Members of groups such as WOFF can be excited and evangelistic about their group one minute and then “… the potential for a sudden reversal of sentiment, for the release of bitter emotions directed both at (the controls used in their group) and the (leaders) that perpetuate it.”  

Has this happened to you or someone close to you? Singing with their whole heart while jumping up and down to “God’s music” one minute, and not long after, scheming to leave as soon as they see a way out?  Yes, it could be evidence of their fine-tuned ability to play along to get along and stay out of trouble. The daily dynamics of WOFF-life require always reading the prevailing winds and moods of the leaders and predicting how to stay low and out of the radar..  

Stop to think about it. Living this way is not a rewarding life. Always suppressing the doubts so they don’t slip out. Is this how you live? Do you harbor contradictory thoughts or feelings about life in WOFF?

 The previous passage is adapted from a book written by an author who has observed and interviewed many people who lived in groups like WOFF.

Robert Jay Lifton  (born May 16, 1926) is an American psychiatrist and author, chiefly known for his studies of the psychological causes and effects of wars and political violence, and for his theory of thought reform. He was an early proponent of the techniques of psychohistory. (here)

In his book, “Losing Reality- On Cults, Cultism, and the Mindset of Political and Religious Zealotry” (originally published 2019) Dr. Lifton gives a great explanation of what he observed over the five plus decades of his work.

“I’ve come to recognize that the mental predators are concerned not only with individual minds but with the ownership of reality itself.”  

Ever wonder why life in WOFF is so intense? 24/7 – every detail reviewed, every thought exposed, every deed and intention put into “the light”? The goal of the leaders is to own and define your daily reality. This effort seeks to separate you from the desire to direct your own choices or even know that you have choices. If you don’t recognize your ability to choose, you will not exercise your ability to choose anything different than the choices set before you. Those daily choices are defined by which person in your church? Who owns the WOFF reality?

In his book, Lifton recounts many historic political and social events from China. Each event is related to the efforts to reform or “re-educate” the people of China. He describes “the Hundred Flowers episode” from Mao’s rule.  During this brief period, the restraints against criticism were lifted and Chinese citizens were encouraged to voice their concerns about the methods and the leaders of China. The list of grievances and the intensity of emotion behind the complaints were so intense- the leaders began to shut down the open gate and penalize those who dared to speak against the leadership.

“The Hundred Flowers episode is important because it revealed that in a reform-saturated environment, there is the potential for sudden reversal of sentiment, for the release of bitter emotions directed both at the thought reform and at the regime that perpetuates it. Behind such reversal lies the latent resentment that thought reform builds up in varying degrees within virtually all who are exposed to it. This resentment originates in the basic human aversion to excessive personal control, a phenomenon that I call the “hostility of suffocation.”

… In other words, thought reform is able to promote an emotional contagion- of resentment as well as enthusiasm.”

The very nature of where you live generates excitement for WOFF-life and at the same time, resentment towards the over-reaching requirement to sacrifice inner personal choices to remain a member.

Lifton did not say the resentment was unwarranted. He advocated it as a natural reaction to the “suffocation” of individual’s ability to choose and direct their own life.

There is an inner voice, sometimes soft, sometimes loud.  This voice is not the devil. It is part of your God-given nature. You’re yearning for freedom to choose and thus accomplish what your maker put in your heart. That is not “sin.” That is righteousness seeking expression.

Ponder these things and resolve to follow your heart, your inner voice. In the end, you are responsible for that calling. Don’t ignore the desire to be free to choose. Follow that desire.

Dr. Lifton recently gave an interview to Dr. Steven Hassan. Take time to listen. Lifton’s comments on the present conditions are revealing and worth your time.

Follow this blog on Twitter- @religiouscults
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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 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 681.

Soon, I admitted that my perspective of the length of this process was skewed because of the 30-minute crime shows I have watched over the years. These shows are popular and much of the “forensic” evidence is very interesting. Reruns of these shows feature my favorite narrator- the late Peter Thomas. His voice talent has been a signature feature and fit the show extremely well.

However, in my admiration for the show, I assumed with no basis in reality; that crimes are solved quickly. This is simply not true. What was lost in many of the shows is the fact several of these episodes span many years, if not decades. Not every criminal is caught. Not every criminal receives justice to fit the crime. Some of the accused plead out to avoid the embarrassment of a public trial and get shorter sentences. The fact that these crime shows are 30 minutes with commercials has nothing to do with the difficulty of solving the crime.

As far as I know, the investigation(s) into WOFF are ongoing. We are in a process in which the length is not known. This investigation is multi-faceted and involves several levels and types of possible crimes. I create unneeded anxiousness by not taking the long view about this process.

