I met Billy when I began serving with the Faith Freedom Fund (FFF). If my memory is accurate, that was in 2011. When I had my first sit down with Michael Lowry, Billy was there in the Chinese restaurant to listen and ask questions. There I witnessed Billy’s mature stability and tender heart as we listened to Michael tell his incredible story. A few weeks later, Billy also went with me when we took Michael to Asheville airport.

The FFF helped many different survivors over the next several years. Each survivor came out and told us their story. I admit, at times, after hearing these stories my emotions would become intense. Other Board members may have shared those emotions, however, when we closed our meetings and it was time to pray, Billy’s prayers would calm and direct us to consider the person who had recently exited and those who remained in Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF).

A general paraphrase of his prayers included these thoughts; We pray for wisdom not only for us but for this young man or woman who had recently left WOFF. He went on to pray for those that were still in the group, for them to have a curious, inquiring mind and heart. Let them to begin to ask You about what they’re seeing and experiencing. Lead them to ask You, Father, for answers.

Today, as I reflected on my times with Billy, I was reminded that nowhere in these prayers did he express hatred for anyone at WOFF, regardless of what we had heard regarding the abuses the recent ex-member had experienced.  He prayed from a heart full of the love of God.

During and after the Worship Service, I learned of other ministries he started and gave his life to. Meeting his family was an honor as well. To his wife and family, I say, “Thank you”- for sharing him with the FFF. Our evening meetings went longer than we planned- most every time.  

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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 in Rutherford County and 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 684.

First, let me go on record as saying I took help from Faith Freedom Fund (FFF) during my first few months after leaving WOFF. My brother suggested I call the main contact at the time, Cal Sayles. Cal later reminded me of how skittish I was during the first few contacts over the phone. I would not even give him my name until I agreed to meet him at a fast food place in Shelby. There we talked about I don’t remember what- probably my exit drama. After that meeting, I kept in contact from time to time with Cal. Over the years, as I progressed in my open protests walking down Oakland Road, it became a regular thing to pass on survivor requests to the leaders of FFF.

Often, when they had a question about a survivor, they would call me. Somewhere along the way, they asked me to join the Board and be a part of the team doing the work of helping survivors. Of course, I knew many of those exiting from my time inside WOFF. There have been many joyous meetings as we celebrate another member seeking freedom from the controls of WOFF.

However, there was a day which we helped a young lady who landed in a very harmful situation. It all started with a phone call from another concerned friend saying a co-worker had been missing for two or three days. Once she was located, it was apparent her desperate circumstances. This young lady from North Carolina had answered an Internet ad for employment thinking she could better herself and help her family’s desperate financial problems. Without telling her parents, she traveled to Texas to meet the person placing the ad. There she was shocked to learn the job involved prostitution. From Texas she was moved to Arizona.

There she created space between her and her captor at a hotel. She or someone for her called authorities and she was rescued. We were being asked to help her with plane fare back home to North Carolina. Her family did not have the resources.

Previously, that year, I had attended an International Cultic Studies Association Conference where deceptive sex-trafficking recruiting techniques were explained. I knew the young lady was a victim and needed our help.

Over the next two hours, I arranged for her airfare home. It was a very rewarding answer to an intense set of circumstances. Once home, her family let us know how grateful they were for our help. I think of this young lady’s story from time to time and it helps me focus on our mission to help those who can’t readily help themselves.

We who work for FFF do so voluntarily and often contribute not only hours of support, but often contribute funds from our own resources. We do not profit in monetary terms, but in ways more rewarding than money.

We are not the “devil’s handymen” wanting to drag people away from the will of God.

We do not openly share information about those we help. If the recipient wants to tell others, they are free to do so.

We pray for members of dangerous religious groups which include the members of WOFF. Often we pray that whoever desires to leave will have the courage to do so and the confidence in us or anyone else that is willing to help them. We pray for those who have doubts to be bold enough to ask the hard questions and face the true answers about their choices. Personal safety, emotional comfort and simple provisions for physical needs are our aims.

In light of recent survivors we have helped, we humbly ask you to consider a tax-deductible donation through our new website- www.faithfreedomfund.org.

