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Post by Admin on Jun 8, 2023 21:41:28 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalance
Jun 8 We are in the midst of very trying times. Some suffer in silence and others have shown tremendous courage in speaking up. Most of us feel helpless when we see and hear about head workers, workers, elders and friends continuing to cover up abuse.
The basis of many of the crimes and cover-ups can be attributed to the power imbalance of overseers. This power has been unlimited and without oversight and has resulted in rules that are not based on Jesus’s teachings. The tradition of having a certain acceptable outward appearance has been a way to control people and it needs to stop.
Jesus dressed like a typical person of his day. We know this because there are several instances documented where he “disappeared into the crowd”.
There are those amongst us who have felt the need to take a stand to show support for victims. Going forward, you will see support in the form of wearing non-traditional attire, such as women wearing pants and less focus on conforming to an outward standard. This will be at conventions and other gatherings. Abuse and ease of access is an unfortunate result of making women and girls wear skirts. Thus, it seems there is more of an urgency to allow people to choose their clothing as appropriate. We are not doing this to rebel against God, as garments and adornments are not a sin or a criminal act. We want to give a clear message that we no longer tolerate the embedded culture in the Ministry of bullying, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, misconduct and cover-up of such.
There are many man-made rules and traditions that have been elevated to doctrine and confused with righteousness. We love the fellowship and appreciate everyone who is trying to be honest and transparent during this time of turmoil. We do not want to cause offence in any way, but we take this stand to ensure that things are put right, so that fellowship can be preserved. This nonconformance to the outward standard is not a rebellion against God or our faith, but is a show of loving support for those of you - women, men and children who have suffered and are suffering. We support you.
All are welcome to join in and show support in your area as you feel comfortable. We are a family, and we are very thankful for the support and love we receive from each other.
The future of this fellowship will include all people of every race and culture freely wearing clothing, make-up or jewellery and hairstyles they are comfortable with. We must not return to a time of manipulative and controlling rules that focus on outward compliance. This only encourages predators of all kinds to enforce these rules with their abuses.
We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man.
Your brothers and sisters in Christ
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Post by Pragmatic on Jun 8, 2023 22:01:07 GMT -5
I welcome them doing this, and not before time. It behoves the misogynistic elders, and the Worker Policewomen to not stand in the way, or try and be like the enforcers of old.
What don't the Pharisees get about the "rules and regulations that perish with the using"?
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Post by Deleted on Jun 8, 2023 22:38:29 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalanceJun 8 . We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man. I know my comment won't be popular, but I just want to say this from my perspective. Everyone is welcome to their own opinions. This is just mine. I also had a hard time growing up looking different from other girls. That is so normal, and maybe I am just lucky because my mom didn't teach me that I had to dress a certain way because of rules but because we love God, and I never had the workers lay down the law to me. I hated it when someone asked me what I believed and wished I didn't have to look different so they wouldn't ask me questions. But as an adult I began to realize what a privilege it was to represent the Bride here on the earth and to be able to point people to Jesus. I know it is the inside that matters, not just outward conforming, but if the inside is right then having the outward appearance that speaks to people of faith and love for God seems like a good thing, right? It is often the outward appearance that people in town see, and sometimes we get to have conversations with people who ask us where we go to church or what we believe. I wonder, but don't know, if women that have on pants and short hair get those questions? We don't like questions, but we are to be a light of the world, and a light does draw attention, doesn't it? When all of this discussion started up about doing away with any outward difference, I felt sad that there might not be lights like this. I know that it can be our spirit that draws people, but when we are just out at the store or in the community, a quick moment in time, it is the appearance someone is noticing. If I present in a modest, godly way, people might be curious. So I felt sad that might not happen any more, but then I remembered that it is the God of heaven we are talking about, and if there is a lost soul out there, God will use whatever methods he can to bring them in. But I will continue with my desire to look modest and to be willing to be associated with Jesus in the community. It is such a wonderful privilege a woman has to be such a clear picture of submission to the Bridegroom of our soul and to get to answer people for the reason of hope in her when people ask questions about her faith. For you men, how often do you get stopped in a store to ask what you believe? But I am not going to insist other people hold to a certain outward appearance because if it doesn't arise from within, it won't be honest, so it won't help anyone. God has set us on a candlestick in this world. Men and women have different roles, and how can I despise the role of representing the Bride and her love and submission to the bridegroom with the hopes of drawing others to Him? So I am ready for whatever stones you want to throw at me, but it won't make me change my mind. What I do is because of my love for Jesus and my appreciation of what He has done for me. I know my appearance doesn't buy salvation for me, Jesus has paid that price, but my love for Him motivates what I do.