Friends, the twists and turns which this extended path include will certainly surprise many of us. We shouldn’t expect the investigators to rush to conclusions which are hollow and not able to withstand the scrutiny of intense examination and a possible trial for the accused. It does no good to expect accurate conclusions without due process.

With my adjusted focus and tempered expectations, I continue to hope for an expeditious outcome. However, more importantly, I want the investigators to obtain the accurate information needed to bring to light each practice of this group which reflects a willful disregard for the laws of our country.

In Kent Covington’s recent guilty plea deal, he admitted to “willfully” participating in the scheme to obtain funds by filing false information. It took at least three years for this process of the Associate Press interviewing ex-members, vetting their information, allowing their attorneys to review it and then printing it. Next, the Federal Government began their process. This successful time line took much longer than 30 minutes to play out and come to this point.

My personal hopes in the ongoing investigation(s) are renewed. This past Tuesday, watching Kent Covington respectfully admit he was guilty of Count one in the Bill of Indictment helped me to hang on and gave me greater hope for 2019. How about you? Do you agree that progress has been made?

Allow me to recap a few of the changes.

February 27, 2017- the AP released their first article telling stories of “ungodly” abuse.

March 2017-

WOFF members, Frank Webster and Chris Back lose their Assistant District Attorney positions when AP articles citing ex-members accounts, accused them both of coaching and advising WOFF members how to answer investigators probing church practices.

Lori Cornelius steps away from her position in Cleveland County DSS as a result of the same AP article which says she participated in the same meetings to coach members facing investigations.

Investigations launched by Federal and State authorities in several areas of concern surrounding WOFF practices.

April 2018

Second Community Forum held for ex-members of WOFF. They tell stories of abuse and frustration.

September 2017

AP releases articles outlining unemployment scheme promoted by a few WOFF church members inside church-member owned companies which employed mostly church members.

Calls increased for review of the Compromised Settlement from June 2005 in which the Rutherford County Department of Social Services were bound by added procedures before expeditiously investigating claims of abuse inside WOFF.

November 2017

NC DHHS offers a new procedure to handle abuse claims involving WOFF-children, which if followed, will restore levels of protection previously abandoned.

May 2018

Dr. Jerry Gross and his son, Jason Gross pleaded guilty to wire fraud charges and are awaiting sentencing.

June 2018

WOFF Minister, Kent Covington pleaded not guilty to wire fraud charges related to the same scheme for which Dr. Jerry Gross and Jason Gross pleaded guilty.

Diane McKinny, WOFF member and bookkeeper for Covington also pleaded not guilty to same charges.

October 2018

Kent Covington changed his plea to guilty and being awarded a plea deal which protects his wife, Brooke from charges in the case. Jane Whaley named in court documents.

Diane McKinny is assigned a new public defender and her next court date is moved to January 7, 2019.

November 2018

A&E network set to launch a six-part series titled, “The Devil Next Door.”

Premiering Tuesday, November 27, the Devil Next Door takes a look at Spindale, North Carolina. It appears to be an average American town but hidden inside lies a church that is steeped in scandal. The Word of Faith Fellowship, led by Jane Whaley, proclaims to be a devout Christian church, but former members tell a different story: one of violence and exploitation. It’s the mission of these former members to convince those still inside, including their own loved ones and children, to break away from the Church. Is Jane’s power finally about to come to an end?

Many things have happened surrounding WOFF which were inconceivable a few years ago. The long view is positive. Do you agree?

Follow here:

Twitter – @religiouscults

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 648.

This morning was a cool one in Asheville. I arrived just in time to see Kent Covington and Ramona Hall make their way up the steps and into the U.S. Federal courthouse, Kent in his dark suit and Ramona wearing a dark winter coat. They did not answer questions and there was no skip in their step. They looked solemn. Soon, Kent’s attorney Steve Cash walked up the steps. The plea hearing was on schedule.

Just after 10:00 AM, the bailiff called the room to order. Magistrate Judge David S. Cayer presided over this hearing. He was very deliberate and clear. Kent was asked to stand and be sworn in. He also stood during the reading of certain documents. The hearing included Cayer reading documents, asking Covington questions and recording his answers. The documents in this case included the Factual Basis, we reviewed parts of it in a previous post. A “Certification of the Factual Basis” was reviewed and signed by Covington today.

From the Certification:

“…I, Marion Kent Covington, do hereby state, certify, and stipulate that the Factual Basis (#30) filed in this matter all statements therein are true and accurate and had this matter proceeded to trial, the United States would have been able to prove statements in the Factual Basis beyond a reasonable doubt.”

As predicted, the language in the Factual Basis listing Jane Whaley in the paragraph with “conspirators” goes in the court record and in my opinion makes her an “un-indicted co-conspirator.” My views strengthened as the hearing progressed.

