Bethel Guest Log
This is a guest book for former Bethelites, in any part of the world. Please leave your name and hopefully some way that others can contact you. Example that I recently received that prompted this list:
"My name is STEVE WATTERS. I served at Bethel from 1973 to 1976. Believe it or not I recognize your picture, and served you meals. I was a waiter and steward of the upper dining room. Also served breakfast to the night crews on third shift for about a year. I am finally free and now serve my God with a clear understanding of Grace. With brotherly affection, Steve." (Steve forgot to leave an email.)
We'd like to hear from former workers from the Watchtower headquarters in Brooklyn NY and elsewhere around the globe. If you do not fit this description, or your post is vulgar, your post will be deleted. A warm welcome to my brothers around the world! -- Randy Watters
NOTE: AS OF 4/12/05 YOUR POSTS WILL NOT APPEAR HERE BUT WILL BE REVIEWED BEFORE POSTING, DUE TO URL SPAMMERS. Send comment here.
Greetings from Randy Watters, served at Bethel in the pressroom 3-6 from 1974-1980. Please tell us who you are, email or, and how you have been doing since you left any of the Watchtower Bethels around the world! randy@freeminds.org Free Minds, Inc. PO Box 3818 Manhattan Beach CA 90266
My name is Vinnie!!!!! I was at Bethel from 1990-1991. I worked in the laundry dept. My nickname was hOocH. Wait a second . . . Is this an "apostate" site? Can I get in trouble for posting here? Oh crap . . .
vmontoya@bigfoot.com
HI! I am Gayle (Minette) Smythe. I was at Bethel '69-'74 My brother, Bill Minette was at Bethel '67-'71. Another brother, David Minette was at Bethel in the '70s. My sister, Debbie Barr, was there also '74 to late '70's. We're all out very happily. Amazing, we all went out around the same time with our different experiences. Our dad was probably one of the strongest JWs, raising us strictly in it,however, he is proudly disfellowshipped for apostasy.
Raised in the "truth"; I was at Bethel from 1986 to 1988. "Left" Bethel, stayed in Brooklyn as a Pioneer for a few years, and just walked away from it all in 1993. Freedom of thought, expression, and a true use of my "conscience" is a wonderful thing! Currently live in Westchester County, New York - though I have plans to move back to Manhattan, where I work. My work e-mail: michael.sidoti@mla.org
At Bethel, people knew me as "Joel" Sidoti - now I am Michael. Thanks!
-Michael
Hi I'm Ernie Watts. I lived in the Towers and worked in the Home Repair shop in the mid 70's.Debbie Barr's name sounds familiar, she could of been my house keeper. I live in Tennessee now. emwatts@bellsouth.net
I served in Bethel from 1984-88. I worked in purchasing.
My name is Dave Brown. I worked at Brooklyn Bethel from Sept of 1973 to Feb of 1975 and then transferred to WT Farms until Feb of 1976. My Brooklyn assignment was in the bindery with a several month stint on the night shift. At WT Farms I worked in the magazine department (subscriptions, graphotype, addressograph). Had some great times and some great friends but found a more sure source of spiritual light. Dave Brown DTBrown@aol.com
Hi guys 'n girls, I served in the British Bethel 1978 - 1982. The bullying lies and deceit eventually got to me and I left, pioneered for a short while afterwards and one day literally walked out of the Kingdom Hall and didn't return.
It hurt for a long time, I missed what I thought were my friends. Yet, still I feel a comeraderie with those who were "real human beings". I think all the honest hearted ones bailed out.....but what potential there could have been for a strong forward moving Christian congregation. 'Fraid the WTS is now too tainted with sticky commercial fingers.....the Spirit has gone and the stock brokers have taken over....it is commercial, wordly wise and devoid of any human feeling. That makes me very sad at heart. God bless
Daniel from Sweden. During 1992 I served at the Swedish Bethel in Arboga, and 1993 at Bethel in Selters, Germany. I was working with the new constructions being made at these Bethels, but during the time in Germany I got sick of it all and left for Frankfurt. Later on I got disfellowshipped for apostasy, actually for comments made on the internet... :-)
Anyhow, I am a TRUELY happy and free atheist today, and just feels sad for the fact that thousands of persons are loosing their individuality to become a part of Bethel "families" around the world. Oops, I said "the world", forgot, they are not a part of it, hmmm, hehe...
Hi-
My name is Jeff Schwehm. I served at Bethel in Brooklyn from 1987 to 1988. I worked on the paint and scaffold crew. I eventually went to college after leaving Bethel and now I teach chemistry at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska (www.cune.edu) If any of you would like to correspond with me feel free to e-mail me at jschwehm@seward.cune.edu
Jeff S.
Tom Cabeen. Brooklyn Bethel 1968-1980: Kitchen Nov 1968-July 1969; Pressroom July 1969-July 1980 (Pressroom Overseer ~1977-1980). Met Randy Watters 1974, life went haywire! Too many hard questions! Congregations: Queens Spanish 1969-1970, Greenpoint Spanish 1970-1974, Newark French 1974-1978 Jackson Heights 1979-1980 Now living in Connecticut. email: tcabeen@javanet.com
Hi Brothers & Sisters, I have never served at Bethel, but I was a JW for nearly 20 years. with my wife and four children. Praise God, we found out in 1981 that the Jesus of the WT was not as great as the Jesus of the Bible.
I am now 50 years old and enjoy serving our Heavenly Father in a way not tainted by the teachings of WT Society. This is also the case for the other members our family. For example, our eldest son Barry, 25 yrs. of age, is a youth pastor in a Christian Church in Lisbon, Portugal, and works, with his wife Raquel, in the interest of the young people under their care.
As My wife came from a JW family here in Ireland, we had to suffer total family rejection by her parents, of not only us, but our children as well. For many years we had bitter hearts against anything to do with WT Society, but then we were shown by the Holy Spirit that Jesus died for them as he died for us.
Just pray for them that our Heavenly Father will hear their knocking and touch their hearts in the most beautiful way.
In His Wonderful Name,
Colm Henry, 6. Willow Court, Mount Arbour, Limerick, IRELAND.
Phone :00353 61 303056 E Mail: chenry @iolfree.ie 08. Dec'2000
I served at Brooklyn Bethel from 1963-1967. I was in Brooklyn for about 3months and then got transferred to the Kingdom Farm in South Lansing, NY near Ithaca. I took care of the pigs and worked in the slaughter house and went to the Ithaca Cong.I was on the societies speaking list. I left to get married and received an assignment as Cong. Overseer and Special Pioneer in Franklinvill, NY. We then moved to Ellwood City, PA and I served as the Presiding Overseer there. Then we moved to Wheeling, WV, where I served as an Elder and was used as an Instructor for the Kingdom Ministry School for Elders. I had a bout with depression and stepped down from being an Elder. Aftter that I was treated like I had the plague. Many of those who I thought were my friends no longer had much to say. I divorced my wife of 25 years and was disfellowshipped and after two years was glad to be re-instated. Things were ok for a little while and then I hit bottom due to depression. I tried to commit suicide three times. I still believe many of the real truths of the Bible, but am now having a hard time with some of the structure of the Society and cannot go along with it. I have not been to a meeting in about 4 months and no one has came to see me or call. I now live alone. I have no friends, as all of my friends were witnesses. I am seperated from my second wife due to the bad treatment I have received from her and my stepchildren who are in the truth. I have so much hurt in my heart and feel so very lonely. How does one go about re-connecting with what they call the World? If you would like to correspond, my e-mail address is ColerainRJB@msn.com. Thanks for listening. RJB
My name is Carol Dreher, my husband's name is Erich
We were at WT Farm from Jan. 1982 to April 1984
cdreher@ptd.net
Hi all,
I was at Brooklyn 1981 through 1983.
Peace.
Steve Ferriss circle@ntplx.net
Hello. My name is Michael Welte I was in Bethel in from 1973 to 1977. It was a powerful experience learning to discern the thoughts of God and the thoughts from men. Life is a journey and I still travel its paths seeking to know the greater truths. I am forever thank-full to all the people that I came to know at Bethel it was through them that I found the cause and effect of being a truth seeker. Feel free to contact me at MRW43@aol.com
dennis holland 221 hinkleyville road spencerport new york 14559 dhgreentree @aol.com i served at bethel for 3 yrs from 1973 to 1976 really. i worked in the factory on a elevator in bldg 3 I AM STILL HAUNTED BY THE WITNESSES
does anyone now what happened to Bill Beckman who was overseer of room assighments. He was there around 1973on. Contact DHgreentree@aol.com
Hi
My name is Brett Young. I served at Bethel in South Africa for three years working on Construction. I left in 1992. If anyone out there knows where I can get a hold of Jane Turner, PLEASE email me or ask Jane to do so. My email addy is mgddisco2000@hotmail.com If anyone else knows me or would like to chat email me! I would LOVE to share a few stories with you! I have quite a few juicy ones for you!! LOL
I served in bethel in London 1998-1999
I am still pioneering and enjoy it.
Bob Witty. Bethel 1969 to 1974. Chile 1974 to 1979. Worked in factory electric shop. Wired new MAN presses, troubleshooting in press room and bindery.
bobwitty@home.com
I am a current JW, although inactive, but I would like to get in contact with former members in order to know how to leave the org, because people say in the internet it takes much longer than I may think....thanks to all of you MY REAL BROTHERS andrespvcl@yahoo.com
I met and fell in love with Cédric Griffith in 1990, he was disfellowshiped along with Johnny Pedigrue around the early 90s after leaving Brooklyn Bethel. Does anyone know where they are : email to ledixhuit@yahoo.com.
Thank you.
Hi, Bill Carson here--served 74-76 on the seventh floor. We were ALWAYS above you guys. I was a press operator. I have mixed feelings on some of what I have read on your website. I am disfellowshipped, but deservedly so in this case. I do not think my years at Bethel were wasted, however. I'm a better person for it...
icdlfn2@yahoo.com
My name is Steve I did not serve at Bethel but i did get the grand tour of the lavish hotels and all of the WT buildings in NY and at the farm. I am still astonished at the money they have and dumbfounded when they bash other religions for their holdings. I was a witness for 10 years and disassociated myself after seeing the most disgusting display of back-biting, lying and dismembering of families i have ever seen. I was going thru a very heavy crisis in my life and the elders would bang on my door, literally bang and then phone my house when i did not answer and then return minutes later and bang even harder. Naugatuck,Ct. congregation has been so pathetic its hard to believe. They ignored my plea for help and instead planted another member from the congregation to befriend us and then report all of our activities to the elders. This member finally had a crisis of conscience and told us of this disgusting scheme. I immediately disassociated myself and now see some of my best friends totally ignore me because the watchtower tells them to. Go figure.
