There are several posts on this blog which are not in a series. They may address a certain subject or a particular service at Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). The main subject most times is Jane Whaley simply because she runs WOFF. She is the top of the pyramid structure. All decisions of any importance and many of seemingly no consequence flow through Jane Whaley. That is how she has designed the group and deviation from that is not often. Straying from this mandate is often met with a rebuke from Jane or some other level of leadership. The structure is tight to say the least. People move up in rank with her approval and move down in rank with her disapproval. Obviously, WOFF members are moved in and moved out of the door with Jane’s approval. When insiders and outsiders learn this rule of WOFF-life; things will seem to make more sense, if that is possible.

    “The $50,000 Offering” link is here.. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=245 Here is a clip from the post from February 8, 2010: “She went on to say God had told her that some folks were saving money for their children. “God said to give it”.

    “Jane Whaley makes $600 a month (sorta)” link is here.. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=277 Here is a clip from the post of February 5, 2010: “She said she gets a check for $600 a month. From that $600, she gives Sam $200. Sam volunteered at that point that he “squirrels away” his $200 for a future time.”

   “Jane Whaley – the Medical Debt Collector” here is the link.. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=235  And yes, a clip from the post of February 7, 2010: “Jane began addressing individuals calling their name, saying how much they owed and asking what they could pay? One of the attorney’s in the church was present . He asked why he was there. He was told in front of everyone- “Your grandmother owes a balance” (under $300)”.

   “Permanent Dependent Underclass? at WOFF? (1)” the link.. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=1869 the clip … “When my tenure began to draw to a close, I lived in a WOFF household. I worked for a company owned by WOFF church members. Except for my part-time income, all of our family income was tied to or related in some way to WOFF. My “family” doctor was a WOFF church member. My podiatrist was a WOFF member.”

    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. 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”.

      (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. ) Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 170.

   Breese states in Chapter 11 that a cult would/could display “Financial Exploitation” of its members. This was another chapter from which it was hard to only pull a few quotes. The author writes, “It is clear also from the Word of God that the Christian is never put under obligation to do, give, sacrifice or expend himself in any way in order to be more sure that the has the Gift of God which is eternal life.” (page 105 emphasis added) He continues, “The Word of God, however, is clear that service for Christ is a voluntary proposition on the part of the Christian, and nothing that he does will increase his own guarantee of eternal life.” (page 105) For those who are now or have been at WOFF, do these statements take your breath? I read them and found myself reeling with doubt then catching myself, as I saw this was old patterns of WOFF-think kicking in. Is “service for Christ” really voluntary? Do you mean that “pleasing Jane” or “doing the will of God- the WOFF way” does not get you on the inside track to heaven? Is this cause for pause?

     Yet more from Breese, “We have no teaching in the New Testament whatsoever that one develops an inside track with God or a greater certainty of salvation because of his giving.” (page 106)  The old WOFF tapes kick in.. “But, doesn’t God love a cheerful giver?”  Here is the scripture: “Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving]. 2Cor. 9:7 (Amplified, emphasis added) Seems like to me, that while WOFF ministers would stress the “cheerful giver” part, they would slip over and violate the “not …under compulsion” part.  After all, Jane admitted to checking to see who was tithing and giving offerings and then supporting other solicitations for gifts was a big deal… Am I the only former member who remembers this? Certainly Jane Whaley would not put anyone under compulsion to give- right? Read about “The $50,000 Offering” here.. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=245 You tell me… Former members: Did these things really hapen?

    More from our resource book, “By contrast they (the Apostles) said that a characteristic of false teachers was that they were those “supposing that gain is godliness” (1 Tim 6:5). (page 107)  Am I dreaming or what? Does anyone else remember Sam Whaley saying words to this effect, “If you are submitted to God’s will, He will bless you.” And who can forget the phrase from Sam and others, “You can’t out give God.”  At WOFF, “submitted to God’s will” was translated into doing what you were told by Jane or others in leadership. “He will bless you” was translated into cars, houses, clothes and the like. Truth is, I heard these things and believed them for years. This is an area that is still “on the shelf” as I examine what I believe. The goal is to separate Truth from “old WOFF tapes” that still play in my mind and thoughts. Much of what I hear from “old WOFF tapes” has been coming up short. Are there others out there who have experienced the same?

