The video is less than twenty-five minutes long. He recently spoke at the Society for  Ethical Culture in NY and apparently he has many friends there.

Mr. Hassan gives a brief synopsis of his background, telling of his involvement and exit from the Moonies, He was there for two and one half years and had risen to a level of leadership within the group. His family performed an intervention and he subsequently left the group. After speaking to Robert Lifton; he began his journey to learn more about what had happened to him and thus how to help others. Thirty-six years later he has been on many media sources and has helped many group members in their quest to learn to think for themselves. His books outline the “Strategic Interactive Approach” for helping group members.

In his opening, Hassan shares his thoughts on the deception used in cults during recruiting. Mind control groups to do not give full disclosure and allow for prospects to make informed decisions about joining their group. This lack of informed consent is paramount to the determination of a group’s validity and motives. Prospects are not told what the group believes or what will happen to them once they accept the gifts or invitation to a meeting and proceed to join. Were you told what would happen to you before you joined WOFF? I had no idea of the level of intense commitment of members who lived inside the group. It was a shock to see the day to day requirement to “lock-in with Jane” when we first moved in October of 2002, thus followed the surrender of any privacy in the family and marriage. It was a slippery slope for sure. Back to the video…

Next, he reviews his B.I.T.E. model and its application to understanding mind control. This model is used as a test to examine a group in order to determine if they are using mind control. We have reviewed this model before, but, with many new readers we will give a brief overview. Hassan is not concerned with a group’s beliefs but their acts or practices. The B.I.T.E. model stands for B-behavior control, I-information control, T- thought control, E- Emotional control. Does the group in question practice any of these areas of control? We determined in previous posts that Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) scored a 100% on this test! Please, watch the video and read Hassan’s books to learn more.

As Hassan continues, he puts forth several nuggets of wisdom garnered over the many years of his experience in helping cult members. He cautions that in this country we over emphasize or protect the freedom of religion to include the inordinate freedom to act. Yes, there is freedom of religion but, that is not a license to take advantage of others. He warns against being “convinced by the member’s passion” that they are happy and in complete control of their thinking and their life. This is simply not the measure needed to determine one’s actual condition.

Later in the video he recognizes that phobias are real and “You can install phobias in someone’s mind.”  He lists several phobias he has dealt with over the years in his clients – fears include losing your salvation if you leave or do not follow the group’s directives. He explains the continuum of ethical influence and unethical influence. Instilling fears would be an unethical influence technique. Does WOFF instill fears? The fence of fear surrounds the group and keeps many of them inside Jane Whaley’s influence and control for years! She is very effective in undue influence.

Hassan explains that Abrahamic religions have been based on choice. The followers choose to follow their God. God did not does not make us robots and force us to follow him. Hassan explains how cults pervert the “choice” process all under the guise of freedom of religion. At about 13 minutes into the video, he says that these groups actually violate the freedom of religion by the use of deceptive recruiting and mind control techniques. We touched on that recently in a post asking Frank Webster questions about his attorney’s oath and involvement in WOFF. In my opinion, the practices of WOFF violate a person’s freedom of religion for the very same reasons Hassan shares.

Even with undue influence, Hassan says the mind control is not 100% captivating. Everyone, including those born into a cult, still has the desire to be free and to be loved and have rewarding relationships. Given that mind control groups do not allow these desires to exist outside of the group’s methods and practices, he says this is the reason people walk away after 20 or 30 years of cult involvement. He says that in practice, cult members “have to be obedient rather than be in touch with their conscience.” (We will expand more on this in a future post!) He cites the Internet being a resource for those wanting to know more about a group and this access has helped many.

Hassan tells the story of a friend who had been in Scientology for 30 years. They left because someone was nice to them and helped them start thinking about the conflicts and doubts they had while in their group. He said while telling this story, “It is never too late to wake up and leave and reclaim your life!” (19 minutes into video) Hassan continues with this truism, “When you are in a cult, you don’t think you are in a cult, when you have been brainwashed, you don’t think you have been brainwashed. But you think other groups are cults and other groups have been brainwashed…”  This key can help you speak to your loved ones to start them thinking about other groups and lovingly help them consider their group. He suggested having members watch the exit interviews of Heaven’s Gate member to show the results of brainwashing. Then consider the B.I.T.E. model when applied to their group. His main key was that if any group is legitimate, they will stand up to the (B.I.T.E.) test!

In his close, he says, “Love is stronger than mind control.” That, my friends, is the thought of the day. Please, learn more about his work and contact me with any questions. I will help in any way I am able to help.

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”.

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 429.

   But, the drama scenes continued to occur and after a while even a very faithful WOFF member has to wonder – Why? So, what were some of the reasons put forth for the emotional upheavals and seemingly dramatic exits for what some considered as “faithful” WOFF members? Yes, I know we have discussed this here before on the blog, but, I have an additional point to make today.

 Let’s describe some of the scenes that I witnessed to get some of the flavor WOFF-life. One of the most dramatic confrontations during a service that resulted in a family leaving happened on a Sunday evening, if I remember correctly. The children were up practicing for some event. The correction for certain behaviors was coming from the front row- as usual. Jane was “helping” one youngster a plentiful amount. The father of one of those being helped jumped up and announced he had had enough. He yelled something to the effect – we are out of here. He motioned for his children to come to him and the drama unfolded. This next part was told to me by another former member who was there. I did not personally see all of this. Jane reported grabbed the two smallest children from this one family and screamed – you can’t have them- they are mine. To which the father advanced and then was grabbed by two younger, but, strong young men. Jane assessed the whole unfolding circus and ordered the father to be released and then she released his children. The family gathered their things and left the sanctuary. The whole congregation was visibly uneasy. I do not remember the explanations that were given for that major drama, but, that family rented a truck and over the next few days, packed their things and went back to the Midwest. I do seem to remember the explanation given later was that the father had been having issues before that Sunday service and things just came to a head. We were all then reminded of the issues he had before he came and that he “never got fully delivered”.