I was at Bethel (75-78)I worked in the kitchen with Otto Zilke.(anyone know him?)John Booth used to come by alot.Don Krebs, etc.But my last message was deleted off this board.Why?I said I was at Bethel in that one too.Is the bible banned at this site? How strange!Just for mentioning a few scriptures.I dont belong to any church of man.I got nothin to sell.Why are the managers of this site haters of the Word of God? He is Jesus Christ. Or is it something else? Write and tell me Randy yhvb@yahoo.com
Hi i am disfellowshiped for my neg behavior... i was at watchtower farms...74 and 75...loved it...best experence of my life without a doubt except for my two kids births...i belive it is the truth and that those in the society are God's chosen people ... i saw too much good and too much wonderful work there ...for top to bottom ... from the ones who had the heavey responsibility...to the little ones like me...we all worked hard...together...May Jehovah's name be praised..on earth as it is in heaven! He knows what He is doing i just need to trust him...i hope to be back in the truth one day...hopefull soon..of course every time i start making progress ...everything gets all screwed up...but hopefull i will overcome those fears and trust Jehovah more to a finall outcome of being an approved memeber of his congergation again..." a day in your camp is better than a thousand else where...! yuma1655@aol.com
Does anyone know about: David Linden, Keith Darling or Jr. Strickland?
What about Steve Jankovich who was a circuit overseeer in the 50's? Thanks!
granny2@alltel.net
Hello! I'm Jason Evans, originally from Georgia now in Seattle, worked in Brooklyn Bethel's sweat shops (literally) from 1990-1993. I worked in the Job Press with some incredible people, and I sincerely hope their lives are giving them all they want, no matter if they're still JW's or not. Please contact me if you remember me. Email is jevansinseattle@home.com or nwgayxjw@yahoo.com
Take care all!
Hi, I served at Bethel from '72 to '76. I served in the press room. I was in brooklyn for most of '73 and was transfered to Watchtower farms to run one of the magazine presses. I would like to give my name but am afraid of the WTBTS gestapo. Although I am not DF, my family is very much programed by WTBTS. So to keep my life simple I live in a closet. I deprogramed myself about 15 years ago. I read Ray's book and everything fell in place. I no longer can can accept the opinion of the WTBS as an article of religious faith, and will not be held as a spiritual hostage. Remember- a religion that has all the answers allows no questions. If you would like to E-mail me my address is Mann377@lycos.com. I would like to talk to former press operators (come on you potlickers)
I wasn't at Bethel, but my congregation on Long Island had alot of Bethelites. (I lived in Valley Stream;was a witness from 73-81) Does anyone remember John Kurzen (who passed away in the late 70's)? Wondering if anyone knows what happened to his wife, Jessie. John was responsible for inventing that record player used by the witnesses in their door to door work in the 30's or 40's. He was probably the sweetest, smartest and most humble person I ever had the privilege of knowing. I've always wondered what he really believed, in his heart, about the organization.(He was raised as a "Bible Student",way back to the days of Rutherford. His parents may have even been associated with Russell.) Some other Bethelites I knew really well (they were more my age) were Rob & Ruth Lawrence; Bobby Batcko & John Wischuck (he was older than me). I also have a nephew who currently is at the farm(which I know only because the rest of my family have never been witnesses, so my brother is allowed to speak to them)...his (my nephew's)name is Jared Csernica. He was about 5 yrs old in 1981, which is the year I disassociated myself & was DF'ed; so he's never been allowed to speak to me since then. My name is Christine Csernica, but was known by my former married name of Chris Boeck during my years as a JW. I currently live in Colorado. Hope to hear from someone who recognizes any of the names I've mentioned. My e-mail is Wiseone733@aol.com
Hello. I hope this page can help me. My ex-husband is a J.W., and I am not and do not wish to be. We are divorced, and he is raising my children, on his time anyway, as J.W.'s. He is planning a trip to Bethel New York this summer, with them. In the past, he has talked about taking them to live at Bethel in New York. I am afraid he might take them and not return. I don't know much about Bethel New York, and of course, you can't find out anything unless you're "one of them". I don't know how realistic my fear is. Maybe it is, in fact, just a visit. Or maybe he plans to kidnap them and I need to get a restraining order in place right now. Please, any information anyone can share would be greatly appreciated. Strahub@aol.com
Hello Mr. Watters. I was wandering if you knew Dan Parke when you was in bethel(mid 70's). He later married a sister from tennessee and eventualy moved out here in west texas. He is a tough son of a bitch, nobody likes him in the congragation or in this small town. He is always boasting about his four year stit at Bethal how it carved him into the elder he is today. I was wondering if you can e-mail me and tell me what he was like in Bethal. He has a big nose if that would jog your memory. He has this habit of judging people (no holds barred) whether they're overweight, from California, they have a job as a garbageman or they own their own business that doesn't contradict any of the bibles teachings. I have known him for close to ten years and seen him personally run off pioneers, elders, or anyone that he sees as as doing something beneath his dignity. I have heard him give talks on personal needs of the congragation and manipulating scriptures to sound like any overweight people in the congragation should be ashamed of how they look to the world. He even made some sisters feel that they should step aside as pioneers. I'm disfellowshiped now from something I knew was wrong, but I did it as a means to get out from under his manipulative behaviore. It was so much of a relief when I heard the elder announce to the congragation that I have been disfellowshiped. When I cried it was tears of joy. But I know in my heart that this is not where I want to be and I have mixed feelings about going back to the mental slavery of one man, Dan Parke. Maybe you can help me understand him what he was like back then in Bethatl jrtex_us@hotmail.com
I was a ministerial servant when I visited bethel, we had friends there, I was raised a jw so it was a dream come true when I was able to visit bethel. little did I know it would be a nightmare. I couldn't beleive what I saw, our friend was a table head for meal time. I was shocked when I saw the way the brothers treated those boys at lunch time. our friends asked us to go eat with them so we excitedly accepted. a loud bell went off and people were actually running towards the lunchroom like the place was on fire!! I asked our friends about this, they said you only get 30 min. to eat AND BE BACK TO WORK!! then came the food people running around with big bowls of food throwing them on the table me and my wife were in shock. what the hell is going on, I thought, then to top it all off I saw guys at our table waving at my friend I asked him why they were waving he said they had to ask him permission to leave! what I said, its a part of there training. training for what, I thought my wife nudged me so I dropped it. we then took a tour of the place. WHAT a JOKE!! WE WEREN'T allowed to take pictures all the doors to all the rooms were closed we walked down hallways. this was the big tour I looked forward to all my life? WHAT a JOKE!! we then walked by SIDLIC's office everyone got excited one of the governing body. everyone asked to meet him but our guide said, he was busy. I couldn't take it I knocked on the door to the shock of our party. I heard a loud RUDE voice yell "who is it" not ready for such an outburst all I could think of to say was "one of Jehovahs Witnesses" he opened the door about 3 inches what do you want he said we just wanted to say hi. thank you he said and then grabbed the tour guide into his office and scold him I know this because when he came out I asked him what Sidlic said, all he said was it didn't go well. I was P.O.ed I traveled 1000 miles to visit this most holy place only to be treated like an outcast. who in the hell did this guy think he was? I was born a jw I had dedicated my whole life to this organization being told by my parents that they were god almighty. we then had to meet our friends for dinner the same crap hapenned again that happened at lunch when the meal was over i saw a young man waving his hand again at my friend to get permission to leave I couldn't take it anymore I then raised my hand and asked permission to leave my friend laughed and said I didn't have to ask permission to leave because I was a guest. I said no not anymore and we left. we then spent the rest of our vacation doing ENJOYABLE things in New York. however this did have a good ending within a year I stepped down as a M.S.
KUZINRUSSELL@AOL.COM
Hello there. My name Andrew and I did my time at the Australia Bethel. I started there in 1986 and did three years, leaving in 1989. I did lots of cleaning, cleaning and cleaning. I met and made some good friends, made some even stronger enemies and brewed up a very heady brew of scepticism with a dash of (gasp!) independent thinking! Well it's all over now and whilst it's tough starting again, at times the freedom is intoxicating. Regards Andrew (werdnat@hotmail.com)
I am Robert Downing I was a graduate of the 35th Class of Gilead (the last at the farm). I live in Cleveland Ohio. I served in the Luanshya Northern Rhodesia Bethel in 1960-61 and several stints at the Kitwe Bethel. I was a missionary in Ndola N.R. Brfoken Hill (Now Kabwe) and in Livingstone. I served in the English speaking circuit as Circuit Servant, and filled in as a District Servant several times in the African districts. Came back to the states (after 10 years) and was an Elder in the Cleveland Area, until I gave the body of elders a "You cant fire me, I quit" letter In october 1981. I am now some what of a Gay Activist. And live a good life where there is no "gnashing of teeth as I was lead to think there might be.
My name is Richard Murray. I was at Bethel from 1968 through 1971. Upon arriving I realized the lack of Christianity in the operation. I used to work on a printing press and used to think about how all magazines, books and bibles were paid for in advance by the Witnesses, and what a financial windfall this must be for the "organization". Not to mention all of their real estate holdings throughout the world, etc. I left the organization mentally while at Bethel. I left completely in 1984.
The young people who were at Bethel when I was there are not young anymore. I know that most of them were sincere and hard working people. I hope that their lives have provided them some real happiness since their exposure to Satan's Brooklyn Chapter of Hell.
My wife, three children and I attend a nice Presbyterian Church now. The kids love God and I enjoy watching them grow up normally instead of the way I was raised as a Witness. Contact me, if you knew me at RRich49@mediaone.net.
"My name is José María el Tempranillo. I served at Bethel in Spain from 1981 to 1996. In other moment i would write about Bethel in Spain. Now I would like to know about personal experiences of those that have spend their lives in the full time ministry, losing their natural perspectives of paternity or maternity. Because, I think that is not necessary to lost this wonderful gift from God just for the convenience of a human structure. The same labor could do by volunteers during a short period of time... perhaps two three years. It is cruel to private a lot of women of the priviledge of maternity... somenthing natural. With love, José María. email: josemariaeltempranillo@yahoo.es
I graduated from the 35th class of Gilead (1960). Assigned at Brooklyn Bethel for a few weeks, workng in several printing departments. Accompanied Jack Redford to the Philippine branch. I set up the first printing operation there. I have worked with many fine brothers in the faith. And I recognize that Satan has been the key to many of the problems of the WT. The WT is Satan's target. The Governing Body and elders have put forth good efforts but like all that fall short of perfection, they have sinned, some to a greater degree willfully. I pray for them and hope they can be honest and "individually" correct their ways. The first step to this is recognizing the only one Jehovah has given to represent the truth: Jesus Christ. All other man made organizations are only "arrangements" and I have disassociated myself from them. But to my God Jehovah and His son Jesus, I have continued my dedication. I have been shunned for this. Many innocent ones wrongly follow the WT "organization" and will find mercy. I served in many ways in Utah after returning to US. The watchman in the WT need to wakeup, it's not too late. Randy Watters has done the right thing to report and watch the activity of the WT. Thanks. Phil Benson <petro777@webtv.net>
My Name is Mark Nathan, And was in BETHEL From 1963 to 1967.My email address is Markonbay@aol.com. I am so curious about the guys who were there that I knew and left the Watchtower.
Hello,
Great job keeping this site up and running. My name is Philip Dickson and I served in Brooklyn Bethel from 86-87. Worked in the Mail department (Building 2 tenth floor). I recently received an email from a fellow Bethel Buddy and it prompted me to look for more. I left organization in 88 and have never looked back (well not too hard hehe). I am thankful for the opportunity of meeting so many fine and wonderful people as a child and teen in the organization. However I saw a few too many things that just did not make sense and so I choose to leave. I love my life now and would not change anything about it. I feel my relationship with God is stronger now than ever even though I do not attend any church regularly. Being in the organization was good in many ways in my youth but upon entering manhood I began to realize it was not an organization I wanted to be a part of all my life. I cherish the friends and good times I had while in. I welcome any of you to please contact me so that we can shoot the breeze and catch up. I now live in Arlington, Texas. I would love to hear from others that I served with back in the 80's. Brings back many good and funny memories. You can find some recent Pics of me at http://photos.yahoo.com/dicksonphoto Please drop me an email if you recognize my ugly face. texasphilter@yahoo.com.