    “In the financial structure of the average cult, tithing is but the beginning. Then comes the real pressure. The follower, as the screw is turned, is exploited to the point of economic exhaustion.” (page 108) I have not only seen this at WOFF, but I have seen others in other churches who have “given to God” until it hurts. It hurts them in paying their bills and supporting their families. Safe to say, WOFF is not the only place where “Financial Exploitation” takes place, but it is one. This aspect only adds to the overall “cult-ture” and the heaviness of WOFF-life on those that participate in WOFFness.  

      “The consequence is that conscienceless religious leaders have provided for themselves massive homes, spacious estates, and large holdings in the commercial world. Some even quote as their excuse, No good thing will He [God] withhold form them that walk uprightly” (Ps. 84:11). (KJV) What is this but wresting the Scripture to one’s own destruction?” (page 109) Here is a picture of Jane Whaley’s home.

    The story told to me, by Sam, was that a friend of Sam’s was dying of cancer and sold the 40+ acre estate to Sam and Jane for $150,000 to avoid foreclosure. This transaction could be verified at the courthouse. However, later in the saga of a court battle, Jane admitted to having to mortgage the estate to pay attorney bills. After that statement, as a regular member, I was never told if the mortgage was ever paid off and what happened to the debt. Maybe I missed that service? Then again, Jane has never been in the regular habit of sharing with members how she directs ministry funds to be spent. Maybe this has changed? Some things are changing at WOFF, or so I hear. That would be for another post. We will continue with more from this resource book in the next post.

    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.

    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”.

      (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. ) Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 162.

     The WOFF website contains very interesting information and pictures. Under the “Outreach” tab there is a header for “Political Outreach”. On this page there are several photos of current and former elected officials including former First Lady Laura Bush, former Congressman Charles Taylor, Lt. Governor Walter Dalton and North Carolina Senator Debbie Clary. All of this is very impressive. Another page in this grouping is titled “Our Purpose”…. This page explains the position of WOFF in reference to praying for and respecting civil authorities. The text goes on to explain the many activities that WOFF and its members have been involved in such as voter registrations, non-partisan forums, congressional prayer breakfasts, petitioning of state and national leaders.  

     The Articles of Incorporation for The Word of Faith Fellowship, Incorporated can be found at the following link.   http://www.secretary.state.nc.us/corporations/Filings.aspx?PItemId=4982905   This is public information on the North Carolina Secretary of State website.  Under Article X, it says that “No substantial part of the activities of Word of Faith Fellowship, Incorporated shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation and The Word of Faith Fellowship, Incorporated shall not participate in or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) a political campaign”.  I encourage readers to read the entire document for context.

      This statement raises a couple of points which could reveal contradictions at WOFF. First, could it be said that having the pictures of these former and currently elected officials constitutes an endorsement of these politicians of WOFF and their activities? You decide.  Second, the meetings held in the church sanctuary, in years past, in which a WOFF member would explain to other members how a politician believes, votes and then hand out materials for such; are these meetings a violation of this Article? Could that meeting at least be seen as a possible conflict with Article X? (see this previous post explaining the meetings..… https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=440 )  In my opinion, yes. I am no legal scholar; however let’s remember why a meeting like this was “needed”. WOFF members were/are prohibited from free access to newspapers, television, radio or the Internet. So, someone from the church with Jane’s approval, took the time to filter the candidate views to the group.

     You may ask what is wrong with that. Would this activity be seen as a violation of the stipulations in “Article X” quoted above? Do any of these activities constitute “intervening in a political campaign”? Yes, the point could be raised that these were individuals acting as independent citizens who happened to belong to WOFF. From my WOFF experience, that statement does not hold water. Why would “individual participation” in the political process be applauded on the WOFF website, if WOFF as a church group wanted no credit or glory for the deeds? A closer look reveals no mention of the names of the individuals participating.  Additionally, do WOFF members have a record for acting totally on their own without counsel from Jane, in such a political arena? Does that seem likely? Do WOFF members make their own decisions in any area of consequence without Jane? Let me say, from my experience while a member of WOFF- No.  

     Along similar lines, I noticed that Ramona Hall had filed her report listing her contributors and their contributions along with the expenses for her campaign. Contributors, who gave as little as $10, were listed. Good job, Ramona! (The report is here listed under “Campaign Financial Reports” http://www.rutherfordcountync.gov/dept/board_of_elections/Main.php) One contributor of note was listed on page 19. Jane Whaley gave $200 to help Ramona’s campaign. That was over half of her net monthly check from the church. What a sacrifice!

