This page contains entries 1001 through 1505 in the guestbook. Entries were made between September 6, 2001 and December 31, 2001.
These names and addresses are posted to enable people to contact friends and loved ones. Please do not exploit this information for commercial purposes.
My good friend directed me to this site. I left the exclusives when I was 19 which was 20 years ago and have never had any contact since. Would be happy to hear from anyone but generally have led a solo existence from brethren since the day I walked out.
I visit London every two weeks so not a total foreigner. Left behind all my family at 19 and reconnect for funerals occasionally as each one dies.
Enjoying my life in the sun, relaxing and working with wonderful people.
To all of you who have left I say best thing you could have done, visit www.tonyrobbins.com for inspiration and always look forward never back.
Love and Respect whatever you are doing
Hazel xx
Guest: Ted Fry
Guest E-mail: titus21314@hotmail.com
City, Country: Summerville, SC, USA
Date & Comments: September 14, 2001
One of the evils of this cultic sect is the insular, self-occupied effect it has on its adherents, resulting in a lack of evangelical concern for others and their spiritual, emotional and physical welfare. Therefore I suggest that all readers who are true believers in the Lord Jesus Christ pray in His name that:
Hopefully such occupation in prayer will help enslaved ones to see the evil of the system they are involved in and encourage recently liberated ones to rise above their troubles by "casting all your care upon Him for He cares about you". 1 Peter 5:7
Guest: Geoff and Caroline Dunlop
Guest E-mail: gnc79@hotmail.com
City, Country: Sydney Australia
Date & Comments: September 15, 2001
Guest: Pattie
Guest E-mail: rostric@free2air.com.au
Date & Comments: September 18, 2001
To all Americans,
Saddened to view the terrible events in NY! Here in Australia, all are devestated and praying for President Bush, and all in authority to make the right decisions regarding retaliation. May God keep us all, in these turbulant times.
Guest: Anonymous (of 26th August)
Guest E-mail: via dwyman@cloudnet.com
City, Country: UK
Date & Comments: September 19, 2001
I recently wrote of my sibling who has been in touch and is planning to leave the EB's.
We met up again last weekend in a park in their local town - a bit nerve wracking constantly on the lookout for hanky heads! Anyhow my sibling is leaving very very soon, the plan is to feign illness to get out of going to a meeting and then leave whilst the house is empty. Our parents will be left a note with my address and contact number (they have that already) so they will know where my sibling has gone. I expect quite a fallout from this and the emotions that all this has stired up is quite unbelievable. Sometimes I am excited and other times I just don't want to know and wish it wasn't going to happen. How unreal is this? Can you believe that we have to go through this to escape from tyranny and persecution.
On another note I have been able to catch up with the news of my family which has been invaluable and was given a 'photo album' that the eb's made in 1995 with photos of all the families of the local city and interchange city. Apparantly this was in vogue at the time and has since been abandoned, but for people like us it has been a snapshot of the missing years.
Hopefully I'll be able to be more open about myself soon and update families desperate for news of their families soon
Anonymous
Guest: Bradley McCallum
Guest E-mail: knighthighlander@hotmail.com
City, Country: Chicago, IL, USA
Date & Comments: September 21, 2001
Just a note to say that I strongly feel that there is a depth of evil connected with the EBs that cannot be ignored. The mandated breaking up of families, the illegal, unequal treatment of non-brethren employees in the workplace, the blind acceptance of the direction of a mortal man in the place of Christ, --- all of these things are a mockery of what Christ and Paul taught. It is important to not forget this. The radical shifting to the extremist fringe right which began in the late 50s and has continued to the present day is not the working of our righteous God, but the work of something very different, which in many aspects is anti-Christian.
On another note,I would very much like to hear from those who have left in recent years who are in their 20s or early 30s. I think it would be interesting to relate to those whose experience growing up, and latter experience in the Hales regime, is roughly similar.
Bradley McCallum
Guest: Vanessa Cummings
City, Country: Geraldine New Zealand
Date & Comments: September 22, 2001
To Anno
Your cousin is leaving and I am really excited for you. I wish you well. And I really mean this. Don't stand for croc tears and crying as they will try anything. They will try to catch you unexpected like go to your back door. When I left my org plan was to stay home with crook tumm but when that evening came along my mother dedided to stay home so I went to church and looked around and said my goodbyes to my sister in law.she never clicked. Well I got home and left my ten speed on the front lawn. LAnd Dad told me to put it up on the verandah . I purposely forgot and that was my get away vehicle once everybody went to bed. I creeped out side and put some clothes on and all I had was a school bag of photos and weeks clothes. My friend was waiting down the road with her friend. And because I have made such a noise with the bike stand we had to run. But no they didn't hear and I left a note to where I was going . THey visited and tried to talk to me but I wouldn't and they left letters in my friends letter box and a bible. Ha. I went on the pub crawl the next day with heaps of old school friends and they where out there searching for me. It was fun seeing their faces as I walked into the ppubs. My father was told of this striaght away and he came to get me out.. But when his works where there and supporting me it was alittle hard and had to go on his merry way. So take heart and unfortuatly you will have to be hard. Do not let them in your house.