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 8, 2023 22:42:22 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalanceJun 8 We are in the midst of very trying times. Some suffer in silence and others have shown tremendous courage in speaking up. Most of us feel helpless when we see and hear about head workers, workers, elders and friends continuing to cover up abuse. The basis of many of the crimes and cover-ups can be attributed to the power imbalance of overseers. This power has been unlimited and without oversight and has resulted in rules that are not based on Jesus’s teachings. The tradition of having a certain acceptable outward appearance has been a way to control people and it needs to stop. Jesus dressed like a typical person of his day. We know this because there are several instances documented where he “disappeared into the crowd”. There are those amongst us who have felt the need to take a stand to show support for victims. Going forward, you will see support in the form of wearing non-traditional attire, such as women wearing pants and less focus on conforming to an outward standard. This will be at conventions and other gatherings. Abuse and ease of access is an unfortunate result of making women and girls wear skirts. Thus, it seems there is more of an urgency to allow people to choose their clothing as appropriate. We are not doing this to rebel against God, as garments and adornments are not a sin or a criminal act. We want to give a clear message that we no longer tolerate the embedded culture in the Ministry of bullying, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, misconduct and cover-up of such. There are many man-made rules and traditions that have been elevated to doctrine and confused with righteousness. We love the fellowship and appreciate everyone who is trying to be honest and transparent during this time of turmoil. We do not want to cause offence in any way, but we take this stand to ensure that things are put right, so that fellowship can be preserved. This nonconformance to the outward standard is not a rebellion against God or our faith, but is a show of loving support for those of you - women, men and children who have suffered and are suffering. We support you. All are welcome to join in and show support in your area as you feel comfortable. We are a family, and we are very thankful for the support and love we receive from each other. The future of this fellowship will include all people of every race and culture freely wearing clothing, make-up or jewellery and hairstyles they are comfortable with. We must not return to a time of manipulative and controlling rules that focus on outward compliance. This only encourages predators of all kinds to enforce these rules with their abuses. We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man. Your brothers and sisters in Christ All for removing pedos and sex abusers from the Truth and setting up rules to confront it. But the above isn't it...sounds more like a "you ain't gonna tell me what to do" just wait until I tell my Dad..."...
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Post by Deleted on Jun 8, 2023 22:44:24 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalanceJun 8 . We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man. I know my comment won't be popular, but I just want to say this from my perspective. Everyone is welcome to their own opinions. This is just mine. I also had a hard time growing up looking different from other girls. That is so normal, and maybe I am just lucky because my mom didn't teach me that I had to dress a certain way because of rules but because we love God, and I never had the workers lay down the law to me. I hated it when someone asked me what I believed and wished I didn't have to look different so they wouldn't ask me questions. But as an adult I began to realize what a privilege it was to represent the Bride here on the earth and to be able to point people to Jesus. I know it is the inside that matters, not just outward conforming, but if the inside is right then having the outward appearance that speaks to people of faith and love for God seems like a good thing, right? It is often the outward appearance that people in town see, and sometimes we get to have conversations with people who ask us where we go to church or what we believe. I wonder, but don't know, if women that have on pants and short hair get those questions? We don't like questions, but we are to be a light of the world, and a light does draw attention, doesn't it? When all of this discussion started up about doing away with any outward difference, I felt sad that there might not be lights like this. I know that it can be our spirit that draws people, but when we are just out at the store or in the community, a quick moment in time, it is the appearance someone is noticing. If I present in a modest, godly way, people might be curious. So I felt sad that might not happen any more, but then I remembered that it is the God of heaven we are talking about, and if there is a lost soul out there, God will use whatever methods he can to bring them in. But I will continue with my desire to look modest and to be willing to be associated with Jesus in the community. It is such a wonderful privilege a woman has to be such a clear picture of submission to the Bridegroom of our soul and to get to answer people for the reason of hope in her when people ask questions about her faith. For you men, how often do you get stopped in a store to ask what you believe? But I am not going to insist other people hold to a certain outward appearance because if it doesn't arise from within, it won't be honest, so it won't help anyone. God has set us on a candlestick in this world. Men and women have different roles, and how can I despise the role of representing the Bride and her love and submission to the bridegroom with the hopes of drawing others to Him? So I am ready for whatever stones you want to throw at me, but it won't make me change my mind. What I do is because of my love for Jesus and my appreciation of what He has done for me. I know my appearance doesn't buy salvation for me, Jesus has paid that price, but my love for Him motivates what I do. Well said again...