    Here is the math: Jane told the congregation during one service she received check from the church each month for $600. She gave Sam $200 from that $600 for him to “squirrel away”. She is a believer in tithing, so that leaves her $360 a month to live on. (Times are tough…) From that amount she gave Ramona $200! I believe Ramona filed accurate reports. Where is the contradiction here? You tell me. Is it possible we don’t have all the information needed to rightly discern the degree of Jane’s sacrifice? I sincerely believe Jane Whaley wanted Ramona to win. Why else would she give over half her net monthly pay from the church to Ramona’s campaign?

   There are yet more intriguing contradictions to come from this group called Word of Faith Fellowship. Make sure to comment below if you agree or disagree or just have more insight for me. I don’t claim to know all the ins and outs of WOFF.

     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.

    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”.

      (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 126.

      Since it has been years since I had seen a church quaterly report, I reviewed it closely. Here is what I found… This report covered January, February and March of 2010. The first section was titled: Exalting Christ. In that section were listed different basic statistics from the ministry to different age groups. Areas of ministry reviewed included Children’s ministry, Youth ministry, and Prayer ministry as well as stats showing numbers who attend and how many are actual members. The average attendance on Sunday mornings during the quarter was 639. The number on the membership roll is 525. There were 5 new members during the first quarter.

      The next section was titled, “Transforming Lives” . This section revealed the direction of different groups. Some bullets listed upcoming events and some listed activities that had taken place. There was a bullet about the students from a local college that attended as well as listing different mission trips and how many folks participated. The last bullet said that Adult Bible Fellowship had grown by 41% during the last year.

     On the back page was a section titled. “Embracing a Community”. Here was listed bullet points explaining some of the outreach projects to the local community, also telling about some of the missionaries who were supported. The Student Ministry had started supporting a child through Compassion International. 312 boxes had been distributed through the food pantry. 29 families were helped through the benevolence ministry. The support given to a family when their house burned was listed. There was bullet point for the number of families active in the prayer chain as well as new baptisms in the period. The church also participated in the “Buckets of Hope” ministry to Haiti. And get this; there was a recap of the offerings and budget needs. There was also listed a balance in the New Building Account! Actual dollars! They are actually planning and saving for a new building! What a great idea!

    At the bottom of the back page was the most shocking thing. There was an announced meeting at 5:00PM  to FIND OUT MORE about the report! It was announced for all who had questions to come and there would be someone there to answer their questions! Can you believe that? Not only is there a WRITTEN disclosure of the finances, but there is a meeting to help answer questions. No one declared that it was for members only! Anyone could have gone. No, I did not attend. But, next time, I just might.

     Can you understand what a shock all of this was to me?  You may be thinking, what is the big deal? Don’t all churches do that? At Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF), there are NO written financial reports handed out at any door to regular members, much less visitors. At least, there were none in the 16 years that I attended services. It was mentioned from the pulpit by Sam Whaley, that they needed $20,000 a week to cover the bills. Jane Whaley took up a $50,000 special offering one time (see link. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=245   ) Things may have changed, but I suspect that news would have come back to me – somehow.

     Why would there be no financial disclosure at WOFF? Maybe Jane Whaley thinks “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”… For all these years, there has been no disclosure, why start now? Well Jane, what is there to hide? Maybe Jane thinks that the majority of folks would not approve of how much was spent on who knows what? So, since she does not have to tell what was done, then why start? The sad part is when folks in leadership don’t tell what is done with other people’s money – trust is eroded. Yes, I know WOFF members are  told when they give to WOFF,  they are giving to GOD. That nails home my point! God is not in the hiding business…remember, “no hide-n-seek”, especially with His money.  Certainly Jane would not think she is spending her money? Jane could disclose a truthful report and the majority of members totally “agree” with her decisions on how the money was spent. Then the allegiance and trust in Jane Whaley would soar. But, since there is no disclosure, Jane must not suspect that people would agree with her decisions… Sad.

    Last spring a member of WOFF called me to say I was committing “spiritual suicide” by attending Grace Community Church. Their point was the type of music played at this church was something I had walked away from in the past. Certainly the way folks dressed did not excite the caller. This person determined all of this from the church’s website. Seems to me, this church is ahead of WOFF in several areas even though I saw no one dressed this morning as if they were attending a wedding or funeral. On stage there was even a fellow playing a banjo during one of the songs! Yes, the pastor wore JEANS this morning. Can you believe that? Yes, that shocked the leftover “WOFF-ness” in me when I first saw that…. But, I think I will go back to that church. Among other reasons; I will know how and where the money is being spent. Do you think these folks in leadership at Grace Community Church want to earn and keep the trust of the people who attend? Trust is not demanded, it is earned.

    Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life. 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.

      (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 97.

     After reflecting on these words, I do not want others to get the wrong impression. For the most part, on the outside; these WOFF members who helped others in the church performed their services as a ministry of helps, with a great attitude. Not once did I hear grumbling from a WOFF member about helping others. Many would donate the labor and use of their tools, if the receiving member could pay for the parts. At times, a person helping another member, would even donate the parts or supplies. There was great sacrifice for many folks- since who has a water heater start leaking in the day time or during the  weekdays?? Some repairs were planned, but many were needed right away.

     Many folks would volunteer to watch your children on the spur of the moment, no charge. Others would cook and provide meals. Some community folks and relatives of Jane Whaley, would be the benefactors of WOFF ladies cooking during family funerals or sickness situations. Jane always wanted to be made aware of who in your neighborhood might have a serious issue where WOFF members could “reach out”. WOFF even put out a cookbook years ago. I have mine! Yes, there has been outreach to non-members on occasion. One person in the community voiced there shock to me, when they heard of WOFF donating several gifts at a baby shower to a non-member. Actually, this person regularly attends another church. Many folks giving the gifts were not known by the mother-to-be.

       It seemed the “work projects” in the evenings would come in waves. For weeks certain folks would be out late at night helping others and not spending time with their family. It had to be monitored and some folks would rotate out to rest and catch up with their children- sometimes.  If you did not have a wife or children – then you could be out many nights in a row, as one fellow called it, “Living life to the fullest”. That was his code for long days, longer evenings and very little sleep.

     Jane’s adopted daughter or the co-owner of a construction company in the church, would stand up after a service and say, “Okay, here is what we need. We need painters and carpenters at this person’s house. Who are those folks? He would recognize the folks who raised their hands.  Then many times, he would call for more. He would start naming folks and asking them what they were doing that night? Then, if the project was running close to deadline,  he would say something like- “others help you, time for you to help others”. So, if you have a needed construction skill, you may be called out in front of the whole church to “donate” your time. If you balked for any reason, you were subject leadership calling you out and saying, “What do you have to do that is more important the finishing this project?” There was not any room for a bad attitude – your attitude was subject to change and maybe with some “prodding”. 

     When I first moved to WOFF, I donated some of my evenings for painting. After my work schedule exploded with the property management company, I had fewer hours with my family and fewer hours to donate. Then, I would donate a night a week to “watch” at the church. (That is a post for another day.)

     So, many folks without the skills would depend on others in the church to provide a service or skill or need. If a WOFF member needed something, they were expected, exhorted and in some cases outright told- to go to the approved source for that need- in the church. That could get you a quick answer, but not in all cases did a WOFF member get their need met in the church. When outside sources were needed, you better go ask someone at the office or the leader of your household; who is the right person or company in the community to use. There may be some “issues” you were not aware of from the past… After all – Jane had already warned a lady about her doings in the community- “Your sin affects me!” If you were out in the community and “there was a hit”, then your were going to hear about it. A “hit” meant anything negative said or done that reflected badly on WOFF, its reputation or Jane Whaley’s personal reputation in the community. “Don’t cause a hit!”

    In summary, there are lots of sources for help for the WOFF member. Many, if not most needs one would have can be filled with a person from the church. This presents a nearly complete WOFF “community service plan” that is “second to none”. A person could get “hooked” on that feeling of nearly everything comes from WOFF and/or  WOFF members. This being said and noted; why after certain folks would leave,  would Jane Whaley or others say things like-  “After all we did for them, they turn around and attack like that! We gave them a place to live, a job, clothes, money. We even helped them get a car and straighten out their credit. They were a big mess when they came and we help straighten them out!”  It seemed like if the help was out of love, it would not be recounted as a debt owed to Jane or WOFF. After FM died, it was told that while she was at WOFF, she was lazy, sitting around eating nuts all the time. When a young girl who was a local, left WOFF; it was recounted as a debt all the clothes, make-up, money given to her and she leaves and attacks? So, members of WOFF – listen to this- all that glitters is not gold. What is being done for you, is marked down as a debt for you to repay with your allegiance, obedience and if you ever leave- keep your mouth shut. For sure don’t put up a blog and begin to tell what amounts to WOFF “family secrets”! Okay, WOFF would not help you do that- but I would.

     Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life. 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.

      (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 89.

     As I have heard discussions about this topic nationally, it made me consider what I had seen and been a witness to in years past. Was one effect of living at Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) under the direction of Jane Whaley; to move members to total dependence on Jane and the “benefits” of living at WOFF? Think about how many folks live who are members of WOFF. At my last count, there were about 20 companies or independent contractors a person could with or work for. There was also the Christian school. My numbers are not current, but the meaning is still there.

     When my tenure began to draw to a close, I lived in a WOFF household. I worked for a company owned by WOFF church members. Except for my part-time income, all of our family income was tied to or related in some way to WOFF. My “family” doctor was a WOFF church member. My podiatrist was a WOFF member. The electrician and plumber who came to fix things at the house were WOFF members. There was a WOFF church member owned restaurant where you could eat breakfast or lunch. Previously, there had been a furniture store to buy furniture or Jane’s adopted daughter would buy home furnishings and sell it to members of the church. There were two very talented seamstresses who could repair or make clothes, as well as curtains and complete bed sets. In the church ‘bookstore”, ladies could be premium make-up. (Not really many books sold there.)

     Continuing on, there was a fellow who did excellent cabinetry and one who could frame anything that stood still. There were painters and carpenters and folks who could install carpet. There was even one fellow who performed pressure washing on houses or vehicles. Of course, Sam Whaley would buy cars and trucks from the Statesville Auto Auction, when a member needed. There was a realty company. The financial aide director for the local community college was a WOFF member- that helped. Talking to the right person (WOFF member) could get you appliances at a deep discount. Last count in 2008, there were four home-grown attorneys and one lady who sold/sells insurance for just about any need. One fellow was in residency to finish his medical training. Another man attended University of South Carolina Medical school. One doctor in Tryon, NC was a dermatologist and he had WOFF staffers, though he was not a WOFF member. There was one dentist in town, who was not a WOFF member, but two of his assistants were WOFF members.

     And the list continues, when something needed to be built, there were several skilled construction folks- masons, pool construction experts, stone work, specialized mantle construction and vinyl siding. Did I mention there was a group to install marble and granite?  There were two CPAs to help with income taxes. Last I heard there was one fellow studying to be a tax attorney. At least two licensed nurse practitioners were at WOFF. A WOFF member who was a construction worker doubled as the church photographer. (He was very skilled at digital editing.) Of course, what church would be complete with out their own private detective and on-call security team?  Did I leave anyone out? I will check the website… Oh, yes. When it was time to move, trucks and folks were everywhere! That was a site to see. Jane Whaley could decide you were moving and the same day or night- it was done! Swarms of WOFF movers and trucks- everywhere. (That is a post for another day. )  About the only thing not done in-house was the auto repair and tire service. But, just wait- they may take care of that soon.

     Now, is it bad to have a church that surrounds you with so much “service”? You decide. When your income, housing, education for your children, choice of friends or a spouse, medical providers; insurance and real estate service providers as well as furniture supply and appliance or home repair servicemen are all centered around folks who belong to WOFF; can you become accustomed to that pseudo “safe feeling?” After all, “I am submitted and Jane Whaley has “ahold” of my life.”

     After having lived there for six years- right in the middle of it,  I would describe it as a “tightly closed sub-culture” (cult) within Rutherford county. When you are also being directed spiritually be the person who controls all of these people who supply all of these vital day-to-day needs- can critical thinking and individual expression ever exist without the risk of losing all of these provisions and relationships? When Jane Whaley tells you that is you don’t take hold and “jerk-up” (old phrase.. not used as much now..) you “could lose everything” and “go to hell”- does that carry some weight with folks who have grown accustomed to the “full service” of WOFF? For some folks, it may end up, literally being a “cradle to grave” dependency.

    Consider the teaching of WOFF, tithes and offerings and missions giving. Also, Jane Whaley, by her own confession, checks the giving records. Folks must pay for all the “service”. But, disclosing how the money is spent is not even considered.  After all- why should regular members have any right to know how WOFF provides so many “benefits”?

