Life in a Christian Cult
2002 to present, Tillamook and Portland, Oregon
By Heather Strang
“You’re going to die in Armageddon!” my mom shouted through the phone. Then she hung up.
My mom didn’t talk to me for more than six months, my four sisters were not allowed to visit, and my “friends” stopped calling. People I had known since childhood would have nothing to do with me. Even my grandparents cut me off.
Sounds like I did something terrible, right? If I’m sentenced to death at Armageddon, surely I’ve broken one of the 10 commandments or something heinous like that. Turns out, death by destruction from God can be granted for lesser offenses – like leaving The Watchtower & Bible Tract Society, otherwise known as Jehovah’s Witnesses (JW). After 24 years of trying to twist myself into submission, I escaped. This is my true story.
In elementary school, I sat in the library while the other kids had Halloween and birthday parties. During Christmas break, my sisters and I were able to pick one toy out of the JC Penney catalog. Mom would wake us up at 6 a.m. the day after Christmas and we would go shopping. Back then, I thought we were normal. And you people celebrating holidays – especially Christmas – well, you were just heathens headed for eternal damnation.
As I got older, I spent much of my time trying to gain approval in the JW organization. Somehow it never happened. When I was a teenager, I started dating a “brother” (JWs refer to one another as brothers and sisters to signify their unity; it’s also how they justify disowning family members) from another congregation. One of the “sisters” in my congregation wrote the “brother” a letter warning him to stay away from me. I was not a quality JW and dating me would endanger his spirituality. He stopped talking to me after that.
When I spoke to “friends” of my concerns and questions about our religious beliefs, they encouraged me to pray more. I couldn’t reconcile the belief that homosexuals and non-JWs would be destroyed by Jehovah at Armageddon. It seemed in complete opposition to what a loving God should be. I was told that my heart condition was not in the right place and Jehovah could not reward an unrighteous person. Maybe if I completely distanced myself from the last of my “worldly” (non-JW) friends, Jehovah could reward me.
I stopped hanging out with anyone who was not a JW. I stepped up my volunteer work, going out in the door-to-door ministry Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. I attended meetings Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Even though I was told I would feel inner peace and contentment by doing what I was told, I had never been more miserable. I continued to push myself harder when told my lack of faith and poor heart condition were still to blame. Supposedly, I would feel tremendous joy when I was following all of the “rules” correctly. Meanwhile, my life literally consisted of meetings, reading JW literature, praying, and spending any extracurricular time with people in the organization. Despite doing everything they said would bring me happiness, I was incredibly confused. Why wasn’t I experiencing love from Jehovah and inner peace? What was I doing wrong?
Everything, apparently, even though I was trying to be a “good” Christian. I was counseled after my roommate turned me into the elders (the men that oversee the congregation) for watching Pretty Woman. It’s rated “R” and she was concerned about my lack of spirituality. I was talked to by the elders and asked to stop watching R-rated movies.
I continued to get myself into more “trouble” with the JWs. Every so often I would crack. I missed my friends and having fun. I would go out with some of my old “worldly” friends, get drunk, and make out with a boy. Not sex – I was far too repressed for that – just a make-out session. The organization was very specific about what was considered “fornication.” They based its definition from the Greek word, “porneia,” and decided that any touching of the genital area was fornication and therefore deserving of punishment. So, per the rules of the religion, I had to confess my sins to a panel of elders.
The guilt I felt over my behavior was real, so I willingly went and confessed, convinced it was the only way to gain Jehovah’s approval (and dodge destruction). They would hear my “case,” ask me questions about where I was touched, how often, how it made me feel, where I was, etc. It was completely humiliating. The elders made me read scriptures out loud about what Jehovah does to fornicators (translation: he destroys them). The entire scenario made me feel awful about myself, scared, and completely undeserving of Jehovah’s love. I’m pretty sure that’s what they were going for.
