WOFF in Review

Love is giving someone the ability to destroy you, but trusting them not to -  Anon


Recent incidents, including arrests involving WOFF members, have put the "'church" back in the mainstream news.

For a recap, here's a few links that will get you up to speed:

 http://www.wlos.com/shared/news/top-stories/stories/wlos_vid_9593.shtml#.UKevZ2RK3_0.facebook

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2nLX8gjBfk&feature=plcp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61KMzz31rM4


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPpbmDDRm8M&list=FLMD4KEe1Ly8S7HHifNA-2vQ&index=9&feature=plpp_video    

and the WW links blog to more links:  http://woffwatch.blogspot.com/2011/10/links-to-word-of-faith-fellowship.html

UPDATE

Grand Jury seating was interrupted today (12/10/12) by the discovery of a WOFF member possibly having been among those hearing the complaint by Michael Lowry for an incident reported by him in 2011 on WOFF property. It's not known at this time whether the District Attorney will seek a change of venue or other legal or law enforcement intervention.

If this a is a maneuver by WOFF's legal team to buy time and cost Mr. Lowry time and money, it could be to their client's (WOFF) peril as a change in venue would not give them home field advantage. One would think that people outside the WOFF community's reach might be able to look at things more clearly. Perhaps a community not under the influence of WOFF might not tolerate such nonsense as well as consider their track record.  Let's see how this works. My considered opinion is that this will come back to bite them.  One step forwards, two steps back.

Otherwise, sometime in January 2013 four WOFF security team members will appear in court to address charges of misdemeanor stalking and false imprisonment, a separate incident featured in a story reported by WLOS TV..

In the 18 or so months that WoffWatcher has joined the cause to challenge WOFF, visitors to this site have viewed WOFF related links as well as lessons, a letter to Jane, suggestions on how to leave WOFF, inspirational messages and overall "in your face""tough love".

If you've just navigated your way here via search engines or the very well written newspaper story about WOFF, and just now have realized they have opponents in the form of critics and blogs, read on. You'll find the WW body of work.  This newspaper piece has been picked up by national and international media and continues to draw strong interest, if the boost in traffic to this blog is any indication.

Over time, it might be easy for the message to get muddled, particularly if you haven't followed WW or WOFF from day one, so it would be a good idea to review the WW position. Let's sort out what's clear and what's wrong.

It should be noted here that WW has no issue with a person worshiping God. WW does have a problem with someone appointing themselves as a direct line to GOD and then skewing the rules.

Now then, WW seeks to bring awareness about the WOFF (Protestant and Non-Denominational) culture and practices. This congregation has a history of documented controversy, as well as a tumultuous relationship with some residents in it's community, with family members of WOFF members who are not members themselves, as well as a cozy and sometimes secret relationship with business and political enablers who seek mutual gain, as with family members of WOFF members who are not members themselves.

So, in order to create context here are a few highlights:

Among WOFF's core belief is that everyone has devils and thus needs deliverance. Sam and Jane Whaley believe that deliverance is essential.

Prospective members must sign a release before they can join WOFF  (courtesy religiouscultsinfo.com)
They are heavy on information control
They have a published Don't Do list (courtesy religiouscultsinfo.com)
They are bothered by blue jeans
They do not celebrate holidays and birthdays
Many WOFF members have a desirable comfort zone in their mind and heart to rationalize whhy they stay at WOFF.
Cremation is thought to be the curse of the wicked
There is dependency on Jane's approval on many decisions including courting, marriage and having sex but also where to live, where to work, how to dress.
Jane Whaley believes she is "perfect"
Some members are screamed at or "blasted" to get devils out of them
Some members have reported that they were confined in what is called "the Fourth Building"
Some members claim, per police incident reports, that they were beaten and or followed around the community or stalked.
Their dependency on secrecy
The "church" encourages or recommend their members cut ties with their non member families, resulting in Broken Families
"Church" members must work at "approved" or "designated" (by WOFF) businesses.
A Formidable(?) legal defense
A Security(?) Team
Reports of members having host families go through their mail
Reports of host families listening in on phone conversations
Chaperoning of members when going outside the church or for visits out of town
Chaperoning of patients visiting their Doctor
It reportedly takes $20,000 a week to run the organization (what's 20k times 52 weeks?)