If our expectations are correct, we believe this will be a busy year for us.

You may email us at contact@faithfreedomfund.org . My cell phone is (828) 289-7923.

Thank you,
John Huddle

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

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.
Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

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

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

(Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 587.

Before many of us settle into the first Monday of 2016, I need to take a few lines and recap what has been a year full of surprises. Of course, there will be events I don’t mention that were important to others. If you feel so compelled, comment and share with us your signature events of 2015.

On January 22, 2015, the Daily Courier reported the reindictment of the five defendants in the Matthew Fenner Case. This reindictment came after the new District Attorney for Rutherford County, Ted Bell, expressed his concern over the processes surrounding the first round of indictments in December 2014, during the tenure of District Attorney, Brad Greenway. See the post- “Word of Faith Fellowship members re-indicted- Daily Courier”

The five Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) members who were indicted include Brooke McFadden Covington, Justin Covington, Sarah Anderson, Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. and Adam Bartley. The charges include second degree kidnapping and simple assault for all five with an additional charge of assault inflicting physical injury by strangulation against Sarah Anderson. These charges stem from the events of January 27, 2013 inside the sanctuary of WOFF. The story of the indictments was picked up nationally and internationally after the first round of indictments in December 2014. Again, bringing attention to the unsafe practices of WOFF.

In February 2015, many mourned the passing of Dr. Amos T. “Pat” Pagter. Later in that month, attorneys for the WOFF five filed a change of venue request which later would be answered by a motion for change of venire; suggesting the jurors for the trial be from Bumcombe County. To date, these motions have not been ruled on.

April 2, 2015; the five WOFF defendants made their first appearance in court all bright eyed and bushy-tailed. They waived their right to court appointed representation and chose Tomblin, Farmer and Morris as their counsel. No shock here. As an interesting side note, WOFF put up land for the secured bonds for all five defendants. This fact later noted in court docs as a conflict of interest, which as of yet, has not been rectified. WOFF Defendants First Appearance- 4+1

Later in April, the Jewish community in Cocoa Florida pulled their support for the WOFF Holocaust Museum display. This traveling show still occurred, but the rift between the local organizer, Ron Shelton, and David Pelzman continues as a result.

Jewish Leaders Pull Support for WOFF/WFCS Holocaust Museum in Florida

Controversy over support of WOFF Holocaust Museum continues (video)

At the end of April, we read “RcCatalyst.com Reports Surprise Arrest of Jerry Cooper”. Led by Tomblin, Farmer and Morris; Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. and Sarah Covington Anderson filed a civil case against Jerry Cooper for libel claiming his comments on December 14, 2014 of “True story” on Facebook in reply to an AP story picked up by WRAL caused Robert to lose his job and Sarah unmeasured financial damages. As required, there was a mediation session held and the requested damages rose from $50,000 to $100,000. Obviously, no settlement reached. As Jerry Cooper was leaving the courthouse, he was arrested on outstanding warrants which included cyber-stalking and telephone harassment. The warrants were from 2013 and issued with Jane Whaley, victim/plaintiff. Josh Farmer was the attorney for Jane overseeing the arrest. Court documents revealed Andra Prince as the WOFF Facebook troller.

Jerry made bond and faced a civil case and criminal charges. Before the end of 2015, he would get his days in court for both cases.

May 29th brought the most memorable time I have experienced in witnessing WOFF court drama. As plaintiff, Jane Whaley was called to testify in the trial of Jerry Cooper on the charges she filed of telephone harassment and cyber stalking (via text messages). The blog post reporting the antics and doings in the courtroom that day received almost as much traffic in a few days as the blog receives in a month! Inquiring minds wanted to know how Jane could testify and yet the charges be dropped. From the post, Jerry Cooper- Not Guilty- Jane Whaley Testifies,

“During the questioning by Ditz, he had to constantly implore Jane to NOT ramble on and add to and basically preach her answer only to be shushed by Ditz’s constant admonitions, Ma’am, ma’am, ma’am…?

Paul said, “I ask the questions and you only answer the questions, do you understand?”