I hope you all find that special thing that makes each of us happy. I know that I have found happiness now and have made other very wonderful and special friends. I welcome you to contact me and maybe we can even squeeze in 18 holes on the course. If you plan on contacting me to encourage me to re-enter the organization, I ask that you think twice and not offer the invitation. I will admit it was good that I was in as a child ( it helped keep me out of trouble and gave some great experiences, although I wish I could have played football and other sports) but now as an adult I no longer need that protection. Good luck to you who are searching for the answer to life's hard questions. Please remember that we gave of ourselves (going door to door) so I suggest that you get involved with your community and volunteer your time. It helps fill the gap left by field service and is a good way to meet nice people and make new friends (friends loyal to you and not to some big shot elder). This is what life is all about.
Hi, my name is Greg Jeffrey. I was at Brooklyn Bethel between 1982 and 1985. I worked in the Home Paint Shop. Besides working in the home, I got to work on renovation projects at the assembly halls in Brooklyn and Jersey City ("the Stanley") when the Society purchased them.
I can say both positive and negative things about my experiences in Bethel (...and in "The Organization," for that matter...I disassociated myself a couple of years ago...). Though I am no longer a Witness (by choice), it would be unfair and untruthful for me to say that nothing good came from my years as one. I left voluntarily because I'm gay and could no longer live a double life.
All that being said... if anyone remembers me from those days at Bethel, and is willing to try to contact me, please do so. (Even if you don't know me, but would like to reach out to me, please go ahead.) I'd love to hear from you! E-mail me at: gjeffrey213@aol.com
Hi "potlickers", Paul Blizard here, Brooklyn Bethel '73-'76 Shipping Dept (Squibb) Freight elevevator operator (Squibb) Night shift Bindery and finally Towers Hotel construction. Looking for any of my buddies who have left the "witchtower" and have found freedom. Oh...I forgot my "G-job." I worked at Rovnack's Princess Manor in Queens as a waiter. (back then I couldn't afford my beer on the $14.00 per month allowance!)
Website: www.watchthetower.com
Hi, I served in Brooklyn from 1988-1996. I suffered a work related injury that was not permanent. I enjoyed Bethel tremendously. However they asked me to leave after the injury. I felt very rejected and hurt. Since then, it has been very very hard for me to let go of the hurt and pain that being asked to leave caused my wife and me. Mostly me. I am still serving Jehovah. However I do not trust anyone who puts emphasis on "titles". It would be so nice just to have a letter of apology or follow up on how I am doing since that situation changed my life. I am no longer serving and struggle just to keep my head above water. sincerely, an ex bethelite
My name is Frank Toth. I was a member of the Brooklyn Bethel "family" from 1958 to 1985 and of the Canada Bethel "family" from 1985 to 1994 (when I left JWs). This was briefly interrupted in 1969 when my now deceased wife Dianne and I were assigned as special pioneers in Wisconsin for about two years. I now live in Canada not far from the huge Bethel estate located in Georgetown, Ontario. (fjtoth@canada.com)
Hola Saludos a todos no soy una persona que haya estado en Bethel pero me gusta leer sobre los ex-testigos de Jehova pero en mi desconocimiento de su creencia noto algo raro que todos critican a la WT pero ninguno dice la razón de su salidad verdadera todos se escudan en que cambiaron su forma de pensar. Hasta e leeido de que ingresan a otras religiones sectarias comó por Ej. la presviteriana y ahora estan más contento acaso de esa creencia no salio Charles T. Russell, Bueno estoy viendo mucha gente heridad pero no fisicamente si no espiritualmente,veo aqui el juego de la Politica que cuando un miembro es marginado por sus lideres lamentablemente no habla bién de estos si no que se aparta de todo miembro de su ex-colectividad y hasta forman su propio partido pero aunque el caso de ustedes no es terrenal si no espiritual, no se aparta de este Ej. Recordando las palabras del maestro de maestro el Sr. Jesus menciona que conoceran la verdad y la verdad la los hara libre !Bueno? si ustedes que sirvieron a Jehova por tanto tiempo y estan tan perdidos emocionalmente que se puede esperar de nosotros las personas que no servimos a Dios, Llegaremos a hacernos incredulos, Entonces las demas religiones que concemos aqui en ocidente todas son iguales execto con alguna variante teologica, pero igual de desordenados en sus cultos alborotosos y Yo he leeido que Dios es un Dios de orden y de paz todas esas religiones catolicas,protestante,evangelicas todas hacen lo que le da la gana pueden ir a la guerra y matarce y con eso le sirven a la patria. Oye Dios dice No Mataras y Ama a tu Projimo comó a ti mismo bueno tenemos el Ej...hoy dia en Irlanda del Norte entre Catolicos y Protestantes que ironia verdad en mi país cuando las Iglesias protestantes ó evangelicas y catolicas ó cristianas hacen un culto en un estadio o coliseo al otro dia tal parece que no estaban reunidos personas que adoran a Dios por lo sucio y la basura que dejan estas llamados cristianos en estas facilidades.Si estos son adoradores de Dios el dice por sus frutos los conoceras y estos no son nada positivos, puesto que Jesus era organizado y limpio verdad o me equivoco,pues si estos siguen a Jesus comó su Ej...no lo demuestran con su conducta tengo conocidos cristianos que su conciencia esta envotada no tienen filo por que si usted se lleva algo de su trabajo esta robando y ellos no les importa y eso que la palabra dice no Robaras, Bueno que entonces queda para el hombre que no tiene a Jehova Dios en su vida cuándo lee tantas cosas en el Internet de tanto Ex-Testigo de Jehova hablando mal de la sociedad WT y del cuerpo gobernante. En algo si estoy de acuerdo con ustedes ex-testigos, Que la palabra de Dios no es exclusiva de nadie y el Espiritud Santo de Jehova no es exclusivo de nadie Dios en su Amor nos dio la libertad de escojer y esto incluye el libre pensamiento comó se le va a prohibir a una persona a leer la palabra de Dios cuando toda escritura es inspirada por Dios y provechosa en todo momento puesto que es la unica forma escrita que tenemos de conocer su proposito. Y todos sabemos que Jesus vino a esta tierra a darse comó un sacrificio perfecto por toda la raza humana y por eso somos libres para leer por nosotros mismos las escrituras y poder conocer del plan divino que Dios tiene con la humanidad, Acaso el mismo Jesus dijo Esto significa vida eterna el que adquierán, conocimiento de ti el unico Dios verdadero, entonces comó es la unica forma pues leyendo la Biblia que Inspirada para el humilde de corazón y no para los Intelectuales que piensan que se lo saben todo. Y tan pronto estos humildes tuvieron este conocimiento de la boca de Jesus los envio a predicar por toda la tierra habitada y les dijo que les dejaria un Ayudante el Espiriud Santo que este le haria recordar todas las cosas que el les enseño y por eso le hablarian a reyes y Jefes y lideres de Naciones por que Jehova es más grande que Ellos y le daria su Espiritud Santo para hacerle recordar las enseñanza de su Hijo.Bueno a qui me despido y le digo hasta luego este es mi E-Mail sr_bolero@hotmail.com Apresiados Saludos para el Sr. Randall Watters disculpe mi Atrevimiento y mi Ignorancia quedo de Ustedes Cordiamente José Hernández desde Puerto Rico. GRACIAS!
Wanted a few good turkeys, potlickers need not apply
Right, I too was once a new boy! But one advantage was that I had been living in New York City since 1959. Name and Rank - Dominique Repolt - 8th floor Bindery.
Poor John Adams, looking back I think he lost his bet. I broke the rule and dated a girl when I had still two years of service to go before making parole. Yes John, I am still married to that same 1st girl friend and we have added two children to the fold. Would you believe my son just turned 19 and this year celebrate our 26 years of marriage.
I have but one wish, but that every man find such a good wonderful person, friend and wife.
My bethelite years spanning from July 23 1971 to July 23, 1975, On walking out I had survived as the place was being turned inside out.
Good early advice I got for a former bethelite - Keep your eyes, ears open and mouth shut. Kinda like milatary don't tell, don't ask, just watch out.
I got to meet some of the finest, Timothy Galfas, Ulysees Glass, Raymond Franz, Dan Sydlick, Thom and Gloria Cabeen, Thomas Cecil, Drew Wasko, Fred Fredean, Karl Adams,and Roy Bartoff just to name a few. John Bechtel, my roommate I was to learn later became a mayor somewhere in Ohio. Poor Barbara, she ended up with less than what she deserved. Last heard that John had left her behind with 3 children. My heart goes out to her even today.
Another gold rule I was given - Don't be late or miss breakfast. Sunnyside up eggs (boing, boing) and white sauce gray train. Man did that stuff remind me of vomit. But I got to eat it and learned to accept it. What's the matter boy, don't you like stuffed peppers? Your mama aint here to cook for you this is wholesome food. Although my folks lived in the city I rarely went back to see them but maybe twice over 4 years.
I was soon assigned to the French Congregation in Newark New Jersey and commuted there 3 or 4 times a week. A busy schedule it was, entrance school, meeting attendance, watchtower study, talks, assignments whatever. After 2 years I was ready to leave.
But I met up with a french girl on a tour visiting from France and before long she moved to America and lived in Brooklyn Heights. It was there that I caught up with my appetite. I stuck out the ride and finally on August 3, 1975 we got married at the Bethel Kingdom Hall, Timothy Galfas gave the talk.
Well I've since turned 50 on September 13, and a lot of things have changed since there. So if you still believe in Jehovah, Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit, your doing well. Better yet if your still reading the bible in maintaining an accurate knowledge.
But if your interested in hearing more, I have many stories to relate. Including the dramatic birth of my son which left me single handly fighting back both the Flushing Hospital, Doctors and Queen's district Court. I took a bath, lost my case and got slapped with the charge of child abuse. Fortunate that I got to keep my son. My call for help was never answered and I am ashamed to say that one individual that I called was what he remains today a bethelite and congregation elder. Ouch, yes that did hurt and left a deep emotional scar.
The rest is submerged in both time and events.
I have come to know personally of much hurt in the process and of the many that like myself are yet dealing with both the complexities of what we commonly refer as the truth. Unrelentless and merciless persecution it might well be. Far more difficult to endure than physical persecution. As our mental, emotionally, and spiritual sands are attacked and carried away by waves driven by tides. Today, my beach is small and bare. Day by day I am exherting and panting to shore up my little dunes.
For me too life is a constant struggle. Even more as I have become a handicapped person.
The end it is alright. Each must pull his own weight through thick and thin with or without dependance on any society, organization, Governing body, Elders and/or whatever. There is no free lunch nor free ride. Longing forthat glorious day that still escape us.
And if at the end of the narrow road I loose my life either way will I have come to experience permanent relief from many agonies.
May you have peace in your life!
