in the Ministry and how can anything good come of it? We have been unable to find any Scripture to support this state of affairs. G. Our example should be how Jesus treated women. Jesus’ lack of discussion on the subject of women speaks loudest of all. It seems convenient to refer to the writings of the Apostles while ignoring the context of the writings, yet only selectively adopting these writings. One such example is that women are to remain silent both in Timothy and Corinthians. H. Why is it that Sister Workers should be afforded so little respect that their actions (likely Spirit guided) towards helping CSA and SA victims would be considered out of line? I. During the last two months a person came forward who was a child victim of a professing alleged sexual predator in the Metro Vancouver area. A senior Brother Worker very recently said about this victim, behind his back, “the motive is a big deal here. I didn’t think the motive was right in the first place, because there is bitterness toward the truth. Period.” Coming forward took immense courage for this person and unfortunately this very false statement got back to the victim and the damage is severe. This person is NOT bitter. Is it time to consider a future in the Ministry where there is more than one overseer in every jurisdiction (province, state, country – however the Ministry is organized) at any given time? Currently there are countries where there is more than one overseer. South Africa has two overseers who regularly include a third “younger brother worker for his input”. This has nothing to do with the size of the Ministry or of the country itself. If the answer to the above question is No, then why not? We know that the Overseers of the various western provinces and states cooperate on matters, but this is not the same as each of these provinces or states having more than one overseer. It might seem like letters such as this are to cause trouble or because of a bad spirit since no one (or almost no one) raises these matters. It is understandable as people fear being separated from friends and family if they speak up or disagree with the status quo. They fear being ostracized or even excommunicated by the Workers. We know this happened in Alberta and the ostracizing was done by the very Workers who were the problem. We feel moved by the Spirit and our strong convictions disallow our silence. We have variously been called dissenters and rebels. We are neither, we love God’s Truth and are 100% convicted this is God’s Way, but we are desperately concerned about this matter of the Sister Workers and the general state of the Ministry. We would ask you to consider including the Elders and Deacons, both young and old, those that are quiet and those that question, as well as any others that would like to attend – and meet in the various districts in BC to openly and honestly answer questions. This may restore trust in the Ministry for those that are struggling. Such meetings should be more for listening and less for telling. The Way of Jesus is a simple way that is good for all time and for each generation. See item B3 above. People and governments change, laws change, society changes but the Way of Christ and the Doctrine does not. There has been efforts over the generations to keep the Friends in conformance with certain outward standards and certain narratives and this has done nothing to avoid the awful things that have come to light recently and has rather caused a strong appearance of a spirit of coverup in order to maintain an outward image of the Way. Some of our most strict or most conservative Workers, both male and female, are now known as perpetrators of CSA and SA, yet they were some of the staunchest supporters of the outward show and meted out judgement against those who questioned. My dear Mother was sexually assaulted by a brother Worker at age 9 (one of Wilson Reid’s first converts in South Africa) and when she tried to tell her parents she was severely reprimanded for even “speaking like that about a Worker”. Her parents were upholding the outward show. This is how we become known as a sect and this is how we get to where we are today: Unchecked power, suppression of uncomfortable questions, narratives that prey on fear. The Elders who receive this may wonder why they are included. This is for your information. You can choose to read it and contemplate it or discard it. Some people remain silent because they accept the status quo, others because of fear. Fear is understandable, but it should be towards finding oneself on the wrong side of God’s Will, fearing that the Spirit of the Anti-Christ has come into the Ministry and the Way, not fearing to be unliked. We are all only weak humans but we are or should be of the Body and should have the Spirit leading and guiding us. Kind regards, Jeremy and Leonie |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 1, 2023 19:49:38 GMT -5
Mark Huddle
Dear WA/N ID/AK staff, Today an erroneous report is circulating on Facebook regarding Mark Huddle. As of today, these are the facts concerning Mark's status: 1. Mark is out of the work permanently. His name will not appear on any more worker, convention, etc. lists. 2. Mark will continue with therapy. 3. Mark will not be attending meetings until further notice 4. Mark will not attend conventions, special meetings, funerals, etc. for the present time. Please feel free to share this information with anyone who has concerns/questions. Thanks! Darryl , Wayne & Brian |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 1, 2023 19:51:08 GMT -5