Paul’s frustration with being probably the first person in Jane’s world to exercise any control over her mouth –proved intense. Finally, the very patient Judge Redwing confirmed Ditz’s instructions. Sadly, Jane still found it hard to stay restrained and not ramble on and on explaining herself as if her remarks alone were needed to convict Jerry. Any humor in these exchanges quickly expired as Jane’s own glaring lack of self-awareness killed any credibility she attempted to show. Finally, she was among folks impervious to her aura.”

Friends, May 29th was a day to remember. That day, Jane did herself no favors be testifying. Judge Redwing concluded the State of North Carolina had not proved their case by the greater weight of evidence. Jerry was not guilty.

In July, we held a car wash as a fundraiser for the Faith Freedom Fund. That was a fun time.
Car Wash – Thank you to all who helped in any way!

At the end of July, by a guest post, we learned how much Jane hates Google Plus®.
Google plus® night…. at WOFF – Guest Post

During August, we experienced an explosion of activity surrounding the Matthew Fenner case. By the end of August, it became known that Adam Bartley had been offered a plea deal. Judge Pope also issued an ORDER of Disqualification against Joshua Farmer, Mark Morris and all associates of Tomblin, Farmer and Morris barring them from representing any of the five defendants in the case. Adam Bartley and Robert Lewis Walker, Jr. did employ different attorneys. Josh Farmer enlisted the help of outside counsel to avert the results and finally he appealed to the North Carolina Court of Appeals to review the decision by Judge Pope. We learned that Bartley, in a hand written note, refused the plea deal without proper counsel. Below I list links to posts which reflect the major events of August 2015.

Plea Offered to Defendant Adam Bartley in Matthew Fenner Case- rccatalyst.com
WOFFGATE-Stunning Developments in Rutherford County
DISQUALIFICATION!!!
Summary of Events for the Matthew Fenner Case

September 15, 2015; Josh Farmer filed an appeal of the ORDER of Disqualification with the North Carolina Court of Appeals. The Court agreed to review the case and that is where we stand. Once the Court rules on Judge Pope’s ORDER, the proceedings on various pretrial motions can move forward. There is no set date for the decision from the Court.

On September 21st, I released “Locked in- My Imprisoned Years in a Destructive Cult.” The book is available on Amazon.com in print and Kindle. It is also available locally at Great Expectations and More in Rutherfordton and The Book Shelf in Tryon, NC. WLOS covered the book as well as the Daily Courier. The response from readers has been overall very positive. A portion of each sale is donated to the ongoing work of the Faith Freedom Fund. During 2015, the Faith Freedom Fund helped more survivors than previous years.

(As of December 2015, the count is approximately fifty members have stopped attending WOFF in the last eighteen months. There is no indication this trend will slow down. Continued support of the Faith Freedom Fund is needed so we can move forward helping survivors.)

October brought another hearing in the Jerry Cooper civil case. Mark Morris’ efforts to secure the phone records of Matthew Fenner were quashed. Attorney Paul Ditz labels civil case a backdoor effort to obtain information about the criminal case against the WOFF five.

Judge Tommy Davis- Who is Matthew Fenner?

October 12th, at Cleveland Community College, I sat among several WOFF leadership as we listened to opening remarks by Karel Reynolds on the Nuremburg Trials. U.S. District Judge Redinger delivered a speech about the trials. It was my first time being so close to so many I respected and admired in years past. Their reception of me was cold. Why?

Judge Reidinger Delivers Irony- Who Heard It?

Also, during October, the nation was awakened to the death and destruction which resulted from a counseling session inside a small church in New York. The session, which lasted several hours, was held at the Word of Life Christian Church in Chadwicks, NY. Lucas Leonard died as a result of the beating and his brother, Christopher, was hospitalized because of the injuries he suffered. Authorities learned the two youths expressed a desire to leave the church which prompted the session.

Nine church members including the pastor of the church and the father of the deceased, Bruce Leonard, await trial on charges including murder and gang assault. The mother, Deborah Leonard, has accepted a plea deal and will serve a total of seven years in exchange for her testimony against the other defendants. All of the others have been offered plea deals which they will either accept or decline in the next few days. Local city officials have shut down the church posting a notice barring occupancy. See here.