The Plea Agreement was referenced. Included in this Agreement was this text:

“#2 In exchange for defendant’s plea of guilty to Count One, the United States agrees that it will not pursue additional criminal charges against the defendant, or Brooke Covington, based on: (a) any criminal conduct that is relevant to conduct in this case; or (b) any criminal conduct that is otherwise known to the United States as of the date of this Plea Agreement, and that was included within the discovery provided to defense counsel in connection with this case.”

Several questions arise from this paragraph. Why would Brooke need an exclusion if there was not some possibility that she may be connected to this crime? What was the scope of the evidence turned over in the “125,000 pages and 30 hours of videos”? Does this plea in Federal court prohibit the State of North Carolina from pursuing both Covingtons in order to recover their losses? Will there be more indictments surrounding this “scheme”? How does Diane McKinny’s new attorney battle the perception of guilt for his client when three other “conspirators” have pleaded guilty? Was she a pawn or willing accomplice?

In the Plea-

VI. Assistance to United States:

“22. If requested by the United States, but only if requested, the defendant agrees to cooperate with the United States, including but not limited to the following:

a. The defendant will provide truthful information about subject charges and about any other criminal activity within the defendant’s knowledge to any United States agent or agency that the United States designates.

b. The defendant will testify truthfully in any trial, hearing, or grand jury proceeding. The testimony includes, but is not limited to, testimony against any co-defendants, as the United States designates.”

If the U.S. brings additional indictments in this case and one of them is against Jane Whaley, Kent will have to testify truthfully or risk losing his plea arrangement. His testimony will be compared to others who have already named Jane as a “promoter.” This conundrum is rich, and the consequences could be devastating to some folks. Not sure it will ever come to this but, it could.

The Magistrate read through another document which included very specific questions meant to leave no doubt that Kent was fully aware of the consequences of his guilty plea. I will take a few excerpts which raise some interesting points. The elements of the law(s) broken were reviewed.

“RULE 11 Inquiry and Order of Acceptance of Plea

18 U.S.C. ss 1349

Any person who commits or conspires to commit any offense under this chapter shall be subject to the same penalties as those prescribed for the offense, the commission of which was the object of the attempt or conspiracy.

Elements

1. That during the time alleged in the bill of indictment, that you did knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree with others to commit wire fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. ss 1343, 1349;

2. The wire fraud affected at least one financial institution as defined by 18 U.S.C. ss 20;

3. That you willingly became a member of such conspiracy;

4. That one or more of the conspirators, during the existence of the conspiracy, knowingly committed at least one of the acts in the bill of indictment; and

5. That you did such an act or acts willingly, knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully.

These words cast a heavy solemn feeling over the whole charade. Kent signed this document admitting he knowingly broke the law. He is saying he was a member of an orchestrated scheme and conspiracy giving forethought to thier actions. He signed this document with full understanding and of his own free will.

In my opinion, this admission goes deeper than what many may have first believed. This drama is not over. I see more being named. We know Diane’s defense took a set-back with Kent signing this document. Her attorney has an uphill battle for sure. January 2019 is just around the corner.

Friends, after today, I feel a deep sadness not only for the members of WOFF who serve faithfully for years exhibiting loyalty which goes in many cases to their personal hurt. Also, I see the consequences for certain ones in WOFF leadership slowly being revealed and the choices to follow Jane setting them on a course of pain and loss. There are dark days ahead for WOFF members and supporters. We are just now able to see a glimpse of what is in store for them.

Kent will be sentenced in a separate hearing.

Let justice be served.

Follow here:

Twitter – @religiouscults

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 647.

Recently filed court documents have McKeller asking for a continuance and a withdrawal from representing McKinny. Diane McKinny’s court date has been moved to January 7, 2019, 9:00AM in Courtroom 1 at the US Federal Courthouse in Asheville.

In other court documents filed in the case against Marion Kent Covington for the same charges, Attorney Stephen Cash requested and was granted an extension of time to work out details of a plea agreement. The new deadline was October 26th. In documents filed today, the “Factual Basis” outlined several important aspects of the case.

First, the document was not meant to give all the facts known about this case.

“This Factual Basis is filed pursuant to Local Criminal Rule 11.2 and does not attempt to set forth all the facts known to the United States at this time. By their signatures below, the parties expressly agree that there is a factual basis for the guilty plea that the defendant will tender pursuant to the Plea Agreement, and that the facts set forth in the Factual Basis are significant to establish all of elements of the crime. The parties agree not to object to or otherwise contradict the facts set forth in the Factual Basis.”

This paragraph leaves open for additional actions which the Government may take involving this scheme. The next few paragraphs outline the scheme in brief and then leads into a detailed breakdown of how the unemployment programs worked during the years in question. The reporting requirements were detailed. Maneuvering around these requirements took forethought.