Kingsley Stone
Kingsley Stone from South Africa was removed from the Mountain Ranch convention grounds before his speaking turn, due to allegations of sexual misconduct. He has been at it a very long time and it kept being swept under the carpet. ts, who was a worker in South Africa tried very hard to get something done about sexual immorality in the work in South America and South Africa. Thanks jonathan and fixitHow tragic. How sad. The end of another day, another week. Now another one. What a sad state of affairs. The analogy of a cancer that has spread through the body comes to mind. The cleansing continues. There are more to come, from the large number of rumors based on very credible witnesses including sister workers, who have had a pretty good idea of what's been going on "behind the scenes" for a very long time. Some go back 10, 15, even more long years. Ahead to come is a deep and painful cleansing. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 1, 2023 19:54:48 GMT -5
Email from Brian, Wayne and Darryl re worker John Mastin
Dear elders, Please share this by email with those in your mtg. according to your wisdom. Your brother, Wayne Dear WA/N ID/AK workers, elders and friends, Recently, John Mastin confessed to sexually abusive behavior involving a minor during his time on Pohnpei. We have recently received other similar allegations from victims and their families which indicates a troubling pattern. We are in touch with some who have connections with Pohnpei, and are offering our support to those involved. None of the allegations involve people who are currently minors. We are very sorry for the pain this has caused, and we want any other victims or people with concerns to feel free to come forward and be heard. During our visit with John, we all agreed to the following conditions: · He is stepping down from the work. · He will not be attending any meetings until further notice. · He will immediately seek professional therapy. Early this week, we plan to send an email with educational documents that will direct each of us to practices and awareness that will help keep us safer. Your brothers, Brian, Wayne, Darryl For those who would like resources, please see: RAINN - the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) www.rainn.org NATIONAL SEXUAL VIOLENCE RESOURCE CENTER: www.nsvrc.org WASHINGTON COALITION OF SEXUAL ASSAULT PROGRAMS: www.wcsap.org Damn it! Not a word about charges... |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 2, 2023 23:07:28 GMT -5
Advice to workers from professing psychotherapist – April 2023From Wings for Truth website May 2 To Our Workers: As you may be aware, “There are few moments in ministry that matter more than how we respond to someone who discloses to us that they have been sexually abused..” [Understanding Sexual Abuse: A Guide For Ministry Leaders & Survivors, by Tim Hein, (2018) p. 57-58] And perhaps you, like most others, are having to respond extemporaneously. We pray that you will have the needed strength and wisdom, but even so, these situations require some psychological information that I’m sending in case you don’t have it. Survivors are substantially re-traumatized when disclosure is mishandled. ..Mr. Hein’s book mentions 3 words: Listen, believe, and [I’d add, to respectfully and humbly] acknowledge. I would also add this: Maintain a tone that helps them to feel safe to talk. There is nothing for you to defend or prove in that moment. You can always circle back around with questions at a later time, but those three words are important to employ in the moment. Whoever is calling you has already spent weeks, months, years, huge portions of their life wrangling with their experience—or that of their precious child. This may be the first time they’ve even said the words. Calling you may well be the single bravest thing they’ve ever done. They are feeling embarrassed, vulnerable, exposed. They are usually going to be needing 1) reassurance that you believe them and to see that you take them seriously, 2) to know what their options are—legal and mental health (and as you know, child and adult options differ), and 3) to see what you are going to do moving forward (prevention). I don’t pretend to know what that is, but please offer something. You do not need to (and perhaps shouldn’t) counsel them. Your role is to believe them and resource them. (Some resources are listed in my last email, if needed.) Here are some examples of what they need to hear: “I believe you. / It took a lot of courage to tell me about this.” “I’m sorry this happened. / This shouldn’t have happened to you.” The last topic I will mention is regarding perpetrator protection. Again, I don’t know if this has happened recently, but it has happened many, many times. No one coming forward to disclose should have to be questioned about what happens to their abuser. They have already spent way too much time considering that. Moreover, what happens to a perpetrator is between him and God and the law. No one reporting abuse is responsible for that. In addition, research has historically shown that a pedophile’s re-offence, relapse and recidivism rates are fairly high (and I understand that not all sexual abusers of children are pedophiles). Given that information, many