    Could there be a plan to provide everything needed to faithful members of WOFF and thus eliminate their need for contact with non-members? Did things start out that way? Not that I know. But, remember Jane Whaley approves who works where and many times has a good idea how much they are paid, if they work for a church-member owned company. She decides who goes to college and what they are to major in while there. This is the closest thing I have seen or been apart of, that would be classified as the development of  a “permanent dependent underclass”. Jane Whaley needs “regular” members to be submissive, “stay in their places”, “tithe and give offerings” and not stray, so others can grow dependent on her “spiritual”, as well as natural provisions. 

    Steven Hassan in “Releasing the Bonds” (copyright 2000) does not use the exact phrase- “permanent dependent underclass”. However, he does describe in great detail, the dependency  on the leader and group, that is developed in members of mind control groups. In his B.I.T.E. model explanation, he mentions several areas of dependency development that I have seen in WOFF life. Behavior Control: 1.( e.)  financial dependence (on the group), 6. Individualism discouraged; “group think” prevails. Under Information Control: 7. Need for obedience and dependency. Thought Control: 1.(d.) Us vs Them (inside vs outside). Emotional Control: 4. Excessive use of fear. 6. Ritual and often public confession of “sins” 7. (c.) shunning of leave takers, fear of being rejected by friends, family or peers. (pages 42-45)  All of these things and more enhance the “dependent experience” that members of WOFF develop to one degree or another. For many reasons, not all will develop the same level of dependency on the group; but to some degree every member becomes intertwined with WOFF and that makes it much more difficult to consider life outside, worth striving for or seeking.

     Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life. 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.

      (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 88.

     But, we shall get back to the first small dog. Word got out in the hallway that Jane had a new very tiny dog. Now, the exact breed escapes me, but it may have been a miniature, tea-cup chihuahua. I will not remember all the story in order but, here goes. Before the pending church service Jane brought the dog out and held him up while on the platform. She said he was too fragile to put on the carpet. This dog was scared and shaking. (See this video of one similar to Jane’s http://tiny.cc/p7t3t )   Jane’s first dog was much more fragile and weighed only a few  ounces. The one in the video was a hardy dog compared to the tiny dog that Jane bought.

     Somewhere in the process she mentioned that she and some others drove all night to Louisiana and picked him (?) out. They had seen the advertisement on the Internet.  He cost $700. I thought that was strange since she only made $600 a month and gave Sam $200 a month to “squirrel away”.  (see post here.. http://tiny.cc/sfeub ) Can you imagine paying more than a month’s salary for a dog? But, when “God says” and you want it- the money will “just be there”.. Amazing how that works…

      So, the dog updates kept coming. The dog had an adventure at the veterinarians office. The dog had physical issues and was apparently high maintenance. But, Jane loved that dog! She had so much enjoyment, she told a certain minister he NEEDED one. She wanted to share her fun. He at first hesitated to commit to another dog. After all he had told God that if he never had another dog after the last one- it would be okay. Jane kept urging him and laughing- in front of other folks. Later, not right away, this minister said “God spoke to him to get a dog”.  This was the same fellow who Jane told to throw away his shampoo and of course – he did. ( see link here.. http://tiny.cc/lwrpv ) He had a military background and knew what to do with “suggestive commands..”

     If memory serves, he did not get a “tea-cup” anything. He got a little bigger dog. I think it was a “poma-schiza-ranian”. Named the dog after a car! Oh, that dog loved to run and play. When someone would “bark” like him, he would search so fast, in circles, for his new playmate?? I know, I enjoyed “talking” to the dog. I don’t think this minister paid a month’s salary for his dog.

     Within months, others in leadership “heard God” to get a dog. Most were smaller dogs, but not the high maintenance as Jane’s dog… The first small dog of Jane’s, struggled and may have had a birth defect. He died and as you can see- he was replaced with twice as much fun. Oh, Jane does love her dogs.

     Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life. There are readers at WOFF. Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members.  

      (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 80.

     You don’t take pictures or make your own recording of the services. Well, one fellow did back in 1995. Search for “Inside Edition, Word of Faith Fellowship” to see the video. Of course as a WOFF member “you don’t do that, that would be lawless.”  During graduation or wedding services, Jane would tell everyone when it was time to take pictures. “Don’t be loose with your camera” and for sure don’t think you will send pictures to your friends in the other affiliated churches. Jane stopped that years ago.