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Post by getreal on Jun 8, 2023 22:53:01 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalanceJun 8 We are in the midst of very trying times. Some suffer in silence and others have shown tremendous courage in speaking up. Most of us feel helpless when we see and hear about head workers, workers, elders and friends continuing to cover up abuse. The basis of many of the crimes and cover-ups can be attributed to the power imbalance of overseers. This power has been unlimited and without oversight and has resulted in rules that are not based on Jesus’s teachings. The tradition of having a certain acceptable outward appearance has been a way to control people and it needs to stop. Jesus dressed like a typical person of his day. We know this because there are several instances documented where he “disappeared into the crowd”. There are those amongst us who have felt the need to take a stand to show support for victims. Going forward, you will see support in the form of wearing non-traditional attire, such as women wearing pants and less focus on conforming to an outward standard. This will be at conventions and other gatherings. Abuse and ease of access is an unfortunate result of making women and girls wear skirts. Thus, it seems there is more of an urgency to allow people to choose their clothing as appropriate. We are not doing this to rebel against God, as garments and adornments are not a sin or a criminal act. We want to give a clear message that we no longer tolerate the embedded culture in the Ministry of bullying, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, misconduct and cover-up of such. There are many man-made rules and traditions that have been elevated to doctrine and confused with righteousness. We love the fellowship and appreciate everyone who is trying to be honest and transparent during this time of turmoil. We do not want to cause offence in any way, but we take this stand to ensure that things are put right, so that fellowship can be preserved. This nonconformance to the outward standard is not a rebellion against God or our faith, but is a show of loving support for those of you - women, men and children who have suffered and are suffering. We support you. All are welcome to join in and show support in your area as you feel comfortable. We are a family, and we are very thankful for the support and love we receive from each other. The future of this fellowship will include all people of every race and culture freely wearing clothing, make-up or jewellery and hairstyles they are comfortable with. We must not return to a time of manipulative and controlling rules that focus on outward compliance. This only encourages predators of all kinds to enforce these rules with their abuses. We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man. Your brothers and sisters in Christ Awesome! If you are going to attend convention make a statement, take a stand. Love this. Power on.
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Post by getreal on Jun 8, 2023 23:01:49 GMT -5
I know my comment won't be popular, but I just want to say this from my perspective. Everyone is welcome to their own opinions. This is just mine. I also had a hard time growing up looking different from other girls. That is so normal, and maybe I am just lucky because my mom didn't teach me that I had to dress a certain way because of rules but because we love God, and I never had the workers lay down the law to me. I hated it when someone asked me what I believed and wished I didn't have to look different so they wouldn't ask me questions. But as an adult I began to realize what a privilege it was to represent the Bride here on the earth and to be able to point people to Jesus. I know it is the inside that matters, not just outward conforming, but if the inside is right then having the outward appearance that speaks to people of faith and love for God seems like a good thing, right? It is often the outward appearance that people in town see, and sometimes we get to have conversations with people who ask us where we go to church or what we believe. I wonder, but don't know, if women that have on pants and short hair get those questions? We don't like questions, but we are to be a light of the world, and a light does draw attention, doesn't it? When all of this discussion started up about doing away with any outward difference, I felt sad that there might not be lights like this. I know that it can be our spirit that draws people, but when we are just out at the store or in the community, a quick moment in time, it is the appearance someone is noticing. If I present in a modest, godly way, people might be curious. So I felt sad that might not happen any more, but then I remembered that it is the God of heaven we are talking about, and if there is a lost soul out there, God will use whatever methods he