  Then there was the scene where Jane confronted a young black man in the congregation toe to toe. It was DRAMA. She was “backing down his devils”. Tense to say the least. I was in that service and saw it unfold. I have seen other dramas played out in prayer groups that would be too many to tell. Not every drama involved Jane, but, most did. Who can forget Jane’s lengthy confrontation of Ms. F – who was wheelchair bound. That went on for a long time. There also was the service where GC stood up and told a lady to “shut-up”! That was major since WOFFers don’t tell someone to “shut-up”, saying that was akin to cursing! I have seen members run out of the services and be followed by many who would stand around and “blast” and “pray” while the person “got the help they needed”. I have seen and heard of physical confrontations – mostly involving young men. Many of the exit dramas were told to us AFTER the fact. If you were involved in an exit drama, you did not discuss what you saw and it was Jane who shared it with the congregation. That was so “God could be set apart and truth be known”. I personally witnessed the beginning of one exit drama. The member who was leaving was talked about and slandered after she left. “How dare she go to the college and ask for help?” Yes, and then there was the time when demonstrators stood on the road and shouted at us while we turned onto Old Flynn. That goes down as an unforgettable time for sure. We have posted about that one.

    What is the point? Is WOFF the only group that has “drama”? Honestly, I have NEVER been in a Christian church that was supposedly “helping folks” where there was so much confrontation and outright tense and emotional drama. As I am writing this post, scenes from the past are coming back to my memory and honestly there are too many to share here. After I left in 2008, the exit dramas have continued and I do not think it will stop any time soon. I have heard of several dramas since my time ended at WOFF. It seems that where ever Jane takes her “gift” or message, drama follows. And if you take a step back to consider other groups similar to WOFF, it is no secret that other religious cult groups have their dramas and I have read of many while reading survivor blogs and books.

    Here is my main focus today- If WOFF is a “Protestant, Non-Denominational church with a Christian school (as defined by classical Christianity)” -from the WOFF website: would it not follow that there would be taught a “freedom in Christ” for the members? Would that “freedom in Christ” reasonably include the unhindered freedom to leave whenever the member decided that their time was over at WOFF, for whatever reason? That just simply is not the case. Many young people who have no transportation or means of support leave in a runaway fashion. Some are caught and “convinced” to return. Others run to the police or others for help to leave the confines and controls of Jane Whaley and her group. Some leave with only the clothes on their backs! From what I have seen while in the group, those who leave are cast as backsliders, Judases, God-haters, rebellious and so on. Having gone through the emotional turmoil of leaving WOFF, I know the anguish and fears and confusion of someone who leaves. But, why should it be that way if WOFF was an emotionally SAFE place to start with? I have my ideas about the level of emotional torment and drama that accompanies a WOFF membership. There will be more on this in future posts.

   In Steve Hassan’s book, “Releasing the Bonds” (Copyright© by Steven Hassan 2000, Freedom of Mind Press, ISBN-0-9670688-0-0), he reviews the B.I.T.E. model as the foundation or understanding mind control. Under “E” for emotional control, he writes:

   “7. Phobia indoctrination: including irrational fears about ever leaving the group or even questioning the leader’s authority. The person under mind control cannot visualize a positive, fulfilled future without being in the group.  

  a. No happiness or fulfillment outside of the group.

  b. Terrible consequences will take place if you leave: hell, demon possession, incurable diseases, accidents, suicide, insanity, 10,000 reincarnations, etc.

  c. Shunning leave takers; fear of being rejected by friends, peers, and family.

   d. Never a legitimate reason to leave. From the group’s perspective, people who leave are “weak”, “undisciplined”, “unspiritual”, “worldly”, “brainwashed by family or counselor”, or “seduced by money sex, rock and roll.”  (page 45)

  Later he writes, “Phobias often immobilize people and keep them from doing the things they truly want to do. Indeed, phobias can rob people of free choice, and in mind control cults, phobias are methodically implanted to keep members from feeling they can leave the group and be happy.”  (page 53)  

   Hassan was not specifically writing about WOFF. He was writing about mind control cult groups of all types. So what do we conclude? WOFF is not special; they are like other religious cult groups. But, you may ask does this really happen at WOFF? Are members treated to such indoctrination and fears? After all, from the outside, they all seem so sweet and “normal” for the most part. Yes, this happens at WOFF. I know I was there and I left. I have been through it. Others, who have left WOFF, have been through the same or worse. In my opinion, EXIT dramas are the worst part of life at WOFF. Does this sound like a SAFE place to live? If you ever come across a person attempting to leave WOFF- PLEASE, help them.

  _______________________________________________________________________________

  Memorial Serivce held for Judy Hood, a WOFF member who died Friday, July 29, 2011. Here is the link to the obituary:

   http://obitsforlife.com/obituary/387728/Hood-Judith.php

  _______________________________________________________________________________

  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 325.

   Below is a quote from the post about this issue at WOFF. It was originally posted on March 20, 2010. I have added some comments which add more understanding.

More Don’ts for the WOFF “Don’t List”  https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=1087

While on family getaways or day trips, who has not seen the machines that take pennies and imprints an image on them? Well, some young folks close to me (my children!) enjoyed collecting those pennies very much. One service, one of the teachers and assistant principal of the school (Jennifer C.) got up to make the new “don’t” known to all. “No more smashing pennies! You are destroying government property.”  I am not sure, but she may have been (gagging on and) swatting gnats at the same time she was telling us this new don’t. Does this one make sense? Please, comment if you are a penny smasher.