      One service, the main church secretary stood up to say “Don’t put large amounts of cash in the offering, if it is not in an envelope. The IRS does not like that.” As mentioned, don’t bring your child into a service without taking them to the restroom. Feed your child before coming in the sanctuary. (some folks would feed their toddlers in the services.) This “don’t” was enforced at different levels at different times. If you had to feed your toddler during a service, don’t bring chocolate or dark liquids for them. It could stain the new carpet or new chairs. Don’t chew gum in the sanctuary! Don’t come in the sancutuary with muddy shoes or boots. Take them off and leave them out front.

      Don’t park along the side of the parking lot closest to the buildings. Those spaces are reserved for the elderly and mothers with babies. Don’t do it, you will be called out and told to move your car. Don’t park in Jane’s mother’s parking place. Don’t drive around with expired tags. You will be reminded by the member who checks the parking lot. Don’t speed in the church parking lot. Don’t go the wrong way around the building. Don’t speed or be on your cell phone when approaching the school building to pick-up or drop off children. (as mentioned, some don’ts were for safety.) Don’t touch the thermostats unless you have been cleared for that duty. Don’t bring your child to school without a jacket when it is cool, you will be sent home. Don’t forget your homework or your bible as a student. You will be sent home. From time to time, the dress code for the school would change. So, don’t wear the wrong shirt color on the wrong day.  The children were very aware of the don’ts and could recite them with ease.

     We can change direction and talk about clothing. There were several don’ts in this area. As a review, no jeans. Well, some folks may wear jeans on a construction job. But, “If it stirs that rebellion in you, then wear work khakis.” Don’t wear a bathing suit unless you had long shorts below the knees and a dark t-shirt to cover the bathing suit. Boys and girls don’t go swimming together. Families may swim together in certain situations. Men don’t go swimming shirt-less. No shorts except for swimming time and maybe bedtime for men.

     One service it came out that God had convicted certain men about their facial hair.  Some men got up and went in the restroom to shave their beards or other facial hair. After that, men didn’t come in the service with noticeable facial hair. “We don’t do that.”

     Let’s move on. As a member in good standing at WOFF- you don’t take a job or even go on an interview with “getting ahold of that in God”. You don’t buy a house unless Jane can go and look at it and “get the feel of the neighborhood.” When you do buy a house, don’t assume you know how to decorate it. Jane and her helper will come help you. Don’t go out and buy what you think you want for your house. Jane could say “it is not right.” Jane hears God about flower arrangements, also. Everything in a house is subject to change when Jane comes in- so whatever you have in your house- don’t get used to it. Of course, why would that be a shock? You don’t decide where you are living when you are a member of WOFF. All of the houses on the road leading to the church are owned by the church, except two. (the last I knew…) There are 3 double wides below the church as well as two more houses out on Oakland Road- owned by the church.

      As a member, you don’t buy a car unless you check it out with Sam. (that is a topic for another post!). One fellow who has been with Jane and Sam since their days in Oklahoma bought his car and did not get it from Sam. Jane rebuked him in front of everyone and said “He paid too much”. She went on to say, “If anyone buys a car and does not let Sam help them; they will pay too much.” So, don’t buy houses, cars or take a job without “getting it checked out”. There was an “approved” Realty company inside the church owned by church members to help you hear which house may be yours. Don’t start your house buying venture without checking with one of these “ministers”.

     For a time, there was a Jane-endorsed insurance agent in the church. Just so happened this insurance agent and Jane were very close. I think the term is related. During that time- don’t go anywhere else to buy insurance until you check it out with this person. (yes, more material for a post for another day..)

   As a member of WOFF, you don’t take a vacation or “take time away with your family” unless you check it out with Jane. Don’t assume you are going to a funeral of a family member. Jane could say she “does not have a hold of you going”. Same with weddings of relatives or other family gatherings. Don’t assume you can freely contact your family that does not go to WOFF. As mentioned, members of WOFF don’t celebrate holidays or birthdays. (see post here.. https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=249 )

    These are a few more examples of life at WOFF. Can you see how living in “Don’t-ville” was tough in many regards? The number of don’ts was ever changing. We have yet to mention so many other areas which the “don’ts” ruled the day. Does this lifestyle sound like “Freedom in Christ” as mentioned in scriptures? Really? You don’t want to miss the next post!

     Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life. There are readers at WOFF. I hope this is a help to them.