can to bring them in. But I will continue with my desire to look modest and to be willing to be associated with Jesus in the community. It is such a wonderful privilege a woman has to be such a clear picture of submission to the Bridegroom of our soul and to get to answer people for the reason of hope in her when people ask questions about her faith. For you men, how often do you get stopped in a store to ask what you believe? But I am not going to insist other people hold to a certain outward appearance because if it doesn't arise from within, it won't be honest, so it won't help anyone. God has set us on a candlestick in this world. Men and women have different roles, and how can I despise the role of representing the Bride and her love and submission to the bridegroom with the hopes of drawing others to Him? So I am ready for whatever stones you want to throw at me, but it won't make me change my mind. What I do is because of my love for Jesus and my appreciation of what He has done for me. I know my appearance doesn't buy salvation for me, Jesus has paid that price, but my love for Him motivates what I do. Well said again... What you wear, for the most part, should be a big old yawn. Who cares. Be you. Let everyone be who they feel. What you look like is the least important thing about you. This tyranny over women’s appearance is just men keeping women under their thumb. What do you think women wore in Bible times? No bra. No underwear. No pins and buns. No pantyhose and sensible shoes. Pretty risqué by 2 by 2 Victorian standards. 😀
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Post by getreal on Jun 8, 2023 23:16:47 GMT -5
And Why would anyone throw stones over something so not important. You should be you. Without apology. And others be who they are. No apologies. The focus should be on the inside stuff, to state the complete obvious. Jesus was so not into appearances. He saw into hearts.
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Post by christina on Jun 8, 2023 23:20:25 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalanceJun 8 We are in the midst of very trying times. Some suffer in silence and others have shown tremendous courage in speaking up. Most of us feel helpless when we see and hear about head workers, workers, elders and friends continuing to cover up abuse. The basis of many of the crimes and cover-ups can be attributed to the power imbalance of overseers. This power has been unlimited and without oversight and has resulted in rules that are not based on Jesus’s teachings. The tradition of having a certain acceptable outward appearance has been a way to control people and it needs to stop. Jesus dressed like a typical person of his day. We know this because there are several instances documented where he “disappeared into the crowd”. There are those amongst us who have felt the need to take a stand to show support for victims. Going forward, you will see support in the form of wearing non-traditional attire, such as women wearing pants and less focus on conforming to an outward standard. This will be at conventions and other gatherings. Abuse and ease of access is an unfortunate result of making women and girls wear skirts. Thus, it seems there is more of an urgency to allow people to choose their clothing as appropriate. We are not doing this to rebel against God, as garments and adornments are not a sin or a criminal act. We want to give a clear message that we no longer tolerate the embedded culture in the Ministry of bullying, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, misconduct and cover-up of such. There are many man-made rules and traditions that have been elevated to doctrine and confused with righteousness. We love the fellowship and appreciate everyone who is trying to be honest and transparent during this time of turmoil. We do not want to cause offence in any way, but we take this stand to ensure that things are put right, so that fellowship can be preserved. This nonconformance to the outward standard is not a rebellion against God or our faith, but is a show of loving support for those of you - women, men and children who have suffered and are suffering. We support you. All are welcome to join in and show support in your area as you feel comfortable. We are a family, and we are very thankful for the support and love we receive from each other. The future of this fellowship will include all people of every race and culture freely wearing clothing, make-up or jewellery and hairstyles they are comfortable with. We must not return to a time of manipulative and controlling rules that focus on outward compliance. This only encourages predators of all kinds to enforce these rules with their abuses. We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man. Your brothers and sisters in Christ Wonderful to read this. Wonder if this is a letter to just USA or Canada? Needs to be worldwide.