  Okay, I admit, I enjoyed the whole penny smashing/collecting deal. I was actually excited to find the pennies in the jar. Having been away from WOFF since July 2008, I must admit I never researched to see if Jennifer C. was onto something or was she blowing WOFF smoke in order to make herself feel better and win some kind of favor with the Queen Rule Maker? So, I did a search just now and found the following answer to “Is smashing pennies legal?”

“United States (YES): The United States Codes under Title 18, Chapter 17, and Section 331, “prohibits the mutilation, diminution and falsification of United States coinage.” However, it has been the opinion of some individual officers at the Treasury Department, though without any indication of approval, the foregoing statute does not prohibit the mutilation of coins if done without fraudulent intent or if the mutilated coins are not used fraudulently.” Source – http://www.pennycollector.com/faq.html

  The source just happens to be a website for collectors of the pennies! They go one to say the activity is illegal in Canada. Well, maybe that is not a great source. Another source – http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=426715 – says among other things that the key word is “fraudulent”. The smashed pennies are not being used for fraudulent purposes and the net effect on the supply of money is not sufficient for the U.S. Treasury to be concerned. After all, how does the U.S. Treasury account for or recoup the coins and paper money lost every day in washing machines and under car seats and down drains? The U.S. Treasury cannot give its blanket approval because of where it may lead, but, they are not chasing 8 year old little boys or girls down the street to arrest them for smashing a penny! Get a grip!

   What shall we conclude? If this “WOFF don’t” is still in place and being enforced by not allowing WOFF children or adults to smash pennies for souvenirs, then it is a smashing example of the overreaching “Law” used at WOFF to control the members. Can we say “Pharisee”? Did Jennifer C. realize she was sounding like a “Pharisee”? In my opinion, no; generally Pharisees are blind to their true condition. She thought she was doing others a service by stopping such a heinous practice of smashing pennies. She may have slept better that night knowing she had done “the will of God”. Can we say – SAD? Can we also admit that the WOFF-life that I experienced and that others still live through is replete with controls that are meant to prevent a member from making their own choices apart from the pre-determined or better described-“Jane-determined” way of life.

  Steven Hassan in his book, “Releasing the Bonds” (copyright 2000- Freedom of Mind Press, ISBN 0-9670688-0-0), outlines the Behavior Control measures that are used in harmful mind control groups. Not all factors listed have to be present to indicate danger. He lists seven things under Behavior Control, ALL of which I experienced at WOFF. I will list them in brief and relate back to the smashing pennies prohibition. My comments are after each method used.

I.  Behavior Control

1.  Regulation of individual’s physical reality

     a. Where, how, and with whom a member lives and associates. (yes)

     b. What clothes, colors, hairstyles the person wears (yes)

     c. What food a person eats, drinks, adopts, and rejects (yes)

     d. How much sleep a person is able to have (most certainly)

     e. Financial dependence (so, true! You work for who?)

     f. Little or no time spent on leisure, entertainment, or vacation (Are you kidding? Leisure was a four letter word!)

2.  Major time commitment required for indoctrinations sessions and group rituals (how often were we at Church?)

3.  Need to ask permission for major decisions (and minor ones!)

4.  Need to report thoughts, feelings, and activities to superiors (open your heart- right now!)

5.  Rewards and punishments (behavior modification techniques—positive and negative) (yes, for certain)

6.  Individualism discouraged; “group think” prevails (odd man out was soon put out – for good)

7. Rigid rules and regulations (we have listed these and yet, still there are more!)    (page 42)

    Hassan explains more, “Behavior Control is the incremental regulation of a person’s physical reality, which includes both his environment (where he lives, who he associates with, what he eats, when he sleeps) and his conduct in many forms, including sleep deprivation or manipulation, change of diet, invasion of privacy, separation from friends and other newcomers, and isolation for workshops or other indoctrination exercises. (page 46)  

  While I was in WOFF, I did not see the growing list of WOFF Don’ts as extending into the private and personal areas of each member’s life. It was sold as “the next step in God” or the “new way God has for us to walk”. Who would want to “walk in God’s ways”? “What would you hold back from God?”So, when Jennifer C. stood up and smashed the smashing of pennies, I did not see it for what it was— yet another “incremental” step in the long list of “rigid rules and regulations” as we all followed – at least outwardly- in the “group think” mode. Expressing doubt or contrary opinions or desires was seen as REBELLION. Who wants to be known as “rebellious”? All of this from seeing smashed pennies? Yes, as the months and years pass, I see many areas where WOFF/Jane Whaley controlled my life and attempted to alter it forever.

   Two more things in closing, the website, http://www.pennycollector.com  has a page outlining location of machines that smash pennies and imprints them. This page also shows images of the finished products. This was so interesting. Next, below you will find a picture of the two thought provoking pennies I found. The one on the right is especially EVIL! It is a token promise for a kiss or hug anytime or anywhere for the holder! Such debauchery! Right? Double click the picture to read the pennies.

   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 315.

       We have posted from this source before. “Breaking the Chains” Overcoming the Spiritual Abuse of a False Gospel (Copyright © 2009 by Shari Howerton, ISBN- 978-0-9713499-4-0). This book has been an emotional read for me. The feelings and emotions of the author come through clearly in many places and I can readily identify with her. It has been hard to read more than a few chapters at one time because of my own memories that so mirror many reflections of the author. In the chapter titled, “Using Wisdom”, I found material that I was very familiar with. The author writes, “Growing up in such a tight-knit community leads to lives becoming deeply intertwined. Most marry within the group.” (page 160) Let me stop here and mention that though I did not grow-up within WOFF, I spent many years there and became very intertwined in several lives. At WOFF, NO ONE marries outside the group. NO ONE even has a friendship/dating relationship with the opposite sex, outside of WOFF. If you want a relationship of that nature outside of WOFF, you leave the group to pursue it. Do I need to mention names, here? So, WOFF is MORE controlling than the author’s group.