Sincerely, Dominique Repolt
ADDED NOTE 8/13/07:
Dominique's brother writes: "Sadly, my dear brother passed away in Dec '03 with the local elders in the Crofton MD congregation refusing to give the funeral talk, and at the funeral home at that, not the Kingdom Hall. Their decision was based primarily on what my brother wrote in that aforementioned letter in addition to the fact that he long stopped attending the local meetings. I couldn't believe it!"
Hi: I'm a former Bethel Elder, but I didn't get disfellowshipped when I left Bethel. [Oh . . . you meant BROOKLYN Bethel? My bag1 ;~)]
Seriously, I didn't get accepted at Bethel when I applied, in 1968. They told me I needed to pioneer for a while, first. Then my pioneer applicaiton was turned down, because I had a job that worked nights and caused me to miss ONE MEETING a week. Ironically, I figured working nights would leave me PLENTY of time to pio, during the day. Silly me!
So, since I couldn't pioneer . . .
Anyhow, in 1974 God set me free from the b'ORG; and about a month after I accepted Christ I joined Bethel: the Bethel Baptist Institutional Church in Jacksonville, FL.
I actually just wrote this note to commend you, Randy, on this powerful site. I discovered it in 1998, and have been a fan ever since.
Keep up the good work Rev. Raymond Allan Johnson http://www.xjw-central.com
I served from May 1, 2001 to May 7, 2001 I left when I was unable to get re-assigned from what I called under my breath "Shit duty" I was told I would have to perform this "duty" but I thought I'd take a chance being since I was in construction.
To no avail.
I had read very little of C of C before I left for Bethel. This obviously did not help me with my humbleness towards this type of work.
I new I had disgraced myself, but more importantly my congregation. I was privately reproved for being uncooperative and having a bad attitude per the letter from the society that was partially read to me.
To make a long story short, I finished C of C and here I am!
A tax paying, law abiding, non-murdering, non-adulterating, non-drunkard, APOSTATE.
I made my mother proud!
Peter Rappa peter_rappa@tachen.com
Although I was never a Bethelite, I too was raised in the "truth" and would like to quickly share my thoughts. I have skimemd through various posts here in this forum, and have read about individuals being denied the right to play sports etc etc. I would like to recount my own...I was raised as a JW and standing aver a foot taller than everybody else growing up, I had a natural, albeit awkward talent for basketball. I can recall having fun, playing anyone that dared face me, only to dunk over them with fury. Throughout my late high school years, a brother by the name of Mark McCallum wanted to, and started "studying" with me. It was more like the two of us talking about life and just conversing about things in general and him putting the WTS perspective out there for me. At this point in my life, I was near completion of high school and was heading south to an American school for a full basketball scholarhship. I remember how Mr. McCallum had tried to persuade me to forego that route and avoid that stuff at all costs. He claimed my playing would open me up to thing like drug addiction, "loose women" (as he put it), and all the "evil temptations". This was back in the summer of 1995. It it stands, I ended up playing 2 years down at the pennsylvania school (that gave me the scholarship), then moved back home and played b-ball for 2 community colleges before I was done my education. During that time, I had the misfortune of having 4 friends pass away on me in a 2 year period and my parents had gotten divorced. It is now December 2001, and although I never made it pro, let me tell you that going down and experiencing the time i had in pennsylvania made me who i am today. I have a great education (did it on my own), an amazing job, a wonderful girlfriend of 2.5 years, and a bright future ahead of me. And not only did I do this all on my own, but the truth never factored into anything I did once. I came out on top because I was willing to make sacrifices and was smart and lucky enough to make the right choices. If there are any current or ex-JW's out there that are reading this, I encourage you to pursue your dreams and follow your heart. Not everyone who plays sports is headed down the path of destruction. If anyone has similar stories or would like to share, contact me at bigcanada@sympatico.ca
By the way, I just recently found out about freeminds.org and this is the most wonderful thing that could have happened to anyone that has been or currently is associated with "the truth". I hope everyone has found what they are looking for. Big Canada
"served" at Bethel as one of the thirteen married couples in 1971 and 72. Worked under Tom Cabeen in the pressroom. Harry Peloyan was in our congregation at Brooklyn Center. Drew Wasco worked on our bindery line. Drove a 56 Chevy from CA around the city. Interesting education for a young couple. We were Chuck & Marilyn Turner. Really enjoyed Ray's text comments. Only sane thing we heard while we were there.....
My name is John Clark. I served at Bethel Farms from 1974-1977. I worked primarily in the the graphotype and addressograph depts. I have some fond and not so fond memories from Bethel.I left under the auspices of marrying a jw girl. I soon left but it still "haunts" me today.It took me years to recover from the several years of "brainwashing" as a JW. Anyway, in regards to bethel: I do not remember alot of the names. I do rememeber names such as Randy Hornauher (sp?), Randy Tyler from TX, Bernie (?) from Ohio, Steve Wren from Ohio.If you remember me or just want to share memories from the Farms feel free to e-mail me at lawyer@ohiohills.com.
Hello Brothers and Sisters,I found a great web site that makes everything clear for us www.Quotes.JehovahsWitnesses.com I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!
I am currently still in Bethel but hope to be leaving soon. I thought that working here would be a real spiritual experience, but instead it is just a drudge with all the attitudes and politics of a regular job and without the money to compensate for it.
I am currently still in Bethel but hope to be leaving soon. I thought that working here would be a real spiritual experience, but instead it is just a drudge with all the attitudes and politics of a regular job and without the money to compensate for it.
My name is Nils Jansma. My wife, Sherry, and I were invited to Bethel as members of the family in the spring of 1966. I was called back to work on the new factory and residence buildings which were to be constructed over the next three years. We left in 1971. Sherry started out working as a housekeeper and ended up at the factory in subscriptions. During her “spare” time, she played the role of Debbie Summers in the Society’s weekly radio program and was involved in recording dramas. I worked on the new buildings as a line and grade surveyor. Due to the fact that I was a member of the surveyor’s Union and officially worked for Turner Construction Company (my wages all went to the Society), I was the only Bethelite who ever went on STRIKE with the Society’s approval. Because we knew Ray and Cynthia Franz, we read Crisis of Conscience when it first came out. However, it still took about four years before Sherry and I made the transition complete by being baptized into Christ. Though we are still working as hard as ever for the Lord, we are enjoying it much more. Promoting Jehovah’s Grace (underserved kindness) toward all makes service a joy rather than a never-can-do-enough burden. nils@jansma.ws
Well after 52 years I finally made it out!!!
"Free at last! free at last! free at last! My name is Keith Casarona I served at N.Y.bethel 1970-1974. I know you guys are laughing your heads off!!! no one thought I'd make my 4 years, after all I coined the 2 phrase "I'm serving 1-4 for impersonating a minister" and "I want to stay at bethel forever, or four years which ever comes first!" I guess I'm just a slow learner-hah! For me I just did the math. One witness for every 1000 people on the earth! I'd go to assemblies an see 10,000 people there, and think if this 10,000 were to symbolize the world's population then only 10 people would be saved, wow! God can save only 1/10 of 1 percent-- not very powerful for, and all powerful God, and if you had the misfortune to be born in the world you had only a 1/10 of one percent chance to be saved at the big war between God and man! If 70-80% of all witness's who are "lucky" enough to come out of a witness's womb, were to stay witness? wow! How fortune I'm. Now I have almost a 80% chance of survival, I guess God just loves me more (800 times more)then the average poor schmuck!
But what really did it for me was 9/11/01. I get this phone call at 6:00 a.m. from a friend in Seattle WA. " Keith turn on your T.V. this is the beginning of the end, this is what God is getting ready to do to the world of mankind!" WOW! he was right I was part of an organization that was looking forward to the death & destruction of people, you know the 999 out of 1,000 people, but that's their problem if they had the misfortune to be born in China, or any other place the "good news?" didn't"t get to,isn't it? I saw those people running for their lives with blood running down their faces,and at that moment made the decision not to worship the angry God of the Watchtower who could do this, after all I was raised to be a passivist! I was a pioneer & conscience objector during the Vietnam war. How odd I was not willing to get into a fist fight, let alone take another life, but I was worshipping a God who could! I was the passivist ( no regrets) he wasn't!!! I could forgive, he couldn't He could kill & maim, I couldn't. In my heart I knew in fact He has the power to save everyone!!! Not just a very, very small group of spiritual elitist. That being the case, after 52 years of believing the lie. I turned my letter of disassociation on 9/18/01.
I'm at newboy499@hotmail.com
Hello all, I am Deboragh Lewis, I never served at Bethal anywhere but I was a Regular Pioneer for a time, here in England. Only actually knew one person who went to Bethal, Mill Hill, London, Mark Ford where is he now? I wonder. I've only just found freeminds.org today and it is the best thing ever. For some time I had been doubting why I left the JW's I thought it was just an excuse. Well now I know there was alot wrong and I could see it and whenever I asked an elder or other to explain it was met with just platitudes that were supposed to keep me in place. I could see that there were things wrong with the chronology of the JW's it just didn't add up, and with all the 1914 stuff, "this generation" etc. I am free now and glad of it, I got a life. Any one want to contact me DebsLLewis@aol.com all are welcome.
My name is David Watson I served at Bethel from 1974 to 1978 any one at that time might remember me my e mail address is fancyfeet@wfeca.net
Hello , Buongiorno Mi chiamo Andrej TACIAK. Aiutate mi trovare indirizzo postale E-mail se possibile di James Taciak .Il mio indirizzo e cigno@mail.lt
DOES any of you remember DAN BELL from Glendale, CAL. that was there in the late 70's----hope he is out of ORG now QUEENIE / queenapostate@webtv.net (((()))))
Mike Adams here: I enjoyed my work at Brooklyn Bethel, Mountain Farm and W.T. Farm 1974 to 1979...worked with Steve Watters and so many others, ...remember one big factory worker giving me some static at the table I was waiting on so I dumped the full gallon of milk on his head and cooled him off quick! Also worked nights as walking watchman, and days as Moving & Maintenance Crewman, our crew consisted of seven guys all named "mike"...One poor watchman wasn't watching and stepped into an open elevator shaft down at the Squibb bldg...used to snowboard from 124 down to Squibb and at night almost ran down a couple of governing body members in the hallway from 124 to 107 on those furniture coasters...also made trash runs with "Marcus Stapletonius" and if anyone remembers the wierd sounds of loud toilet flushing and laughter emanating from somewhere in the towers at night, that was me and mike presutti, the dual-headed 'Phantom of the Towers' playing with recordings and loudspeakers out the windows. We later moved from the 5th floor to the 7th and a better view. Sure missed our housekeeper on 5. Any one remember who took ALL my hawaiian print shirts in the laundry? Hope the turkey got full use out of 'em--they were each tailor made as a gift from my mom, one-of-a-kind materials. Any cotton-pickin', finger-licken', chicken-pluckin' apple pickers remember when I was assistant Mountain Farm overseer? What about you cotton-pickin', finger-licken', chicken-pluckin' potlikkers? Steaming pots, pans and milk cans, hunting deer, raccoons, snakes + fishing (in addition to your congregation assignments, meetings and text comments, return visits, etc.? Whatever happened to Tyler Paiva? He was a worker...I left in '79 to marry a girl from my congregation in N.J. We pioneered 2 years then served as missionaries in Samoa. In 1986 I killed our fellow missionaries Ed & Cath and served over 14 years in prison...released in the 15th year. Still disfellowshipped and wife asking for divorce after 17 years...its been 23 years now and I haven't finished the papers...always busy in Samoa keeping the Airport and power plants clean...mike_adams@hawaii.com
Does anyone remember a Jeff Kelley(Kelly) that went to Bethel around 83, the last time i talked to him was around 87, for all i know, he's still there. Tall guy with red hair and glasses. He was from Kentucky. Write me at Aprepair@bellsouth.net
Bruce Welborn I was at bethel from 1975-1976 I have good memories of my time there, but it kind of opened my eyes to the hypocrisy of the orginization. I am now happily disassociated
NIGERIA DON ENTER HEREOOO.
