As we continue to look at “identity” and how it is affected by involvement in Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF), a short functional definition is needed. The word identity has several meanings according to the context used. Therefore, in this series of posts, we can use this definition: the set of behavioral or personal characteristics by which an individual is recognizable as a member of a group. (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/identity) The concept of identity could be referencing a personal identity or the identity of the individual as they appear inside the group. Social psychology explores the effects on individuals inside of a group. Here are some statements from reading about social identity.

—Many people gain a sense of positive self-esteem from their identity group, which furthers a sense of community and belonging.

—Another issue that researchers have attempted to address is the question of why people engage in discrimination, i.e., why they tend to favor those they consider a part of their “in-group” over those considered to be outsiders. (http://www.answers.com/topic/identity-social-science)

    First, from the definition, the set of behavioral characteristics that make members of WOFF recognizable are easy to list. We have mentioned some of them, dress, hairstyles, mannerisms, language, housing choices, lack of facial hair and more. Any one spending any length of time around members of WOFF would easily be able to notice the “sameness” in the members of the group. This is by design from Jane Whaley and the leadership in the group. There is a concerted effort to “drive out the sin” resulting in most every member looking and acting just alike. Can these outside measures actually change the true identity of a person or just hide it for a time?

      What is the result of these group pressures? From the next statement above, when a member sees that they “fit in” and are “walking in righteous holy living” as defined by Jane Whaley, then there comes a sense of “positive self-esteem” from their membership in the group. From the accomplished assimilation into WOFF, a member will then have a sense of community and belonging.

     From my time in WOFF, this sense of community was strong. When there would be “attacks” from outside or from within, the reaction would be to “pull in tighter” and close ranks. The “sense of community” had to be protected at any cost. Does that sound plausible? Individual members would act in behaviors they believed would “keep the wolves out” and protect what they felt was valuable- WOFF and all that included. This was something almost tangible at times.

    In answer to the second statement above which asks —why they tend to favor those they consider a part of their “in-group” over those considered to be outsiders.  This observed trait could be at least part of the reason for the shunning of those who showed signs of losing their membership privileges in WOFF. As mentioned, people who are on the fence were separated from the main group. (see link here… https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=2176 ) Members who showed “rebellion” against the group norms could become outsiders at any point.

    While at WOFF I saw others leave and in turn shut out of fellowship and contact with their family and friends. It never dawned on me that one day; I would be treated in the same fashion. I never considered why the cut-off of those who left was so critical to life at WOFF. Now, in learning about the individual identity and how it is affected in groups, I believe the reaction is out of fear. If members continue to fellowship with former members, there is a very real fear that more members will leave and thus further disrupt or destroy what is considered so valuable- WOFF life and its continuance. The fear and its results have destroyed families. What will ease the strong motivating fears and allow families to reunite? Fear seems to be the life blood of members at WOFF. It is deceptive, but fears are rarely obvious when you are consumed by them. In my opinion, Jane Whaley plays on the fear to strengthen her hold on the members.

    In WOFF, when it was learned that an individual had “sinned”, this could affect the sense of community and safety. Several times over the years, I witnessed members who had sinned or transgressed would be “corrected” or “rebuked” in front of the group. After “truth was established” (Jane pointed out the sin and why it was sin) she would instruct that person to first “repent to Jesus”. That person would say “Forgive me, Jesus”, so others could hear. Next, they would be told to repent to the congregation. The person would then repeat, “Forgive me everyone.” After which the congregation would reply, “We forgive you.” Next, the person would repent to Jane. This ritual served many purposes. One of which was to enhance the group identity and sense of community.

     There is more to cover on the WOFF identity, both as seen in members individually and as a group. I hope to continue on this in future posts.

       Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

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      (Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, the information about WOFF is from my memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be. ) This is post number 116.