   “There are endless family connections, which is another reason why it is so hard to leave.” (page 160) Well, why would it be any different at WOFF? Many folks are related and have known each other for many years inside of WOFF. Many came to WOFF from other churches and have been with each other for years and years. Remember, Jane Whaley attempts to lead whole churches into her control. It has worked for some and not worked for others. Sometimes, she only gets a few “sheep” to cross the line and join her group. But, regardless, as soon as new ones come in, there is an attempt to connect them as soon as possible with more stable long term members and cement the connection into the group.

    The author writes, “In all my years I attended CGT, we did not openly share our distinctive doctrinal beliefs with other Christians right off the bat, especially anyone we were hoping to win to our fellowship. We were taught that this was “using wisdom”, God would reveal these deeper “truths” when hearts were ready to receive them.” (page 160) It was here, I had a stop and search moment. Had I not done the EXACT SAME THING for years while at WOFF? Was I not guilty of practicing this “using wisdom” when approaching others or explaining to others where I went to church and what we believed? Did I not cringe when I brought Jonathan Guy to the church and knew he would/could be subject to loud prayer, the very first night? Is that not why WOFF members are REQUIRED to tell someone in the office that a visitor may be coming so Jane Whaley will know and NOT to do certain things or carry on “family business” that may seem strange in front of visitors? Didn’t we do this and allow Jane to put on a show that may help someone decide that WOFF was for them and the only place God would want them to attend? Were any other WOFF members anxious when they were allowed to bring visitors, including family to the services, as to what may happen and how much of the skirt of WOFF would be lifted on the first few visits? How had I allowed myself to be a part of a group for so many years that was not honest and forthright with visitors from the very start? How had I reconciled this in my thinking? How many lies had I told myself to say this was okay and “God’s way” of carrying on His work? What a fool I was! Looking back, it was all part of the WOFF package. You didn’t express how much angst you had when recruiting new members or it would be said you were full of devils yourself and not a true believer. You stuffed any doubt in order to not be put out.

    Howerton continues, “We tried not to scare anyone away by introducing one of our “truths” prematurely, before God has prepared their heart to receive it.” (page 160-161) What were the unique “truths” that may scare away a prospective new member to WOFF? Here is a short list: LOUD “deliverance” prayer which looked like screaming to the “uninitiated”. Another “truth” was Jane’s sovereign rule. Need I expound on that one? Another “truth”, everything you did and said would be subject to review of everyone around you and eventually Jane. Yet another “truth”, couples were told how and when to have relations. (It was actually was more detailed than that…)  Need I expound? Okay, one more, the longer you are in WOFF, the fewer relationships outside of WOFF you will be allowed to have unless Jane sees a higher purpose in that relationship, i.e. power, and influence or money for her. To reflect on other “truths” read the WOFF don’t list which is here…WOFF Don’t list from 03 10 You can get an idea of what is important in WOFF life, things like appearance and obedience – to Jane. Yes, you will be told how to dress in order to “reflect the gift of God in you” and not “bring a reproach to Jane in the county”.  If I have missed a glaring Truth, please, remind me in the comment section.

****** Added 12 hours after initial posting: How could I forget? One of THE signature practices of WOFF! (or non-practice) NO HOLIDAYS! A WOFF member certainly did/does not open with that one when seeking to recruit a new member. Was anyone else roasted over that one when WOFF members were required to stop visiting relatives during the holiday season? ******

    So, if you were a part of WOFF would you be able to hold back and not tell someone you had invited to church about these “truths”? You followed these “Truths”– and knew that if believed and followed these “truths” would/could enhance their life, if they would only submit to God (Jane) and join WOFF. Yes, it sounds like a stretch, but when you were a member of WOFF, this was all part of the experience.

       Let me share one more insight from this chapter by Howerton. “It is my belief that CGT members weren’t hiding these “truths” out of malice. I’m convinced that they were hiding these truths with good intentions, probably because I always thought I had good intentions when I deceived others.” (page 161 emphasis added) I must agree with this statement. While as a member of WOFF, one is not fully aware or allowed to express that this practice is deception and hence evil. WOFF members are so convinced that their way of life is THE WAY, that whatever it takes to woo and convince others to join them is totally justified. But, it is DECEPTION.

   What Scriptures are used to justify this deception? This is one:

    ⁵So that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men (human philosophy), but in the power of God.  6Yet when we are among the full-grown (spiritually mature Christians who are ripe in understanding), we do impart a [higher] wisdom (the knowledge of the divine plan previously hidden); but it is indeed not a wisdom of this present age or of this world nor of the leaders and rulers of this age, who are being brought to nothing and are doomed to pass away. ⁷But rather what we are setting forth is a wisdom of God once hidden [from the human understanding] and now revealed to us by God–[that wisdom] which God devised and decreed before the ages for our glorification [to lift us into the glory of His presence]. 1 Corinthians 2:5-7 (Amplified Version)

   So, is it acceptable to use any Scripture to validate the use of deception? What does this say about Jane Whaley and her group?