After the humiliation, I was sent out of the room, so that they could “deliberate” about what my punishment would be. It could be getting disfellowshipped (kicked out) or having all of my “privileges” taken away, which meant no talking or giving speeches at the meetings. That last time I sat in my car, waiting to hear the verdict. I couldn’t believe I was allowing it to happen. Something inside me said I needed to get out. The problem was, I had spent the last two years severely isolating myself and was in the depths of the religion. If I left, I would lose all of my “friends” and family in one fell swoop.
I found a way out that seemed easier – I took a job three hours east of where I lived. One interview later, I was prepared to move. I justified that I would start over and try a new congregation. Three weeks later, I moved.
The experience in the new congregation was something out of the Twilight Zone. It consisted of the same people as my other congregation, only they looked different. The elder’s wives who judged everyone were there, along with the goodie two shoes, the “bad” JWs, the poor, and the super rich. Exactly the same. I couldn’t believe it or bear it. I moved 200 miles away only to be confronted with the same situation. I knew then that I needed to completely abandon the JWs.
A few days later I met the man who became a major support to me as I left the organization. For some reason, I could be open with him. We started talking about spirituality, God, and the Bible. He shared ideas with me that I had never heard before. I started reading books written outside of the JW organization about the authenticity of the Bible and religion. I took a class on Buddhism. Despite all that I was learning, I was terrified. I would have nightmares and wake up crying, worried that Jehovah was going to destroy me. It took a full year to de-program and not feel that God was going to kill me.
Four and a half years ago my mom and I had the conversation that appears in the beginning of this essay. My family disowned me. All my friends stopped communicating with me. My life as I knew it was over. And a new one was beginning.
Today, I have a life I never dreamed of, but always hoped for. I am in school finishing my degree (something forbidden by the JWs) and I’m living the dream my mom told me not to waste my time on – I’m a freelance writer. My group of friends is supportive and loving. Their relationship with me is not based on what I believe, but rather on who I am. I no longer fear that God will destroy me. In fact, I now have a deep spirituality, one filled with love and complete support.
My family still keeps me at arms length. I was recently un-invited to a family dinner after I made it clear that I would never be a JW again. It hurts and sometimes it’s hard. I realize, though, they are simply being who they are programmed to be, much like I was. Thankfully, I have plenty of people in my life who love me unconditionally.
My escape from the JWs was the best decision I’ve ever made. I now have a life no one can take away from me.
Heather Strang is a native Oregonian and freelance writer living in Portland. Visit her website at: www.HeatherStrang.com.
Posted by Elizabeth Armstrong Moore on Tuesday, November 7th, 2006 | Email This PostThis entry was posted on Tuesday, November 7th, 2006 at 12:03 am. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
42 Responses to “Life in a Christian Cult”
Leave a Reply
NOTE: Please submit your comment only once. It will have to be approved by the administrator before it is posted.
November 7th, 2006 at 7:10 am
It takes a huge amount of courage to do what you have done. May you go from strngth to strength. Enjoy life!
November 7th, 2006 at 7:58 am
Heather,
Thanks for sharing your brave story. I pray for you that you continue to find the support, contentment and fulfillment in life that you truly deserve.
God Bless,
Jen Dickinson
November 7th, 2006 at 11:28 am
Heather, That was very brave! I have to say that I\’ve been thinking about changing from Lutheran to something more upbeat and Bible based. I\’ve had a gentleman coming to our house for about a year now, trying to get me to join JW. Some of what they said had me interested, but now I KNOW it\’s not right for my family. Thank you for coming through at such a critical time in my life!
God Bless!
Erica Grim
November 7th, 2006 at 12:48 pm
Kudos to you Heather. It takes a strong woman to follow her heart as you did. May I suggest, if you haven’t read this book already, Leaving the Saints by Martha Beck. I’m sure you will find parallels to your story. It’s a fantastic read and Martha is quite the witty character
Namaste,
Karen
November 8th, 2006 at 7:20 am
Heather,
Thanks so much for sharing your story. I was on my way to the office when I started reading it and I just had to stay and finish it.
