Saturday, December 31, 2011

Tell a Friend......Ask Questions...Must Read Links

Today's final post of 2011 will feature, in WW's view, the most important links regarding WOFF.

Continue after reading the links as WW implores readers to Tell a Friend - Ask Questions.......And, if you are new to this blog and it's contents...read the previous posts and then read this one.

Start with religiouscultsinfo.com , the most insightful, comprehensive and compelling site around that specifically details the WOFF experience from a former member. Some stories are heartbreaking, some are devoted to analysis of mind control, and some are just down-right eye popping in their detail of the goings-on at WOFF. This beyond outstanding blog is a must-read.

Faith Freedom Fund. This link will confirm to the reader that there are serious people with good intentions toward helping those wanting to leave cult-based churches. These are good people who can and want to help. They have helped many people who have left WOFF. Bless these people!

The Trinity Foundation  is an investigative organization based in Dallas, TX, contains some dated, albeit interesting links about cults and has a history with WOFF in Spindale. They have a contact page and do answer the phone if you have questions or you have some useful info to share with them about WOFF. WW considers TF a kindred spirit.

Woffwatcher's links to Word of Faith Fellowship, Spindale, NC   This is the most visited post in the WW blog for 2011. All of the googling has been done for you! It's comprehensive, compelling  reading. Highlights include links to the "don't do" list, and "the waiver", with special thanks to religiouscultsinfo.com.

It might seem as WW is repeating this but.......

It has come to WW's attention that there are more than a few, if not a pretty significant number of people in the Rutherfordton area as well as families invested in WOFF, would like the local community to be pro-active and diligent in policing WOFF.

Although the sense of fear and indifference is still somewhat present, the mood appears to be changing.

Sensing this momentum shift, WOFFWATCHER urges you, the reader to TELL A FRIEND.

TELL A FRIEND about this blog and the three other important links addressing the WOFF.

TELL A FRIEND what you know (is true, not what you think is true) about WOFF.

ASK QUESTIONS

Ask current WOFF members, Ask ex-woff members, read these blogs, ask your local minister, priest or rabbi about WOFF, ask people you work with about WOFF.

Questions will help you some answers, though the most telling answers will be how those you ask behave toward you after you ask. Both Tell a Friend and Ask Questions will bring awareness to WOFF and will place more scrutiny on this organization.

The conclusion is yours. Be honest with yourself about facts and rumors.

Persistence, responsibility, diligence, will lead to results.

Once again: Clear minds, full hearts, can't lose.

-WOFFWATCHER

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Definitions, Key Words and Examples

If this is your first time reading this blog, WOFFWATCHER invites you to read previous blogs here and especially invites you to read the "links" blog containing 80+ links regarding Word of Faith Fellowship in Spindale, NC.

Your comments are appreciated once they are moderated. It's ok to keep anonymous when you post them.

And now,

Key Words and Definitions

CULT
FREEDOM
RELIGION
TRUTH
BELIEF
INDENTURED SERVITUDE
FEAR
MIND CONTROL
LOGIC
STRENGTH
DELUSION
INFRASTRUCTURE
WRONG
FREEDOM OF SPEECH


When we can't agree on the definition of words, or simply don't know the meaning, it is likely that we seek the definition(s) in a dictionary.

Lawyers tell us this is among the most frequently used book in their library. It is the reference tool that determines the strength or weakness of a case, an opening or closing argument, as well as the presentation.

Words are VERY important.

Most everyone can agree that this book, regardless of who publishes it, how old it might be, etc, is the book that settles scrabble arguments, and generally settles any disputes, regardless of how the opponent in the argument sees the results.

When an argument over the meaning of a word fails the opponent, the opponent likely seeks to dismiss the definition and will counter with non logic to support their argument, or , as we have come to know it, spin.

WOFFWATCHER has found over the years that one's who are "short in the dictionary number", that is, those whose vocabulary and clear understanding and daily use of words, are usually the ones who attempt at going into a zone where they try to spin or counter to their advantage when it is clear to everyone else that the argument or spin is useless toward winning their argument.

Most everyone can agree in this situation is that the opponent lost this point and is now trying to either back track or manipulate words or a word to work to their advantage. WOFFWATCHER calls this an "out of control" spin!

These types of opponents are the very people who try to pull one over on you. But when called on their ways, a practice readers of this blog now understand is WOFFWATCHER's weapon of choice (among others), opponents kick and scream that their way is indeed right, despite what is obvious to the rest of the world, even a court of law!

When opponents can't get their way, they either become desperate, or have had experience at losing arguments. To defend their position, they create an arsenal to defend it/them. This arsenal can be created as part of an infrastructure that can have several layers of protection. An example of a type of infrastructure: businessmen who set up dummy companies to shield them from taxes, government, liability etc. This has been standard operating procedure in business for decades and is one of the fundamental arguments leading to protests around this country and the world. This type of infrastructure is now in the spotlight and mainstream and understood by more people than ever before.

But that is ONE type of infrastructure.

Another infrastructure example is one that is designed to thwart potential opponents from scrutiny so that it allows that organization the luxury of conducting business, leaving the hired guns to protect their interests.

Their weapons of choice? Fear and money.

Cost to attain that luxury? Money. LOTS of it.

Where does the money come from?
Why such a thick infrastructure?
Why the need for an infrastructure?
What are they afraid we might see?
Is there a reason why such a religion can't be transparent in it's operation?

These are questions that "the world" will some day ask of this organization and community.

Convenient reasons this organization would use: "the world" just wouldn't understand. Or, "we don't want to be in the world". Or, "we don't want the world in our business".

How WOFF operates versus how it appears to operate to the rest of "the world" is so disparate, that it would be hard not to notice, discuss, challenge, fight, earn disdain and all emotions and reactions that any human being NOT in the WOFF world would experience or display. The lengths taken toward protecting the WOFF world should be huge red flag to even the most casual observer.

When this much secrecy/privacy is paramount to the success at continuing this operation, people are prone to want to ask questions.

How about this example: Some in politics are willing to put up with controversy, name calling, angry constituents, scrutiny by the media...all because they want power. And they want to stay in power (so they can get MORE power), in that order.