Pastor among eight defendants indicted in fatal beating

December 5th, Great Expectations and More hosted a book signing for me. I read from “Locked in” and then opened the floor for questions. There were several pointed questions from a standing room only crowd. Thank you, to all the family and friends who attended. I made some new friends and that is always enjoyable. Thank you, Mary for withstanding the efforts to discourage you from hosting the event.

Finally, before the end of the year, we were treated to a dismissal of the civil case against Jerry Cooper. On December 21st, Judge Tommy Davis dismissed the case and stopped the pending deposition of Matthew Fenner by Josh Farmer scheduled for December 30th. Thank you, Paul Ditz for again providing victorious counsel in this case.
Update: Robert Lewis Walker, Jr., Sarah Anderson vs. Jerry Cooper

Walker, Anderson vs. Jerry Cooper (f/k/a Jerry Butcher) – Case Dismissed

What does 2016 hold? Well, hopefully, the case of State vs. Covington will come out of the North Carolina Court of Appeals and the prosecution of the WOFF five will move forward to a conclusion which at this point is hard to predict. Another thing for certain, more WOFF members will find the courage to leave. Faith Freedom Fund will help more survivors in their transition to their next place in life. Additionally, I have two more books in the making. The first is the sequel to “Locked in.” The working title for this one is “Locked out.” The next book is a narrative of my journey of personal discovery and expression found in writing the blog, the first book and investigating the doings behind WOFF.

January 16, 2016, the next book signing for “Locked in” is scheduled in Tryon, NC. The Book Shelf will supply the books and host the event which will be next door to their location, at the Coffeehouse. We will start at 2:00PM gathering in the casual relaxed atmosphere at 90 N. Trade St. I will begin with a reading from “Locked in,” and then take questions. I spent yesterday talking with a few folks there and the interest surrounding WOFF-life is definite. The questions were many and my answers only led to more questions. Fun.

We don’t know all of what 2016 holds. Right now, the hopes and expectations of many folks for changes in Rutherford County can be felt and heard in conversations.

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

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

Comments are invited from all readers, including present or former members. Polls are not scientific and no private information is gathered.
Look on the right side of any post for the option to subscribe by email for notifications or RSS feeds notifying of new postings. It is a great feature. Also, find more posts by selecting “Categories”.

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

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

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 557.

We talk about the help available for those who leave Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) or other groups like them. I did not include my phone number- (828) 289-7923.

The needs a person faces when they leave WOFF pale in comparison to the risk for staying inside.

Address: Faith Freedom Fund
805 Oakland Rd.
Spindale, NC 28160
Donations welcome.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

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

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

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

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

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 522.

This coming Sat. July 25th, friends and supporters of the Faith Freedom Fund (FFF) will sponsor a carwash at Adaville Baptist Church. The address is 805 Oakland Rd. Spindale. We will start about 8AM. Proceeds will go to the ongoing efforts of the FFF to help those who leave high demand religious groups. The FFF depends entirely on volunteer donations of time and money. Please, consider stopping by and having your car washed and making a donation. If your schedule does not permit this, then consider sending a donation to the address listed below. We appreciate your continued financial and prayer support. Thank you… for taking time to read and support this blog. If you would like to see future video blog updates, please email me. author@religiouscultsinfo.com

Faith Freedom Fund
805 Oakland Rd.
Spindale, NC 28160

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me and Josh confirmed it.

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

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

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

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

Scripture references are Amplified Version unless otherwise noted. (Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation ) This is post number 521.

Earlier this week, I received a call about a man who had left Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). After a couple of more phone calls, I agreed to meet him and hear his story. The following is not a comprehensive narrative but a short version of what would take several posts to cover. To no one’s surprise, EVERY survivor of WOFF has a unique and often heart wrenching story of emotional upheaval, confusion and heartache. This man’s story is no different-sorta.