    Here is an expert, Steven Hassan, writing in “Releasing the Bonds” (copyright ©2000 by Steven Hassan, ISBN: 0-9670688-0-0) about this practice: “Information control begins during recruitment, when cults withhold or distort information to draw people in. People don’t join cults—cults recruit people.” (page 48) Hassan is explaining his B.I.T.E. model which identifies controlling groups and their behaviors. This part is included in the explanation about “Information Control”. He goes on, “Cult recruiters are skilled at drawing information from people without revealing much about themselves or the group. They don’t tell people up front who they are, what they believe, and what they want from them…. People are given only the information they are deemed “ready for,” or as much as they “need to know” to perform their jobs. Cult ideologies allow for many levels of “truth,” including “outsider” and “insider” doctrines.” (page 48-49 emphasis added)

   It is hard to describe the thoughts, emotions and feelings I experience when I read quotes like ones included in this post. The regrets run deep and the feelings of helplessness are intense as I realize that these practices have not stopped at WOFF. I hear reports of how potential new members are being contacted and recruited. It grieves me to realize I did this for years. Others, who I love, are continuing to practice these deceptions and are more than likely not fully aware that “using wisdom”, when talking to outsiders is in reality USING DEPCEPTION. It is not justifiable or excusable in any regards. No, just putting up a website and listing a few pounds of Scripture references does not meet the requirement to be fully open and honest when talking to outsiders about your group and its practices. Face it, for Jane Whaley to honestly tell potential new members what really goes on in WOFF, including how she would run their life in absolute terms, would/should scare away everyone. She just can’t afford to be honest. Her kingdom would crumble. So?

 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 252.

     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.

      Steven Hassan in “Releasing the Bonds” (copyright 2000) explains the “B” in his “B.I.T.E.” model. The “B” stands for “Behavior control“. Defined as the “Regulation of individual’s physical reality… the list includes regulation of clothes, hairstyles worn, food the person eats, drinks, amount of sleep and financial dependence. This next part is a direct quote, “Little or no time spent on leisure, entertainment, vacations.” (page 42) During my time at WOFF, there was very little time for adults to spend on leisure or entertainment.

     One entire service was spent delving into what possessed several men and young boys to be taken over by the “ping pong devil”.The competition for the “King of Ping Pong” of course did not measure up to previous “don’ts” established at WOFF. The meeting ended as all participants were led to repent to Jesus and to the whole church as well as Jane Whaley personally. After that service, the pool table did not have a chance! Yet, another entry in the “don’t” column.

     Just a quick one, here. WOFF members don’t whistle. Jane said “It was better to sing the words and not loose confusion”. Besides, whistling in mixed company could be mis-understood.

      One service several years ago, Jane Whaley stood up and held up a set of camping toys. They had been left on the previous Friday night in one of the classrooms. She was using this to make a point. “Who did this?” She went on, not waiting for someone to admit the “sin” and explained we “don’t” allow these toys. “It teaches our children that playing with fire is okay”. The person who felt responsible stood up and interupted Jane to admit their gross sin. Jane is all her loving caring attitude snapped back and told the person that she already knew who did it. She was not going to reveal it in front of everyone. (She obviously was using the scene to further establish her power as sole authority on children and toys…) The person sat back down and finished taking their scalding in the privacy of their own thoughts. Similar scenes were played out with play tools. “We don’t let our children have those. They will confuse them with real tools and could get cut or hurt handling a real tool when no one is looking.” When would that happen? WOFF children are not left alone at any point. Well, that is the way things were years ago. “Don’t leave them alone, the devil is waiting to attack them.”

     At one point before my time at WOFF ended, there were 34 children under 5 years old. (as far as I can remember..) I saw several playing with toy musical instruments. Cute. But, also another “don’t” from previous years that changed to a “do”. Reason: “We have ahold of these children at a higher level. They don’t have the systems in them that your children did. God can trust them with more.”  Another example, years ago a “don’t” was concerning children’s Bibles. “We don’t give them the ones with pictures. After all, those pictures don’t show Jesus as he really was…” Before my departure, that “don’t” switched to a “do”. I saw many children’s Bibles with pictures and shortened stories. Years ago, another don’t was not allowing children to make noises like animals. Well, that changed. I heard certain ones quacking like ducks and mooing like cows. Cute. But, some “don’ts” seem to be relative. It depends on who your relatives are as to exactly how many don’ts are placed on you…                  (see quote from Steven Hassan in part 4 https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=750   )    

      Don’t be late going anywhere if you are a member of WOFF. One called prayer service during the week, in March of 2008; Jane announced that the doors would be locked at 7:00PM. She was tired of people dragging in late. So, promptly at 7:00PM those “on watch” locked the doors and that was it. I know a man that was locked out and he went back to his car to “fellowship with Jesus” and had a “grand time”. Sure he had to answer to someone about his tardiness.  Several times, Jane would complain to the congregation about Sam not being ready when it was time to leave their house and go to the services. Not sure if she ever left him, but it sounded like she would in order to “get ahold of Sam”.

     There may be a better place to put this quote, but I will put it here to bring some perspective….

  Luke 11:42 (Amplified Bible)

⁴²But woe to you, Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every [little] herb, but disregard and neglect justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done without leaving the others undone.^(A)  

     Disregarding the “love of God”, certainly WOFF members don’t do that. (see previous post here… https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=498  )  As long as you don’t mess up my stay in “Don’t-dale”, I will show you “love”.  In short, you don’t talk to those who have left unless Jane gives the okay. That is the “love of god.”

     The list of “don’ts” is not finished. We will continue in future posts…

     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. Use the comment section to let me know of any “don’ts” that I missed.

     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.

      (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. )

     The book outlines the life of Frederick Douglass from his birth to his death at the age of 77 in 1895. He had risen from slave to being a Statesman and Ambassador to Haiti for the United States. He advised President Lincoln and had many other accomplishments. The intriguing part to me was his life beginnings and how he learned to read.