IKEJA@YAHOO.COM
I left...in 1987, Barbara Nelson from Connecticut. Dated "Bethel Boys," the last one was Bill Blatzheim (not sure of spelling anymore)...before that I knew a Leroy Oaks or Oakes and Darryl from somewhere out west. I now work for Law Enforcement, something I could not have done before 1987...had to attend college late in life, to hold a decent job. My ex-husband was not disfellow- shipped, though a habitual adulterer, "because he could get away with it." I am still single, and finished raising my 20-year old..now living in South Florida...still a non-JW because I could not live with the double standard anymore.....would like to hear from ex-JW's in S. FL my e-mail: mectry@yahoo.com
I never worked at Bethel but I did visit there in 1986 and wonder if anyone in NY Bethel remembers the fiasco it caused.
It was Bill Cetnar who took me there, and he was supposed to stay out of the way so I could have a peaceful vist .... but someone soon worked out I had been seen talking to him. So a hunt was on for our party and finally they caught up with me. I was able to talk my way into staying on the tour because, although I didn't lie, I didn't give the whole truth either.
It was interesting the difference in how I was treated though when they didn't know what my status really was.
So, anyone remember the hastle back there in October 1986?
Jan.g@bigpond.net.au
I'm looking for a former Bethelite named Brian Hill, from the Morrow congregation in Atlanta. He was there from '89 to I think '91 or so. He moved to Washington state and we lost touch, but I know he's been out of the borg for a while. danbhada@aol.com, thanks for keeping this site up.
Hello. My name is Claude Kenneson. I wasn't at Brooklyn Bethel for long--from the end of 1965 to the beginning of 1966 (about six months all total). But everything seemed to happen during that period: water shortage, a number of strikes, the first blackout and a blizzard. The blackout caused quite a stir at Bethel (the fear of the unknown--were we about to be attacked? Was this a precursor of Armageddon?) Of course, the famous question afterwards was "Where were you when the lights went out?" Personally, I was in the Bethel Library and couldn't see a thing until someone came up with a flashlight to lead us out. What a pretty sight it was outdoors, however. The only light that shone was the full moon--God's light. I still remember it as if it were yesterday. Also, I recall attending an "impromtu" assembly at Yankee Stadium because some missionary brother who had recently been released from Chinese prison was scheduled to speak. The name George King comes to mind????
While there I performed menial tasks, including window cleaning, which I despised. I have a fear of heights, so you can imagine what I felt--even if it was cleaning from the inside, one had to climb on the window's edge, although strapped. Another "fun" job was being on the receiving end of the hot dishes coming out of the dish washer.
While at Bethel, I came across some "evil slave" material (in all places--the library). I can't even recall today what that literature consisted of. I had doubts all along--but this just solidified them. I remember boarding the elevator a few times when Fred Franz was aboard. I also remember George Couch. His position probably was Bethel Servant??? Don't remember the names of any of the rank and file.
As soon as I left Bethel, the W.T. wasted no time in notifying my local draft board. But it still did not rescind my conscientious objector classification. Nor did the Tower waste time contacting my local congregation. I was soon disfellowshipped for apostasy because I returned to the Catholic Church, from whence I came.
My e-mail address is: ckenneson@yahoo.com
Hello everyone. I was at bethel from 93-96. I left of my own free will, which no one could figure out. I actually started smoking pot at bethel!!! There were rashes of thieves homosexuals, and drunks there. I dated a different girl practically every month. I was on the tour route, and had a pretty good line for the cuities that walked by. I mean i was prime rib wasnt I. I worked in the printing department, and we even thought were were the best there. I mean WE were printing the words on the bible. Anyway, like i said i left bethel of my own free will. I didnt see myself staying there forever, and knew i shouldnt strive for something i didnt want. I really wanted to get married. Yep I was still a virgin. But i did not want a wife at bethel. All those other horny single guys looking at my wife was not my idea of fun. So home i went. life was hard for years until in 98 i was disfellowshipped. In so many ways i was mad. But i couldnt blame god or the orginazation, because the things i did were scripturally wrong. Four years later, actuall just a few weeks ago i was reinstated. There are so many things one can say about going thru the "world". I had friends and lovers that i trusted more than my own parents. They even rarely spoke to me, probably because i called them a few times even from prison!! Yikes. I was raised better than that. Anyway those of the "world" that i trusted eventually stabbed me in the back. i started a construction business only to have my best friend and partner stole enuf from the business that we couldnt pay the taxes. I never dated a girl that i didnt feel had alterior methods. I have been on both sides of the fence. I have been very concerned with my life for about the past year. I do believe in god and figure i have to do something about it. Sure i am mad at a lot of my "brothers" but they will not affect my relationship with god. I have made a lot of mistakes, but trying to disprove god, or deny the best way to imperfectly serve him, would be useless. I would loose hope, and I would be a weak man with no hope. I am glad i left bethel, but i wish i would have went with the right understanding and heartfelt motivations. contact me at jstein4507@yahoo.com
GO BACK TO SCHOOL!!! Sorry Randy, but they must be a JW seeing how they're encouraged to NOT go to school.
Dear Sirs, I need to contact some bethelite or ex-bethelite that was member of the orchestra that played at the WBBR radio station, also any member of the orchestra that recorded any ot the songbook and, also any person who has been connected with the redaction of any of these songbooks.
Yours Miquel Angel Plaza-Navas maplaza@bicat.csic.es
ive been reading some of the comments on this bethelite section some good some bad some downright weird ,if your not happy in the jws just leave and get a life
Greetings: My name is Chuck Turner and my wife, Marilyn and I served at Bethel as one of the twelve married couples they brought in back in 1971. Tom Cabeen was my overseer in the pressroom during part of our stay. He made a great Apostle Paul. What a voice! I'll never forget Wesley Bopp playing tricks on the "newboys" by faking a page with a homemade megaphone. Or, Jaime Rodriguez trying to explain what Chuck Turner is in Spanish. We never did figure that out. But now my youngest son majored in Spanish and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin. He now serves in the Peace Corps. Hopefully, he is doing something to benefit humanity. I think so. At twenty five, he has the same attitude we did back in those days. Hi Randy! Good health to you.
I grew up with DAN BELL as a JW KID in Glendale, Californina==I know he would remember ME--I am someone you can not forget... Last I knew he was still a JW (and very adept with the HAM RADIO) been a while though---if you are still a JW Danny please come out and join with Bill AND SILENTLAMBS when they march on BETHEL..you are way to intellengent to remain A active JW..A slave as at it were BUT YOU got the guts DANNY BELL and I am here 4 YOU and BILL of SILENTLAMBS is too...PEACE QUEENIE aka LNDA LOU KERSEY and family
Hello,
Were do I begin? I guess I will start at the begining, you can all say I was born into the organization. My dear mother was a christian woman who tauht us children to fall in love with Jehovah and all his wonder, my mother used the Jehovah witness liturature to instruct us, but also used the bible in her instruction. I believe in 1970-1975 it was still allowed to use the bible as well. To make a very long story short my entire family has be destroyed by the Jehovahs Witness organization, still today the scares of yesteryear are apparent throughout my family. My mother was desfellowshiped in 1975 on what I've learned today were groundless accusations, no drukennes, no adultry, and no theivery. Something that in my heart I believe she has never truly recovered from. I haven't been a member of the organization since 1979 as well as my brother, my sister is still a very active member. And In true organizational fashion the divison of family is stronger than ever. Something that I learned the very next day after my mothers disfellowship when the night before she was publically executed and the very next day the brothers and sisters were in our home subversing the rest of us to the views of the organization. Mother was not greater than the watchtower bible and track society.
Today I have made my peace, I love Jehovah god and all that is good in his teachings. His holy spirit is a wonder when the heart is broken and the mind is in termoil. In reading his word and constant prayer all who believe in him will find peace.
Thank you all,
Mira,
sogrub@aol.com
People!!!!!!!!!
Which one una deh? All dis big talk-talk, une no know say Bethel na privilege? Efryt'ing I read for here na so-so complaint. Make una go sidon for ground-o. Efense'f, make una go find better work to do. If for dem Amerika people no get nat'ing to do, for we obodo Afrika, we get plenty work-o and we no get food for belley. Me se'f, I been love Bethel well well; I been chop good food sotey my belley full. Den, I gif fine-fine talk for assembly. No be say life been good all de time, but me I no fit complain like all una dem.
I don carry my own go-o. I t'hroway salute-o.
ex-Nigerian bethelite, missing the good food, the air conditioning - and some of the Jezebels!!!SMACKKKKKKKK.
My name is Loren Mooney. I was at Bethel from September 1960 to early 1965. My last few years were in the job press department. Left to get married and was a Special Pioneer for two years in West Virginia. After another eight years as an elder I left the witnesses in the fall of 1975. Following a divorce and eventual remarriage I am not a Roman Catholic Deacon in Maryland. If any body recognizes my name I would be glad to hear from you. My e-mail is lmooney@hereintown.net
After reading your comments Mr rjb it made me cry please contact me at asclytemnestra@cs.com I tried your email address not valid.....jan
Hi, Mark Johnson here. I was at Bethel from Feb 1974 to July 1977. Worked in bindery; night shift for about a year; mostly on embossers. Anyone who knows what ever became of Michael Smoot? I'd like to hear about him; he was a quite a character. Have been out of the JWs since early 80's. Have learned and lived a lot since then. Very happy now in Northern California; have ten year old twin boys who have been a great joy. Would be happy to hear from those who I worked with at Bethel. Best wishes to you all. mark@desertbirds.com
My name is Charlie Wood. I served at Brooklyn Bethel and the Jackson Heights congregation from 1975 to 1982. I worked in Shrinkwrap, bookbindery, proofreading, invoicing and then as a data processing computer programmer up until the time I left. I left the organization in 1984 and am very happy now enjoying life and work these past 20 years near Boston. I would however enjoy hearing from anyone who remembers me. I can be reached by e-mailing: cwood6@hotmail.com.
Greetings from Bob Pavlick of Bridgeport, CT., served at Bethel in the bindery, sewing books 1967-69. I was asked to leave in 1969 during the "purge" of gay Bethelites, even though I was cellibate, but implicated by association with friends who were "outed" and disfellowshipped. I was later disfelloshipped for "apostacy" in that I refused to accept the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society as the sold "Voice of God" on earth. I would like very much to catch up with old friends from those days. I can be reached at <<PavlickB@aol.com>>.