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Post by Grant on Jun 8, 2023 23:25:25 GMT -5
Removing rules and power imbalanceJun 8 . We wish to turn our focus to Jesus’ teachings and our service to God, not man. I know my comment won't be popular, but I just want to say this from my perspective. Everyone is welcome to their own opinions. This is just mine. I also had a hard time growing up looking different from other girls. That is so normal, and maybe I am just lucky because my mom didn't teach me that I had to dress a certain way because of rules but because we love God, and I never had the workers lay down the law to me. I hated it when someone asked me what I believed and wished I didn't have to look different so they wouldn't ask me questions. But as an adult I began to realize what a privilege it was to represent the Bride here on the earth and to be able to point people to Jesus. I know it is the inside that matters, not just outward conforming, but if the inside is right then having the outward appearance that speaks to people of faith and love for God seems like a good thing, right? It is often the outward appearance that people in town see, and sometimes we get to have conversations with people who ask us where we go to church or what we believe. I wonder, but don't know, if women that have on pants and short hair get those questions? We don't like questions, but we are to be a light of the world, and a light does draw attention, doesn't it? When all of this discussion started up about doing away with any outward difference, I felt sad that there might not be lights like this. I know that it can be our spirit that draws people, but when we are just out at the store or in the community, a quick moment in time, it is the appearance someone is noticing. If I present in a modest, godly way, people might be curious. So I felt sad that might not happen any more, but then I remembered that it is the God of heaven we are talking about, and if there is a lost soul out there, God will use whatever methods he can to bring them in. But I will continue with my desire to look modest and to be willing to be associated with Jesus in the community. It is such a wonderful privilege a woman has to be such a clear picture of submission to the Bridegroom of our soul and to get to answer people for the reason of hope in her when people ask questions about her faith. For you men, how often do you get stopped in a store to ask what you believe? But I am not going to insist other people hold to a certain outward appearance because if it doesn't arise from within, it won't be honest, so it won't help anyone. God has set us on a candlestick in this world. Men and women have different roles, and how can I despise the role of representing the Bride and her love and submission to the bridegroom with the hopes of drawing others to Him? So I am ready for whatever stones you want to throw at me, but it won't make me change my mind. What I do is because of my love for Jesus and my appreciation of what He has done for me. I know my appearance doesn't buy salvation for me, Jesus has paid that price, but my love for Him motivates what I do. Seems what people see by your dress is that Victorian Brethren look. Pants are more modest and sensible in many cases than a dress or skirt. A woman is not immodest when she dresses nice and blends in with the crowd. Even professing style dress would seem immodest to a Muslim.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Jun 8, 2023 23:41:11 GMT -5
Seems what people see by your dress is that Victorian Brethren look. Pants are more modest and sensible in many cases than a dress or skirt. A woman is not immodest when she dresses nice and blends in with the crowd. Even professing style dress would seem immodest to a Muslim. Jesus was meek and unnoticed and like someone said on here did not stand out. Women workers look dowdy and old fashion. They look under bondage. Their dress is not a credit to God. The pharasies dressed religious but their hearts were far from him. The change in the way women and sister workers dress in the past 10 years has been dramatic. I recently saw a sister worker that always wore hose, and she spoke at special meeting without them. Not that I could tell until I was sitting visiting with her. Many sister workers now wear t shirts and denim skirts for everyday. Now only the oldest ones wear suits for meeting. They are becoming much more casual. So your Victorian brethren look is outdated. And yes, seems good if we are in the middle of the road, not too far into one ditch or the other. And of course, wearing appropriate clothing for the situation is good. A sister worker in rehab wore sweat pants because the exercises they did with her wouldn't have been modest in a dress.
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Post by getreal on Jun 8, 2023 23:47:34 GMT -5
Seems what people see by your dress is that Victorian Brethren look. Pants are more modest and sensible in many cases than a dress or skirt. A woman is not immodest when she dresses nice and blends in with the crowd. Even professing style dress would seem immodest to a Muslim. Jesus was meek and unnoticed and like someone said on here did not stand out. Women workers look dowdy and old fashion. They look under bondage. Their dress is not a credit to God. The pharasies dressed religious but their hearts were far from him. The change in the way women and sister workers dress in the past 10 years has been dramatic. I recently saw a sister worker that always wore hose, and she spoke at special meeting without them. Not that I could tell until I was sitting visiting with her. Many sister workers now wear t shirts and denim skirts for everyday. Now only the oldest ones wear suits for meeting. They are becoming much more casual. So your Victorian brethren look is outdated. And yes, seems good if we are in the middle of the road, not too far into one ditch or the other. And of course, wearing appropriate clothing for the situation is good. A sister worker in rehab wore sweat pants because the exercises they did with her wouldn't have been modest in a dress. Progress is when we don’t focus on what women wear, at all, ever. It is nauseating.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 8, 2023 23:51:24 GMT -5
But I am not going to insist other people hold to a certain outward appearance because if it doesn't arise from within, it won't be honest, so it won't help anyone. . Enuf said: The pharasies dressed religious but their hearts were far from him. Did you happen to read what I wrote? If it isn't from the heart, it isn't honest, and so you are just conforming to some religious idea. So everyone should do what they feel moved to do and not try to force anyone to do what isn't in their heart. I am sorry some have done that because all it does is breed hate and resentment. It isn't helpful at all, but I think for the most part they thought they were helping, but they really weren't. Edit. I haven't figured out how to edit the posts correctly yet, so I messed this one up. Sorry.