survivors and others are distraught by abusers returning to our gatherings where kids will be. Many I can readily think of have stopped going to meetings because of being unwilling to risk this exposure. Please, please do not make decisions that would continue to protect perpetrators. These people are so deceptive/charming/manipulative that it’s hard to believe they’d re-offend. And maybe even they don’t think they will. Until they do. Even after therapy. And please, please make sure they do not return to our gatherings where there are kids. My hope is that you will read this email in the spirit I’ve intended.. to support your healthy intentions and offer some practical professional suggestions, in case you don’t already have them. I hope that you are holding up well. Suzanne Thompson (NC Psychotherapist) p.s. I also strongly recommend the book I quoted above. The author was also abused as a child — as many ministers have been, perhaps even your peers, or those on your staff, or even you — and has done an excellent job of offering resources, examples, and self-disclosure in an organized, compassionate way. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 5, 2023 7:10:37 GMT -5
From: Andrew D. Scholl Date: Wed, May 3, 2023 at 8:25 PM Subject: Rest Rest I am planning to return to Washington state and be with my parents for an extended period of rest from being responsible and active in the work. There are personal issues, indiscretions and struggles in my past that I have never taken the time to completely address and get help for. I am weary and this is something I need to do if I am to be a completely healthy, trusted, responsible person and worker. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me. The things I’m getting help for are not criminal, but certainly not appropriate or wise. They are things that have been addressed and confessed to. But, I have never taken time to step away from my active place in the work and completely address and examine myself and my mental, emotional, spiritual health as deeply as I should. This decision has not come lightly. It is not something I am being forced to do. It is something that has been suggested by some who know and love me. I feel at peace with this decision, and hope for many more active, happy years in the work. Thanks for your care and prayers, Andy |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 6, 2023 17:09:05 GMT -5
Factual UpdateWINGS is aware of numerous highly credible allegations of child sexual abuse (CSA), and adult relationships including sexual abuse, by workers and members, together with worker actions to hide cases and avoid publicity. Due to legal issues, WINGS only posts reports of allegations and convictions that are available on public records. For over a decade WINGS has been advocating for change to address Child Sexual Abuse within the fellowship. WINGS website records numerous convicted workers and friends, but is missing others due to lack of confirmed details. The timeline below shows some of the major actions over the last ten years. It shows that there has been public awareness of the problem of child sexual abuse within the fellowship for many years, but, despite this knowledge There has been no unified standard position or approach to preventing and addressing CSA or supporting those impacted whilst within the fellowship; Overall response has been limited, with some areas implementing awareness and prevention training 10-15 years ago and others yet to do so; Areas that have introduced written policies, worker codes of conduct, and training are not transparent about compliance or breaches that are occurring; Despite some training and awareness, there have been ongoing efforts to hide and obscure details; There is no transparency about the management strategy to keep children safe where there are open allegations or convicted perpetrators; Support of survivors, and believing those speaking up, remains adhoc with victims not always being believed with some even being shut down and treated as mentally unstable; There is no indication that the issues surfacing in USA and Canada and also reported in UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Latin America are being communicated to and managed properly in all other countries; Workers continue to be moved between areas and countries without transparency about any allegations or behaviour concerns. The 2023 notification that Dean Bruer, a previously revered worker and overseer, was a sexual predator and had spent a considerable amount of time and money in motels, unleashed a storm of reports on social media of other cases of abuse: So far 6 workers / overseers have been removed or stepped aside More than 250 cases of abuse have been lodged with a small team who are supporting victims and seeking to prevent further abuse – see www.advocatesforthetruth.com/It is apparent that the global fellowship does not have adequate or consistent standards for dealing with child sexual abuse, or for inappropriate worker adult relationships. Despite being considered a unified worldwide fellowship, it is in fact managed as a series of local groups run by overseers who meet to achieve some alignment but are not fully consistent, neither as regards CSA, doctrine or acceptable practices. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on May 29, 2023 21:23:39 GMT -5