The survivor’s name is Bryan Bullock. During his stay in a local prison, he had contact with other churches in the area. While inside, he had heard some negative things about WOFF over an incident with a Christmas tree. While WOFF members were visiting the prison for a time of ministry, an inmate plugged in the Christmas tree lights in the same room as the gathering. An unidentified WOFF member promptly unplugged the tree and said “We don’t celebrate Christmas.” That event stuck with Bryan, but who considers Christmas traditions in early spring?

After his release, he was staying in a hotel.  A short while later, he approached Joe English at his home and asked for help. Not long afterwards, DeWitt Prince and Douglas McDonald visited his hotel room and took him out to McDonalds for the usual cheeseburger, fries and a drink. Over the next couple of days this event repeated itself not necessarily at the same restaurant. Finally, Bryan was invited to come live at WOFF. He told me he accepted without knowing the rules of no television, no movies, no blue jeans, no walking to the store without a guard. He certainly was not aware at the total loss of privacy which was required to move inside WOFF, into the lower building.

 He joined in April of 2013 and by his account, the first two to three months were wonderful. He was asked to work around the church grounds and received $100 a week on Wednesdays as a “love offering.” He was given clothes, a place to live and had lots of new friends. After a while, he was allowed to “walk out a relationship” with a young lady inside the group.  

After a very painful incident in June of this year, he was diagnosed with a severe form of cancer which caused his bones to become brittle. He admits that WOFF helped him tremendously with his medical costs, transportation and support. Until he could qualify for state support, he said WOFF members directed by Jane Whaley gave him everything he needed to pursue a cure. He took chemo treatments locally and then was admitted to a hospital in Winston Salem for a bone marrow transplant. During the 16 day stay in the hospital, a WOFF member was with him for the entire time less 3 days. As I heard his story, he continually expressed his gratitude for the money, clothes, transportation and help that WOFF gave him. He was hospitalized from October 28th to November 13^th. The treatments appeared to have been successful. In January, he will revisit the hospital for tests to determine status of the disease.

After all of the support from WOFF, the question comes- why did he leave? Bryan’s answer to that question was he could take the preaching and the teaching. “I just could not take all of the rules. I never got into the prayer.” Close to the end of his time there, he was told that his relationship with his friend was over. This was at Jane’s direction.  This affected his enthusiasm for the WOFF-life in a very negative way.

He also admitted to me of smuggling a DVD player and some movies into his living area at the lower building. After an unannounced search of his quarters under the guise of wanting to find receipts for his spending of the “love offerings”, he was confronted with the contraband. His personal property was taken along with his cell phone. He was provided another phone but, did not realize it was monitored. After a few weeks, he was confronted with his printed text messages to a former member telling of his plans to leave. At first, Jane agreed to put him up in a motel until his support stated in January of next year. But, after “hearing from God” she had her helpers pack his stuff and take him to a local motel and only pay for three days. He would be on his own after that.

As I heard this man’s story, he made it very clear he did not want to “attack.” He was grateful for the help, he just could not live by all the rules and when the relationship with his friend was broken up by Jane, he lost interest in pursuing the WOFF-life. In fact, after our initial meeting on Monday, he was visited on Tuesday by DeWitt Prince. He said DeWitt lamented that he had been seen hanging with John Huddle. Bryan explained that when WOFF would not help him, he had called Faith Freedom Fund for some assistance. He was really in a hard place and needed the help. DeWitt said then just don’t attack! From my perspective, by telling his story, Bryan would not be attacking. I was so taken by Bryan’s sincere appreciation for the overwhelming support from Jane and her crew. It compels me to ask why? What I must also ask is why they would stop their support during his hour of need? The list of violations includes watching movies, saying some “foolish” things and straying from their compound to take a walk in the woods. Bryan admits he has had a couple of relapses during his stay, but, his battle is not over… he has no local family to help and is appreciative of any help he does get.

In the farewell meeting with Jane, she told him that though he may be declared all clear from his cancer; he would still “burn in hell.” She pronounced that he was a “Son of Satan!” Jane also expressed a desire for him to move far away from Spindale. After the reciting of his story, Bryan simply characterized his exit such that he was told to live by their rules or live somewhere else. He chose to live somewhere other than the lower building at WOFF.  