     In 1825,… Frederick was sent to live in Baltimore, MD to the house of Hugh and Sophia Aduld. There is the city he caught his first glimpse of freedom. Mrs. Auld took time to teach Frederick to learn to read the Bible. He was a quick learner and Mrs. Auld was excited to show her husband. Her husband not happy at all, in fact he was enraged. “Hugh Auld with course and brutal language told his wife that slaves should never be taught beyond their station. ‘Not only was it illegal to teach them to read, but it would spoil the best n[igger]r in the world.’ A slave, ‘given an inch, he will take an ell,’ he said. A slave should know nothing but the will of his master. ‘If you learn him how to read, he’ll be running away with himself.” The text goes on… “Frederick … on the other hand learned the most important lesson of his youth: there is something unnatural about slavery;…” (page 5, emphasis added)

     I read this passage in September 2008, about 60 days of being out of WOFF. Those were frightful times as I was struggling with the notions put in me while in WOFF. Those who leave are “under a curse, Judases, digging themselves a deep hole” as some would say. So, this passage woke me up! The reason that Information control is so heavy at WOFF, is because, “If you learn him how to read, he’ll be running away with himself.”  Teaching slaves to read was illegal. Of course members are allowed to read- their Bible.  In the cases of students: textbooks are monitored and censored. Allowing members to read ANYTHING they want is illegal at WOFF. Otherwise, those dutiful, hard working, tithe giving members will get ideas and be running away with themselves!

     After I read this I sent an email to a dear friend. In the email, I share how I read this between 3:00AM and 5:00AM and could not sleep! It all made sense. Keeping members from the newspapers, TV, magazines, most every book and other sources of information; keeps them “in their place”. (if I may be so bold to use a WOFF phrase!) Also, as Frederick Douglass learned, “..there is something unnatural about slavery.” It is unnatural to not have access to the free flow of information. The choice to partake or not partake should be up to the individual, unhindered in any way.

     “A common form of information control involves blocking out any critical or negative points of view.” Some cults simply forbid members to have access to any non-cult material such as newspapers, magazines, television or radio, and the Internet…”. These words from “Releasing the Bonds” by Steven Hassan (copyright 2000) make it very clear. Religious cults as well as other mind control groups, attempt to control the information available and thus “keep their members from running way”!

     One main “breach in the dam of control” for me occurred when I searched the term “shepherding movement”. The similarities between the religious move of control in the 70’s and my life experiences at WOFF were too stark to ignore! That started the process of my “running away”.  If the WOFF experience had not been so blatantly like the stories of control I was reading about; I may still be at there, today. Here are some links to the type of information I read:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepherding_Movement 

http://www.crossroad.to/articles2/04/shepherding.htm

There are plenty of other sources for this subject.

     To my good WOFF readers: you may think that you have free access to all the information sources that you want. You just don’t “want to read the newspaper or watch television or freely surf the Internet”. I remember that rationalization tool. Is it really true or are the consequences of admitting to partaking of the “forbidden” too great for you to risk a violation? Remember– “there is something unnatural about slavery”. In reality, you had to give up your freedoms to continue to be a part of the group. Isn’t that “spiritual slavery”?

     So, to the newest members: did you realize that in order to keep the job or housing you were given that you would have to give up your freedoms in so many areas? Has the spiritual bondage been too slow in developing for you to notice? How is that “..freedom in Christ” working out for you? My critics from WOFF say I don’t use enough scripture. For them:

“My precaution was] because of false brethren who had been secretly smuggled in [to the Christian brotherhood]; they had slipped in to spy on our liberty and the freedom which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might again bring us into bondage [under the Law of Moses].
Galatians 2:3-5 ( Amplified version)

     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. Holocaust teacher: Are you reading this one?

     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 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. )

    ( One side note: most every phrase in these posts that is in quotes, has a unique meaning to WOFF and in a future post I will attempt to explain how the unique language of this group was used to further their control over members. It is a VERY common practice in religious control groups to re-define words or add new meanings to words in order to prohibit individual thought. This happens at WOFF like NO OTHER group I have been a part of or read about. As I heard recently, “He who names the game, owns the game.. )

     As mentioned in previous posts, frequently fear was pronounced on the members about what would happen if they left WOFF. Many times, those who have left would have their names brought up and used as examples of what happens when “you don’t deal with your sin”, “when you don’t open your heart”, “when you allow one thought to take you over and the devil drives you out of WOFF”, “when you hide the “unclean”, lose hold of the “call of God”. Only one time on 16 years do I remember Jane Whaley ever saying a person was better off outside of WOFF and “back with their parents..” Every other time it was a big deal when someone left. Three times, that I can remember families were “sent out”, but the underlying presumption was that they would stay in fellowship with Jane and the church and the things taught by WOFF; two families did and one family did not. (as far as I know..)

     Sometimes we would be told right away when a person left. Other times it would be a while before Jane would mention that “so and so” is gone “They did not want to serve God.” There were no good reasons to leave for most folks. Many times a “Judas spirit took them over…” or “Their rebellion took them over”.. It was no mistaking the spoken and unspoken meanings to these descriptions of those who leave- they were in trouble!

     Sad to say that when folks I had been close to left, I succumbed to the pressures to not call or speak to them. I do regret my participation in that whole scene. You just knew that there would be “hell to pay” if you were caught “fellow-shipping with the Judases”.. How much true love can be in that? It set a bad example for the children to see adults cut off long relationships over a choice made to leave a church. That is another part that I deeply regret. Our children learn by the example we set. I cannot say I set a good example while spending time at WOFF when it came to talking to those who have left or showing true love to those when may have been “put out to find a place of repentance”.

“I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend.” – Thomas Jefferson

     WOFF has never to my knowledge had a traditional “homecoming” as seen in other churches. Former members were RARELY allowed to come back and be a part of special meetings of any type. And as you read these posts, can you see why? The turmoil of the time at WOFF leaves so many with intense emotions, hurts and scars that coming back for even a visit is too emotional to consider. Recently, I heard there was some type of meeting where some folks were invited in and told they could ask questions. I am not sure how that went. It sounded more like a “damage control” or “prospect” meeting. Yes, not only is getting out a big deal at WOFF, but being allowed to join is at the sole discretion of Jane Whaley. Every visitor is screened or watched carefully. Invitation lists for members to invite relatives or other folks to graduation services or special meetings of any kind, are screened in the office. “This is to stop two or more folks from inviting the same folks.”  Over the years, the number of visitors just coming in off the street to general meetings was very small in comparison to the number of services that were held. Jane and/or Sam would always make it a point to meet them after the services. That greeting served many purposes.