There is still limited transparency about the crimes committed by Dean. I have gone through my emails and I can see he travelled very widely, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Kenya, Greece, Germany, Lebanon, It is most concerning the comments from the original letter: "Some things have come to light from Dean’s own records. Dean had his own Best Western Hotel preferred customer account and spent a considerable amount of time and money in motels. As we all know, when he died last June, it was in a motel in Government Camp, OR; a place that he frequented. The receipts often included “two guests”. Victims have come forward, and there was very confirming and incriminating evidence found on his computer and phone. His actions include rape and abuse of underage victims. He totally abused his authority as an overseer in order to control, manipulate and threaten his victims." Keep in mind that possibly 90% of the fellowship globally is completely unaware of what has happened, yet this man has probably been in maybe 100's of convention meetings and 100's of homes outside of the USA. |
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Jun 5, 2023 19:04:58 GMT -5
Recent Workers' communication with FriendsFrom: Peggy Jansen Date: May 1, 2023 at 11:26:05 AM CDT To: Peggy Jansen, Leah Klepzig Dear Friends, In general, this is a letter Matt [Jensen] has sent to us to send to the friends in our fields. You will find three attachments included in this letter. The first document is self-explanatory. The second document is somewhat of an appendix to the first, detailing contact information within Illinois and Indiana, rather than Washington State. The third contains more Child Sexual Assault information. Due to the inappropriate behavior of some people in some other states, our attention has been brought again to the subject of child abuse within our fellowship. I feel like it would be beneficial to write to you about this subject. Some people have wondered what the workers in Illinois and Indiana are doing to make ourselves more aware of this subject. All of the workers in the Eastern States and Provinces are required to take the MinistrySafe Awareness Training every two years. This has been done for over ten years. Most of the active Illinois/Indiana workers took the training again this past February, and as of April 25, all the active workers in Illinois/Indiana have completed the training. In addition to MinistrySafe training, some workers attended a sensitivity meeting approximately ten to twelve years ago. Appropriate, interpersonal boundaries were discussed. The gleanings were shared with all the staffs in the Eastern States and Provinces. Some of the workers have also attended multi-hour workshops to better understand our responsibilities as reporters of abuse and neglect. Child abuse of any nature is a crime. Clergy are mandated reporters in the state of Illinois. Everyone is a mandated reporter in Indiana. It is against the law to not report, if there is a reasonable cause to suspect. Reporting can seem daunting, but the goal is that victims would get help as soon as possible. The other goal is that the behavior of the perpetrator would be stopped, and that they would also get professional help. We encourage you to read and understand the attached documents. We encourage you to take the MinistrySafe Awareness Training. We encourage parents to take the MinistrySafe Parent Training. We encourage you to understand your role in reporting abuse. I believe awareness will foster a safer environment for all, and will minimize the risk of this happening. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to any of us on the Illinois and Indiana staff. Please honor my request that you not forward this email, nor the attachments electronically. Please do not share this message on social media platforms. If you wish to verbally share what is written here, feel free. If you wish to print the attached documents and share them that way, feel free. And the workers in both Indiana and Illinois will be sharing these documents with those in their fields. Peggy Jansen [Address redacted] Wilmette,IL 60091 [Phone redacted]
|
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Jun 6, 2023 20:02:36 GMT -5
Ed Alexander letter to perpetrator – 2005
2463 [redacted] CT. NE
KEIZER OR 97303
February 25, 2005
Dear Howard and …
Far too much time has passed since I should have written you both, and I want to begin this letter with a sincere apology for having been so negligent in my dealings with you. I did especially appreciate our last little chat after the gospel meeting in Tucson before I left Arizona, Howard, and felt that there was truly a difference in your spirit and attitude toward at that time that boded well for the hope of reconciliation in the future. Nearly all of the reports that I have had since then from both the workers and the friends have also been very positive.
Paul’s words to the Corinthians in II Cor. 5:18 have been special to me the last year or so, where he reminded them that God had entrusted to his servants the ministry of reconciliation. The hope of our ministry is that those who hear our message will be reconciled to God, and that is often through the avenue of being reconciled to our brethren. We’re glad that we have the confidence that you do have a real desire to be reconciled with __________, and I am convinced that the letter that you wrote is a wonderful first step towards making that happen.