And you wonder why Americans are angry? Because they can't reach the politicians that made this possible. Why, because of the infrastructure they created. What infrastructure? Well, let's see, you just can't walk into their office and talk to them, they most likely won't take your calls, they will have you screened at one of their town hall meetings and then thrown out if you press them on anything.

That is a form of infrastructure that keeps their distance from them...AND WE PUT THEM THERE!

America is angry because we just can't call them up and fire them.

It's frustrating, I know. Even more frustrating? People who give up or are indifferent to the politicians and the system.

Let's apply this type of frustration closer to home:

People in Rutherfordton County not in WOFF indifferent to the activities of WOFF.

We have seen many results of broken families, individuals and more coming from WOFF.
There are those inside who seek to get out. Many more in foreign countries seeking to leave, have left or are heeding the experiences of those who have left.

Again, more questions. Why are they getting out. Why did they leave? What has it cost them emotionally? Why is WOFF controversial?

WOFFWATCHER has addressed this before and will continue to do so in this blog until the community gets that it would be better off policing itself.

Otherwise, unwanted global media attention is next.

Followed by scrutiny and all that it entails.

Your choice.

WOFFWATCHER

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

And if you listen very hard, THE TRUTH will come to you at last.....Stairway to Heaven - Escada para o Paraíso com Letras em Português e Inglês


Don't be alarmed now,
It's just a spring clean for the May queen.
Yes, there are two paths you can go by
But in the long run
There's still time to change the road you're on.

 
Despite it's original genre, the powerful message of this song is transcendent. This song is EXACTLY your world, Woffers.

And as we wind on down the road
Our shadows taller than our soul.
There walks a lady we all know
Who shines white light and wants to show
How everything still turns to gold.




-WOFFWATCHER


Não se assuste agora,
É apenas uma mola limpa para a rainha de Maio.
Sim, existem dois caminhos que você pode ir
Mas a longo prazo
Ainda há tempo para mudar a estrada em que você está.

Apesar de seu gênero original, a mensagem poderosa desta canção é transcendente. Esta canção é EXATAMENTE seu mundo, Woffers.

E como nós vento sobre a estrada
Nossas sombras mais altas que nossa alma.
Caminha uma senhora que todos conhecemos
Quem brilha a luz branca e quer mostrar
Como tudo ainda se transforma em ouro.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Lies and a Lesson about Guerrilla Tactics

This morning WOFFWATCHER watched how Congressman Paul Ryan of Wisconsin answered a question about something he said recently in a speech.

“Instead of working together where we agree, the president has opted for divisive rhetoric and the broken politics of the past,” Mr. Ryan said. “He is going from town to town impugning the motives of Republicans, setting up straw men and scapegoats, and engaging in intellectually lazy arguments as he tries to build support for punitive tax hikes on job creators.”

He was referencing the reason for the standstill in Washington over jobs, over the economy and all that it entails. This, by the way, isn't true about the President. Trust me. WOFFWATCHER KNOWS for a fact, this isn't true. This can be backed up, easily!

This is an example of a common tactic in politics as well as in the WOFF world, and the REAL world. It's a tactic best characterized as one from your past as a child in school when someone accused you of something THEY did, blamed YOU, and YOU got in trouble. This is EXACTLY that. This is a "polite" version of guerrilla warfare. It was used against you and you didn't even realize it.

Mr Ryan was asked a direct question, yet turned it around and ultimately didn't answer the question. Questioners repeated the question time and time again, yet he gave different answers. The questioners were educated, polite, respectful, but their frustrations with the way they were "handled", were palpable

The Congressman answered with an answer, not an answer to their question.

We know, politics.

If WOFFWATCHER had asked him this question in public, I would have interrupted him during his non-answer and would tell him that I might be one of his constituents and that I was one of those responsible for keeping him in office, and since I was one of his bosses, he would want to answer my question as an employee rather than someone elected to dismiss me. I would further explain that I ultimately have the power to take away HIS power. So, sir, what's it going to be?

Always anticipating the other side's move, I would expect the Congressman would only know to respond using the polite version of guerrilla warfare, as he did this morning, and might dismiss my tactics as uncivilized and bullying. Again, blaming you for something HE did.

I would have responded that his unwillingness to answer a question should be a red flag to those seeking the truth and that another agenda is his constituent over the people who elected him. And, since he works for me, I would work against him keeping his job as he is not up to the job I elected him to do. I would compel others with proof such as this encounter and provide many others for credibility.

So, subject to this kind of treatment by the Congressman, people are frustrated with the outcome of dealing with people who won't answer your question, but just give you an answer.

Politicians, salespeople, our bosses, spouses, relatives, any one you designate power to, even for a moment, will use the politeness version of guerrilla warfare, under the guise of civilized behavior if you will, against you, from time to time. You then are compelled to cave in to pressure because your going guerrilla isn't an option, not something YOU do. WOFFWATCHER get's it. This isn't for everybody.

WOFFWATCHER has always gone plain 'ole guerrilla on people who don't tell the truth, who bully, who would want to take control over you. In this case, guerrilla can be characterized as not letting the other person bully you, accepting THEIR version of the truth, or control you.

Before WOFFWATCHER continues, I know I have asked readers of this blog to stay respectful in dealing with others. That should remain a pledge you should keep. This is WOFFWATCHER's fight. You stay classy.

The result of this tactic is that it is very easy to make a person uncomfortable by pressing them to tell the truth. You just have to press them until you hear an answer that is everything but something prepared or an answer to another question you didn't/haven't asked. You repeat the question and point out to the answerer that they haven't answered your question(s).

Expect them to try to take control of the situation from you by seeking out help from others, or trying to make you look bad in front of others and so on, just to get out of answering the question. After all, they are not used to such uncivilized treatment!

Where WOFFWATCHER comes from, we don't just let them leave the room.

Jane knows that WOFFWATCHER is one of these people. An interview with WOFFWATCHER would be brutal.

If you are a current or former WOFF member, then you automatically assigned Jane and church "leaders" this luxury of power over you.

Among their tactics are these lies: 

Tell me if this sounds familiar: "if you leave this church, you will be killed by drug crazed people" "you will become whores and fornicators", "you will become hooked on drugs".