So, one could surmise that this group is a cult? Indeed, it shows many cult characteristics.


However, no one sets out to join a cult.

Similarities among cult leaders include sharing early experiences of neglect, many resulting in narcissistic tendencies.

Could Jane's early experience growing up with TWO fathers have contributed to this mix?

The underlying concern here is that once cornered, cult leaders have been prone toward the destruction of the cult.

Hence the WW message.

WW challenges WOFF practices and doctrine of a fear based message. This is not a rational dialogue on theology. They don't wish to see themselves in the broader society.

WW challenges the control that the "church" imposes on it's members.

WW challenges the concept, much less the actual practice of having prospective WOFF members to sign a release before they can become members.

WW challenges the "church" and it's leadership on transparency, both financial and organizational.

WW challenges non member business ties with "enablers" who financially or otherwise favor WOFF resulting in financial gain or power.

WW challenges Jane Whaley to account for her personal finances and accommodations as a result of being the head of WOFF. Do you need 65 acres? 

WW challenges WOFF leadership and other WOFF members who aspire to take control of the "church" at some point in the near future, to admit that they have other ideas about how the church should run.

WW challenges Jane Whaley's capability of making a transition from the status quo to a more mainstream congregation with transparency.

Jane is consistently ignoring good advice beginning with facing her and the "church's" weaknesses. Jane relies too much on her version of faith.

WW challenges WOFF to stop using foreign exchange "students" to perform work for them without pay.

WW challenges WOFF to admit their members own a stockpile of surveillance equipment.

WW challenges WOFF  to stop chaperoning WOFF members as patients at Doctors and Hospital visits as it could violate HIPAA

WW challenges WOFF to produce flight plans for out of town trips on private jets.

WOFF members and leadership have responded to blogs and critical opinion as "attacks" thereby labeling it "persecution" .

That response doesn't work. The challenges are numerous. But they are challenges. They are not attacks.

If they have nothing to hide, well, then let's see it. 

As a result, WOFF prefers to play the victim instead of meeting the challenges.

My experience has taught me that anyone that responds to challenge using a tactic instead of meeting the challenge, is prone to be a professional manipulator. How interesting that they chose this response instead of with welcome transparency.

Misinformation and self unawareness brought down the Republican party's bid for a presidency. They had no clue they would lose because they kept telling themselves they would win despite not having any clear math to back up their zeal.

Misinformation is pervasive in our society and so WOFF hides behind the POSSIBILITY that blogs and critics are feeding the same misinformation.

The math they like is the math that fit's their version of reality.

WOFF's only response to WW and other critics/blogs are that we are lying.

They can't back up those accusations.

WE can back up ours.

WOFF: How is the humiliation you suffer in public or from critics/blogs any different from the humiliation you place on your members inside the walls? Is it OK if YOU do it to yourselves?

The issues that WW brings here are of lack of freedom, lack of transparency,  carelessness,  manipulation, and  self unawareness. These issues, more than any one person or organization or government agency, are likely to bring down an organization such as this alone, even before  intervention.

WW compels it's readers to ask questions. So here's a starter kit:

Does your church follows or monitors it's members?

Does your church boast about spending millions defending itself?

Does your church allegedly allow violence against those it perceives as different from them and posts signs about how it welcomes all kinds of people, after the fact?

Does your church attract controversy?

WW has identified most of the players in this situation, however, there are two more worth noting.

WW must also chide the community and local media for not taking a pro active position in this matter, or in this case opposition. People in the area certainly do have an opinion and or experience to share. But ask them to take a stand....well, no.


Folks, this is unacceptable. This means you can live with this in your own community. How sad, but more to the point, cowardly.

Same goes for you Forest City newspaper. Your connections to WOFF or concern for the bottom line poses a dilemma. Are you a business masquerading as journalists or are some or one of you on the WOFF payroll? WW gets more news from WOFF chatter than you dole out in your newspaper. Your coverage of this organization is embarrassingly weak.

Together, weak media coverage and community indifference have fed the growth of what we know now to be WOFF.

Both of you should be ashamed of helping groom this mess.