Hello Everyone, Great site Randy and just wanted to update my posting. I get emails from ex-JW’s from all over the world because of my original posting back in 2001. I make an effort to reply to everyone of them with words of encouragement. I understand that the first 6 months is the hardest after one leaves and any word of encouragement goes a long way. Thank you for this opportunity Randy. Since my last post I have been blessed with a wonderful son (now 9 months old) and great prosperity. Went to technical school back in 95 (IT related) and that job allowed me to travel to many parts of the world working on computer systems in Airports throughout Europe, Middle East and North/South America. I left this job and started teaching classes on computer networking, computer network security and computer repair. One of my computer customers invited me to learn their business (a transportation broker). Since then I now do both types of work but am finding myself doing more with the brokerage business now than with IT. I just formed my own Corporation this month (June 03) and business is going great. I strongly suggest to all readers to go to school (no matter how old you are, I was 34 when I took my first class) and get your degree. Even though you may not need it for your career (I don’t). I made the decision to obtain my degree and am now close to completing the Associates portion of it (with a 4.0 I might add). Should be able to have the BBS complete in about 24-30 more months. Yeeehaw!! This experience has been so wonderful and I am very excited to learn all of the things about so many subjects that I never knew. Am mulling over adding an MBA, but no decision on this one yet. I am still looking for a few fellow Bethel buddies that were good friends. If anyone knows Frank Schramel (from Da Ridder, LA born in Heulm, Germany) or Ted Garner (from Heber Springs, Arkansas) or anyone who worked in the mailing department Building 2 tenth floor or former room mates in Standish 10th floor, please shoot me an email. I think of you guys often and hope you are all well. I also think about the many fine folks in my congregation in NY Flatbush. I also have fond memories of locals like Jack Horton in Dallas (great man) and Tom Johnson (great guy too). I hope they all are doing well. Enough for now. I hope all of you find true peace and security (no pun intended lol) and keep your spirits up. Will copy and past original post below that contains my email address. Original post follows: Great job keeping this site up and running. My name is Philip Dickson and I served in Brooklyn Bethel from 86-87. Worked in the Mail department (Building 2 tenth floor). I recently received an email from a fellow Bethel Buddy and it prompted me to look for more. I left organization in 88 and have never looked back (well not too hard hehe). I am thankful for the opportunity of meeting so many fine and wonderful people as a child and teen in the organization. However I saw a few too many things that just did not make sense and so I choose to leave. I love my life now and would not change anything about it. I feel my relationship with God is stronger now than ever even though I do not attend any church regularly. Being in the organization was good in many ways in my youth but upon entering manhood I began to realize it was not an organization I wanted to be a part of all my life. I cherish the friends and good times I had while in. I welcome any of you to please contact me so that we can shoot the breeze and catch up. I now live in Arlington, Texas. I would love to hear from others that I served with back in the 80's. Brings back many good and funny memories. You can find some recent Pics of me at http://photos.yahoo.com/dicksonphoto Please drop me an email if you recognize my ugly face. texasphilter@yahoo.com I hope you all find that special thing that makes each of us happy. I know that I have found happiness now and have made other very wonderful and special friends. I welcome you to contact me and maybe we can even squeeze in 18 holes on the course. If you plan on contacting me to encourage me to re-enter the organization, I ask that you think twice and not offer the invitation. I will admit it was good that I was in as a child ( it helped keep me out of trouble and gave some great experiences, although I wish I could have played football and other sports) but now as an adult I no longer need that protection. Good luck to you who are searching for the answer to life's hard questions. Please remember that we gave of ourselves (going door to door) so I suggest that you get involved with your community and volunteer your time. It helps fill the gap left by field service and is a good way to meet nice people and make new friends (friends loyal to you and not to some big shot elder). This is what life is all about.
My name is Martha. I came in to Bethel in October of 1984 as a single sister (a rarity!) to work in the computer department. My name at the time was Martha Pablos. In 1986 I married Fred Fuss that worked in the factory lobby and we left in 1987 to have our daughter. Never feeling quite comfortable with the beliefs but not having the strength to leave and explore the "world" losing all of family and friends, I stuck around as an elder's wife for the next six years. But having my daughter gave me the strength to leave in 1993. When a bright child asks you questions regarding the beliefs that you cannot effectively even explain to a 6-yr-old .... you know you have to go. I divorced in 1993 and my daughter and I went out on our own. I have often likened those first few years of isolation to having lost all of your friends and relatives in a plane crash at one time. My ex-husband, Fred Fuss, went as far (with my parent's help of course) as to try to get custody of my daughter away from me simply because I had left the witnesses. Of course, he had the financial backing of the congregation, etc. He was unsuccessful, and I have been blessed with a wonderful daughter that even though having been exposed to the Witnesses through her birth father came to some very sobering conclusions on her own at about 11 years old. She now has no contact with Fred or the witnesses. I would LOVE to chat or hear from anyone, whether they knew me or not. Our experiences are unique--we need to be there for each other! You can reach me at beachmartica@yahoo.com or at: Martha Barbee 1209 Manhattan Avenue #203 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I am David Carmack. I served at Watchtower Farms from June 84- Dec. 86. I work in the Magazine Distubution Dept(bulk mailing). I would enjoy hearing from anyone serving during that time or others that worked in the department. whitewaterdave@hotmail.com
I am also an ex-bethelite( are we EVER an ex?!). I was one if not the youngest bethelite in history. I was not quite 18 years old when I went to Watchtower Farms. I was there around 2 years. I had favorable experiences with the young people there. However, I soon realized that the religion was not what I had anticipated. I left....did different things....went to college...went to law school....am now a criminal defense attorney. I married a girl from around orange lake only to be disenchanted and divorced within a short time. Several years later, I am happily married with one son (9 years old). However, in the course of things, I have been disfellowshipped. My son and wife do not understand how any family can do this. Is anyone else feeling my pain? I have a successful career but yet feel I have been robbed of very much.More importantly, I believe my son has been deprived of much. For example, we recently went to New York. He was questioning me as to why I was taking more pictures of the "watchtower" building than I was of anything else on the double-decker bus tour. How do you explain that?! Please respond if you can relate to what I have been through. Sincerely, John Clark
My name is Phillip Fromm. I was in Australia Bethel from 1997 to 2002. Started off cleaning as you do, worked in laundry, the infirmary and finnaly in Shipping in Export Dept. Got sick of the politics and double standards and the continual sucking up by everyone to those with power. The bible really has very litle to do with the organisation. In the end was aked to leave, wasn't dismissed or disfellowshipped, I just didn't tow the party line any more. Funny thing is they made the entire family resign their bethel vow, obedience, poverty allowance etc... so no one could sue them later. A week later there I was packing my bag, they were scared I would make them trouble and stir the pot. Has taken some time to uninstitutionalise myself and begin to repair my life apart from the Watchtower. email phillip.fromm@jcu.edu.au
I knew Steve Watters when I was a young boy growing up in Port Clinton Ohio. I remember the party thrown for him when he went to Bethel and what a good example he was. I hope he reads this and provides an e-mail.
My name is Bob Gearhart. I was at Brooklyn from 1976 thru 1979 (2/7 bindery and Ink room) I left the organization last December after toooo many "red flags". Was raised a witness,pioneered in Ky.& N.Carolina in the 80s. I'm in California now. Wife's still a JW, she filed for legal sep 3 months ago. My kids left the org. not long after I did, so the elders tried to DF me for 'infecting' the congregation. It is the hardest thing i've ever done... Lost my parents and 2 sisters to the organization but still have my kids. Thanks for being here, you're welcome at my campfire anytime. gymbob56@yahoo.com
I was at Watchtower Farms around 1975-1977. I worked out on the farm and later in the subscription office. I also worked in the addressograph and graphotype room. I left approximately 20 years ago and am happier for it. Except.......I miss my family. They have disowned me with the exception of one sister. I do not want to use my name for fear it will cause my sister grief and possible "shunning' by our parents. If you were at Watchtower Farms during the above times please e-mail me at lawyer@ohiohills.com
My name is Michele and I was a third generation witness.Although I never attended Bethel I certainly visited in more ways than one! I was a co writer of information for some articles for the Awake mag. I in my witness lifetime have served where the need was great, been a pioneer and also been df'd. I was a therapist for awhile for the witnesses and heard all the secrets from the top down.I can first hand express from personal experience the deceit & crimes in the Org. The society of bros. & sis. is permeated w/alcoholism,child molestation & abuse,gender identity issues, the addiction to power & the demoralization of the human spirit. Being a witness is living in the problem. Getting out is the first step towards living in the solution. I have recovered from the pain & grief of having been part of the "dark side" for over 40 yrs! I left the Org. almost 7yrs ago. Since I left I have experienced many spiritual awarenesses. Jehovah has indeed given me a "new pair of glasses". I have been made aware of the real sacred secrets hidden in the Bible that the witnesses can not know because the Truth is not in them. I have grown more spiritually since I have left and developed a one on one relationship with Jehovah. Can anyone tell me about Harry Peloyan? We worked with him on the articles. I do not believe he is at Brooklyn. Please contact me, michelelyon@comcast.net
Hi! Does anyone know if Henry Caban is still serving in the Brooklyn Bethel? And what about Yashka Dolmo and her father, Candido Dolmo? They used to attend one of the Brooklyn congregations. Any info would be appreciated. Lost complete contact with them. E-mail at Aida.Moreno@charlottefl.com
Served in Bethel as part of the "commuter bethelite" program. I was a pioneer in the lower east side of Manhattan who "commuted" daily to bethel. Met a lot of great folks there however the few bad ones I met really ruined the entire witness experience for me. In fact to this day if I ever run into one of those people I may choke them to death. Talk about back stabbing, politics and not trusting any one and then add racism into the mix and you better believe that after one year I left bethel and never looked back. Got disfellowshipped 2 years later and that was 13 years ago! My name is Freddy Perez and I served in the construction plumbing department at 360 Furman Street from 1987-1988. By the way anyone know what ever happened to Bob Riemer and Richard Koenig? mabstoa@frontiernet.net
How many Bethel houses does the WTBTS own? Why did they name their houses Bethel when in Amos Jehovah condems Bethel?