Your story has given me a deeper appreciation for my own religion and an insight to one that has always aroused my curiosity.
I will keep you in my prayers as you embark on your new Spiritual journey.
May God Bless you and hold you in the palm of His hand.
Arlene Stewart
November 8th, 2006 at 3:41 pm
The Lord Jesus said, \”You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.\” (John 8:32) He also promised, \”If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.\” (John 8:36) This is in contrast to any cult, the main mark of which will be its enslavement of its adherents. As I rejoice with you in your escape, Heather, I give you the counsel of God through Paul in Galatians 5:1–\”It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourself be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.\”
November 8th, 2006 at 6:42 pm
My dear girl
You are so, so brave! God loves everyone and never, ever let anyone tell youother wise.
Congratulations on living your dream!
My husband is a Jehovahs Witness escapee. He too had similar experiences but is the stronger for it.
Be strong!
Melissa
November 10th, 2006 at 11:16 am
Thank you sooooooooooooo much for your amazing comments. It warms my heart!
Sending warm thoughts and happy wishes,
Heather
xo
November 10th, 2006 at 12:16 pm
Heather,
You ARE the stronger woman for following your true spirit! I know how much it tore you apart, but you knew in your heart of hearts it was the right thing to do. BTW - the panel of elders weren’t “deliberating”, they sent you out of the room while they fornicated themselves! Good work, girl!
November 10th, 2006 at 3:55 pm
Thank you Heather. Your story is so powerful and empowering. I grew up going to a Lutheran church, which is supposedly a very “loose” church. I was constantly guilted by my aunt & my grandmother on my personal beliefs. When I was told that animals aren’t welcome in Heaven, I decided that that was not a place I would want to end up. The God I knew would definately accept everyone, no matter the species. I now know that being spiritual and kind and loving on a daily basis is far more important than being “religious” in any organization.
Thanks for sharing.
November 10th, 2006 at 4:27 pm
Heath,
It takes a great deal of courage, strength and insight to identify this religion for what it really is and not what it appears to be from the outside looking in. After reading your words it becomes clear that mind control via religious cultism doesn\’t have to be a \’Jonestown\’ scenario. It can be so subtle that we don\’t even realize how far from the real truth we have strayed under their power.
I love you and I\’m very proud you.
Dad
November 10th, 2006 at 8:55 pm
Hi Heath,
I was touched by your story. Here I’ve known you for almost 5 years and I didn’t know that you were still struggling with leaving the JW’s when we met. And, I thought I knew you : )
You’ve helped a lot of people by telling your story. People need to not be afraid to think for themselves. Some day your sisters and mom will see the light that is not at the end of the watch tower : )
BTW, I love your dad’s comments!
November 11th, 2006 at 5:15 pm
Heather,
How wonderful is THAT that your father wrote what he did! Proof, isn’t it, that love is indestructible…..even from ‘brainwashing’! You are an amazing young woman to listen to your own heart and spirit and follow it. I visited your site, as I am attempting to become a freelance writer myself, and was so pleased to see that you have discovered Dr. Wayne Dyer and The Secret and that you’re living a life infused with love and abundance and pure joy. God bless, girl.
Jill
November 12th, 2006 at 1:56 pm
H,
Keep shining your courageous light…and thank you for sharing.
Namaste,
Liza
November 12th, 2006 at 8:56 pm
Heather,
I know we’ve talked about this before but hearing your story broke my heart in two. That must have been a very scary, lonely time for you. I wish I could have been there to help you then.
It’s hard to believe how fast you became the confident, strong, fabulous person that I know today. You continue to amaze me my friend.
Big love and hugs,
Lucinda
November 20th, 2006 at 2:18 pm
Hi Heather,
I was really in shock when I read your story. I never really knew what Jehovah’s Witnesses were like. It was a real eye opener. It still amazes me how religion promotes close-mindedness. I have a friend who is a born-again Christian. She decided to move to Japan to become a missionary, but her parents didn’t support her move and decided to stop talking to her. Can you believe that?! She moved to another country to help spread Christianity and here her parents disapprove. I don’t understand it.