Thank goodness for the area's Faith Freedom Fund. This is a coalition of churches in the area that HAVE pooled their resources to help those leaving or affected by the WOFF organization.

805 Oakland Road
Spindale, NC 28160
828-286-2361

WW does not fool itself into believing that the upcoming court proceedings will explore all discussed here. It expects for the courts to consider the specific charges and accusations and deal with it accordingly. However, the attention won't go away once the dust has settled. Too much new interest may have attracted the right number of those who would seek to investigate further. And, we urge you to.

Facts and time and pro activity and courage and common sense will ultimately prevail. We will find the truth through these ingredients, unless WOFF tries to suppress it or respond that the truth are lies. The holes in their system prevent them from going forward,  and will ultimately stop them.

There is still time to get this straight.

We should avoid any further tragedy, WOFF, you need to stop. And now. You can't buy credibility. But you need to get it and fast. You can break those barriers and still live without persecution. The only power you have is to change the direction of your congregation before someone in your congregation, the government, or I, make it so.

As always, Real faith is always willing to be challenged.

Document Everything
ASK QUESTIONS

-Woffwatcher

DOCUMENT EVERYTHING... more links & some homework for you

WW continues to explore the areas where WOFF members, and those contemplating leaving, or who are struggling with certain issues, as well as families on the outside, can help themselves as well as others in your situation. Previous blogs have other links as well, and you're invited to scroll back and review those.

So, here begins another list of places, ideas, agencies that may apply to your specific situation, as well as some tips on documenting your experience.

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: :http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/Public_access_to_concealed_carry_lists , and your local sheriff's department;  http://www.rutherfordcountync.gov/dept/sheriffs/Main.php  or State Bureau of Investigations  http://www.ncdoj.gov/SBI.aspx  as permit holders names and other information is a matter of public record. It's a good idea to know who's carrying:  http://www.docstoc.com/docs/21975592/North-Carolina-Concealed-Handgun-Permit-Statistics-by-County .As of 2009 , Rutherford County reported 2,765 regular applications for a gun permit, 1,206 Valid Permits, 35 regular permit applications denied and 3 regular permit applications revoked. Also of note, see the link: Half Of North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit Holders With Felony Convictions Keep Their Permit  Gun laws: http://www.ncdoj.com/getdoc/32344299-a2a7-4ae5-99fd-9018262f64ac/2007-NC-Firearms-gun-Laws.aspx  and finally:
http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/North_Carolina

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.

When writing, calling or asking in person Always be professional, to the point, courteous, and non confrontational. This is the only way civil people make progress.

DOCUMENTING EVERYTHING is very important, even what you believe to be a minor detail, it might be important to an investigation.

In reading recent incident reports as filed by ex WOFF'ers, I noticed that there were certain lack of details, thus making an investigation or for to be charges filed, difficult or impossible. WW understands that it may be hard to DOCUMENT EVERYTHING just after it happened because of the heightened sense of fear, adrenaline, or emotions. This is where witnesses are key. An observer not directly involved can give a more detailed account of the incident.

It may be hard to find a witness if things are being done behind closed doors or if a potential witness is in fear of reprisal. This is why you must train yourself to be able to give as much detail to your account as possible. This includes names, dates, times, what they were wearing, how they carried out an act against you, with what, and when and how many and what they said, where. File a complaint immediately, as soon as it happened.

WW has also discovered that perhaps some (not all) local law enforcement officers may not be comprehensively trained in dealing with potential victims of cult like organizations. This may hinder any possible investigation in handling a potential victim. This is a specialized and necessary type of training and WW encourages local law enforcement to take the initiative to see that it's officers are trained in this area. Like it or not officers, there is a cult in your own back yard and it's members need help. I would also encourage any organizations, profit or otherwise, to bring a treatment facility to the region that treats cult victims. Such a move would bring attention and ultimate credibility to this serious and ongoing tragedy in the community.

WW has concluded from research and observation, that not all members of occupations and industries mentioned in today's blog, are WOFF associated. You might find that hard to conclude this if you are a WOFF'er/ Ex-WOFF'er/Family Member. It's understandable. There is no list of WOFF associated and not associated. You may also have to watch out for people who play both sides.