I did want to hold the letter a while before sending it on to __________, to be sure in my own mind that the Arizona workers and friends were comfortable with the progress that you were making there. However, I don’t justify in any way the length of time that I held it - that was inexcusable negligence, and again I freely apologize for it. My hope is that you will forgive me and that my negligence will have not affected the progress of your reconciliation with .
It’s very likely that you may be feeling frustrated because of still being restricted from taking part, but that is really one of the less important issues in this situation. We well understand that the liberty to take part neither saves us nor deprives us of salvation. Jesus made so clear in John 17:3 that salvation is being born again and developing a living relationship with our heavenly Father. Nevertheless there are times when we, as the ministry, must ask people to refrain from taking part. These situations usually fall into one of the following categories: (1) Their present actions or way of life are clearly placing their salvation in jeopardy. (2) There is still a question as to whether some serious habits or actions in the past have been completely left behind. (3) Their present way of life is such that it brings blight on the testimony of our fellowship and/or ministry, and we feel that to preserve the testimony of our fellowship and/or ministry we must express our disapproval of their deeds.
Your situation would fall into the second class and that is why we asked you to refrain from taking part. As I mentioned to you in our very first visit, we didn’t hold against you the fact that you had served time in prison. That was in the past: However, when evidence of the same pattern of behavior reappeared then the mistakes of the past became a real concern to us, because it was evidence that the underlying problem had not been taken care of. And, our own experience and professional studies of this type of problem indicate that, while this may not be true in your case, most often what comes to light initially is only a small part of what has actually transpired. It is very common in sexual abuse cases that the whole scope of the problem is never known. One man in our fellowship, when he finally confessed to having a problem with child molestation, was asked how many children he had molested. His answer was that there had been so many that he himself didn't know how many he’d molested.
So, when it came to light that you had molested __________ and behaved very improperly toward __________ (especially as you had been entrusted with the responsibility of eldership and a meeting in your home) we felt that we had to ask you not to take part in meetings until your testimony was completely clear. Unfortunately, as you have found these past couple of years, some things are hard to make clear. When some came to John the Baptist to be baptized, he told them to “bring forth fruits meet for repentance." That was because there was still a question in his mind, and likely in the mind of others, that their testimony was clear. John felt that it would be best that they wait to be baptized until the fruit (or evidence) of their repentance could make abundantly dear that there had been a definite change in their life.
When Rob, Jeff, and I visited with you we suggested that there were two things that would go further toward clearing your testimony than anything else: (1) Being reconciled with __________. (2) Seeking out professional counseling. At that time we put those two things as the conditions for you to be able to begin to take part again. Since then all three of us brothers have left Arizona and none of us are responsible for the decisions that are made there at this time. Larry is your overseer and Joe is the older worker in your field. I don’t have the authority to continue to restrict you from taking part, but when they have asked my advice I have told them that I still feel that those two things are essential so that the workers and friends in the area where you live can see that you have truly put the past behind you.
I am sorry that I didn’t make clear from the beginning that one of the reasons that we were so insistent that you see a professional counselor was that we, as ministers of our fellowship, have a legal responsibility to report any cases of sexual abuse that we are aware of. If we do not we can be prosecuted for failure to report a sexual crime. You can understand that we love our people very much and don’t want to report their misdeeds to the authorities, so the way we have usually complied with the law is by asking the offender to see a professional counselor. Then the counselor is required by law to report the incident, and we have fulfilled our legal responsibility by having insisted that the person get counseling. I know that I did not make this fact clear to you in our visits, and am sorry for any confusion that this may have caused. We did cover it obliquely, though, as there were several times that you mentioned that if you saw a counselor it would mean that you would go back to prison, and my reply each time was, that if that was the price to be right then I felt that you needed to be willing for that. I appreciate that you did seek out counseling, and I think that I made a comment to you in the visit that Larry, Joe, and I had with you, that it was a good step. I’m still not sure, though, that you ever saw a professional, accredited, counselor that would have gone through the process of reporting your case to the legal authorities. Until that is taken care of, and the local workers have clear proof that the legal requirements have been fulfilled, I can’t feel that the second condition that we put on your taking part has been fulfilled. Maybe I could suggest that the best way to make this step clear to all concerned would be for you to ask Larry to accompany you to a few sessions with the counselor just to establish that the ministry has been involved in your rehabilitation. I suggest Larry because Joe will likely be returning to Washington after your conventions and it would be better to have someone with you that will be able to remain in the state for a while longer. Again, I apologize for not having made this more clear right from the start.