These can only BE lies, because: .1. I don't know of any ex-woffer that has been killed 2. I don't know any ex-woffers that are whores and fornicators. 3. Drugs? Why? 4. They can't know what's in the future, They can't guarantee any of these results.  Heck, WOFFWATCHER doesn't know what's going to happen, and YOU sure don't, so there!

How about: "If you leave, or try to leave, you will be admonished by church members". Or: "you will be sent out to seek truth" (or something like that). This would be a good opportunity to leave. I know, it's a high price to leave your friends and community, but do you really want to live in a world like this? Consider this the cost of doing business.

There is a difference between being a liar, that is someone who lies about everything, and lies, which are specific statements meant to support their claim, which have no substance or support of truth.

So, this covers A lie. A lie in this case is used by someone who would stand in the way of your freedom. They couldn't possibly lie about everything, if they did, they'd be liars. I couldn't know or say that simply because WOFFWATCHER is not with them 24 hours a day. (Take THAT legal team!)

When someone is trying to control you, they will say anything. When lies are standing in the way of you and God, you need to seek change.

Worshiping God is a very personal thing. WHY WOULD YOU PERMIT SOMEONE TO CONTROL HOW YOU WORSHIP?

We all like to be among friends, community makes us strong. That's great. However, there are other people, potential friends right there in Spindale that need you, will love you, will welcome you with open arms. Or, you could go elsewhere and find love and continue to serve God just as well there too. (Don't forget about the faith freedom fund in Spindale, they can help you with your transition)

Love is universal. WOFF doesn't have a monopoly on it.


Don't buy in to lies. The WOFF way is not the only way, there are others that can make you happy without losing control over your life and family.

Like the Congressman, in this case, you are a constituent of Jane and WOFF, you have the real power, you can say no, you can leave. You have ALWAYS had the power. You have it now.

Get out, and get acquainted with freedom to worship God YOUR way.

Do you want to go to a church that uses lies to keep it's members, much less "mind control", screaming, pressure? What kind of church is that?

Want a tiebreaker? How much money has it cost you to be a member of this "church" ? Would it be cheaper to worship in a less tumultuous place? You've got to ask yourself:  "Why do they want me to stay?"

Money and control. That's what it looks like. That's what it is. Plain and simple. 


So, just walk. Your power to choose - trumps any tactic,even guerrilla tactics.

WOFFWATCHER

Monday, October 17, 2011

KNOW Jane or NO Jane?

WOFFWATCHER considers the WOFF system and infrastructure as a separate body from it's members who simply work and worship.

It is important that readers understand that the regular church members unknowingly bought into this way of worship, aren't responsible for it's success and probably aren't even aware of how this place runs.

The system and leadership are the ones who will be under scrutiny.

So, give the regular church member a break. Pray for them. Offer to help them if they need it. They aren't the ones who run the place, they are just like you and me, trying to get through the day with hard work, praising god and managing their own lives. They don't know what they don't know, just what they've been told.

And they have been told that if members leave WOFF, or are thinking about leaving, they are told that terrible things will happen to them. The Occupy Wall Street events are a perfect example of what WOFF leadership might exploit to use as an example of what might happen to someone who leaves, or to our country. So, now those with doubts about WOFF have the distraction of fear planted in their heads. This to go along with the ups and downs of everyday life plus having to hear people say bad things about them in public.

The regular church member has a lot invested in their participation there. Picking up and leaving is not just that simple.

WOFFWATCHER understands their predicament and does not take their situation lightly.

One option is The Faith Freedom Fund in Spindale, NC. They can help a future or ex member with transition if they decide to leave 828-286-2361.

A future ex- WOFF member CAN DECIDE FOR THEMSELVES how they want to worship, with who and who to worship. This is the freedom that they have that they are being talked out of by their handlers, their church, their leaders etc.

This site has never been about leaving God, actually, it encourages you to continue to worship, YOUR WAY. 

There are tons of religions out there. Each have their own version of the truth and what they believe God to be and your role in serving him. Most if not all, don't attract the kind of controversy of your soon to be former church.

The simple math of over 100 websites with information about WOFF out of thousands of Google entries should be a red flag to anyone considering staying or joining there. Look on the next post for those links....

My favorite tune is that WOFF'ers will tell me and others that we are all lying about them.

Ha!

THAT'S their defense?

I say BACK IT UP.

This from the people that brought you: ...."there may be mind control involved,....." in a contract to join the church, no less?

An organization this complex, with the participants WOFFWATCHER has identified as part of the infrastructure, cannot be 100% mistake free. The system they have created has blinded them with their own zeal and dogma.

So, worker bees, fellow ants, let's finish this.

Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose. 

WOFFWATCHER

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Links to Word of Faith Fellowship Spindale, NC - A Comprehensive List


UPDATED   July 29, 2021


Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.- Margaret Mead                     


Woffwatcher has compiled a comprehensive list of links that might help anyone with interest in the Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF as in OFF, not WOOF), Spindale, NC, learn more about what has been said, published, happened and documented.

Some links may apply to readers who believe their rights have been violated according to State or Federal Law by WOFF. Read below the links to see if any of these might apply.
FAITH FREEDOM FUND (if you need to leave WOFF)

Thanks to contributors who have suggested and forwarded more links!

Information on Services For Christina Bryant


Ex-WoFF member makes bail despite judge’s denial of bail reduction


14 COVID-19 cases linked to Rutherford County home health agency

Brother of Rutherford County man who died from complications with COVID-19 speaks out

Broken Faith: Inside the Word of Faith Fellowship, One of America's Most Dangerous Cults

- A Masterpiece, meticulously crafted by Mitch Weiss and Holbrook Mohr

Washington Post review of Broken Faith Book
 "In the telling of Associated Press reporters Weiss and Mohr, WFF is a classic religious cult, drawing in the wounded of spirit, people questing for a new direction in life, others recovering from drugs or alcohol and seeking a new path, or those searching for unambiguous answers to life’s fundamental questions. WFF founder Jane Whaley becomes their confidante, a conduit to God’s plan for them and gradually, their absolute ruler."

Also...

A harrowing story by the Great Gayle Clayton of RC Catalyst fame, of a visit to a local WOFF business:  Garden Cafe Review: Bad Coffee, Bad Service, Bad Attitude
Perhaps some culinary blasting was exposed ?