In your gathering information, or filing a complaint, you may find that dealing with WOFF'ers and WOFF associated people may be defensive. Some may answer a question with a question. Body language and tone are also dead giveaways. WW has experienced this first hand with some members being quite confrontational. Don't fear them as they fear you. You have the power. Truth is power. But also be wary of people you feel you can trust. Only give information relevant to your situation. Never just spill out everything and tell them you're relieved you finally found someone trusting, because not all is as it seems  If it's law enforcement and you are a victim, subject or suspect, then you tell them everything, as you should. Same goes for being a witness in court .

HOW you go about reporting or filing a complaint about something you believe was done wrong to you, and listening to how the other party responds is key. Most importantly, be absolutely sure, truthful  and careful about your details.

Remember, when filing a complaint, ask yourself if it is reasonable and responsible? Does it have details and facts. Don't leave opinions and hearsay. Leave out commentary and presumption. Ask yourself If you were the one conducting the investigation or interview, would you find holes in the account, an axe to grind, or is it frivolous?

The agencies featured here can and will investigate complaints and will determine if infractions, or crimes, have been committed, and proceed accordingly. Your responsibility is to be truthful, stay alert, and DOCUMENT EVERYTHING, for details and specifics matter. If you are in a situation where you believe what you write down and store isn't safe, it is important to remember: WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, HOW.  If you remember just these words, then you can sort them out in your head or on paper later. Only details will matter in your report. Get the names of every one you talk to when filing your report or complaint you file. Leave out the "set up" that most people don't realize they are including in telling a story.

This "church" and it's leadership and membership is responsible for the well being of our loved ones here on this earth. We hold WOFF accountable through our responsible and lawful vigilance.

If WOFF feels they don't answer to anyone, I disagree, with credibility.
 
Stay tuned.

ASK QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING

-WOFFWATCHER

Fish Or Cut Bait...A Special Comment

First, A Story...

A dog lies lazily on his side on a front porch on a hot summer day. Every now and then the dog howls in pain, contemplating getting up, but doesn't. This practice goes on and on and on for hours. A neighbor stops by the house to visit with the dog's owner to talk about some neighborhood gossip when the dog howls again. The neighbor asks "why is the dog howling? . The owner says "the dog is lying on a nail". The neighbor asks "why doesn't he get off the nail?"The owner says: "because it doesn't hurt enough yet".
And, so we have the WOFFer who wants to leave, is thinking about leaving, only the nail causing him/her pain, doesn't hurt enough..... yet.

Since July of last year, I have made my position known on the illegitimacy of WOFF. I have posted words of encouragement, ideas to pursue, challenged WOFF leadership and ideology, provided links to WOFF and related subjects, provided counter ideas to their twisted logic, pleaded with you to leave this tragedy waiting to happen, and even given you scenarios that will most likely occur as time goes on.

And you have read (thank you), and you have looked at the links. Some of you have even posted comments.

And, some of you who read this blog, play for the other team. WW knows that, and much more.

But I digress.

I know, for some people leaving WOFF can be daunting. It might also be complicated because it might not just be you. Your spouse and family might not be on the same page. I know, that's a dilemma. Taking such a big step requires courage and a plan. Yes, it does. Yeah, they might have you locked in pretty good, or at least have you thinking that way.

But all your whimpering, complaining, crying, whining, dreaming, fantasizing.....won't get the job done unless you, like the dog on the porch, Get Off your Lazy, Timid, Behinds and Get Moving.

The place you go to "church" is bad for you. It is bad for your health. It is bad for the people outside it that love you. It is bad for your friends INSIDE the "church". It is bad for the community.

It is bad.

These people are lying to you.

These people are doing insane things in the name of God.

These people have made you their slaves.

What they are doing to you is at the very least, evil, possibly criminal and certainly beyond reprehensible.

This is a place where secrecy, paranoia, constant and ever present monitoring, screaming out demons, abuse, and controversy, lives in your daily life, and can't be good for anyone.

These people above you in leadership will ultimately be investigated and charged if they are responsible for criminal acts and sued for civil ones.

By the way, that "waiver" you signed, will be thrown out in court, and isn't worth the piece of paper on which it is written because it's not enforceable. Their lawyers will tell you otherwise, but they're not YOUR lawyers, don't believe them!