love Vanessa
Guest: Julie Fletcher
Guest E-mail: juliefletcher_21@yahoo.ca
City, Country: Coquitlam, Canada
Date & Comments: September 23, 2001
Guest: Oliver Bedford
Guest E-mail: oliverb@tcorp.nsw.gov.au
City, Country: Sydney, ex UK
Date & Comments: September 24, 2001
Dear Dick
Very best wishes for your good health following your strenuous trip, and thanks once more for all the work and care you put into this site.
Best regards
Oliver
Guest: Anonymous (26th August)
City, Country: UK
Date & Comments: September 24, 2001
The **** has hit the fan through no fault of my messages on this guestbook. The fallout is quite unbelievable, everything that you all said would happen has and more. Pray for us. I will stop updating.
Anonymous
Guest: Valerie Saulle
Guest E-mail: saulle@optusnet.com.au
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: September 24, 2001
My email address has changed to saulle@optusnet.com.au
Thanks, Valerie Saulle
Guest: Cindy
Guest E-mail: cmw@volcano.net
City, Country: Sutter Creek, CA (formerly Ch.Ch. N.Z.)
Date & Comments: September 25, 2001
Hey Dick,
Wow-zow, you surpassed the Big 1,000. I told you so - nah-ne-nah-ne!
Thank you for all you have contributed to help so many good yet confused people.
With love to you, Beth and your kiddos.
Cindy
P.S. Bob and I are moving to a brand-new house in Vancouver,Washington State in a week - a fresh start in "our" home. 'Twill be good for both of us.
P.P.S. My words will never be able to express the positive changes you made in my thinking and day-to-day life.
Ever thankful - C
Guest: Valerie Saulle
Guest E-mail: saulle@optusnet.com.au
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: September 30, 2001
I have been wondering if anyone is interested to buy some ministry books,J.N.Darby, F.E.Raven, J.Taylor Snr, J.Taylor Jnr. J.B.Stoney and C.A.Coates as I would like to sell them. I can be contacted by phone/fax 61 03 9713 0589. I am deaf but my children will be able to answer phone or leave message with name and phone number in answering machine. I hope someone will come forward to buy ministry books as soon as possible
Thanks
Valerie Saulle
Guest: Tim
Guest E-mail: timt@adelphia.net
City, Country: Vermont, USA
Date & Comments: September 28, 2001
It occurs to me that in Francis Mortyns' 'The Ordination of John Nelson Darby', the stirring and beautiful words could have been said to reasonably apply to the life of J.N.D. thereafter.
For example: "...and by my life and teaching set forth Thy true and living Word. Be always with me in carrying out the duties of my ministry...".
Of course, to suggest that the "Holy Sacraments" only applied to those in the Irish Anglican church would indicate Exclusivisim and that, I am sure, would not be the purpose of this article. After all, as Francis says, the word 'catholic' means universal ...
I would also suggest that in the words: "Holy Order...impresses a permanent quality upon the soul, which can never be lost either in time or eternity," there is indeed an air of permanence, which might indicate that the possibility of losing said Orders might be a trifle difficult?
:-)
Tim
PS Gosh, did I just publicly defend J.N.D.?
Guest: Bernie Hyslop
Guest E-mail: bernieve@hotmail.com
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Date & Comments: October 1, 2001
Withdrawn from fellowship 1987.Still have two children in the grips of the brethren. My oldest son lives in Warwick, QLD, married with two children I have never seen and my daughter married Nathan Kennard from Gosford in NSW. If anyone has any pictures or news of them please email me.
Have got on with life since leaving without dwelling on the past, attend a good God fearing church and my other three sons are married or almost married and are walking closely with the Lord.
Guest: William & Alice Ewing
Guest E-mail: wbeabe@aol.com
Date & Comments: October 1, 2001
We would be happy to hear from any of our old friends. I was raised in Westfield, New Jersey, Alice grew up in Knoxille, Tn. We lived in Knoxville. Tn. until l975. We were graciously delivered from the "Jims" in l972. We now meet with a few Christians in Glendale, Ca.
Guest: Oliver Cane
Guest E-mail: oliver_cane@hotmail.com
City, Country: Watford, UK
Date & Comments: October 2, 2001
I escaped from the chains of the pbs 10 days ago
after a weekend of torture and intimidation.
I am now completely free of 24 years of fear and
control in being in a congregation where the
brethern think they are always right.