Other WOFF News:

Diane McKinny sentenced in False Statement Unemployment case

Wheeler vs. Caulder case for legal fees postponed
Minister from WOFF Sentenced for Fraud
A WOFF Minister's sentencing
No Jail Time for Grosses In Federal Case
WOFF Members get probation
'Devil' Doc Postponed

WOFF member reaches plea deal
Minister at secretive Word of Faith church sentenced for fraud

There's now a law firm that specializes in helping WOFF Victims 

Statement of U.S. Attorney Jill Westmoreland Rose On Allegations Against Word Of Faith Fellowship

WOFF head named in fraud scam
 
WOFF Related Brazilian Church Acquitted of all Charges
CONTINUED: Wheeler/WoFF trespassing case
WoFF denies request of apology from Wheeler in trespassing case
WoFF lawyer responds to candidate’s trespassing cases
Wheeler trespassing case subpoenas WoFF leadership
NC Attorney General takes WoFF tresspassing case: no decision on prosecution
Three charged with trespassing at Word of Faith
Trespass summons issued against Wheeler entourage at Word of Faith Fellowship visit

Wheelers visit to Word of Faith Fellowship I
David Wheeler with John Huddle at Community Meeting about WOFF Former WOFF members talk federal investigation

Father, son plead guilty to fraud involving secretive sect  
2 members of secretive sect charged in unemployment scheme
No appeal in Guffey campaign sign theft guilty verdict
Split decision in Guffey Campaign Sign Theft
Former Word of Faith members claim they were coached as children on lying to DSS
Former Brazilian Word of Faith member speaks out
Brazilian Prosecutors Sue to Shut Church Over Forced Labor
Lt. Gov. Forest accepted donation from leader of controversial church
'Nobody saved us': Man describes childhood in abusive 'cult'
North Carolina Steps in on Child Abuse Cases Involving Sect
Ex-Members of Church Urge Overturning of Court Agreement
Investigators face big hurdles in church child abuse cases
Brazil branches of US-based church target of numerous probes
Church used unemployment scam to stoke funds, ex-members say
Brazilians funneled as ‘slaves’ by US church, ex-members say
Second trial called in Word of Faith abuse case
Authorities delayed investigating gay ‘demons’ case
Mistrial in Word of Faith abuse trial due to jury tampering
Man charged with harassing jury in trial of pastor accused of leading beating to expel ‘homosexual demons’
Prosecutor: Minister ‘directed’ beating of gay congregant
'Am I going to die?' Gay man testifies in church beating trial
Minister at Center of Anti-Gay Beating Trial May Testify on Her Own Behalf
Gay man says church members beat, choked him for hours to expel ‘homosexual demons’
Allegations of kidnapping, abuse at area church
Social worker accused of hiding religious sect abuse resigns
Former members of Word of Faith Fellowship hold community meeting
ADAs accused of coaching sect members out of jobs in 25th District
Learner responds to accusations about ADAs affiliated with Word of Faith Fellowship church
Ex-sect members tell AP: Prosecutors obstructed abuse cases
AP: Brazilians detail abuses by US church, shattered lives
They kept us as slaves: AP reveals claims against church
WSPA WOFF Brazil Slavery Story
AP Probe: US Church Siphons Laborers From Brazil
Former Brazilian Word of Faith member speaks out
Former Word of Faith Fellowship members speak out
Experts weigh in on Word Of Faith Fellowship abuse allegations
Word of Faith Fellowship Investigation
Trial to start against 5 accused of beating ex Word of Faith church member
Prosecutors: Church with ties to Word of Faith forcing minors to work
New review system implemented for Word of Faith DSS cases
Word of Faith Fellowship WSPA REPORT
Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) - Victim Testimony - Alleged Destructive Cult - ABC News
Former Woff members respond to AP article
John Huddle's Family Speaks Out
NC church known for ‘blasting’ out demons faces growing human-trafficking probe
How a North Carolina religious cult went bad
Mitch Weiss Associated Press Articles about WOFF
The Matthew Fenner / WoFF defendants case timeline
The Michael Lowry Story
N.C. Man Says Church Kept Him Imprisoned for Being Gay
N.C. man says church confined him for being gay 
Jury seated in trial of Word of Faith church member accused of abuse
Word of Faith Fellowship being investigated by Federal Government
Word of Faith Fellowship responds to AP reports of 'enslaved' members
Inside Edition's 2nd Word of Faith (WOFF) Investigation, summer 1995
DSS, WOFF ruling delayed
Scrutiny of the RC DSS & NC DHHS partnership for WOFF investigations
Former church member cleared of charges
Word of Faith Fellowship sues DSS, claims harassment
Ex-members say church uses power, lies to keep grip on kids
Bankruptcy filing reveals ties to Word of Faith Fellowship
Church members sue for legal fees
Ex-members of church urge overturning of court agreement
Ex-WOFF member files emotional abuse suit
Cooper files $4+ Million suit for “alienation of affection” by Woff & members
NC DHHS not bound by WOFF & RC DSS Settlement; DHHS committed to investigate child abuse 
RC-DSS and N.C.-DHHS to team up on Word of Faith Fellowship investigations
When leaders misuse power at the expense of the faithful
Juror contempt prompts mistrial in church abuse case
When church is a blast
Coopers’ day in court delayed
Whaley testifies during appeal
Words of Faith Fellowship, Inc. v. RUTHERFORD CTY. DEPT. OF SOCIAL SERVICES, 329 F. Supp. 2d 675 (W.D.N.C. 2004)
Man sentenced to 30 days in jail for contempt of court in NC church abuse case
Social worker accused of hiding Word of Faith abuse resigns
WNC church responds after former members tell of abuse, unconventional restrictions
NC church has unconventional rules for sex and marriage
Church leader found guilty
4 trials continued in Word of Faith abuse case
Judge blocks custody turnaround Girl’s grandmother makes attempt to get 10-year-old back into Word of Faith
Polk County jury upholds assault conviction for religious leader
WOFF man cleared on charges
Supreme Court of North Carolina. STATE of North Carolina v. Jane Brock WHALEY.
Federal judge trims WOFF lawsuit
WOFF hit with 2nd lawsuit
Deputies can’t find WoFF’s Jane Whaley; Bell moves for continuance of Guffey sign theft case
DSS settles lawsuit with WOFF
Word of faith fellowship discipline unveiled
Church uses power, lies to keep grip on kids, ex-members say
New investigation into abuse at Word of Faith Fellowship
WOFF-related custody saga continues
More church members face charges
Whaley's assault case postponed
Whaley appeal hearing delayed until January
Assault charges filed on Muse
WOFF leader issued criminal summons
WOFF prayer issues debated
DSS served in suit
North Carolina steps in on child abuse cases involving Word of Faith
Church sues Social Services
Controversial church sues Rutherford County DSS
Trial date requested in Word of Faith abuse case
Court tosses decision on Muse children
Custody ruling appealed
DSS takes Muse kids away from WOFF
WoFF member charged with theft of “Wayne Guffey for Sheriff” campaign sign
DSS probe gives Muse hope in fight for children
Mother tries to get kids from WOFF
Judge: DSS won't pay fees
Ex-WOFF member files emotional abuse suit
Children gain emancipation from mother
Judge: Children suffered with Word of Faith
Prosecutor: minors at risk of forced labor at Word of Faith’s Brazil church
DSS takes Muse kids away from WOFF
Church allegedly kidnaps, brainwashes children to keep them in the congregation
Boy brought out of church will stay out
DSS files petitions in WOFF case
Learner responds to accusations about ADAs affiliated with Word of Faith Fellowship church
Mary S. Hardin, Petitioner, vs. NC Dept of Public Safety, Respondent.
Church members face charges
Gay Man Testifies At Trial Of Church Members Who Beat Him
Fenner/Justin Covington hearing postponed again (Story being updated.)
WoFF Bartley/Fenner continuance hearing Friday
Two WOFF ministers now facing federal charges in scheme former members exposed
Officials mum on WOFF hearing
Former Church Members Question Settlement of Suit Against Child Protection Officials
Judge sets deadlines in WOFF suit
Speaker on cults baffled by WOFF (authored by current WOFF member? "Baker" Maultsby)