During this week, I have been in constant contact with Bryan. He is doing well and is just waiting for the next step of his life to begin early next year. He seems to be much happier and is attending services at Adaville Baptist church. He has approved the posting of his story.

_____________________________________________________________________

And with that, let us remember:

“It is never too late to wake up and leave and reclaim your life!” Steve Hassan

Thank you, for taking time to visit and read this blog. Please, consume the information on this site responsibly. The author is not a licensed mental health professional and encourages those that need professional help to seek it. The intent of the material is to inform and be a resource. Be sure to tell every member that you know at WOFF about this blog. There are readers at WOFF. Jane told me. 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 451.

     No one is forced to read these posts. No one is forced to believe or act on these posts. In several places, I note that the writings from my time at Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) are totally from my recollections and memories. My time spent in the group started in 1992 and ended in 2008. The first ten years, I was a member of a church in South Carolina that was a sister church to WOFF. Our trips from Greenville to WOFF increased over the years. In the beginning we were only coming for seminars.  I was not inside the church during the “Inside Edition” era, my information about that was filtered back through a few other folks. My memories are not perfect in every detail. However, certain dates and events are imprinted in a vivid way. Since we were not allowed to take notes during the sermons after a certain time, the content of sermons may not be in exact time order. (However, I have found some old notes and will be posting on them in the future.)

     After reading “Church of Lies”by Flora Jessop (copyright 2009)  and “Lost Boy”by Brent Jeffs (copyright 2009), I was awed at the similarities between the methods used by Warren Jeffs and Jane Whaley in order to control members. ( there are ten posts on the blog noting the similarities..) Warren Jeffs has been convicted of being an accomplice to rape. He is in jail and faces other charges in other cases. Jane Whaley was charged with simple assault and won her case on appeal. Jane Whaley, to the author’s knowledge has never spent time in jail.

    In a post dated January 14, 2010, I listed differences between Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS) formerly run by Warren Jeffs and WOFF run by Jane Whaley. Here is the link to this post… http://tiny.cc/pnenh

Here is a quote of importance from that post…

“FLDS practices polygamy as well as underage marriage. WOFF is run by Jane Whaley. There is much control exerted over relationships between young people and married couples, but no plural marriages or condoning of sex outside of marriage that the author is aware of.”  In addition, neither do I know of, or believe there are any underage marriages occurring at WOFF. 

     All this being acknowledged, I do believe from my personal experiences and  in relation to my reading from several sources;  that the methods of control over the members of both groups bare a very striking resemblance.  In my opinion,  the control methods are exactly the same and bring the exact same results within the minds and day to day realities of the members of both groups. A good compliant WOFF member could fit in well  into the FLDS culture. Just as an FLDS member would understand the ins and outs of the WOFF culture very well. When speaking of the “regular members” of each group, the emotional impact of the control methods used evidently has been the same. Further research on my part, shows that mind control is mind control is mind control. WOFF, FLDS and other mind control groups, be they religious or not, may have different “flavors” evident on the outside, but the inner core workings between members are similar in many regards.

     I have yet to post on my research into Jim Jones and People’s Temple. But, his control methods to regulate the people in the group – were the same as others. Again, they were the control methods between the members and leadership -which brought the same results. Frightful to say, but someone has to say it. The “pink elephant” in Rutherford county is WOFF. Some seem so fearful to talk about their experiences from being inside or after having been in contact with those in WOFF. If we all say nothing, then there will be no changes. The group will continue down its path to who knows what kind of results?

      As I have said in previous posts, I firmly believe there are many caring, good people who are members of WOFF. My experience has been that while inside the group; there is such a pull to keep you in, that thinking for your self and learning about other mind control groups is discouraged and forbidden. (no great surprise..) What would an emotionally healthy WOFF look like? I will offer my opinion in a future post. Comments in favor or in opposition to this post are welcome. Comments of both types, inspire me to continue.

   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 95.