Opponents to this blog would dismiss this as anything but vitriol and bluster.

You are wrong, cult - breath!

The WOFF leadership, such as it is, view the outside world with contempt, paranoia and disdain. They will tell you that I am lying and that terrible things will happen to you if you leave. Again, they are lying to you as they have no proof of this.

THEY WILL NEVER PROVE THIS.

Those who would challenge WOFF would only waste their time, as WOFF will hold strong, in their twisted view.

Of course this is going to be their stance. They know they have you under their thumb and any "outsider" isn't going to sway them, you or anybody in WOFF. They have you scared and believing them. To your families and those outside your "church" ,YOU HAVE BECOME SMILING ZOMBIES OF BLISS.

But REAL FAITH IS ALWAYS WILLING TO BE CHALLENGED.

Real faith can be explored by you outside of this place. Real faith and love await you to explore and worship as you want outside of this place.

These people, Jane Whaley particularly, have gotten rich from YOUR hard work and money. She will get richer and thus, more powerful around those she controls with YOUR money, until she and WOFF is exposed for the fraud that is clearly going on.

Time and time again I have said that this will all end and it will end badly. It will end because people will tell their story to the authorities, the authorities will investigate, and the authorities will not come up empty handed. There will be so much to investigate here that the feds will have their hands full. They will investigate the alleged abuses, both physically and emotionally, to people in their "church" now, and those who have left and continue to come forward. They will investigate the trail of money that comes from YOU, that comes from "secret" contributors (not secret to me, I KNOW who they are) and where the money goes, how it is spent, what for, as well as WHO is paid to keep this organization powerful and moving forward. They will investigate the already documented accounts of people who were electronically monitored. Foreign governments along with our State Department will investigate the legitimacy of foreign students working conditions and treatment,as well as the fund raising in foreign countries.There will be investigations into the chaperoning of WOFF members to Doctor's and clinic visits, which is potentially a violation of the HIPPAA act..

And, it's all because WOFF feels because it is above accountability. How arrogant is that?

WOFF: the bottom line here is that your organization will be dismantled.

Between your current(soon to be ex) followers, ex members, interested community members, Federal Agencies, Me, and more, will see to that.

Laugh and scoff all you want.

However, never underestimate the power of determination. History has shown that determination has brought down governments, civilizations, corruption and evil.

So what makes WOFF so different? Nothing. WOFF leadership is delusional.

God on your side? Not the same as everyone Else's.

Money on their side? That's just WOFF, and there are more of US than you and your money.

The next fight WOFF picks will be their last, as all eyes interested in this place will swarm in with suits and briefcases and badges and lots and lots of paper. Hope the hotels in Rutherford County will be prepared.

So, Fish or cut bait? Read everything I have posted to remind you, to give you ideas, to give you logic to challenge them. And if something happened to you, write everything down in detail, because the cops will want to know. And don't be afraid of them being in cahoots with Jane. Those cops will be found out if they are. The Justice Department will want to know this.

If you plan on getting out, get moving..... Just get out.There is no "nice" way of dealing with these people. Get in their face and tell them to leave you alone. They don't play by the rules, so you don't have to either. But don't do anything stupid or illegal.

By the way: How's that nail feeling about now?

Ask Questions
WOFFWATCHER

Your Privacy: Are You Being Watched?

WW recently discovered a court case in California involving the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the alleged use of stalking and wire fraud over it's members.

From the ( 4Jehovah.org ) website:

From: Case Number 3:10-CV-03907-MEJ Document 50 filed in The United States District Court For The Northern District of California on May 23, 2011 and from the link:  http://4jehovah.org/images/stories/downloads/jehovahs_witness/spying/case-doc50-pp32-33.pdf 

In this case, the Plaintiffs Jonathan D Cobb, Sr and Walter Arlene St. Clair provide evidence of wire fraud on pages 32-33, where they state:

“The Defendants have utilized people with specific skills such as Mr. Bruce Radetich, who is an ex-police officer and now a security specialist who, it is believed has been employed in an effort to use illegal means to surreptitiously monitor phone calls in hopes of gaining information as to the possible direction the Plaintiff’s are heading with regard to legal matters. Certain personal cell phones of the Plaintiff’s as well as other parties closely associated with the Plaintiff’s appear as if they have been monitored by parties outside. One particular cell phone used by Jason Cobb was inspected by a cell phone specialist… where it was determined that the phone in question had been set up to allow a remote party to be able to intercept calls and monitor them. Milano the cell phone technician who worked on the cell phone in question has had nearly ten years of experience with various makes and models of phones and this party has agreed to testify about the state of the phone and the potential ramifications of what he discovered while working on Jason Cobb’s cell phone. The technician’s expert testimony can easily show intent and how far the Defendants, acting in consort with various confederates, are willing to go in an effort to try to conceal the true nature of this situation, not to mention clearly defining Wire Fraud issues.”  (end of website reference)

In reading many of these types of accounts online, isn't it reasonable to conclude that these practices are not proprietary?

Although the logic of: "If this has happened there, it MUST be happening here" would arguably become the primary thought, specifics and evidence, at the very least, would be needed to confirm this.

However, given documented accounts from former members over the years referencing behavior from WOFF, as it pertains to today's subject, give the casual observer reasonable grounds to conclude that SOME kind of alleged monitoring might also be practiced? If these appear similar, then isn't it interesting given that WOFF is said to have it's own "Security Specialist"?

WW asks questions: Do you have internet and or cable service? Is your internet company associated (that is, does it have members who are in WOFF?).

But then, what else? Who else has access (that you know about) to your: Cell Phone (there's an app for monitoring those monitoring you), computer log files kept by your isp, computer history, registry, (learn how your computer works and keep things private), mail (do you have a PO box? If you do and are asked about it in WOFF, ISN'T THAT EVIDENCE?)

Ask yourself.

Since July 2011, WW has pleaded with residents of Rutherfordton County, former members, current members contemplating leaving WOFF, people at banks, government and law enforcement who are NOT members, to TELL SOMEONE, if they have seen or have evidence (documentation) of anything that could or would get the attention of FEDERAL law enforcement and or GOVERNMENT agencies.

Now, that said, WW has reason to believe that some people in this area are afraid that SOME local authorities might be colluding with WOFF, thus taking a chance by going to someone for help when it might backfire. This is understandable. The local authorities in California weren't associated with the Jehovah's Witnesses and justice took it's course. The infrastructure here seemingly makes this task more difficult. But only SEEMINGLY.

However, area attorneys NOT associated with WOFF, particularly those who have defended others AGAINST WOFF, are most likely to know the players, and they could be a source of information that might prove useful. WW would start with them. They ALSO might know someone higher up who might be able to help.

WW also knows that people have contacted Washington agencies only to get thrown back to NC or regional offices that MIGHT be associated with WOFF. This can be frustrating unless you decide that there is no end to this, and you must see it through.

Specifics, names, truth, evidence, documentation, dates, times, quotes, actions, are among the most important elements in making your case and presenting it.

In calling an agency or calling on an agency in person you can encounter obstacles from the very beginning This can be enough to make anyone want to quit.

But don't. Here's how you get around it.

WW's rule of customer service: If you get someone that can't help you, it's because they: don't care, just killing time for a paycheck, barely got by the training and most likely needs additional training, and (this is true) don't like you (they might be having a bad day).

So, call that place again (or if in person, ask for someone else or go another time). WW GUARANTEES that if you do this, you will get a different answer, and probably one that will be helpful. This works every time, particularly with government employees who are now overworked due to budget and staff cuts, while some have an entitlement complex (again true).

Get AROUND conventional ways of dealing with people for this purpose. This is an unconventional situation, so you should approach it unconventionally. Read WW's earlier blog on Guerrilla tactics and how to deal with people.

People with evidence: You are out there.

Present Your Evidence to Authorities

Many people are affected by what is going on now.

YOU CAN CHANGE THAT.

ASK QUESTIONS
-WOFFWATCHER

Never Underestimate the Power of Determination

"Never doubt that a small group of dedicated people can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has - Margaret Mead


The more ministries in question seem to feel confident that their legal, technical or infrastructural firewall is impenetrable, the more determined, talented, and motivated their opposition becomes.