Daughter happy in church
Former WOFF member describes abuse
Ex-WOFF member files emotional abuse suit
Former congregants of Word of Faith church reveal years of abuse done to 'purify' sinners in the name of God
Ex-members of church urge overturning of court agreement
DSS case against Word of Faith pastors dropped
DSS answers Word of Faith lawsuit
Word of Faith Fellowship, Inc. v. Rutherford County Dept. of Social Services
Former Word of Faith members claim they were coached as children on lying to DSS
New review system implemented for Word of Faith DSS cases
DSS case dismissed by judge
Fraud charges filed against 2 members of secretive Spindale church
RC’s Word of Faith Fellowship featured on Globo TV
Brazilians funneled as slaves by Spindale church, ex-members say
Mistrial in church beating after juror brings in documents
Secretive Church Accused of Beating the Devil Out of Congregants Is Caught Up in New Scandal
DSS probe gives Muse hope in fight for children
Word of Faith Fellowship sues DSS, claims harassment
Mother: Church illegally keeping children
Lawyer describes how he was abused, tortured and brainwashed
North Carolina Church Revealed To Be A Cult That Kidnaps And Brainwashes Children
MONSTER CHURCH Kids ‘tortured, choked and thrown through walls’ at church
Former church members discuss sect's brutal beatings and 'creepy obsession with sex'
Judge: Children suffered with Word of Faith
Church Couple Included in Case
Court tosses decision on Muse children
DSS takes Muse kids away from WOFF
Mother sues church in custody fight
PHOTOS: Word of Faith Fellowship fights to keep children
Mother: Church illegally keeping children
Mother’s quest to get back children hits roadblock
Upstate mom says WoFF severed relationship with daughter
Brazilian prosecutors sue to shut church over forced labor

The Untitled Word of Faith Fellowship Project – six-episode series – premieres summer 2018


PREACHING TO THE CHOIR -  Damage Control for Our Lady of Perpetual Exemption

WoFF member charged with theft of “Wayne Guffey for Sheriff” campaign sign

Prosecutors Fired from DA's Office 


Probe sought after AP report on church abuse allegations
AP Exclusive: Witness Recounts Church Beating
WOFF's version of damage control
Jane's Scare Tactics After Members Left
WOFFWATCH :30 Commercial
Associated Press Exclusive Investigative Report on WOFF 2/17/17
AP Exclusive: Ex-congregants reveal years of ungodly abuse
Word of Faith Fellowship Response to AP’s Investigative report 2/27/17
Experts Weigh In on WOFF Abuse Allegations
A LIST OF RULES FOR WOFF MEMBERS (SCROLL DOWN)
WSPA TV: Spindale church accused of abuse responds to accusations
25th District Attorney responds to AP WoFF story
NEWS 13 WLOS: New investigation into abuse at Word of Faith Fellowship
JEZEBEL: Investigation into Husband and Wife Pastor Duo Reveals Decades of Abuse at North Carolina Church
TWITTER GOES NUTS! AP TWITTER
DAILY CALLER (LOVE THE PICTURE!!!):Inside The Demented Church That Punched Kids, Congregants In The Face
GRANDE COMMUNICATIONS (FEATURES INTERESTING MAP) Former disciples describe storage annex for 'worst sinners'
Prosperity Theology                       
WLOS Package about John Huddle's New Book: Locked In 
Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) - Victim Testimony - Alleged Destructive Cult - ABC News
Suprise Arrest of Ex WOFF Member
Controversy Raises Concern Over Holocaust Exhibit
Jewish leaders pull support of WoFF museum in Florida
Defendants in WoFF abuse case make first appearance 
John Huddle's Facebook Post about the WOFF and Holocaust Controversy  
Accusations Against Word of Faith Fellowship Members
Word of Faith Member Verdict
Local Church Under Fire, Again
Former Students Claim Harassment
Church Blocks Local Gay Rights Group

WOFF waiver and release form (courtesy of Religious Cults Info)
The WOFF don't do list part one
The WOFF don't do list part two
The WOFF don't do list part three
(The "don't do" lists. There are 7 of them...these are the first three courtesy of religious cults info )
Inside Edition 5/24/11 report on Word of Faith Preachers
CULTS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
John Huddle's Religious Cults Info Blog
RC Catalyst - Seeking the truth about all things Rutherford County and the region.
Matthew Fenner's conversation with Detective Joey Sisk
CNN Anchor and Ole Anthony of Trinity Foundation on Rich Preachers

Trinity Foundation Video  Trinity Foundation video provides a closer look at the investigations arm of the Trinity Foundation, news programs it has helped with, and its work with the US Senate Finance Committee. They have investigated and have infiltrated WOFF (see the Inside Edition Video)

Story on Investigation by US Senate finance Committee
WOFFWATCHER concludes that USSFC was too ambitious and should have gone after smaller fish, like Jane and WOFF, which would ultimately undo the bigger fish in a hurry.  Ideas?

