In the Wednesday version of Word of Faith Fellowship speaks out, Karel Reynolds, Christian Whitbeck and Justin Davies continued with their assessment and free advertising for the Community Forum held this past Saturday in Spindale. Karel again called the efforts of survivors to tell their experiences a “conspiracy against our church.” She claimed the purpose of the meeting was to “attack our church.” She reviewed her definition of a conspiracy and not too far into the program she gave a plug for this blog. Karel reminded folks that I was in the meeting and claimed I use this blog to spread “bitterness and hatred.”

After listening to this program I began to consider what constitutes hate speech and free speech. Let me briefly explain my thoughts.

On a broad scale, I believe WOFF would like to find someone in government to agree with them that my writings, my book and my public meetings are indeed hate speech. Then, they could petition to shut me down or shut me up. They would have me censored and held to the same strict censorship dynamic which exists inside their group. No one inside WOFF speaks freely every time on every issue- unless there is 100% agreement to subject their words to the review and approval of the leader.

After surveying the culture and climate in this country, I don’t see this happening any time soon.

Why? In my opinion, free speech includes speech which some others may consider as hateful because it contradicts their beliefs and/or sheds light on their practices. My opinions and beliefs about my time in WOFF and what may go on inside there are just that- my opinions. Agreed, I state them strongly at times, but that coincides with my passion for others to hear my message and for changes to come. Also, I find very credible the accounts of other survivors and seek to help them where I am able.

There is one main aspect that must be remembered. The simple fact that no one is compelled or required to read this blog, read my book or attend any of my meetings. If everyone ignored me, then I would be left talking only to myself and never sell one book. If everyone ignored me, then I would have to decide to change my message or be satisfied with no readers.

The truth is there are concerned folks who read this blog and attend my gatherings. Some agree with me and some do not. I hear from both sides and am very glad people show their support.

The Daily Courier recently described me in these words, “John Huddle – whose name has become synonymous with criticism of WOFF since the release of his book “Locked in”…

There it is in black and white. To many, I am a critic. To some, I am an activist. To Karel- I spread hate. To many ex-members, I share hope. Hope that one day there will be changes and the oppressive practices which define WOFF membership will no longer inflict the emotional, physical and spiritual damage that hundreds have suffered through the years.

It is up to Jane and her leaders, not me, to determine if the group is able to survive minus all the hurtful practices. Can this happen? Will this happen? Time will tell.

For now, I continue writing, speaking and actively helping those who want my help in their quest for a life free from the effects of WOFF.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. 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. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.

Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

Guest posts reflect the opinions of the writers. Their opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of John Huddle or any other persons affiliated with this blog.

Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this personal blog. As mentioned, for posts written by John Huddle, any information about WOFF is from his memories and recollections as perfect as that may be or not be.

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted.

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 632.