Starting in paragraph #23- the document outlines the steps taken by Covington and McKinny to manipulate the required reporting and the employees involved. The crisis in the national economy was put forth as a reason for the scheme. The explanation makes it clear not every employee at the companies involved were used in the fraud scheme. The details of the scheme for Diverse Corporate Technologies, Inc (DCT) go through paragraph #31.

This document mentions other companies involved in this scheme besides DCT. These companies include Foot and Ankle Center of the Carolinas, P.A.- Dr. Jerry Gross. (he pleaded guilty), Carolina Outdoor Design owned by James “Randy” Fields, Integrity Marble and Granite, (IMG)- owned by Covington and Sky Catcher Communication, Inc- a business managed in part by Covington. The document makes it clear the other owner of Sky Catcher was not involved in the scheme.

As the progression of the scheme unfolds, paragraph #32 holds some revealing language. Directly from the Factual Basis:

“After successfully implementing the scheme at DCT, COVINGTON and MCKINNY, along with others, such as the leader of their church community, Jane WHALEY, promoted variations of the scheme to other businesses, including other businesses owned or managed by COVINGTON. These conspirators promoted the scheme as a way for community businesses to weather the financial downturn.”

#33 tells about the Foot and Ankle Center’s involvement in the scheme.

#34- “The third business to implement a variation of the scheme was Carolina Outdoor Design, owned by James Randall FIELDS. FIELDS went to WHALEY, the leader of the church community, for guidance on how to steer his business through the economic downturn, and WHALEY advised FIELDS to speak about the matter to COVINGTON. FIELDS did speak to COVINGTON…”

These two paragraphs lead me to believe that Jane Whaley is named among the “conspirators.” Am I reading this correctly? Tell me if I am reading this wrong. In the long run, it does not matter what I think. It matters what the U. S. Attorney, R. Andrew Murray and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel V. Bradley think about Jane’s role in the scheme. They are charged with protecting the interests and upholding the laws of this country.

From the resource document,

“#40 COVINGTON therefore admits to being guilty of the offense charged in Count One of the Bill of Indictment.”

Details of the plea agreement were not disclosed. The next hearing on this case will be October 30, 2018 at 10:00AM in Courtroom 2.

These developments raise a lot of questions. Here are a few of mine. How hard was it for Kent to admit guilt and sign a document naming Jane as being involved? What convinced him to go from “not guilty” to oh, yes, I did it? Who will be next in this unfolding drama? Will a money judgment be granted and executed against property owned by Covington? Will any of the Defendents serve any prison time or will they be allowed to continue to freely practice their religion under the “leader of the church community”? Who will be present on Tuesday to support Covington? Will McKinny be allowed to change her plea if new counsel advises her to do so?

Here is what we know so far:

Dr. Jerry Gross pleaded guilty to wire fraud in connection to this scheme. Awaiting sentencing…

Jason Gross pleaded guilty to wire fraud in connection with this scheme. Awaiting sentencing…

Marion Kent Covington pleaded not guilty to charges in connection with this scheme. Documents filed today indicate Covington will now plead guilty to one count of wire fraud, possibly as early as this coming Tuesday.

Diane M. McKinny will be assigned another court appointed attorney after pleading not guilty. Her next court date is January 7, 2019.

For the first time that I am aware of, court documents explain Jane Whaley’s involvement in the scheme followed by the sentence, “These conspirators promoted the scheme as a way for community businesses to weather the financial downturn.”

This drama is far from over.

Follow here:

Twitter – @religiouscults

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 646.

Documents filed in court October 19th reveal the M. Kent Covington has under counsel been in negotiations with Federal prosecutors to obtain a plea deal. The deadline for the plea deal normally would have been October 19th. The Judge agreed to extend the deadline for the working out the details until October 26th.

Assistant United States District Attorney Daniel Bradley did not oppose the motion.

From the document:

2. Defendant and the Government have agreed in principle, and are currently finalizing plea documents.

3. Defendant anticipates that plea documents will be signed and filed within the week, time being 26 October 2018.

The news is exciting. There are expectations for additional indictments in the next few months. Exact details of the plea deal(s) coming are not known. Along with others, I wait for news and details coming hopefully this week.

This may be the shortest post on this blog. This may also be the most encouraging for ex-members and those who have family still trapped inside the vortex of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF).

What does this last quarter of 2018 hold?

Follow on these platforms:

Twitter – @religiouscults

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 645.

Rather than trudge through the mire of who said, she said, they did, we did not- I will say the North Carolina Attorney General Special Counsel Adren L. Harris was able to bypass hype and emotion and use sound legal reasoning on which to base the dismissal.

“Although is it evident from the video the Mrs. Caulder repeatedly asks the defendants to leave the Word of Faith Fellowship premises, and they remained while seeking clarification, it would be unreasonable to interpret the word “remain” to include such a brief or temporary interlude that lasted only a few minutes.”