Interesting WOFF server info
There's a WOFF Cemetery?
School Profile for Word Of Faith Christian School Century 21

Court of Appeals of North Carolina. IN RE: S.D.A., R.G.A., V.P.M., and J.L.M., Minor Children.
"Case of a 54-year-old woman having a prescription-drug reaction who was held at WOFF for 13 days while members tried to expel demons - Hagin in the late 1980s distanced himself from the Whaleys, removed their affiliation with his Rhema group of churches, and denounced their deliverance teachings."

Inside Edition Piece on WOFF
WORD FAITH THEOLOGY
CULTS AND ALLTERNATIVE RELIGIONS

American Exorcism: Expelling Demons in the Land of Plenty  (Chapter 12 "Carolina Blues" is about WOFF....From Amazon: "Lucidly written and riveting as any horror novel, Cuneo's excursion into the darker paths of American faith offers a deeply disturbing, ironic vision of what he sees as the unintended consequences of popular culture for the modern religious imagination.")

BRAZILIANS HAVE BEEN VERY VOCAL ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES.....

Seita Verbo Vivo no Brasil _ Tv Alterosa _ 02

Sam Whaley Prayer before Congress 1999
Convicted child molester at Word of Faith agrees to worship at another church
APOLOGETICS INDEX: Word of Faith Fellowship (WOFF) MUST READ!
Word of Faith Fellowship sues DSS, claims harassment
Cult Freedom (John Huddle's Blog in the early days)
CULTBUSTERS GALACTICA Interesting Discussion On Sam And Jane Whaley
Comments on WOFF and Jane, some downright hilarious
WOFF MINISTRY SCHOOL "an annual revenue of 2058596 and employs a staff of approximately 30
Teacher Salary at WOFF School WITH GREEN CARD!
Check out what WOFF will pay you to be a teacher (perhaps at one time)
WORD OF FAITH FELLOWSHIP is in the Elementary and Secondary Schools industry in Spindale, NC. This company currently has approximately 1 to 5 employees and annual sales of Under $500,000.

Very interesting bio about a former WOFF member - Joe English
CUFI Linked with Controversial “Demon-Blasting” Church  
Robert Tilton connection to WOFF
Images of Jane and Sam and WOFF 
All things WOFF (Videos)

WOFF IN YOUR COMMUNITY


Given that a number of properties in the area may have WOFF ties, a call or letter to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission  would be in order to implement a watchful eye on your local realtors, to determine if previous complaints have been filed, or to share an experience you believe was worth a closer look. A complaint or two is one thing, but a series of letters or calls to their office will get their attention and possibly lead to an investigation.

Do WOFF members go through your mail at "home" or even your PO Box? The USPS has a formidable law enforcement branch within it's organization, and takes any matter of alleged mail tampering, very seriously, if you believe this has happened.  https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/

WOFF has an interesting, if yet telling number of firms with which they do business. Have an experience to share? The bar association might be interested in the goings on of some of it's members associated with WOFF. The links page alone will steer you to firms in cases where they were defended. Why such a defense system? Shouldn't these firms also be under scrutiny?   http://www.ncbar.org/

Has your doctor or medical facility done something out of the ordinary and you think it's WOFF related, then contact: http://www.ncmedboard.org/

The FCC might be the go-to agency if you feel your isp is being monitored by any internet companies which may be associated with WOFF. Do you think your phone calls are being recorded? They will want to know this. http://esupport.fcc.gov/complaints.htm

Have you experienced local or regional law enforcement unwilling to intervene in certain WOFF matters? Do you believe that your civil rights have been violated? The US Justice Department might be interested if your complaint has specific details: http://www.justice.gov/crt/.  LGBT persons who believe their civil rights have been violated should contact: Equality North Carolina    

Who carries a concealed weapon in your congregation or area? You might try:  your local   sheriff's department  or State Bureau of Investigations  NC DOJ as permit holders names and other information is a matter of public record.  Also of note, see the link:
BY THE WAY: WOFF MEMBERS CARRY GUNS DURING SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES. I HAVE PERSONALLY SEEN MEMBERS "PRINTING" THEIR FIREARMS ON THEIR PERSONS.

Is an individual making it difficult for you to get information at a local venue? Find out what the chain of command is there and see if the top person is WOFF associated. If not, go to that person and tell them what you are trying to accomplish and let them know that there is someone who is making it difficult for you to find out.WW highly recommends the book: Pulling Your Own Strings. It has made a life changing difference in one person I know and can help you with dealing with those who would want to control you. Everything in this book is common sense that we simply don't apply to everyday life and situations. (by the way, common sense isn't common). WW considers the results of your lessons in this book to be a Dragon Killer to those who would try to control you. Most importantly, It puts you in charge to make your own decisions.  Just so you know, WW has no stake on the sale of this book. Besides, a used copy runs for one cent and you pay for just the shipping. Get it. WW will review this and a couple of other books in future blogs.

NC State Board of Education
Are state test scores being manipulated by an educator or system in which your child attends? How about other matters of concern?Report it.
Office of the North Carolina State Board of Education
301 North Wilmington Street, Room 212
6302 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-6302
Phone: 919.807.3401

DSS
Some "Ministries" have been known to attempt to adopt children for their "church" to boost membership or to raise within the ministry. Is this going on in your community? WHY?
ASK QUESTIONS

Department of Homeland Security
Are foreign visitors belonging to a "church" in your community being paid for their work? How?Are they here legally?
ASK QUESTIONS

IRS
Is extra work being asked of "church" members for church "business" after putting in a full day of work at their jobs? Do you question this church's tax exempt status?