Hello, I came accross your site through a link on a French XJW forum to Dave's fascinating testimony. I became a "pioneer" in 1977, at the time of the broadest "openness" in the WT publications, and eventually became a member of the French Bethel (1981-85), where I spent most of my time translating "The Watchtower" and an emended "Aid to Bible Understanding". Although we had but faint and biased echoes of the Brooklyn crisis, I happened to follow a very similar course and was finally disfellowshipped for a Jesus-centered "apostasy" in 1986. Since then I studied theology and was involved in much Biblical work, while slowly drifting to a kind of personal "atheistic theology"... Only very recently I took time to visit some XJW sites on the web. Anyway, my time in the French Bethel was certainly a turning point as far as I'm concerned, and I'd certainly like to hear about old friends from there even if the chances are slim... Bye, Didier F. (Contact Randy to write to Didier)
Hi, My name is Ron Owens. I never served at Bethel. But I did go there to visit once. I grew up as a JW and thought that only the most spiritual people ever even got to visit there let alone serve. Well, my wife (2nd Marriage), my son (previous marriage), and myself went to New York about 4 years ago, while there we thought we would visit headquarters. We went inside we were amazed at how outdated the decor was, how unhuman it appeared. We stood there in the lobby while looking at all of the blank faces. I approached what I thought was an information counter and asked a young man, is there any way we could take a tour of the facilities? He said no as they were closed then asked where are you from. I told him we were from WV and at that point he made the comment: And you came all that way for this? Well that did it for all three of us. Among other reasons we are no longer JW's. I am now happy to say that we have accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior and are born again Christians. Our experience as JW's is mostly filled with regrets and disappointments. Praise God that we escaped the walls of the Wathchtower. Ron
I was not a Bethelite but you can say I been there, done that! I was a temporary worker there around 1988-92 ish and used to visit a couple times a year. I worked usually in electrical construction. I've been in almost all the buildings there (at the time) in Brooklyn, WT Farm, and worked in beginning construction stages at Patterson. At Brooklyn I worked with two brothers that I really liked, one was Ralph Ripley, and the other was Simon Hood, they were not as aloof as the other people there and were good guys, to me anyway. I wonder if they are still there? I've met most of the Gov. body there at the time and on several occasions had the opportunity to spend time visiting with the past president Fred Franz in his room, and actually have a picture of Fred and Me, of course Fred was blind at the time and he didn't know my face from a hole in the wall. Big deal, right! I remember when I was doing temp worked at one time I was asssigned to sit at the table of Brother Swingle (Swindle) more like it, who was the Society's treasure at the time, and boy was he a gruff and misreable person! I can see why he's like that though, because if you read Ray Franz's book he was the one who was close to Ray but cowered in to the Bethel Mob mentality and went against Ray, but thats another story. My conscience would bother me too! I digress... His wife was a sweetheart though. He came to breakfast with the Wall Street Journal (his true WT) and you could tell he could care less about anyone around him, in fact his wife was mad at him because he didn't greet me at his table and she said something like, Lyman, aren't you going to greet our new brother here, so his bed side manners were lacking, but then again he probably had the weight of the Societys financial welfare on his mind and who cares about anyone else. I really enjoyed working there because of the freedom I had to roam around and I would take advantage of that freedom. Being a temp unable me to spend a lot of time doing things at Bethel that the rank and file Bethelite never had time to do, like visit the libraries and spend some good time researching things and going places that were off limits to most people. Like the WT vault where they house all the writings from day one.Pretty cool! When my brother was Df'd in 1991, and I saw what happened to him and how the WT left him to dry my last visit there wasn't the same. Before that I looked at Bethel as a sanctuary and a place where God's spirit dwelled, this time it was as if I was in Satan's lair and now the name Bethel took on the true meaning it was named after, as was pointed out in the Aid to Bible Understanding p.220 # 2 "Bethel, once prominent as a place of revelation by the true God, now became renowned as a center of FALSE WORSHIP! Imagine that, their own Aid book says Bethel the center of False worship! Quite appropriate though wouldn't you say. Eventually my brother helped me to see the error of my WT ways and he got me to read Fay Franz's book Crisis Of Conscience and that did it for me, and I resigned my positions in the Cong, and quit pioneering after 17 yrs. Eventually my newfound "truth" would get me in trouble and lead them to Df'ing me for (don't laugh) Loose Conduct! Which by the way had nothing to do with ANYTHING sexual! Talk about stretching things! LOL That was May 1996. So after 23 yrs I got the boot! You can read all about it here and what followed. http://www.jesus-witnesses.com/jimriz.htm and you can also listen to my appeal meeting with 6 elders, I believe this was the first meeting recorded and put on the web for all to read and hear. This was true I spy, I wore a wireless microphone under my tie and my bother Joe was stationed out in his car with the receiver and we got it all. Boy were they mad when the found out later on. You can also read my article Jehovah's Witnesses and The Emperor's New Clothes which pretty much covers it all, at the time I wrote it in 1995-6 http://www.jesus-witnesses.com/emperor.htm To sum it all up, life is great being out and we haven't succumb to drugs, alcohol, and homelessness. Does crazy count! We have some close exjw's that we associate with now for a support group. If your alone and need some support were here for ya! Don't do it alone. Jim Rizoli JJRIZO@RCN.COM
John M. Tracy here. Ex Bethelite (Farmjack-field crops, Kingdom Farm-Big Farm-Mountain Farm, bale chucker, bodyshop laborer, Ex JW). Started noticing the politics and underhanded skullduggery goings on while there in 75-76. Went on the 1 year program. Was asked if I wanted to stay and said no. Couldn't take it anymore after a year and left of my own accord. Was treated like garbage by my home cong. because, I later found out, that most of them believed that "no one has a good reason to leave Bethel voluntarily" and that I must have been thrown out and just didn't tell anyone. Anyhow after years of being the victim of theft, criminal activity, observing coverups of child molestation and a host of other disgusting things, by my "brothers", then figuring out that the whole belief system was nothing but a cruel fairytale designed to control the members with fear and guilt, I quit. Of course "you can check out any time you like, but you can never leave". So they gladly df'd me on my ex wife's made up storys. I immediately lost all of my family and "so called" friends in an instant. I've become something of an agnostic but, nonetheless, I've decided to live life and enjoy it, despite the clinging bagage I may never totally be rid of. I'm not interested in joining a different version of the JWs. As far as I'm concerned everybody can believe anything they want. It's ok as long as they don't hurt people. Oh dear, I guess that leaves out the JWs then doesn't it, eh? I'm looking for some of my old Bethel buds that may not be JWs anymore. Richard Robinson, (Hog House) Lonny Watters (Body shop), Gilbert Jimanez (Body Shop). All were at Watchtower Farms the same time I was 75-76. I've tried my dambdest to find them and am thwarted at every turn by every JW I ask. (must be a conspiracy, Hah!) Anyhow if anyone knows them or me for that matter, shoot me a note. JTracy3358@aol.com John M. Tracy TN
Greetings everyone. I served at Watchtower Farms in the early to mid-90's. I must say, it was a good time for me overall (I enjoyed the association and the comraderie with other young brothers), but it opened my eyes to the organizational hypocrisy that was, and continues to be prevalent among JW's. I remained a faithful JW up until about a year ago when I started doubting the "Truth" very seriously. I didn't got straight to "apostate" literature and websites, but I decided to look at religion as a whole in an objective light. What I read, written by objective scholars, just blew me away. To simplify (perhaps overly) my thoughts that took place over several months, I realized for the first time in my life (I've been attending JW meetings my entire life with my family), that the belief system I held to dearly over my entire conscious life was just ANOTHER RELIGION with all of its doctrinal contradictions and politics among its membership. I mentally checked out then. I didn't disassociate myself because that will make my dealings with my family very difficult, although my immediate family now understands how I feel about the "Truth." I am free now to live my life the way I want to. I am no longer shackled to a man-made religion that passes itself as the sole representative of the Almighty God. I am truly enjoying this phase in my life. Like Randy, like he mentions in his Bethel memoirs, my time at Bethel was overall a pleasant one. I often think of the brothers I got to know during my time there: Rocky Howsden, Richard Vehar, the Grimsleys, Jim Rollmann, a bunch others too numerous to name. I am not quite ready to reveal my name here on a public website (again, family issues), but please be assured that my hearts are with you all who have taken the bold step of THINKING FOR YOURSELVES, and not giving up that BASIC HUMAN RIGHT to a man-made religious organization! Special thanks to Randy for expending his personal energy to helping others via this web site. Thanks a million!
Hi, I am Rodrigo Pinto, I served in Bethel,in the computer department of Colombia Branch from 1987 to 1995, I was sent to WT Farms and Brooklyn for MEPS and PBX training. Since my family is from Spain, I live in Madrid and two years ago I talked to the elders and told them that I did not want to be a witness any longer, so I quited. After over 20 years of beeing a witness, now I do not even recognize the bible as a book from God. I already read Crisis of Concience by Ray Franz, and now I am reading The Bible Unearthed, Archaeology's New Vision of Ancient Israel and the Origin of its Sacred Texts by Israel Finkelstein and Neil Asher Silberman. I someone has also read this book, please let me know your opinion. My e-mail. rodrigopinto@wanadoo.es
I servered in bethel in 1986-87 , the carpenter shop ferman st. was a intresting tour of duty ...... i was a crazy one always having fun while it lasted ,, i like to meet up and talk to ex jw's from bethel.... living in so. cal and just doing my thing ......................................................... manny limon ( manny_e_limon@yahoo.com )
Hey, I'm John Michael Tracy, ex JW, was at WT Farm, Kingdom Farm, Mountain Farm from 76-77. I posted quite a detailed note on this site a while ago because I'm looking for a couple of ex bethelite friends who may or may not be JWs anymore, Richard Robinson (hog house), Lonnie Waters (body shop), Gilbert Jimanez (body shop). My message is, for some reason, gone from the site. I hope this one stays. If you remember me and want to give me a shout, my email is JTracy3358@ao.com.
Hello All! Very interesting posts. I finally found this site, and have enjoyed it very much. I was at Brooklyn Bethel in the late 70's as a housekeeper, and up till recently I considered it a privilege that I hadn't appreciated and certainly didn't deserve. Whatever! I'm still very glad for the opportunity to experience it. As housekeepers we worked alone all day, so I never had the fond memories of buddies that I worked with, but I do remember certain Bethelites who stood out in their kindness and evident compassion. I was rather touched by Randy's pictures of the boys he served with at Bethel. I thought I might recognize some of them, but I didn't. All the seemingly happy faces. The optimism of youth. And besides that, we believed we were in a very special place, performing a good service, making a worthwhile sacrifice. Volunteering is good for people, for the most part, so I'm glad for any volunteering I have done in my life, whether it be hospital work or other. I'm very fond of Marina Sydlik to this day and am very glad to have met Carey Barber, who, when he had a moment, was friendly and even warm at times. He ran after me to show me a photo once after I cleaned his office. Brother Klein used to sing in the stairwells; I believe I was told that he preferred to use the stairs rather than the elevator in spite of his age. I worked on the floor where Tom and Carol Combs and Brother and Sister Suiter lived, as well as a Brother named Max (I think), whose name I should remember, but can't at the moment; he had outstanding eyebrows. I seem to recall he twisted them up or something. He asked me once if I was throwing things "so early in the morning" because in my rush after breakfast I brought a pile of tupperware or some such containers up to my little cleaning closet at my assignment, and I dropped them all over the place. I hadn't thrown them, but my aggravated reaction might have given that impression if he came in at just the wrong moment. He was nice about it but they probably watched me for awhile after that :). Maybe not. I just recall that right after that Carol Combs started paying attention to me. I never was a calm person.... Anyhow, I felt there was a lovely peace there, except for the absurd bell system that demanded we be here or there at different times of the day. The man's comments on one of the postings here about his visit to Bethel were hilarious reminders of EXACTLY what it was like at meals, especially breakfast! We DID have to run to be on time! Herded like a bunch of wayward cattle. And usually when you were about halfway through w/ your meal, you had to jump up out of your seat so as to be standing for the "closing" prayer of thanks, then sit back down to finish or just hurry back to work if you were a factory worker who had to change back into his "factory" clothes. (Because they weren't allowed to show up for a meal in God's House with dirty work clothes on. And you didn't dare miss breakfast, or, first your "table head" would admonish you for your unspiritual and disobedient course, then, if you didn't improve, up the line of spiritual "authority" to correct your errant ways. You could lose "spiritual privileges" if you didn't attend all the extra arrangements for spiritual instruction that were required for Bethelites. I remember buying an opal from Leo Greenlees in his office when he returned from one of his trips to Australia. I thought it was odd that a member of the Governing Body was selling opals, but I wasn't about to miss out on a souvenir from one of the GB! I was surprised when I heard that both he and Bro. Chitty resigned from the Governing Body (in different years) and of course I asked why they left. Never got an answer, just something like "they weren't happy with the responsibility" or they "couldn't bear the load" or some such thing. Now I know why they left. Why weren't we told?? Interestingly, Bro. Chitty seemed pretty human at Bethel. I happened to meet him in the elevator one evening, and though I was rather "awestruck" at the glorious ones, still, I wanted to greet him and speak to him, so I asked him if he was on his way to his room for the evening. He seemed to say resignedly, "Oh, no, they wouldn't like that. We still have work to do." Another one I was overawed at meeting was Brother Friend one day in the tunnel. He was very sweet and seemed to me at the time to have one foot in heaven already. He commented that "his father's favorite color was blue" in that 'District Convention Drama' voice of his. Then I realized he meant his father, Jehovah. Anyway, just reminiscing about an extraordinary life experience. They were all just dear people, trying to do what they sincerely believed was right and wonderful. Just too bad about all the prophecies that didn't work out.... The latest thing in the micro-control that floors me is the command not to have "tail-gate" parties at the conventions! There is no food service at the conventions any more, not for years now, and we are "encouraged" not to leave the site for lunch, but to bring our food w/ us in order to "benefit from the association w/ our brothers". But to eat together in the parking lot w/ them, out of our vehicles "smacks of the world" and must be avoided. And when the big power crisis on the West Coast caused the hotels to feel the need to tack on a $2.00 surcharge for electricity, we wanted to be reasonable and pay it, but we were ORDERED not to pay it! ARE WE HUMANS OR ROBOTS? We're supposed to let our reasonableness be known, and our consciences made us feel like ungrateful imbeciles in front of the hotel personnel, after they slashed the room rates so much for us! Well, best wishes to all good people.