Harris goes on to quote case law where individuals asked to leave and then stayed until police arrived to arrest protestors for second degree trespassing.

“… the defendants in the instant case did not permanently remain on the premises after being asked to leave. Instead they temporarily remained for a short period of time seeking clarification as to why they had been uninvited. Next, the defendants left the premises prior to law enforcement’s arrival and were not subject to removal by law enforcement. Therefore, for the above stated reasons, the conduct during the incident does not satisfy the elements of second-degree trespass and the Attorney General’s office declines to prosecute this matter.”

After all of this, my concerns remain for the treatment of those members who choose to leave WOFF. Yes, I am concerned about how members are treated overall. However, my chief concern on the day in question was to discuss with Jane Whaley alternatives to the usual member exit process. The emotionally charged covert plan of sneaking out in fear of retribution or strong discipline and taking off without personal belongings happens often. Many times, members taking safety risks which could be avoided if there was a healthy and safe exit procedure in place. I have shared this concern on other platforms and will continue to tell anyone who will listen.

Young members with no transportation, no cell phone, no outside employment or contacts, face nearly insurmountable odds to obtain the freedom they deserve. Their choice for a life outside of the confines of WOFF is often scoffed and rebuffed, making them the object of strong physical discipline or forced seclusion. They become separated from family and friends and any means to accomplish their goal. If this sounds too crazy to be true- wake up. I can put you in touch with many who have fought through the barriers to exercise their freedoms to leave WOFF.

Secondly, there are adults who have fallen extraordinarily dependent on WOFF provided services, provisions and living arrangements which cannot easily be replaced. They feel stuck. There is an ongoing internal struggle to appear happy and at ease when inside the appetite for freedom roars and will not be silent. My concerns also include this population inside WOFF. Those who are too dependent to obtain their independence in a calm and reasonable manner.

In order to address these issues and others not known, I propose these initial measures. The logistics of these initial steps will require adjustments and assessments for improvement.

1. Recognize the autonomous right of anyone to leave WOFF without suffering through the onslaught of jeers, screams, beratements and the like. Most certainly those of legal age, allow them the rights others in the country freely enjoy- freedom of movement.

2. Show Christian love and support for those choosing to leave and allow them to be heard and respected.

3. Appoint a central WOFF member to be the exit escort for this member. This person needs to be of a calm and stable manner. (I suggest- Ray Dixon or Larry King, Sr.)

4. This escort will help the member gather personal belongings, close out business relationships within the group and make contact to an agency or individual willing to help transport them away from WOFF properties.

5. The escort will assure the member exiting a timely, safe and complete detachment from the WOFF subculture.

6. If an outside agency such as the Red Cross is used to help the leaving member- the escort will be the liaison to that agency for the time of transition away from WOFF.

I suggested these two individuals because they have a good reputation in the surrounding community and possess some measure of personal decorum- at least from my observations.

There is my first proposal to improve the conditions for members desiring to leave WOFF. For those in WOFF leadership, what are your thoughts? You know the dramas of the past and how unsafe the exit process has been. Why not help facilitate safe exits and avoid the risk of additional negative publicity when a member attempting to leave is injured physically or emotionally or both? Others in your group may face additional indictments. Doesn’t it make sense to recognize the inevitable desire of some members to leave, establish procedures and begin to repair the negative public persona of your group?

I understand if you don’t want my help or input. However, it will do you well to recognize he problem and consider the constructive alternatives to the dangerous and risky escape options which many have been forced to take to gain their freedom. Consider it damage control.

Friends and readers, there are my initial ideas. Tell me your thoughts. It may seem crazy to even suggest such alternatives. That is fine with me. Progress often starts with an absurd idea which then goes through changes to become the new possible. Certainly, all involved in the WOFF drama on any level should be looking for new and positive possibilities. WOFF can’t change their past. They can change their future.

Follow on these platforms:

Twitter – @religiouscults

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor

YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 644.

Wednesday, I attended a book signing in Asheville. Debby Shriver, author of “Whispering in the Daylight-The Children of Tony Alamo Ministries and Their Journey to Freedom” read from the book and answered questions. I met Debby several years ago. We share common interests in helping survivors of high-demand religious groups. It was an enjoyable evening as I met her husband and their dog.

In addition to providing the chronological understanding of Tony Alamo and his journey, Debby interviewed the children who were taken by authorities from the group in 2008. She gives them a voice. The insight from them is treasured because it is raw, real and provides understanding of the struggles for those who grow-up in control groups. This aspect of the book is very valuable.

I recommend if you have any connection in any way to a high-demand control group, whether that means you were recruited into one as adult, spent most or all of your childhood in one or have friends or relatives who are caught up in one- this book will help you. Debby interviewed over 300 people for this book. She spent countless hours writing and planning this work. You will realize this once you begin reading.