     Look on the right side of any post for “Categories”, select the drop down box and view any previous post by selecting “Uncategorized”. Use the slide bar on the right to scroll down to the bottom. Select “Previous Entries” to review older posts. As always, comments are welcome.

      (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. )

     If my memory serves me correctly; these events occurred during the summer or fall of 2003. I had heard of a job opening in sales and was quite impressed with the chemicals sold by the company. I called for an interview. Later, I went to a hotel in the same city in South Carolina where I worked in property management, to speak with the regional manager of the chemical company. After leaving the interview, I did not particularly want the job; but just looking for other possibilities for income gave me hope.

     The very next church service I was called outside to speak with some “leadership” in front of the church. One of the owners of the property management company began, “I heard about the job interview.” He went on to tell me that going to the interview was not “gotten ahold of in God”. Up until that point I did not even know why I had been called out. As best I remember there were at least two other “leadership” folks there. One was the person who would eventually become the Holocaust teacher who is big on keeping people from books, TVs, magazines and newspapers.                     

  (see previous post – https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=284 )

     The teacher began by saying she had just gotten off the phone with Jane. (Jane was in Brazil (?)) “Jane was very grieved that you would do something like this without getting ahold of this in God.  We don’t do things like that out from under authority. You need to find a place of repentance for even allowing the thought of going to that interview.”

     At this point, the pressures mounted up more than I could take and I began to cry, slowly at first. I now realize that the “leadership” there may have taken that as a sign that I agreed. That could not have been further from the truth! As I am writing this post, I can still feel the emotion of being told I needed to repent for not asking before looking for another job! The financial pressures were too great to just ignore. Later, I found out that many at WOFF were in the same predicament, barely paying their bills. Even with the part-time job, we had taken a cut in income to move to North Carolina.

     Again, the owner of the company spoke up and asked if my wife was getting paid for teaching in the Christian school? I said “No”. He said, “I have been carrying it that she should get paid.” He would talk to Jane about that….. 

     Looking back, I should have recognized that “getting ahold of things in God” meant asking Jane for permission to do something and “being out from under authority” meant you had not asked Jane for permission. Any delusion about how things worked at WOFF, should have gone out the window! I had just been scalded for seeking employment outside the church. I went to an interview for a job that I didn’t really want. But, the pressures were too great to stay in the job I had at the time. The hours were very long and the pay was limited.

     Another thing that should have jumped out at me, the people in that meeting thought that what had just happened with me being pulled out of the church service to be told that Jane was upset with me, was normal! Apparently, everyone else there in that meeting had already been shown how critical to life at WOFF was to not “be out from under authority!”  That meant they had already been shown who ran the church! It would be five more years before I would exit from this church. Apparently, I was a slow learner.

     Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life. There are readers at WOFF. I KNOW for sure and will share that post soon.

     Look on the right side of any post for “Categories”, select the drop down box and view any previous post by selecting “Uncategorized”. Use the slide bar on the right to scroll down to the bottom. Select “Previous Entries” to review older posts.

      (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. )

     Later after the offering was taken and counted, Jane came back to the microphone. She was very excited, “We have had a miracle”. The offering had been counted and it was $50,000! (wow, on the first try!) She then shed a tear and thanked those folks who had obeyed God say to give the money they were saving for their children.  By the offering coming in, it confirmed to Jane she had obeyed God in her “putting it before the people”.

      One of the first questions in my mind, what will you do with the “extra” $25,000? But, as we have discussed, it was never mentioned. There is no complete open accounting of the offerings given by the members. It only leads to more questions. What is all this money being spent on? It was mentioned that it takes $20,000 a week to meet the bills. So, what is done with the million or so dollars taken in over a year? Some of the larger needs we were told were property insurance and taxes. The church has people watching the grounds 24/7. This is supposed to help get a discount on the property/liability insurance. Men or couples “volunteer” to take shifts over night. The premium was “high because some folks had made a claim against the church insurance” according to Sam. We were also encouraged to not put large amounts of cash in the offering if it was not in an offering envelope. The IRS did not like that.

     If more than one offering had to be taken because we have not “met the budget”, then folks would be strongly encouraged to inquire of God, again! Sam would say, “If we don’t get the need met the first time, some folks are not “hearing God”!  As mentioned, some services the plates would be passed three or four times, “until we get it”.. Then folks would be chastised for not giving the right amount the first time the plates were passed!

     Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. It could very well save their life.

      (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. )