Good for you for opening your eyes and realizing the world. Keep your faith, pray to God, and feel blessed that you are living the life that is meant for you!
Many good wishes,
Bettina
November 21st, 2006 at 9:02 pm
You might all want to go one step further and abandon the notion of ‘god’.
“The God Delusion”, by the prominent Oxford biologist Richard Dawkins explains why the notion of a god is highly improbable.
November 23rd, 2006 at 8:30 pm
Heather,
Have you looked Watchtower Society’s history of date setting for Armageddon, its radical changes in beliefs, and lies and coverups?
If not, you may wish to check out www.freeminds.org
November 28th, 2006 at 11:12 am
Dear Heather,
I loved that you shared your testimony. You are right, God does not operate in that manner. He is very forgiving. Enjoyed your story.
God bless,
Cherelle
December 5th, 2006 at 1:18 pm
Heather,
JW is not alone in its “cultish” tendencies. Much of the fundamentalist Christian “right wing” denominations are just as oppressive. Spiritual enslavement can indeed be as subtle as a gentle breeze through the trees, especially when the authority structure is so vast, unquestioned and unchecked. It actually made me vomit in my mouth a little bit when I heard about how the elders asked about your fooling around with that boy! I’m sure they were getting their fair share of jollies from that.
All I can say is GOOD FOR YOU. Keep reading about buddhism. Open your eyes to the world around you and open your heart to that little voice inside you. It’ll never steer you the wrong way.
Best,
Adam (also a freelance writer)
www.adambarone.com
December 6th, 2006 at 3:42 pm
Heather
I would love to speak with you sometime. I went through the same thing for years, even being discouraged from being a writer. The things it can do to your mind and spirit are unreal. I’ve seen so many things that shock me. Not all about JW’s are bad, but there are some things that a thinking and independent minded person will have trouble handling. I really believe years in the organization created the independent and determined person that I am today. I was also told that I was a bad person, but I know elders and ministerial servants who have done far worse things, they just deceived the “right” people. If you ever want to talk, let me know
December 11th, 2006 at 6:27 pm
I just finished reading your story and had to laugh! I too was a raised as a Jehovah’s Witness and found what you said to be extremely exaggerated!!! The elders only counsel ones that have been baptized- not children/teenagers who have not made that dedication. JW’s do not baptize their children- it is a choice they make when old enough and have decided whether or not they too want to become JW’s. As far as being cut off from your family and friends- we were counseled not to “hang out” with bad association- who gets to choose what that is? The Bible and God sets the standards, not JW’s- they just closely follow what the scriptures say.
If you were upset about your making out sessions were not looked upon favorably- too bad, grow up. What religon do you know encourages children and teens to go feel someone up and would not counsel about the dangers of it leading to sex? At least you were not molested by a Catholic priests while confessing. You also need to get your terminology down of what a cult is- an organization following the beliefs of 1 man- not the bible and God’s teachings. JW’s pray to Jehovah God ( God’s name is Jehovah it was on Jeporady!), through his son Jesus Christs not to Joesph Smith or to Budha. As far as the Watchtower goes, it is nothing more than a publication used to support and encourage BIBLE readings, not bases of teaching personal beliefs. Everyone I know who are JW’s are extremely kind, peaceful people, who are trying to do the best they can to imitate Jesus’s example of living a morally clean life, and following the bibles teachings to the best of their ablilities.
It sounds like you need to see a cousenolor to deal with childhood issues of not getting your way and changing your mother and sisters beliefs to suite your own way of thinking. That’s called Narcissitic Personality Disorder, not being raised by a christian cult.