Today, I share an excerpt from the words of Irene. She was one of the children taken in the raid September 20, 2008. She shares several personal observations of her journey. The following is one I found included what I believe is universal trait for members of high –demand groups.

“When you are under the discipline of a sociopath, there is no such thing as a simple right or wrong answer. There isn’t even an “almost right” answer. If what you say doesn’t line up one hundred percent with what the sociopath wants to hear, then you are just wrong….

There are several things that can happen to victims of such abuse. Obviously, they will not be too confident after being repeatedly told that they are wrong. In severe cases, victims no longer know how to think for themselves. The sociopath can effectively drive his or her own opinions on another through fear and over time so that the victims don’t even realize they are no longer thinking for themselves and can only regurgitate the despicable thoughts that have been hardwired into them through repeated degradation.

… Speaking from my own experience, after living dangerously close to a sociopath who was always changing his words to suit his own benefit, and realizing there was almost never a correct answer for him, I learned how to float by being invisible. The only time I was in the spotlight was when someone else brought me into it. I tried to stay out of trouble. Even though I knew I could earn “brownie points” by telling my friends’ dirty secrets, I chose not to. I knew I could become a target for revenge. This invisible strategy worked fairly well in the world of the sociopath. I only got beaten about twenty times and starved for no more than three days at a time. (Trust me, that wasn’t too bad.) But now I am in the real world, and being invisible doesn’t work quite so well.

In my new life, my real life, the one that is free of sociopaths, I have a tendency to make a special effort to be out of trouble. It is not something I do on purpose or because I do not want to take responsibility for my actions. I am coming to realize that my problem is in the anticipation of what the consequences of my actions will be. In my case, most of my life experiences have conditioned me to feel fear. I’m realizing that in the real world, while there are consequences to be avoided, like getting fired or disappointing a parent, these consequences need not be feared. My problem is that before I think rationally about the possible consequences of my actions, I automatically start to fear the outcome, whatever it might be, which in turn causes me to avoid getting involved.”

Does any of this ring true for you or someone you know? There is so much more of value in this book. I am still digging through it. My purpose today was to give hope to those who have left Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) and let you know you are no alone. Others can and do understand you.

Also, I want to allow those who are still inside to know that if you live your life being “invisible” and hiding- then you have no life. Living in constant overwhelming fear is not normal. You are wasting your life under the deception that the leader or her leaders have ultimate control. You must take your life back and stop living in unhealthy fear. Yes, it is sad you are where you are. However, it is not likely that things will change for you unless you make the changes happen.

There are people to help you. If you choose to stop living in unhealthy fear, then don’t stop until you have broken free. Break free, tell others about your life and tell the secrets you have hidden for years about life inside. You deserve a better life than living “invisible.” If this describes you, then you must make the changes for your future.

Follow on these platforms:
Twitter – @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor
YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 643.

Candidate David Wheeler is running for North Carolina State Senate Seat for District 47. His website tells of his background in business and his strong advocacy for education and affordable health care in rural areas. After today, he may need to add a section about the ongoing issues in Rutherford County. (video of the press conference is on my Facebook page)

In a press conference today held in Forest City, he stood with two others familiar with issues in the area- Wayne Guffey and me. Wayne has approximately 30 years of experience in law enforcement. He also recently ran in the Republican’s primary for sheriff. My experience has included speaking out over the last few years about the unsafe practices of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). I was honored to stand with David and Wayne.

David opened with a short intro for me, Next, I shared a short recap of meeting David. Wayne’s followed with his reasons why he as a Republican endorsed Mr. Wheeler, a Democrat. Wayne boldly proclaimed he respected David’s stance and knew he cared for the citizens of Rutherford County.

Mr. Wheeler began by sharing what he heard as he traveled the county. Speaking from prepared remarks, he soon launched into his list of questions reflecting on the present state of affairs in the county.

Just to give some perspective, yesterday, the prepared remarks were a total of one page. I was present in the meeting where the content was discussed. Today, just before the meeting started, David walked in and explained he read several additional sources during the night and decided to bring the real issues to the forefront and be very direct. (paraphrased)

So, the one page document became two and some general statements became filled with fourteen questions which were meant to bring laser focus to the issues at hand. He exposed and deflated the white elephant in the room and that was needed. It was standing room only!

This was my first rodeo with David and I don’t plan on it being the last. He gave voice to several concerns. Next, he outlined a plan for a several meetings. There will be some with citizens and some with other government officials, all meant to find answers.

The meeting closed after several folks asked pointed questions which I felt like were handled very well. Education and concern for teachers was also discussed.