Do you work at a bank in this community? Do you have something to report to the IRS?

North Carolina State Bar
Do you face bankruptcy or are encouraged to file bankruptcy by this organization? Let them know. They will investigate.

US Dept. of Labor, Wage and Hour Division
How are people being paid for their work for the "church"?


The Police
If something that belongs to you is kept from you, report it.




Thursday, October 13, 2011

Mind Control Made Easy or How to Become a Cult Leader

Mind Control Made Easy or How to Become a Cult Leader.....Does this sound/look familiar?

(Thanks very much to the Cults Avoidance Society)

WOFFWATCHER


Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Consider This...

It might appear that I have gone tangential on my blog readers with OWS, but it was really written to make a point.

The point, with a healthy dose of analysis and background, is that there are power brokers, politicians, bankers, some rich people, that put our country in the economic mess, unemployment, health insurance crisis and so on, that affect us all. Everyday citizens (as we are each FAR from ordinary), have noticed, and now the numbers and the protests grow. Where will it lead?

Again, this is how reform begins and happens.

It took a quiet infrastructure to get us to this. The same dynamics are in place in Spindale, NC with the activities of the Word of Faith Fellowship.

People who joined WOFF have their lives consumed by the culture the congregation brings. This culture includes mind control, control over where one works, control over who they marry, among other "controls".

People who have joined WOFF, in some cases, have become estranged from their natural families (those not in WOFF but related) because of pressure by WOFF leadership or doctrine.

People who have joined WOFF have their activities and lives monitored by those they have been appointed to live with.

People who have joined WOFF are fearful to leave because they have been fed a bill of goods that simply isn't true.

People who have left WOFF write, speak and tell us that they are always looking over their shoulder, they have told us that their lives have been ruined, their families torn apart along with other tragic situations.

I have known for some time, and it has been recently published, that new members sign a contract with the congregation to absolve the church from harm. (By the way, there are things in that contract that can't be enforced in a court of law. Any GOOD lawyer will tell you that).

So, you're just going to let this continue?

It was THEIR choice TO JOIN? Perhaps they had good intentions to become part of a meaningful, productive and spiritual community. But former members tell me that once the honeymoon period is over, it is FAR from a congregation they THOUGHT they had joined.

Now, add the structure promoting and displaying it's apparent power (that's right, apparent.......capable of being easily perceived or understood ....according to appearances, initial evidence, incomplete results, etc.; ostensible rather than actual) that is possible with the help of WOFF grooming it's own members to build it's infrastructure.

Imagine a whole city full of residents that hold every key job like LAWYERS, legislators, judges, law enforcement, PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS, clerks, doctors, real estate, developers, BUILDERS, BUSINESSES, and more, controlled, driven, backed, created - by WOFF, in your own back yard.

Well folks, you've got it. Each one of those positions is held by a WOFF member right now!

This infrastructure makes all of this possible. No wonder people are scared.

Can it be fought?

Yes.

There are secrets, secret deals and activities that warrant official and journalistic scrutiny. Once ONE story/scandal comes out, it will spawn another and another, and then the world will really KNOW THE TRUTH.

None of these things in your town happened naturally. They happened by design. This has resulted in bringing power and control to an organization that, for some reason, thinks it is the chosen religion or way to worship God, and everyone else be damned.

And look who's in charge?

I don't know how many times I must emphasize that, in addition to former members, residents of the region - not in WOFF, go to someone in authority and TELL what they know. Read the stories on other sites, could that many people be lying?

Do you take the words: "One of the top five most dangerous cults in America" a widely published quote by Mary Alice Chrnalogar, famous cult expert; Dec 19, 2002, referring to WOFF in Spindale, NC, lightly?

Short of WOFFWATCHER winning the lottery and first hiring Private Investigators to gather evidence and then the best Public Relations firms to conduct a massive news campaign that would expose and scrutinize WOFF, your help is indeed key to this goal.

You, in Charlotte, NC, you in Palm Bay, FL, YOU in Greenwood, SC, YOU overseas, YOU members, enablers, families who watch members, leadership of WOFF....... YOU, out there..... have information.

Spill it.

I have my lottery ticket.

Let's go.

WOFFWATCHER

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Some Business...

I am now on Twitter @woffwatch...Check out my tweets.


NOTE: I'll be changing my author name from Questionfish to: WOFFWATCHER

I recently realized there is a business already up and running with the name Questionfish. I am taking it upon myself to be a responsible person and not confuse people about the name. They had it first, so fair is fair. I wouldn't like it if someone did this to me. BTW, no one came to me about the name. It's the right thing to do. I love my little fish logo, though!

Q. I notice no one leaves comments.

Well, if you are trying to get out, this wouldn't be the place to announce it. If you do, be careful. But by all means, you are invited to leave comments. However, if you try to defend WOFF, I will verbally clean your clock on this blog.

Q. How do you know about the interest this church will draw?

You let me worry about that. You guys do what you have to do to get out, call the authorities, donate to faith freedom fund or volunteer to help them and EX MEMBERS who have left. Remember, this is designed for those who seek to leave, who have family in the church, who need encouragement, and for those that have information pertaining to their experience there that might gain the attention of FEDERAL agencies who may want to conduct an investigation. I don't endorse or condone taking someone out of there against their will, nor am I encouraging it. We do things lawfully, We work WITH the law, not AGAINST the law. Don't do something crazy!

Crazy is what started all of this.

The stakes are high and people's lives are affected. Your help can make a difference.

Join me and others in the fight.

WOFFWATCHER

Friday, September 23, 2011

Speak Up Now.....

Widespread and unwanted attention from national and international media on the Word of Faith Fellowship Church and it's leadership in Spindale, NC, is once again, inevitable, this time on a potentially larger scale.

There is a substantial volume of documented accounts about this church on web blogs, forums, local news,  from local citizens, insiders NOT in the church, church members, former members, and families of both members and former members, as well as from local and national clergy.

Hence, making this seemingly dormant, if not seasonal, albeit still controversial subject, ripe for future microscopic evaluation.