December 11th, 2006 at 6:47 pm
What was so bad about only picking out 1toy at Christmas time? There are alot of children who don’t get any toys or food to eat for that matter of fact! And it was so horrible that your mom took you shopping the day after x-mas? At least she took you shopping! It sounds like you were not lacking. More than just Jehovah Witness kids do not celebrate Halloween and Christmas, there are many different faiths who do not partake in traditions that are not Christian based, they are Pagan based holidays. Holidays are purely commercialized traditions to get people to spend their money anyhow. What does Santa have to do with Jesus? What honor to God does dressing up like a witch and asking for candy ? Be glad your parents tried to instill Christian beliefs in you, instead of not caring at all. Arrmaggedon is not just taught by Jehovah Witnesses, but most teach it. Are you going to argue with the bible and God for telling us that people who sin are not going to survive? Good luck. God gets to decide the his standards and requirements of surviving- not us.
December 12th, 2006 at 12:19 pm
The last two readers are obviously still in the throes of an overbearing religion. I think you made a great choice to get out of the JW establishment, as it was obviously not working for you.
By the way, a cult is defined as:
adherents of an exclusive system of religious beliefs and practices
I think that Heather’s JW association definitely meets the standards of a cult.
Good luck with your new life!
Laura
December 12th, 2006 at 2:16 pm
Heather,
Congrats on your escape.
It may comfort you to know that you\’re not alone in this experience. After building a new base of friends and re-establishing your own beliefs, you will be stronger than before, better, wiser.
You have family in the rest of us who know your struggle.
A-
December 12th, 2006 at 3:51 pm
Heather,
What a difficult and amazing thing you accomplished in breaking away from the only system for living you had ever known, and making your own decisions about your life! How frightening, and how rewarding. Kudos to you.
I wish more human beings, and particularly women, had that kind of courage. I think that they would find similar support if they would only let themselves take that first step into the unknown.
Anna.
December 12th, 2006 at 9:35 pm
I feel bad for the family who had to read this nonsense about a acknowledged Christian religon being a cult. This particular religon is worldwide with over 10million believers that is bible based not led by a man.
Stan
Professor of Human Faith&Beliefs UW
December 12th, 2006 at 10:07 pm
Contrary to what Laura stated I am not a JW, nor chose to be one since age 18 (over 20yrs.ago). I am a non biased person who has seen the inside of this organization and have respect based upon what I personally know. My family never cut me off because of it, but respected my ability to make my own choices- God doesn’t force anyone to serve him but welcomes those who do. I would have to agree with Stan, with over 10million believers in the JW faith, they are not a closed door secret society with cult tactics forcing people to become members.
December 12th, 2006 at 10:14 pm
I am a Jehovah’s Witness and I have a college degree, and I have watched Pretty Woman more than once! We do not encourage watching rated R movies due to the sexual, violent content, but the Elders do not police our activities or movies and only offer counseling when asked. Half of my family is Catholic, we all speak and get along great! It sounds like you have other family issues.
December 12th, 2006 at 10:20 pm
This writer sounds like she is writing in her diary, the other writers were much better.
December 13th, 2006 at 10:48 am
It sounds like the teaching Heather received is simply un-Biblical. She was taught that if she didn’t conform to the ways established by the JWs, she would not be saved. But God tells us in the Bible that we are not saved by what we DO:
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God–not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8-9.
Also, Heather was shunned because she chose to hang out with non-Christians. God told us to show love to ALL people–and Jesus demonstrated that by hanging out with the most hated people of society. Sounds like Heather is better able to be a loving person now–she made the right decision for herself.
December 19th, 2006 at 2:45 pm
Heather,
Christianity — whether the denomination is heterodox or orthodox — is all one big cult. Screw that guy’s definition in the earlier comment who said JW isn’t a cult because it’s “established.” That guy is nuts. Any religion that divides you from the rest of the world is a cult. In fact, almost all of them do!