It was after the meeting when it got more interesting. Sitting in the crowd were two WOFF members. They were not called out nor did they do anything to draw attention to themselves. Quietly, they sat and read the handout and took notes. After the dismissal, they quietly left.

In a few moments, after presumably having checked in with their leader, they returned to wait their turn to speak to Mr. Wheeler- not me.

I stood close enough to overhear the conversation. They extended a very polite invitation to Mr. Wheeler to come to the WOFC School without a ten day notice- any time. There were some other niceties which I was unable to hear.

As their mission was finished, they turned and walked past me. One of them retuned my greeting – saying, hi, John.

The chatter continued as a reporter for WYFF asked me for an interview which I accepted. He talked to some others as the audio-visual crew packed their equipment.

Where will this lead? I am not sure. Next on the agenda is a town hall meeting in August. Location, date and time to be determined. I will announce it as soon as I know.

Thank you, to all the folks who took time out of their day to come to the press conference. The notice was short and several folks let me know they wish they could have been there. As things move forward, there will be additional opportunities to be heard and listen to others.

As predicted, the summer is hot in Rutherford County.

Follow on these platforms:
Twitter – @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor
YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 642.

Confused, heartbroken and sad… I pulled out of the driveway on Carver Lane and drove across the street to speak to my son. He was watering flowers for the neighbors who were also long-time members of Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF). After a short exchange ever-burned in my memory, I got back in the van and made announcement calls to my daughter and my wife. Still, it did not occur to me that after 20 years of marriage including fathering two beautiful children; that the drive I took up Highway 221 to Marion would lead to the dissolving of family I loved so dearly. Thinking the separation would be temporary, I asked my new landlord for a six month or shorter lease.

My unwillingness to accept the plight other spouses had endured after leaving the confines of WOFF did not change the outcome. The months melted into years and the gulf separating me from my children remained. My wife filed for divorce and then sued me for back child support. The divorce became official while her monetary quest was not successful as she planned.

The communication with my children dried up ending in returned letters and shredded checks. The failed attempts to connect never quenched my love for them. There remains in my heart a father’s love which will never fade through time and eternity.

Ten years. Yes, I have missed many of life’s trials and adventures with them. When I talk to more recent ex-members, I soak up every observation they speak about my children. To the point of giddiness and glee, I rejoice to learn of my children’s lives.

On this ten year anniversary of my parting from WOFF-life, I will not allow remorse for the missed moments overwhelm and sadden me. The far-reaching events which have unfolded over the last 18 months give reason for hope. Yes, there is a bitter-sweet taste to the recent legal quandary which several WOFF leadership face. In years to come, will we look back at the guilty plea to conspiracy to commit wire fraud of Jerry Gross and Jason Gross as a tipping point for the inertia needed to reverse the course of WOFF? I think it is very likely.

After writing thousands words, speaking out in several public meetings, publishing a book and appearing on several media sources- it should be very clear where I stand. WOFF is UNSAFE for its members. From the recent investigations, we learn the practices of this group undermine the very fabric of our society and many levels government.

Did I foresee these events ten years ago? No. All I knew at that time was the slow train wreck and emotional earthquake rocking my family. That hot July day in 2008 marked the start of a journey which has not ended. A journey which has pushed me to do things I never dreamed of and showed me that speaking out against wrongs – seeking to make them right – is not always easy or comfortable. I believe the struggles are always worth it.

Whether you agree with what I say or not, I hope it is clear; I will keep going until the goal is accomplished. Freedom from soul rape, physical and emotional abuse and total control under the guise of religion marks the goal. When will the goal be reached is not clear yet, though we have come a long way. Many have joined the fight for freedom. I have met many fine people along this journey. The messages of encouragement and support come in often. I cherish each one of them.

Thank you, to every blog reader, each one who attended an event, book club meeting, and public forum or read me book. Also, I want to thank each person who has added their story to the running narrative which chronicles the destruction and personal damage resulting from WOFF practices. We all must do our part to make it clear- the abuses must stop.

Follow on these platforms:
Twitter – @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor
YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 641.

A “Complaint and Petition for Relief for Alienation of Affection” was filed May 15, 2018 in Rutherford County District Court, by Chad W. Cooper. This Complaint outlines various claims against the defendants: Jayne Caulder, David Caulder, Jane Whaley and Sam Whaley, Brooke and Kent Covington, Amy Mattos and the Word of Faith Fellowship (Inc.) (WOFF). The claims include accusations against the defendants that they “willfully, actively, wrongfully and intentionally interfered with the marital relationship” of Chad Cooper and Lauren (Caulder) Cooper.

The file number is -18 CVD 579. All of the defendants having been served, the deadline for answering this Complaint has been moved to July 24th. There has also been a motion filed by Josh Farmer representing WOFF seeking to move the case to Superior Court in light of the requested sum total of “monetary relief in excess of $4,000,000.”