     Are these WOFF members true Christians? I will not make any blanket statements about the individual decisions of each to follow Jesus and pursue their beliefs. However, that being said; I will offer my opinion that in the WOFF environment, growth as a Christian is hindered and made difficult. Why? Growth in the ways and knowledge of God is hindered by the authority set-up at WOFF. As mentioned before, EVERY decision of any consequence (and smaller decisions) is run through Jane Whaley. The requirement to “check it out” with Jane Whaley about every decision stunts the growth and perverts the perspective of the members of WOFF. The set-up causes idolatry in the leadership and members. Jane Whaley is idolized and she longs for it to be so. Any member who desires to continue in WOFF will at some point admit and submit to the idolatry of Jane Whaley or they will be put out or leave on their own. Jane calls it “meeting the authority of God”. It is sobering to say, but much worse to live in WOFF and have to witness and submit to the idolatry, which is the life blood of WOFF.

     How much can you be helping those around you grow in Jesus, by dictating every decision and more, in their lives? Why attempt to replace the Holy Spirit that is in charge of leading the body of Christ? WOFF members are sincere believers allowing the idolatry of Jane Whaley keep them from hearing the Holy Spirit in their own hearts and leading them on to mature in Jesus. True Christians? I will not say. Stunted in their growth because of the legalistic, authoritative environment at WOFF- most definitely. It is the sad truth. At WOFF, Jane Whaley is the center of their universe and that is perversion of the true Christian faith. This set-up is not unique to WOFF, as mentioned in previous posts. Other groups like FLDS have suffered through the same idolatry of a leader and its consequences.

      What is the evidence of such a claim? While at WOFF, it was mentioned from the pulpit over and over by regular members and leadership, when a “crisis” arises, “sin” is uncovered, dispute or question would be asked – who do you call? Jane Whaley or someone that you know who is with Jane and can get her on the phone! Because of the structure and set-up of WOFF, regular members are frozen in fear if they have a decision to make and cannot reach Jane. The FEAR is of doing something WRONG! And thus the FEAR of not pleasing their idol- Jane Whaley! Jane has the “authority” to tell them they “missed God” and what would be the consequences. This FEAR makes the mind control very real in the lives of regular members and those in leadership.

     One of the thoughts I had in May 2008 that eventually led to my exit from WOFF was – “WOFF is open to being called a cult, because the members are more afraid of Jane Whaley than God!”. That thought was such an eye opener for me! I finally could name the thing that was so strange about WOFF. The FEAR of a person and not the healthy fear of God, became so obvious to me. Yes, I am a little slow. It took many years! Do the people in the community see the results of the fear of Jane, in the lives of WOFF members? You are welcome to comment and confirm or dispute the material in this post. Things could have changed at WOFF and the idolatry stopped. But, if that were so; I am sure I would have been told.

     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. )

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ and Neighbors in Rutherford County,

            I am a member of the Faith Freedom Fund, which over the last several years, has assisted those that wish to leave cultic religious mind control groups.  This assistance has taken several forms.  As you are likely aware, many people who come out of such groups depart with next to nothing.  Therefore the Faith Freedom Fund has met a variety of needs from meeting the most basic of physical requirements to sending individuals to Wellspring Retreat and Resource Center in Albany, Ohio to help with their transition and recovery.

     We assist with immediate basic needs such as temporary housing, clothing, and food.  We also make provisions for other needs such as communication with relatives, friends and authorities.  Since every person who leaves a religious mind control group has unique needs, we look to fill any of a varied assortment of needs to include simply having someone to talk to and pray with.

     For those that are leaving religious cults, we ask nothing from them.  We do not insist they attend any specific church or denomination, although they are welcome.  There are no strings attached.  We simply believe in the words of Jesus Christ who said of Himself, Luke 4:18 He has sent me TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES, and recovery of sight to the blind, TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED, 19 to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.

     We desire nothing from those that are leaving cults, but everything for them!  We believe that Jesus Christ came to set people free, to remove the need for priest, priestess or any other intermediary, to teach us directly through the Holy Spirit, and to invite us into a loving, joyful relationship with our heavenly Father.  It is the hope of the Faith Freedom Fund that our efforts can contribute to this becoming the reality to those that are imprisoned in religious mind control cults.