I've read and re-read many of the wonderful posts here and I have been helped greatly by many of the comments. Also ESPECIALLY HELPFUL AND ENLIGHTENING are the audio testimonies from Ed Dunlap and Jay Hess! Thank you Randy and others like you who have not given up on the stubborn ones of us who have been trapped in the darkness of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for so many decades, afraid to step out into the light of just plain truth, due to having been FORBIDDEN ON PAIN OF FIGURATIVE DEATH to read anything but Watchtower Lies (oops, I mean Literature). YHWH sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to teach and save all who would listen. He did not send a Gestapo-like ORGANIZATION OF MEN to do this.
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I was at Brooklyn Bethel at the same time as Larry and Jerry Marks - very nice brothers, though very different from each other in personality and style -and it has recently rung a bell in my head after learning all about what happened at Bethel around the time of the Franz Incident, that Jerry, who was a well loved and respected Bethel Elder, left Bethel around 1980 and was reported to have stopped attending meetings. Now I imagine that I understand why he was probably discouraged!! Had no idea till now. Very much wonder how he is now and what he's doing. Anyone know?
Steve & Joy Imhof Steve was at bethel, first time from 1967-1971, worked mainly in the machine shop. Then we returned together in 1975 and left in 1976 to have a family. Now we are wondering why we stayed in so long. :-( If you want to reconnect, contact us at imhoffamily@hotmail.com
mugu ilove betelooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
Steve Imhof, Brooklyn Bethel from 1967 to 1976 with a couple years out to get married, to Joy Imhof. Machine shop most of those years. Finally spoke up, went on TV and local news paper in Florida Panhandle exposing harmful molestation policy. Disfellowshipped for this as Apostates in Feb 20, 2003. Reach us at Jst2laws@hotmail.com or Joy2bfree@hotmail.com
My name is Jeremy I was at Patterson from 94-96.I was a waiter so everyone knew me.I was a pioneer and a M.S.I was so intimidated when I got there I thought that this was like going to God's house.I did my "newboy" training and I was then back with my roommates that I had never meet before.They invited me to go to a movie with them,I agreed.The next thing I know they are crackin a few beers open driving down the highway and cursing up a storm.This is not even 24hrs into being at Bethel.I didn't go to college but I drank like I did at Bethel.We did everything with girls we could except the one thing that would get us kicked out.It was wierd because there were the people doing the right thing but there was also this faction of guys and girls that were just there to have a good time.The best part was my parents are well off and they would send me money every month because "I was doing what was right."We played the system with the sick days and the vacation.I remember going to the city on a tuesday night for a concert knowing that I took a 1/2 day of vacation on wednesday and I would have to work after lunch.Well I did and I am sure I was still drunk.The funniest thing is that your whole life you are taught that you should NEVER miss a meeting.They forgot to tell you, that was the case only for the regular jw not the bethelite.We could miss meetings because we were working.So if you are cheap labor to the company they will come up with a loop-hole to ease your troubled mind.Well we soon found reasons to work late and the congregation was far enough away that we couldn't make it or we wanted to get a "good nights sleep" so we could be ready to work tomorrow.The same thing went for feild service you had to work weekends and then after the meeting on Sunday some family invited you over so that you could hook up with their daughter because we were the good guys.I went to less meeting and less field service in Bethel than ever before.I was just an underpaid employee of the WTBTS.Yet when I went back to my hometown,it was as if I had single-handedly defeated Satan myself.I was treated to wine women and song,and the "crack rock" of all Bethelites,Money!Yes you had to have money to survive.I also convinced my parents to bring my brand new Mustang convertable up to me (now maybe some of you know who I am now).So get this I am partying drinking living rent free and hour from the greatest city on the planet I have a sports car and all the money I want and I didn't have to go to meetings or go out in field-service. HMMM they didn't put that in the brochure.I say these things not to brag but just to let you all know that it is a business and the way they get there money is through BrainWashing.I can look upon it now as humorious but a few years ago when I had to leave my wife and was D'fd that was hard.I enjoy being free to speak my mind and free to think for myself.Good luck to all of you who are struggling with the after effects of this "religion".I just wish they had one of these boards for pioneers,I have some great stories about that.If you want to talk email me anytime jokler16@hotmail.com.Oh, by the way my ex was wonderful I just wish she was able to leave that religion I have never been happier with one person on this planet than her.She just had so wacko religious views and I had to live MY life.
Is Rheinhart Leingat still a jw. Does anyone know for a fact what is his status in the org> df, da, inact, or what? thanks,
My name is Cory Perry. I served at Bethel in 1995. I was an electrician and got sent home for a heart problem, which ended up resolving. I am now serving in my 4th year in the U.S. Navy as a Corpsman and am currently Stationed with the Marines. I returned a few months ago from the War in Iraq to my Wife and Child.
good site.
i have worked at bethel 1975 to 1976 i have found them good kind and just; it is when i left to work at a government site i heard vulgar and saw injustice but never at bethel they live up to the bible teachings i am sorry to have left my e mail is terry_howe521@msn.com people really need to have an open mins and their bible
Steve Ferriss, Brooklyn Bethel early 1980s New e-mail address = ferriss@rocketmail.com
This is DOUG MORELAND. I was at Bethel from 1973-1980. I was fortunate to be a part of the French congregations so I got to know the Cabeens, the Franz's, Hamiltons, Dunlaps, etc. Great group of people. Started a Monday night BIBLE READING group with Mark Nevejans and Carl Johnston, in our rooms, that eventually grew to 20-30 people. Got investigated by a Bethel Committee. I left early 1980, went to Texas with Tony Robles (anybody know where he is? I heard he moved to California) then back to Detroit. Associated with a congregation for less than a year, just didn't see the point in it anymore, so stopped showing up. They stopped around for a while, then I moved, then that was that. If anybody from that time recognizes my name, drop me a line, I'd love to hear from you. dougmoreland1999@hotmail.com
Thanks for the comments Doug and Steve and others! In spite of the old farts we did have fun at Bethel! :-))
My name is Larry Kimball, and I served at Bethel from 1962 to 1968, first as a waiter, then in the cleaning and pressing shop, and then in the service department working under Harley Miller. I am no longer active, but married for the 2nd time and living in the Lake Worth Florida area. Do any of you remember me?
I'm John M. Tracy. I am originally from Upstate New York, from the sticks and lived in the country most of my young life. I was assigned to work outside in field crops at WTF. In the winter when there was not too much to do in that department, I worked in the autobodyshop there. I was shipped between all of the farms back then, but mostly WTF and Kingdom Farm because that is where I grew up and new everybody up there. The only person I remember at Brooklyn was a guy from my old cong. in Marathon New York named. He looked kind of like a chipmunk. Don't know where he worked. When I left the farm and went back to my cong., I was treated like I had leprosy. I found out later that most of the people there thought that I was thrown out because "no one" leaves Bethel voluntarily if they are righteous, and "no one" leaves after a year. For some reason they didn't know or didn't want to know about the 1 year program. The chipmunk, on the other hand was a hero. He's still there for all I know. Before I went, there was a guy down there who I think left when Ray Franz did. He was a pioneeer in our cong. when I was still a kid. Life has been a nightmare beginning from when I started to figure out that something was not quite kosher with the Org. until I left and divorced my ex wife (a typical JW). After I'd had it with everything and everyone, I told her after 25 years of pure hell, that I wanted a divorce. I'd not been to meetings for probably 10 or 12 years. I went occasionally when my youngest son would give a talk and had to hold my breath then. I tried to ride the fence because I knew what was at stake, losing my entire family and everyone I ever knew as "friends". I never did anything wrong, I just worked, went fishing and hunting once in a while, worked on my GTO, and worked some more. I just wanted them to leave me alone. I never told anyone except my father (a JW elder) my opinions on the org.. He kind of ignored me. My wife accused me of having affairs our whole married life. I never did, wouldn't have known how if the opportunity was right in front of my nose. Occasionally the elders would mount an expedition to "encourage" me and come visit me on "shepherding" calls. I let them have it the last time they came. My sister was married to an ex Bethelite who cheated on her, raped and beat her. He was the elder's golfing buddy. My sister asked me for help. I almost killed the bastard when he threatened to kill me. The elders severely counceled me for being mean to him and causing he and my sister's break up. I told them that I wasn't responsible for it, but if I was, I was proud because it probably saved her life. He was never held accountable. They didn't have anything to do with me again until I left my wife. Over the years previous, I'd had JWs working for me in my business. Probably around 20 all told. All but 4 of them stole from me. I was counseled again and again to not be dogmatic about their thievery. I was going to have several of them charged with theft and embezzlement. I was severely counseled to not take my brothers to court or I'd be df'd for dragging JHVH's name through the mud. I remember once telling my father that I'd come to the conclusion that just about any JW would steal if given the chance. Of course he came up with all kinds of reasons that I was wrong (most notably Satan's influence) but I still believe it. He'd hate it when I'd say "well then the argument that the Devil made me do it is valid then?" I'd also say, "who's in running the org. then, Satan?" Those experiences were very hard blows to the head when it came to opening my eyes to what the org. was really about. I learned at the farm that politics ruled. I wanted nothing to do with them. I just did my job, worked my head off and played when I had time. I saw favors given to bethelite