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Post by getreal on Jun 9, 2023 0:06:38 GMT -5
To edit your post just click on the spiky circle icon beside the thumbs up icon and click on edit post. Sorry to harsh on your posts. I hope you find out who you are, separate and free from all opinions of others, and what comes forth from that including how you dress is just between you and your relationship with god. It is scary to step outside the lines that have been drawn for you by others but it is so important. In lots of things there is no right way. There is just the right way for you.
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Post by Grant on Jun 9, 2023 0:09:21 GMT -5
Seems what people see by your dress is that Victorian Brethren look. Pants are more modest and sensible in many cases than a dress or skirt. A woman is not immodest when she dresses nice and blends in with the crowd. Even professing style dress would seem immodest to a Muslim. Jesus was meek and unnoticed and like someone said on here did not stand out. Women workers look dowdy and old fashion. They look under bondage. Their dress is not a credit to God. The pharasies dressed religious but their hearts were far from him. The change in the way women and sister workers dress in the past 10 years has been dramatic. I recently saw a sister worker that always wore hose, and she spoke at special meeting without them. Not that I could tell until I was sitting visiting with her. Many sister workers now wear t shirts and denim skirts for everyday. Now only the oldest ones wear suits for meeting. They are becoming much more casual. So your Victorian brethren look is outdated. And yes, seems good if we are in the middle of the road, not too far into one ditch or the other. And of course, wearing appropriate clothing for the situation is good. A sister worker in rehab wore sweat pants because the exercises they did with her wouldn't have been modest in a dress. The denim skirt is definitely the Brethren / meeting look. If people are asking you about your church because of how you look then it is that religious Brethren look and not mainstream.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2023 0:19:19 GMT -5
To edit your post just click on the spiky circle icon beside the thumbs up icon and click on edit post. Sorry to harsh on your posts. I hope you find out who you are, separate and free from all opinions of others, and what comes forth from that including how you dress is just between you and your relationship with god. It is scary to step outside the lines that have been drawn for you by others but it is so important. In lots of things there is no right way. There is just the right way for you. thanks. I have been hitting the quote button, but when I try to edit the quote to shorten it, sometimes I delete something integral to keep the quotes right. I need to google how to make, quote, and edit posts on proboards. It's ok for you to be harsh on me, but if you could just understand that I do know who I am. I finally know who I am more than I ever did before. I am not being forced to be who I am. I have enjoyed my 40s so much because I finally feel like I don't care any more what people think of me, and I can just be who I am. But I do admit that there have been people who have tried to force others to conform. That is not my experience, but I acknowledge that it has been the experience of others. It shouldn't happen, and I am sorry it has. I had actually typed a response to you about being nauseated by this topic, but my phone died before I could submit it. Now I am glad because I got to see your soft, kind, helpful post first. 😊
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2023 0:20:27 GMT -5
The change in the way women and sister workers dress in the past 10 years has been dramatic. I recently saw a sister worker that always wore hose, and she spoke at special meeting without them. Not that I could tell until I was sitting visiting with her. Many sister workers now wear t shirts and denim skirts for everyday. Now only the oldest ones wear suits for meeting. They are becoming much more casual. So your Victorian brethren look is outdated. And yes, seems good if we are in the middle of the road, not too far into one ditch or the other. And of course, wearing appropriate clothing for the situation is good. A sister worker in rehab wore sweat pants because the exercises they did with her wouldn't have been modest in a dress. The denim skirt is definitely the Brethren / meeting look. If people are asking you about your church because of how you look then it is that religious Brethren look and not mainstream. how do you know what they are thinking?