It sounds like you’ve explored Buddhism. It’s a fabulous spiritual journey should you decide to check into it deeper. Don’t let these brain-washed numbskulls try to lure you back to Christianity in any way, shape or form. It’s based on so many lies, they can’t keep ‘em straight. Keep walking forward, kiddo, and find your own way. I have faith you will. And good luck with your writing!
Best wishes and blessings,
Maria
(who’s been a professional writer her entire life)
December 24th, 2006 at 5:08 pm
No one will ever find God’s Truth from corporate Christendom’s various denomination pulpits; for Jesus said, “they teach commandments and traditions of men in God’s name.” In other words, they teach lies laced with just enough truth to make it palatable to the listeners.
The only way we ever get God’s Truth is to go directly to the source, which is what I did over 30 years ago. At the time, I was a Baptist Sunday school teacher and was beginning to discover discrepancies between the quarterlies from which we taught and the AKJV Bible I was reading. So, I set out on my quest for ONLY God’s Truth and He has given it to me abundantly.
Half of my Dad’s family were JW’s, so needless to say, the other half were considered the black sheep; however, it did afford me the opportunity to learn exactly what they believed and why. I also was led to do the same research into all other Christian professing denominations, mainly so I would know how to witness the truth to them. Alas, when I began witnessing to one of my JW aunts, you can bet the elders removed her from my presence very quickly and told her I was doing the devil’s work.
You know what, though? That’s okay, because Jesus warned that all who follow in His footsteps as well as love and OBEY His Father, will be persecuted like Christ was persecuted: called a blasphemer, a false prophet, and doing the devil’s work. I’ve had it all either said to my face or put in writing. Little do they realize they have merely confirmed that I do speak God’s Truth and bear His Seal.
I know it’s painful to have your family turn on you as they have, Heather; but, that too Christ warned of: “Your enemies are of your own house.” So, keep the faith and be determined to gain ALL of God’s knowledge and wisdom; for we need no man to teach us.
Much love in Christ,
BonnieQ
Bonita M Quesinberry, R.C.
http://bonnieq.wordpress.com
December 24th, 2006 at 5:09 pm
P.S. I meant to mention that we are neighbors, for I live in Washington; however, you are an even closer neighbor to my daughter, who lives in the suburb of Portland known as Aloha. Perhaps, one day we shall meet.
BonnieQ
January 7th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
It has come to my attention that ‘cults’, such as the JW’s, are often way too strict and repressive to their members. I can name a few other denominations, but, I’m not. It’s AWESOME that you got out of that and found your true self. We are limitless spiritual beings existing within these limited physical bodies.
You are who YOU are.
Congrats for leaving and may your life continually be what you dreamed it would be.
Wayne
January 10th, 2007 at 7:16 pm
Congratulations on your liberation from the clutches of an oppressive cult. Relationships are about values rather than genetics alone, so the new friends are worth more than the family which has abandoned you. There is no morality higher than helping people realize true freedom, and no spirituality in forcing phobias and rituals on others.
January 18th, 2007 at 9:20 am
I was in awe reading your story because it’s the same as mine! Except I was knee deep in a protestant denomination called the Assembly’s of God.
What an ordeal. I lived the “righteous life” from the age of 5 until I was able to break free at 25 yrs old. You couldn’t take a significant step in your life without the approval of the pastor, you had to attend church at least 3 times a week or you’d get an intervention type home visitation, by the age of 16 I had church members asking me when I was finally going to get married, plus deal with all that comes along with knowing that you were basically here on earth for the betterment of “God’s people” at what ever the personal cost. Guilt plays such a huge role in their control and manipulation of others regardless of denomination, cult, group or sect. In my opinion religion really has to do with the illusion of power more than true concern over someone’s soul.
It’s a good thing when I hear of others that were able to break free and think for them selves… Good for you!
February 1st, 2007 at 12:48 pm
A well written story about the damage done by cults. I must differ with you on your calling it a “Christian” cult though. I don’t know of any mainstream, less Evangelical Christian churches who consider JW to be Christian as JW rejects the Trinity and Jesus’ divinity, which is pretty basic to the Christian faith. It is my understanding that Christians consider JW to be heretical in their beliefs.