The most compelling stories continue to come from former members who tell of experiences that ultimately led them to leave this church. However, even more compelling will be the accounts of current members who fiercely defend the church and it's leadership, who will not address the issues specifically but will answer with carefully crafted talking points in which to respond. All of these dynamics will lead to questions about the church's practices, associations, benefactors, history of leadership, etc. That can't be good for a community that has tolerated this for a number of years. Because THAT'S going to be a story too.

All of these categories will be vetted to the eyeballs and other categories may come up that I haven't even thought of.

You see, News organizations have been known to use private investigators to supplement their "Investigative Reporters". Conventional means of reporting, digging up information and such has become much more sophisticated.

And so,  it takes on a life of it's own.

Truth and information is a formidable enemy to lies and deception.

So, could accounts from all of these former members all be lying?  Did many marriages break up, families separated and estranged, people seeking counseling all just make this up?

Current or former members, local residents, If you have something to say, complain about, report, etc...........

NOW WOULD BE THE TIME TO DO THIS.
 DOCUMENT EVERYTHING...
KEEP A LOG OR CALL SOMEONE YOU TRUST AND HAVE THEM WRITE IT DOWN.

I KNOW you folks out there have important things to say, it's time to step up.
You blessed folks have more power than you think you do. You have just allowed someone to talk you out of realizing/using it.

The word NO is powerful and if you back it up with resolve and purpose, you'll be more powerful than they.

But things are happening here that merit a look by someone official who might want to take a closer look. It could very well lead to more comprehensive official scrutiny.

It will help your community as well as those in need who have been affected.

Who should you talk to? Read the other posts on this blog for agencies. Try national agencies first since they will likely not have connections with the church's house PI, legal eagles or power brokers.

WOFF may have been able to fend off the media and attention in the past, but not this next time.

I have done my homework.


WOFFWATCHER

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH SOMEONE

Perhaps it's that we move so fast these days or we just choose to ignore warnings about the food we eat.
Chicken nuggets are really compressed parts of chickens.

Hamburger results from lots of cows and parts ground up, not one cow.

Some meat products contain nitrates, steroids and other harmful chemicals to us.

Even produce at the grocery store have dangerous pesticides and preservatives that could interfere with our health.

Food isn't prepared and grown like it used to when many of us were growing up. There is widespread evidence of the examples I have used about hamburgers, chicken and produce.

Despite the evidence,  we either choose to ignore it, shrug it off or quickly move on to the next thought in our daily lives and go on with the purchase anyway, after all, we have our  own lives to live. Even though eating these foods might be slowly killing you over time.

The same thing goes on with matters in your own community, only this will not result in your demise, it certainly impacts the lives of those around you.

In just about every community,  most people will know just about everyone and what goes on in their lives.

Just like the hamburgers, chicken and produce, there are things that exist among them that, in the long run, might be bad for the rest of us.

Yet, this too, we ignore, shrug off or move on to what matters to us. There may be one Samaritan that might pray for or even help the person in need.

Spindale, Rutherfordton, Forest City:  your community has this very situation existing among you. The status quo of daily life without intervention is enabling and empowering the presence of a dangerous cult.

For years, accounts from people associated with or formerly associated with the Word of Faith Fellowship have surfaced in public, resulting in either controversy or attracting headlines. Yet, church members dismiss it as lies, as they have been instructed to defend themselves with church talking points.

An organization this big and with so many people dropping out can't possibly be leak free. And, I know first hand, that indeed is the case.

Talking it out with them or debating bible verses simply won't do. They won't listen.

This is where most people give up because they believe that a socially acceptable way of debate and compromise will get some answers and results. This is supposed to be a civilized society. We have rules and that's how we get results. However, It takes a different level of strategy to deal with an opponent of this type.

The point here is: you don't need to deal with them to get results.

An ongoing tragedy is going on in your community.

It is in the form of control of their members, disassociation with their natural families that aren't members, constant monitoring, and all that those entail. Their version of freedom is not freedom, it is THEIR version..

The people who leave there, not only leave, they are vocal, in many cases angry, hurt, broke, broken. No one leaves there without some form of emotion or impact on their lives. They are changed persons that need our help.

This will continue until you and your neighbors act to change this. It's like a wildfire in your own back yard and you do nothing about it thinking it won't affect you and someone else will deal with it.

Wrong.

I have carefully studied your community. I found a prevailing atmosphere of frustration, fear, confusion,  concern by quite a few (quite a few should be more like - many) and indifference about this group..all among your fine communities. Some have expressed deep sadness, if not embarrassment about it.

The axiom of: "Well, if they want to get out, what's stopping them?"
Answer: "This is your way of help?"
"They bring money to the local economy."
Answer: "Are you kidding me? "
" Stirring up the pot is making enemies."
Answer: "You are enabling your enemy, and worse, you don't even realize it"

WOFF has been empowered by a network or infrastructure involving key local big money and power  some in state government such as (now former) assistant district attorneys ( who are members ), as well as local business people, lawyers and invisible donors, not directly church members, but associated with the church's leadership. They are key to it's survival in this community. Without them, the church would have to base somewhere else to get the security they enjoy.


Now, any community, small or large will have it's power brokers. Your community is no different. Things move and grow and you hardly notice them because you are busy with your own lives and perhaps not inclined to ask questions.

This is not to say that all of this moving and shaking is nefarious, most of it goes on as a matter of course. It's a way a community grows. But sometimes it isn't, and it leads to mutual feeding where growth and prosperity is for only those involved and none of it intended to be shared.

You can play a role in helping your community, at least help those people who want to leave this congregation, and or perhaps know something about this church that might gain the interest of the Federal Government. Examples: Department of Homeland Security, The Justice Department, Immigration, Department of Labor, Department of Education, the IRS. This initially covers areas where activity within their jurisdiction can be investigated.Once they begin, They will be very thorough. Call Washington, not your locals.

What's going on that needs investigating? The answers are held by many in your community.

I KNOW YOU HAVE INFORMATION. Do the right thing. See something, say something.

Help Us Help Them. You really have more power than you think you do. If everyone gets on this together, it could help a lot more people than just the ones in the church.

It would be the neighborly thing to do.

WOFFWATCHER