     To this point, I have been sharing the way people who leave or join WOFF are treated. This is from my personal experience of what I saw, heard and participated in myself. As well as what I saw others do or not do. It is also consistent with what I have experienced after leaving WOFF in July of 2008. Two folks have called me by accident since I left. Their reaction to having accidently dialed my number was comical. Other contacts with members will be discussed later.

     Now, lets look at how FLDS treats members who leave. Flora Jessop in “Church of LIES” (copyright 2009)  writes about her experience of trying to visit her Mom after she left. She was told she would have to speak to her Dad and Uncle Fred. She asked her Mom how she and the children were doing? “We’re all fine.” (No, they were not doing “fine”. They lived in a polygamous cult, if they were “fine” they would be leaving that group! ) During this exchange Flora saw that seeing her family had become a church matter not just a family matter. (page 127)

     Later in the book, Flora recounts an impromptu meeting with her sister at a grocery store parking lot. The sister shunned her and refused to be polite or talk to her in a civil manner. It was an intense exchange. During this conversation, Flora said, “I believe in the Heavenly Father too, Maryett. But, the Heavenly Father I believe in doesn’t say, ‘Throw your family away because they don’t believe the same way I do.” Five men came running out of the store and surrounded the two in order to intimidate Flora. (sound familiar?   see previous post   https://religiouscultsinfo.com/?p=157 )  Flora continues to express her love for her sister, but it is never returned. (271)

     Elissa Wall in Stolen Innocence (copyright 2008), explains the FLDS terms gentile and apostate. “To be an apostate was even worse than being a gentile. Gentile was a term given to all non-FLDS people, no matter their religion, but as apostate was someone who had lost faith or had left the church, turning their back on the priesthood. Apostates were viewed as the worst kinds of evil.” (page 83) These excerpts seal for me the similarities in how people who leave are treated the same with both FLDS and WOFF.  

     Yet, another service with a strange twist. Before my leave of WOFF, I was witness to a service that sums up many things about the subject of this post. A young man had left several years previous and after him,  a family in leadership had left. The young man had his wedding pictures posted on the web and they showed several ex-members. The pictures were printed off and passed around the congregation with this disclaimer- “See if you leave here, you will gain weight, drink beer and wear short dresses.” The fear being placed on folks was too obvious! This took the better part of half the time for a service just to pass the pictures and talk about those who had left. More will be posted at a later time about fears used to keep members in both groups.

    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. )

     Elissa Wall in “Stolen Innocence” (copyright 2008) explains that FLDS did not celebrate traditional Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter. (page 64-65) FLDS did celebrate birthdays, even of deceased church leaders. (page 65)  From Ms. Wall’s account of celebrating Halloween for the first time, it was clear FLDS did not celebrate that holiday either. (page 261-262)

     My memories of Jane and Sam Whaley coming to the house we shared with another family in the Greenville church in 1994, are clear. Jane was given a tour of the house and commented on the Christmas tree we had displayed. She liked it and pointed it out to Sam. She even asked where it had been purchased? However, back then word was getting around the church that certain traditional things should be left out of the celebration. Santa Claus, over decorating with elves and reindeer were to be avoided. Wreaths were fine as long as they were not gaudy. Little did we know that in years to come Christmas would not be celebrated at all for WOFF members.

     Years ago, the first holiday to be jettisoned at WOFF was Halloween. Well, that would be obvious. Celebrating demonic things did not fit with the direction God had for WOFF or any other churches who were following the lead of Jane Whaley. “It is not wise to make light of demons.”

     Next, Valentine’s Day got the axe. “Why if you knew the roots of the tradition, you would not allow it in your home.” (Greek mythology) So, the pattern was set. Research soon was done on other holidays. ” By her death, the founder of Mother’s Day regretted even starting it.” Father’s Day could not be done if mother’s were left out. Soon the roots of other days like Fourth of July- “Firecrackers were invented by the Chinese to scare off devils.” Every holiday came under scrutiny. Easter? Well, “that date is tied to the phases of the moon, how can God be in that?” Easter bunnies and Easter eggs? “Signs of early druid worship.”

     In years past, WOFF had held special “Christmas Music Services” that later transitioned into just “Special Music” services. Relatives and friends in the community were invited. The crowds were large on some nights and the singing services were scheduled for two nights to accommodate the crowds. However, it became harder and harder to find Christmas songs that could stand the many tests. After all, Jane’s brother said “No where in the Bible does it say angels sing.” That bit of information took out several songs. Since the service was “an outreach”, Jane began to write songs that told the story of Jesus’ life from the gospels. Some were quite lengthy. All of this came to a head as Jane was “realizing” how demonic birthdays were. She then proclaimed Christmas as a birthday celebration for Jesus and therefore, it must be stopped. She said she had come to this “revelation a long time ago and was just now able to share it with the people. God had dealt with her.” That was a year full of relatives, co-workers and people in the community calling into question the happenings at WOFF.

     WOFF members were coached to write our relatives letters explaining our new understanding and why they would not celebrate Christmas as in years past. This was a very tense time as some relatives became hostile and felt personally rejected from the stopping of family get-togethers with all the traditional doings. Many “walk out strategies” were formed. First, no presents; then presents received way before the season or after December 25th may be kept. Office parties for those still working for companies not owned by church members were a special deal. Even companies owned by church members with employees other than WOFF church members, had a sticky path to walk. What about Christmas bonuses or turkeys given out at Thanksgiving? Do you accept those gifts? If not, how do you refuse a bonus? It was such a confusing time. If you accepted the gift and were not supposed to, then you were “partaking of the table of demons!”