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Post by getreal on Jun 9, 2023 0:20:36 GMT -5
The change in the way women and sister workers dress in the past 10 years has been dramatic. I recently saw a sister worker that always wore hose, and she spoke at special meeting without them. Not that I could tell until I was sitting visiting with her. Many sister workers now wear t shirts and denim skirts for everyday. Now only the oldest ones wear suits for meeting. They are becoming much more casual. So your Victorian brethren look is outdated. And yes, seems good if we are in the middle of the road, not too far into one ditch or the other. And of course, wearing appropriate clothing for the situation is good. A sister worker in rehab wore sweat pants because the exercises they did with her wouldn't have been modest in a dress. The denim skirt is definitely the Brethren / meeting look. If people are asking you about your church because of how you look then it is that religious Brethren look and not mainstream. The denim skirt, socks and running shoes look? Gag. All orthodox, fundamentalist, oppressive man controlled religions put women into costumes. Its tyranny. It is abusive in itself by erasing women and their individuality, thought, control over the most basic of decisions regarding their dress and hair. This is not of god. It is of men and it is disgusting.
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Post by getreal on Jun 9, 2023 0:22:48 GMT -5
To edit your post just click on the spiky circle icon beside the thumbs up icon and click on edit post. Sorry to harsh on your posts. I hope you find out who you are, separate and free from all opinions of others, and what comes forth from that including how you dress is just between you and your relationship with god. It is scary to step outside the lines that have been drawn for you by others but it is so important. In lots of things there is no right way. There is just the right way for you. thanks. I have been hitting the quote button, but when I try to edit the quote to shorten it, sometimes I delete something integral to keep the quotes right. I need to google how to make, quote, and edit posts on proboards. It's ok for you to be harsh on me, but if you could just understand that I do know who I am. I finally know who I am more than I ever did before. I am not being forced to be who I am. I have enjoyed my 40s so much because I finally feel like I don't care any more what people think of me, and I can just be who I am. But I do admit that there have been people who have tried to force others to conform. That is not my experience, but I acknowledge that it has been the experience of others. It shouldn't happen, and I am sorry it has. I had actually typed a response to you about being nauseated by this topic, but my phone died before I could submit it. Now I am glad because I got to see your soft, kind, helpful post first. 😊 Ok dub. Power on 😀
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2023 0:24:48 GMT -5
The denim skirt is definitely the Brethren / meeting look. If people are asking you about your church because of how you look then it is that religious Brethren look and not mainstream. The denim skirt, socks and running shoes look? Gag. All orthodox, fundamentalist, oppressive man controlled religions put women into costumes. Its tyranny. It is abusive in itself by erasing women and their individuality, thought, control over the most basic of decisions regarding their dress and hair. This is not of god. It is of men and it is disgusting. 😊 glad you can let it all out and express exactly how you feel about how women shouldn't look. 😊
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Post by openingact34 on Jun 9, 2023 0:35:10 GMT -5
This is going to look very passive aggressive at best, and nobody will be able to tell if each person is just slipping toward worldliness selfishly, or protesting for abuse awareness, or signaling that they have left the truth and become apostate. Yawn.
If you're going to protest, you need to actually protest.
Want to use 'non traditional attire'? Fine. A certified troublemaker like myself would get a bunch of the MEN in dresses, black stockings, and giant buns. Then walk around the holy ground cosplaying sister worker enforcer bully against each other, making a mockery of the "standard".
That would get the point across.
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Post by Grant on Jun 9, 2023 0:37:33 GMT -5
The denim skirt is definitely the Brethren / meeting look. If people are asking you about your church because of how you look then it is that religious Brethren look and not mainstream. how do you know what they are thinking? You wrote it is the outward appearance that people in town see and ask about your church and what you believe. It is what you wrote. I see them at shops, funerals and other places. But I do not want to offend you as I like this to be a place where professing people can also share.