     To those that perhaps have quietly begun to question the teachings and methods of the religious organization they currently attend, may I say just a few things to you?  First, I understand the Faith Freedom Fund has been demonized amongst the leadership of cults in this area.  May I tell you that we do not feel the same about you?  I believe that most people who find themselves in a cult are simply, in the words of the Apostles Paul, doing their best to work out their salvation (Philippians 2:12), perhaps with a greater vigor and sincerity than most. 

      And yet we know that, according to the Scriptures, there are false teachers (2 Corinthians 11:13, 2 Peter 2:1-3, 1 John 4:1 and Revelation 2:20 ‘But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray…) that take advantage of those that truly seek to grow in their faith, only to manipulate for power and selfish gain. 

     We have seen the results of such false teaching that have nothing to do with the perfect plan God has articulated for us through the Scriptures.  We have seen families broken apart, children not honoring their parents, and the inability to trust fellow believers and worship honestly and openly as the body of Christ.  We have seen those so torn that they have eating disorders, as well as many other emotional difficulties. 

     And yet there is always hope and freedom in Christ Jesus.  We have also seen people who have left cults, worship freely, serve freely led by the Spirit, growing freely in their faith as a disciple of Jesus.  There is always the hope of wholeness and an entire world to enjoy outside of a cult.

     And so if you find your self questioning your current teaching, I encourage you to continue to prayerfully question.  The Holy Word of God instructs us to do this very thing. 1 JN 4:1 “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”  Our Father is not a God of confusion and there is no inconsistency in Him.  Therefore, if the teachings of a leader do not align with the God breathed Scriptures, or the urging of the Spirit, then it is good and right to question them. 

     Be guided by His word and by His Spirit.  1 John 2:27 says, As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.

     Through Jesus Christ, the veil separating God from His people has been torn from the top down – He has done this!  We need no priest or priestess or intercessor other than the Holy Spirit.  If you begin to see the truth in this, please contact us.  We know you have been manipulated to the point you find it hard to trust anyone, but be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:9).  We want nothing from you but everything for you.  We will not press and if you only want someone to talk with, then we are here to listen.  The contact will be completely confidential.  We can be contacted at (828) 286-2361.

     May God, according to His plan and perfect love, set you free.  John 8:36-  So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

__________________________________________________________________

     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 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. )

     Before we start, I want to extend a “Presidential type shout-out” to all the good readers at WOFF. One of them called me a couple weekends ago to confess he had been reading my work. He had some “concerns” and for some of them- I want to say “Thank you!”. His call was ended abruptly when my phone died. But, I do appreciate the “help” as the motivation to share what I have learned went through the roof! Thanks, for the encouragement.  

     Again, the material for this series comes from several sources. The main book source for FLDS material is “Lost Boy”  by Brent Jeffs with Maia Szalavitz ( Copyright 2009). The main source for WOFF material is my own experience and remembrances of my direct involvement in WOFF. These “life events” span a period of about sixteen years from 1992 to 2008. Since taking notes during church services became prohibited at some point a few years ago; (more on that later…) I do not claim total accuracy with dates and order of events. However, the main point of the material will be as acccurate as my memory allows. Any subsequent versions of the following events may be debated and could certainly be a great subject of open and free debate. (if any members of WOFF wish to participate…)

     While at WOFF, it was preached several times: “No one can take your experiences away from you…”. The concept was first introduced when we were being coached on our “personal testimony” and how to share with others. The time frame may have been when the “Faith Freedom Fund” contributor’s listing was published in the local newspaper, a few years ago. Each name and local community was read aloud and everyone was asked if they knew that person. If you knew that person; you were instructed to go “give them truth”. That meant tell them why contributing the Faith Freedom Fund was bad likewise also including some of your own “personal experience” at WOFF. 

     As a matter of principle, I still adhere to that statement “No one can take your experiences away from you”.  Certainly, I also hope no one in their “right mind” either inside or outside of WOFF will attempt to dismiss without further inquiry, my experiences recorded in this series. The introduction is over… on to the series….

(Please, take time to read the Terms of Use for this website…)