A couple of examples include: the ways of creative financing the organization, and keeping members in check. These among many other areas have become more challenging to implement due to fragmentation of culture and advances in technology. While some of these methods of suppression have stood the test of time, ever changing technology compromises this kind of structure's integrity, then add a final and productive push from those determined to unveil secrecy and force transparency.

Common sense seeps through ideology and dogma that seems to go against a person's established beliefs, hence the reference about fragmented society. In these people you will find ex-"church" members, those contemplating escape, those still inside but doubting their method of worship and all that it entails.

Then there are those, in the name of their beliefs, or ordered to, who carry out activities that challenge established laws in our society.

Because WW, knows this exists, an here are more suggestions to apply to specific areas in question:

FCC
If you believe your internet or cable is being monitored by your local cable company, contact the FCC. Ask the local cable company if it employs people from a "church" that might conduct this practice. If they say no, contact the FCC anyway.

DSS
Some "Ministries" have been known to attempt to adopt children for their "church" to boost membership. 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?
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 work at a bank in this community?

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.


Document EVERYTHING. It will be useful in an investigation.

An investigation will lead to the following types of coverage:

Interviews with whistle-blowers

Books

A Movie

A Documentary

Songs

Local, National, International News Coverage

Further Investigation

Victim Lawsuits

While those may view this as a blueprint for which to prepare and defend........it's too late..


"Only arrogance can dismiss the possibility of dismantling a potentially dangerous organization. Arrogance is a state of mind, unworthy of combating determination" -WOFFWATCHER

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Some People Think The Way They Do...

Many of us like to believe that our opinions have been formed over time by careful, rational consideration of facts and ideas, and that the decisions based on those opinions, therefore, have the ring of soundness and intelligence.

In the real world, we often base our opinions on our beliefs, which can have an uneasy relationship with facts. And rather than facts driving beliefs, our beliefs can dictate the facts we chose to accept. They can cause us to twist facts so they fit better with our preconceived notions. Worst of all, they can lead us to uncritically accept bad information just because it reinforces our beliefs. This reinforcement makes us more confident we’re right, and even less likely to listen to any new information. This effect is only heightened by the information glut, which offers — alongside an unprecedented amount of good information — endless rumors, misinformation, and questionable variations on the truth.

In other words, it’s never been easier for people to be wrong, and at the same time feel more certain that they’re right. The “I know I’m right” syndrome, is a potentially formidable problem in a democratic system. It suggests not only that most people will resist correcting their factual beliefs, but also that the very people who most need to correct them will be least likely to do so. Analysts have termed this as “motivated reasoning.”

Whether or not the consistent information is accurate, we might accept it as fact, as confirmation of our beliefs. This makes us more confident in said beliefs, and even less likely to entertain facts that contradict them.

WOFFWATCHER

Truth

Religion is dangerous because it allows human beings, who don’t have all the answers, to think they do. - Bill Maher

Like Bill Maher or not, he's right.

I have learned and observed during my life that people usually don't like someone they don't like, or approve of, to be right. It infuriates them. If it only came from someone else, some have said. "Oh, I hate for him to be right", they say secretly.

You can learn something all the time from watching other people because we see ourselves in people we love, or people we hate, all at the same time.

Then you self edit, or try...all in the hopes of becoming a reasonable person!

I don't believe we ever completely finish becoming a reasonable person. It is an ongoing process. If that's you, then I reasonably believe you are reasonable. Close enough is good too.

Then you hear: someone's idea of reasonable is another person's crazy.

True.

The difference is, when reason is based on truth, not a version of the truth. Then it's reasonable. At least in the neighborhood.

What is truth?

That one is easy. You may think it's hard because admitting the truth, to some people, is hard. But, it's easy because that's a good sign they already know the truth.

If you don't agree. Then ask yourself if you feel it. You know instantly, it's just admitting it or even saying it that makes it hard. No? Ask someone else. Then ask another. And another. Keep doing so until you are sick and tired of asking, and then keep asking again. If you disagree, someone doesn't have all the facts.

Is it so obvious that it stares you down without question as truth, but still you doubt it?

Is this fruitless?

No, it's a form of fighting. Fighting to find the truth, any truth.

So we do have the skill to find the truth. Some of us know it, some don't realize it, but we do.

We don't have to see ourselves as smart or dumb to have it. We have it. Like it or not. Know it or not.