I have also been told that JW changed the Bible to suit their teachings and do not use any of the generally accepted translations almost universally accepted by Christians.
My prayers are with you. It takes a lot of courage to escape indoctrination in search of the Truth.
If I am misinformed, my apologies.
February 18th, 2007 at 9:04 am
I have experienced some of the exclusivity with what you are talking about with ordinary churches in the Portland area.
Religion is fine when you have the will to learn it on your own and gain historical perspective, but too many churches use people’s own beliefs as a political weapon.
I am an atheist, but I can see things from a simple perspective: When did Jesus act like this? Was he a hateful or spiteful person? Did he pick out one group of sinners to punish and yell out that what they were doing was a sin?
Not likely. There seems to be a new trend of calling these “New Testament” times as well. The idea that Moses’s law was no good because Jesus saved us from our sins. If that were true, then what about the 10 commandments? Or the hundreds of others that were also brought down but not recorded?
People tend to pick out what they want to believe and separate it from the rest. This is why, in the wrong hands, religion can be a weapon of hatred.
I was virtually “adducted” by a well-meaning youth group when I was in high school where they were recruiting. They said it was a summer camp, and we ended up doing prayers and such instead of actual camping. Then they took the bus to the mall and asked us to save people. It was the most uncomfortable experience I had back then.
My only advice to anyone that wants to believe or follow any religion is to try their best to understand the people that wrote their repsective Bibles… get a feel for how they actually lived.
Don’t try to buy into The 700 club where a man blames 9/11 on god’s wraith against homosexuals. Read some books. Or even read the Bible and get a feel for your spiritual truth there. But don’t follow some whacko.
April 22nd, 2007 at 3:09 am
OVER 450 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS LAWSUITS, COURT CASES, ETC SUMMARIZED
This website summarizes 300 United States court cases and lawsuits affecting children of Jehovah’s Witnesses, including dozens of cases where the Parents refused to consent to life-saving blood transfusions:
DIVORCE, BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS, AND OTHER LEGAL ISSUES AFFECTING CHILDREN OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
http://jwdivorces.bravehost.com/
This website summarizes 160 United States court cases and lawsuits filed by Jehovah’s Witnesses against Employers:
EMPLOYMENT ISSUES UNIQUE TO JEHOVAH’S WITNESS EMPLOYEES
http://jwemployees.bravehost.com
January 4th, 2008 at 11:23 am
I was raised a Jehovah’s Witness. I left when I was 25. Every member of my family talks to me, loves me and supports me even though I follow and choose to believe what feels right to me. I went through disfellowshipping and the whole 11 and a half yards. Yes it was painful, but I would not change one moment of the way I was raised. It taught me I can be different and stand up for what I believe even if it is not ordinary or accepted.
ALL organized religion gains power by control and instilling fear. Replace “You’re going to die in Armageddon” with “You’re going to hell” and there is not one bit of difference, is there? The bottom line, if you think yours is the only belief system and group of people that are going to survive whatever cosmic destruction you are convinced is on the horizon (and what organized religion doesn’t?)…well…you are no different than a Jehovah’s Witness. Of course, you are probably a bit more pious, self-righteous and judgemental….but who’s counting?
August 27th, 2008 at 10:50 pm
Heather:
I came across your post while searching “surviving Christian cults” on the web. I was raised in a Christian cult. While it was not JW, reading through your experience was almost like a mirror of mine. Always trying, but never good enough. Disowned because I disagreed with the church (read: thought for myself instead of blindly going along with what was forced on me). While I am grateful for the new start, it has left my spiritual life in shambles. Everything I thought I believed feels as though it’s tainted by this church and their teachings.
Are there any resources out there you would recommend?
Again, thanks for posting…in a weird way, its almost a relief to know that I’m not the only one.