Your relationship with __________ is likely still the most difficult problem that you face in clearing your testimony.
Solomon wrote in Proverbs 18:19 “A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.’’ What that tells us is that, once a person is offended, every defense comes up, and it becomes extremely difficult even to get through to the person to talk of peace. Some have felt that it is asking too much of you to make your reconciliation with __________, a condition of your being free to take part, and maybe that is true. The reason that I did ask that, though, is that I don’t feel that there is anyone else that will know as well as __________ when you have fully repented and made things right. And, conversely, when it is evident that there is complete reconciliation between you and __________, no one will be able to dispute that there has truly been ‘the fruit of repentance’ in your life.
So I will let this do for today, Howard. Please understand that I am not against either one of you. I still love you, appreciate you, and want the very best for you. Maybe it’s best expressed in our hymn that says:
“And though I do not grasp it now,
I’ll better know when life is done,
Why Thou didst point the hardest path,
Asked me the straitest course to run."
With love in Christ,
Ed Alexander
Cc Larry Greenaway
Joe Schoen
|
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Jul 9, 2023 9:52:44 GMT -5
Update re Brad Holman
Craig Winquist <cwinquist@aol.com> Thu, Jul 6, 2023 at 7:25 AM
Here is a follow up to the note we just put out. It will clarify Brad’s status in the work and help our friends realize they have to use their own judgement about Brad and the allegations. There is only so much that we can do for them. So you could send this to the elders but maybe it should go as a general email to the friends as well. I don’t know how well it gets sent around.
A brother, Craig
Dear friends,
In the interest of a safer fellowship:
I need to send an update on Brad Holman’s status in the ministry. It doesn’t seem like the allegations are any less serious than when we first learned about them.
I want to make it clear that Brad is no longer in the work, and that decision will not be reconsidered unless there are some profound changes regarding the multiple allegations against him.
The only restriction we can place on him at this time is that he is not to be attending any meetings in person.
While the CSA allegations are serious, to our knowledge, he has not been charged with any criminal activity by legal authorities. As a result, he is free to travel, visit where he is welcome and work as he desires. We have no legal right to impose restrictions beyond limiting him from attending meetings.
We feel it prudent to remind our friends (especially families with children) that they need to be cautious considering the CSA allegations.
Wishing all the very best . . .
A brother, Craig
|
|
|
|
Post by Admin on Jul 13, 2023 21:33:06 GMT -5
I do not think the truth has a proclivity to hurt people. I believe that any organization with tens of thousands of humans involved are going to people act and speak wrongly, and have those offended. Humans of all organizations offend people. Your favorite organizations, business, and even those you love (mine too) have caused a lot of hurt and damage. Any company, politics, group, religion, school, business, etc has CSA and bad actors. Anywhere there are humans, there is human nature and there will be problems, worldwide. I don’t know how many friends are in the truth, but it’s tens and tens of thousands. So yes, I’m not surprised that there are some that are offended from those within the truth. That absolutely does not make it right, and I can be sorry for those hurt, while also believing there’s not a systemic problem that I have seen. This is a bit deeper of a question than you might think. Is there anything about the social isolation of meeting and workers that creates the circumstances that make this sort of thing more common? That can be debated, and I am not going to offer an answer other than to say it is something to ponder. What I will comment on is accountability. It is true that any large group of people and any organization has bad actors because humans are involved. However, meeting has extreme secrecy in its governance by workers and overseers. There is faith and trust in the workers, but ultimately no objective accountability for money or actions. If money is donated to workers, there is no publicly available balance sheet or budget. And of course no audit. In a formally organized church or even secular organization there are financial records and audits. These are safeguards that prevent a bad actor from using donated money to maintain an underage sex dungeon in a Best Western for God knows how many years, only discovered when he had the misfortune of dropping dead in the place. In organizations with financial accountability, misappropriating donations to evil ends is much more difficult to hide. Society has learned to build safeguards into organizations over that last 50+ years to prevent this sort of thing from going on undetected. |
|