What is “alienation of affection?”

It is obvious I am no legal expert and only repeat the results of research on the Internet. I am not offering any “legal opinions,” only general observations. Also, I will not retype the entire Complaint, but only draw out a few vital points.

“In North Carolina, you may sue an individual who has caused a married person to suffer the loss of affection of their spouse, so long as the marriage was peaceful and intact at the time of the affair.” (source )

My quick research reveals there are only a handful of states in the country that still allow this type of legal action. In North Carolina, there are “roughly 200 alienation of affection lawsuits filed each year.” (source)

Yes, this legal action is generally used in situations where one marriage partner has had an affair and the other marriage partner believes there was malicious intent on the part of the third party. Chad is not claiming Lauren had an affair with another man.

In #6 of the Complaint, he is claiming, “The Defendants, during the marriage of Plaintiff to Lauren Cooper, knew of inappropriate and lewd relations between Lauren Cooper and Defendant, Amy Mattos, (considering that both were married at the time). The Defendants collectively colluded to actively attempt to hide such occurrences from the Plaintiff and instructed Lauren Cooper to continue her relationship with Defendant, Amy Mattos. Plaintiff had to actively defy church leadership and instruction to finally find out about the conspiracy.”

Indeed, the information in #6 does not appear to be the main basis for this Complaint. Let’s continue.

“The Defendants …actively conspired and maliciously plotted to drive perceived doubt, mistrust, and lies about plaintiff to cause separation which ended in divorce.” (Complaint #7)

From the Complaint #8. “…Beginning sometime around the first of the year in 2016, the defendants suspected that Plaintiff and Lauren Cooper were showing more love for each other than for the church and thus took severe, unprovoked, malicious and criminal activity against the Plaintiff. After stealing passwords and criminally accessing private emails between Plaintiff and Lauren, they kept Lauren Cooper against her will at the home of Brooke and Kent Covington, where all the defendants conspired to cause the divorce of Plaintiff from his wife. … The threats culminated with the hysterical and unfounded profession that Plaintiff was indeed a demon…. Lauren secretly reached out to Plaintiff to inform him of these lies, threats, and malice, but the damage was ultimately done to her mentally. Plaintiff had to inform the pastor that her actions were both evil and illegal before he could be allowed to see his own wife, but his intervention was not soon enough. Even till present day, Lauren is still affected and wounded by these unspeakable and atrocious acts committed by the Defendants.”

This appears to be the determining sequence of events which Chad cited for the Complaint. He goes on to say the results of these actions by the Defendants caused “… severe mental distress to said minor child.” Yes, Chad and Lauren have a young child.

He claims the actions of the Defendants have “reduced the financial income to plaintiff by causing Plaintiff to have to care for two households.”

Chad summarizes his losses in these words, “(Plaintiff) suffered serious and grievous injuries including the loss of love and affection of Lauren Cooper, loss of consortium of Lauren Cooper, mental agony and anguish, humiliation, damage to his honor, destruction of his family, and wounded sensibilities. …”

In #15 under the heading “RELIEF REQUESTED”-

“WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff brings this action and demands judgment of from and against the Defendants in the sum of $1,877,800 in actual damages and $2,400,000 in punitive damages, together with reasonable attorney fees. And the Defendants shall be assessed all costs of this action.”

There are other parts to the Complaint which we may review at another time or which may be brought out, if indeed the case goes to trial.

From previous cases where WOFF is involved, I believe we can expect delays, delays and more delays; attempted depositions of individuals not related to this case and possibly a motion filed by Josh Farmer for immediate dismissal of WOFF, Inc from these proceedings. This has been Josh Farmer’s pattern to file strategic motions in the very beginning of cases with hopes for a favorable ruling for his client. In that regard, he is a “good attorney” defending his clients.

No doubt, this case is not the norm and it will be very interesting to see what develops. If there is any level of success by Chad in this action, it could open the door for additional similar complaints to follow from other ex-members. I offer this prediction after reading the Complaint and understanding the inner working dynamics of the WOFF subculture.

Have any other former members been treated in the same or similar ways as Chad outlines in this Complaint? For those ex-members who were inside during this time frame, did the events occur as outlined? Is it possible that the extreme loyalty of the leadership named in this Complaint blinded them to the true nature of their deeds? Would leadership view these alleged actions as showing Lauren and their child “the Love of God?” They were only “doing whatever it took to keep Lauren in the will of God.”

Would Chad open himself up to additional pressures and public review of his plight unless he fully believed there were serious and “malicious” acts committed? I have not discussed these questions with him. This case may cause changes in the dynamics of WOFF and its practices in the future.

Follow on these platforms:
Twitter – @religiouscults
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnhuddleauthor
YouTube- religiouscultsinfo.com

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 640.