Where did we pick up this unknown and hidden skill? Mom and Dad, brothers and sisters, the neighborhood, a fight with a bully? God?

I believe the answer is: all of the above.

Since God is in the highest order of things and beings on that very short list, it's got to be that he had a hand in it. A pretty big one at that.

Before you conclude that this is a sermon, I am talking about truth as a thing, fact, something tangible, something reasonable people agree on. It could be that we agree that the sky is blue, or that some people are taller than others.

The truth makes us reasonable.

The truth in this argument is that we know that loved ones are not in our lives because they chose to follow WOFF.

We can all agree on that as truth.

We hurt from that and it skews our ability to process thoughts and actions because not only is WOFF controlling the lives of those in the congregation, but we on the sidelines watching and worrying and hurting.

Their truth is a version of the truth. Not the truth.

Our truth is real. It is clear. It is painful.

What they preach isn't real.

What they preach divides, hurts, exploits. What they preach isn't realistic. What they preach is selfish. What they preach does damage.

In their world they are reasonable.

In our world WE are reasonable. Our world is bigger.

They dismiss THE WORLD, which includes a healthy number of reasonable people, and forms of worship and...you and me.

Their power comes from enablers connected to the church from the outside, aka, the world, or some members of it. I believe money drives all of this.

Let's find out if and how much the church is paying for this protection.

This is where the work begins. This is our road to the truth.

WOFFWATCHER

Welcome!

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

The WOFFWATCH blog is designed to generate discussion, provide encouragement and motivation for those leaving WOFF and general information about the Word of Faith Fellowship congregation in Spindale, North Carolina, USA. This long road to bring attention and awareness to this group has been a commitment starting in July 2011 .

Online information about WOFF was been sporadic and dated from over the years before the internet became a powerful avenue to fact check, as they have had a hand in controlling the content about them over some of this time. Now online discussion and awareness makes this a daunting task for anyone who seek to suppress the truth.

WOFFWATCHER'S goal, with your help, is through factual truth, is to challenge the legitimacy of WOFF as well as hold it accountable for it's actions that may range from the potential of violation of civil rights to criminal actions. WW will aim to identify those who make it's infrastructure possible. Up to now this has been the key to WOFF going unchallenged, much of it through the enabling of local government and law enforcement as well as legal help aligned with Jane and the church.

Now, fast forward to 2017!

Chipping away at the outside part of the infrastructure is only part of challenge. We also have to dig into the membership itself.  This has not set out to be website just another set of threads with horror stories, complaints, cooky agendas and arguments.

I encourage those to take action in the form of documenting everything, reporting to federal agencies any possible violation of civil rights or criminal activity, as well as supporting WOFF victims.
This is why there are links pages about everything WOFF as well as comments and guidance for the reader to learn as much as they can.

WW seeks facts, truth, news,and  activism. I encourage you to comment.


The message :ASK QUESTIONS, TELL A FRIEND, DOCUMENT EVERYTHING, CHALLENGE, will come up in much of my commentary. They are effective actions in the fight for people we love and to hold those accountable for illegal, if not questionable practices at this "church".

I only endorse going about this in a peaceful, law abiding way.

WOFF membership/leadership read this blog . What they will/would dismiss as lies, have proved otherwise over time.

WOFFWATCHER's determination is committed to confronting WOFF leadership and exposing their actions to government authority as well as international scrutiny.

Readers may find my personal approach to be harsh. It's meant to be. The plain truth folks is, it is most people's nature to be nice and tip-toe through this. Mostly, people in the community are just indifferent, with a "Not my problem" and "Let somebody else worry about this".

This blog is only part of this effort, but indeed one of the faces of it.

Intelligence gathering is a major part of the WW effort as well. So, I blog with the facts I have and continue to get more for future essays.

I have a stake in this. I have family inside and want my them out of there. I encourage them to continue to worship God, just not like this, in this environment. But this isn't just about them. It's about you and YOUR family too.

I appeal to you to become proactive. Join the cause.

Are you ready? Then, ASK QUESTIONS, TELL A FRIEND, DOCUMENT EVERYTHING, CHALLENGE.

Start with: Letter to Jane

WOFFWATCHER