     As a church, we were shown the “Origins of Christmas” video from the History Channel. Some children were encouraged to cover their eyes and ears. As well as certain parts were fast-forwarded even for the adults! From this video, the groundwork to reject Christmas AND birthdays was laid.

     After all, WOFF had so many other special meetings and seminars that focused on “the things of God”, why would they need holidays? WOFF had week long seminars in the month of May which was set around the week of Memorial Day. Then in July there was a youth seminar for everyone. This was usually the week of or weekend of the Fourth of July. Next, there was November seminar which was the week of Thanksgiving. The last Friday of these week long meetings evolved into a “Fellowship Night”.  Usually, children in 6th grade and under would stay at the church for dinner and games. Seventh grade and up would go to Jane and Sam’s for dinner and fellowship. For parents, you were expected to be with your children to “help take hold of their play time.” Then afterwards, most everyone was expected to help with clean-up. This meant yet another long evening as groups were assigned certain tasks to keep things moving.

    As in WOFF, FLDS did not celebrate major holidays, they had there own celebrations. Elissa Wall further explains, “… We had our own events to celebrate during the year, three of which took place in the summer months.” (page 65)

     The “B” in the “B.I.T.E model” stands for “Behavoir Control”. Steven Hassan explains an aspect of this in “Releasing the Bonds”(copyright 2000). He writes, “In the case of Jehovah Witnesses, members are told not to celebrate birthdays or holidays, like Easter or Christmas, because if they do, they will be in sin.”(page 47)  That is one of the first questions a WOFFer gets when they tell someone that they do not celebrate Christmas or birthdays; are you a Jehovah Witness?

     The Apostle Paul writes about certain convictions that need to be kept personal and not neccesarily taught as doctrine in the church.  

Romans 14:22
Your personal convictions [on such matters]–exercise [them] as in God’s presence, keeping them to yourself[striving only to know the truth and obey His will]. Blessed (happy, to be envied) is he who has no reason to judge himself for what he approves [who does not convict himself by what he chooses to do]. (Amplified version- Jane Whaley approved version, emphasis added)

     So many of Jane Whaley’s personal convictions are taught as valid doctrine. These “revelations” just end up being another tool of control. Sadly, this control process has been going on for years and has harmed many folks.

     Again in “Stolen Innocence”, Ms. Wall writes, “Our religion left no room for logical reasoning and honest questioning. Warren made no attempt to understand or tolerate any of this, deeming it as absolute rebellion”.  (page 44) Again, as with FLDS so it is with WOFF. Logical reasoning and honest questions about anything was not tolerated.  If you did not agree with Jane Whaley as she “heard God”, it was hard to stay at WOFF. That was especially true in the area of celebrating holidays and birthdays.

     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. )

    The woman began to explain to Jane and others in a general address, that she had looked around during the services and seen people taking notes and not paying attention to “the word” (usually being preached by Jane). She put forth the idea that taking notes was a distraction. In order to prove her point, she began to read to the whole congregation the notes the young man had taken. Now, some were incomplete thoughts- BUT, THEY WERE NOTES! They were his personal notes!  It would be a safe assumption to say he did not expect them to be read aloud to the congregation. The content of the pages is NOT the issue here. From this discovery by this fledgling lieutenant, Jane approved the banning of note taking during services. The only approved note taking was scripture references: no dates, no names, no personal reflections, nothing but scripture references with not even a word or two about the scriptures!  

      The effect was clear and near immediate. “Note Nazis” sprang up EVERYWHERE! You were encouraged to watch your neighbor and make sure they were “taking hold” of the new dictates. Being watched for such details was a horrible feeling that just perpetuated itself on so many areas at WOFF.

     Several children took special interest in their ability to critique and report on adult behavior. During one service, a young boy told his mom that a visiting Brazilian was taking notes during the singing. The mom felt her usual pressure to make sure she reported any transgressions, told Jane in front of the whole congregation. Jane immediately called this man’s name and he was visibly flustered. He went to the front to talk to Jane and explain himself (get checked out..). After a brief conversation, Jane announced to everyone that the notes were okay because he was taking notes on the songs for his church in Brazil. So, the tension was diffused. However, the commandment to keeping watching the behavior of everyone in the service was clear. No one, well almost no one was exempt.

     This spying behavior is clearly explained as a characteristic of a destructive mind control group in Steven Hassan’s “Releasing the Bonds” (copyright 2000) . During the explanation of the B.I.T.E. model of common mind control behaviors; he explains the “I” as representing “Information control”. He explains: “People are expected to spy on one another and report improper activites or comments, such as criticism of the leader, doctrine or organization.” (page 49)

     It should also be noted that the spying requirement on each other was in FLDS. Elissa Wall in “Stolen Innocence“, outlines a situtation where her older sister went to Warren Jeffs about the doubts her mother was having. This led to the break up of her family. ( page 55) This was totally acceptable behavior in FLDS. Yet another similarity between FLDS and WOFF.

     The stopping of members taking notes went along with the increased contol over the audio or video tapes of the services. Since the “attack in 1995” (Inside Edition);  the tapes of services were increasingly controlled. First, you had to sign the tapes out with the person running the sound booth. You could take them with you but, were warned not to leave them in your car! “That could open the church up to an attack.” Next, you could not take the tapes off of the property, you had to listen to them in the fellowship hall. This was required for people missing a service or many of the folks on church discipline. Most nights of a week long seminar, tapes of the morning services or previous evening services were played after the evening service. If you missed the morning service, you were expected to stay after the evening service and watch the tape. Yes, WOFF would score pretty high when it comes to “Information control” as compared to other well documented religious mind control groups.

     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. )