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Post by getreal on Jun 9, 2023 0:40:29 GMT -5
Love that as a protest. Sometimes you have to exaggerate to show case how unimportant it all is in the end. Shock and awe. And if being you is the denim skirt, socks and running shoes then yay, and would love to see a man sport the same look. Love a man skirt. If it’s that good then why not.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2023 0:52:54 GMT -5
how do you know what they are thinking? You wrote it is the outward appearance that people in town see and ask about your church and what you believe. It is what you wrote. I see them at shops, funerals and other places. But I do not want to offend you as I like this to be a place where professing people can also share. 🤷♀️ I don't really understand what you are trying to say. Thanks for allowing us to be here and post. We were made very aware recently on another thread about forums that don't allow friends and workers. So it makes this forum seem generous to allow us to be here. If you think that talking about how disgusting I look and like the brethren is going to offend me, I am beyond being offended by that. It is kind of funny that women should be allowed to wear anything they want but please, not those denim skirts, that is just the limit! The best change I hope for going forward is that people realize that trying to tell someone else how to look has not worked. Let people dress how they will, and let the Lord be the judge of who has the spirit and who doesn't. I choose how I dress, and if you or getreal, or anyone else thinks it is dowdy, disgusting, or any other adjective, that is fine with me, but I will point out that you are judging my appearance, which is exactly what you hate.
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Post by getreal on Jun 9, 2023 0:58:32 GMT -5
You know what I will never get is why professing people come on here if they are so sure of what they know and have and then why they need to be handled with kids gloves when they do. I wish someone had challenged my thinking when I was trying to believe and stay. I wish someone had been brutally truthful. I might have gotten 10 years back. Anyone professing coming on here has doubts and is looking for help.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2023 1:01:26 GMT -5
You know what I will never get is why professing people come on here if they are so sure of what they know and have and then why they need to be handled with kids gloves when they do. I wish someone had challenged my thinking when I was trying to believe and stay. I wish someone had been brutally truthful. I might have gotten 10 years back. Anyone professing coming on here has doubts and is looking for help. I don't need to be handled with kid gloves, but I also know when I am not wanted, so I will leave this thread to you and enuf and opening act 34, so you can enjoy what you say without worrying about offending me.
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Post by getreal on Jun 9, 2023 1:08:44 GMT -5
I am dowdy. The point is it is not the point. It shouldn’t even be a topic of discussion or anything any gender has to measure up to anyone else’s standard. I think you get it but are just feeling your way. I support you in whatever you choose to wear, but what does it matter what my opinion is. I hate uniformity, conformity. When women are controlled into wearing certain looks it is hard to see personal choice. Yes maybe for you it is authentic, but from my pov it is just conformity.
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Post by maryhig on Jun 9, 2023 1:13:14 GMT -5
Did you happen to read what I wrote? If it isn't from the heart, it isn't honest, and so you are just conforming to some religious idea. So everyone should do what they feel moved to do and not try to force anyone to do what isn't in their heart. I am sorry some have done that because all it does is breed hate and resentment. It isn't helpful at all, but I think for the most part they thought they were helping, but they really weren't. Edit. I haven't figured out how to edit the posts correctly yet, so I messed this one up. Sorry. I agree it has to be from the heart, we also have meetings but we aren't forced to wear certain clothes, there is no "uniform" we are taught that a woman is to dress as a woman and a man as a man, and most of us wear skirts, but some wear trousers but it's our choice. I personally don't wear trousers, I wear skirts, I don't dye my hair or wear makeup or jewelry anymore as I now see those things as vanity and vanity is for myself, not for God. But saying that, that's because I know those things aren't important to God, he looks at the heart. You can have a woman wearing trousers that has a better heart than a woman wearing a skirt. It's the heart that counts. I've been told that the friends who are women have to wear their hair in a bun, and wear certain clothes. These dress codes seem to come from a time when women wouldn't have looked out of place as that's the way they dressed when the friends and workers were formed. So even though I wear skirts, I wear colourful skirts and clothes similar to what everyone else wears, I don't have my hair in a bun, but I do keep my hair long and dress modestly and as I said without makeup because I believe that it is right before God and Paul teaches us this when he said the following. 1 Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 2:10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 1 Corinthians 11:15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering. I too see (like admin) that Jesus dressed like everyone else and we know this because Judas had to kiss him to point him out. He was no different to other men. So again no uniform, and no robes like they have in churches, he just dressed as other men did at the time. But I believe Jesus would have dressed modestly and he always did what is right before God, so he showed his faith by his life, by living it out and obeying God daily as he bore witness to the truth, and those who truly follow him will do the same and follow the example that he set for us.
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