I would be glad to hear from anyone who would like to know the latest rules and regulations on the pbs or the latest news on their famlies.
I would also be glad to hear from anyone that remembers me.
Guest: Graham Frost
Guest E-mail: grahamfrost@hotmail.com
City, Country: Peterborough, U.K.
Date & Comments: October 2, 2001
A few months ago I put a couple of messages on this guestbook to say that I had heard my brother Clive had recently left the EB's. I am delighted to say that we were recently reunited after 28 years. Clive is doing well, and seems to be settling into his new life very positively.
If it were not for this site, and the contacts I have made through it, it is very unlikely that I would have even known my brother had left, let alone found him and met him within less than six months.
Thanks again to the great Dick Wyman!!
Guest: David James
Guest E-mail: davidj4@bigpond.com
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: October 5, 2001
Just to notify my change of address davidj4bigpond.com
I'm originally from Adelaide, thrown out at 14 (38 years ago) no contact with family and am now residing in Melbourne
Guest: Andy Giles
Guest E-mail: andygiles@classicfm.net
City, Country: Brighton, England
Date & Comments: October 7, 2001
Haven't signed in for a while so thought I'd just say hallo again. This weekend is the third aniversary of my leaving the peeb's. Life is going well but still battling to see my children.
Greetings and love to all.
Andy
Guest: Frank James Jr
City, Country: Bicester
Date & Comments: October 8, 2001
I find these practices very judgemental and prejudiced. In God's eyes we are supposedly all created equally therefore I am disgusted with all PB's and would spit in their faces.
Guest: Pattie
City, Country: OZ
Date & Comments: October 3, 2001
The book Shut up Sarah, can be purchased in Australia from Koorong Books for AUSD 14.95. It can be ordered over the net.
Guest: BBxx
Guest E-mail: Blackbirdxx@Ntlworld.com
City, Country: England
Date & Comments: October 8, 2001
Hi
Can Anyone help, we are having a dispute in the workplace at the moment, we all have mobile (cell) phones we all use them, we solve many a problem or crisis with them, at our expense, It's a Brethren Company they also conduct their business with people on mobile phones, This has been going on for years, But now all this has to stop because the bosses or the so called powers to be say.....
What do they say? No fair explanation is ever given. What are the rules? is it written down anywhere? I (speaking for many others ) would like to know word for word.
Do the so called 'Brethren' have a rule book ?
Can anyone help? Many Thanx
Guest: Milad Jacob
Guest E-mail: hutaf2000@yahoo.com
City, Country: Israel
Date & Comments: October 9, 2001
We welcome brethren believers and ministers from all over the world write us
Guest: Bro. Francis CCN
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: California
Date & Comments: October 12, 2001
Remember the times you've heard the words "Two Timothy Two"? It all came back to me this morning when I learned that 2 Tim. 2 will be used for the Second Lesson in the liturgy of the Mass in the Anglican Communion this Sunday. Eighty million of us worldwide will hear that Lesson but only a few of us will experience the emotional impact that chapter carries for escaped and recovering Peebs.
Guest: Sam Ward
Guest E-mail: samgward@aol.com
City, Country: UK, London(ex-Andover, Hants)
Date & Comments: October 12, 2001
Hey guys and gals,
My name is Sam Ward, originally from Andover, Hants.
I am now 24 years old and got kicked out along with my family when I was 16 years old. We got kicked out for having a 'barbaque'!
My Dad is Allan Ward, my mum is Pauline (nee-Woodfield from Bournemouth,Dorset). I have 3 brothers, Jason, Matthew and Caleb and a sister, Emma.
****We were known as the 'Wardies'.****
I live and work near London. I work for Stephen Pallister(ex-pleb!) I have Chloe Pallister living here with me, she left in June 2001. She is Steve's cousin.
Chloe and I went to Greece in September and had a fab time, each time we layed on the beach, we thought of all those plebs sitting in a stuffy meeting room, rapped up in clothes from neck to ankle! All dressed in Navy and White! YUUUMMYY!
If there is any one out there who remembers any of us, please, please get in touch!
To all my fellow escapie's ......
enjoy this wonderful life
love sam
Guest: Pattieone
City, Country: Oz
Date & Comments: October 13, 2001
Dear BBxx,
Yes it's the same at the office I work at. Totally frustrating, but don't let it get to you. Just give them and invoice for 'costs incurred' without mentioning the cell phone on the invoice, and you may be surprised - they may well be prepared to pay you back for your calls. After all they are benefitting from technology through an 'unbeliever'. Read Dick's website thoroughly and it will help you feel sorry for them instead of frustrated! It helped me heaps. Now I pray that they will see the Light!
Guest: Joyce Ritchie
Guest E-mail: kenjoy@powerup.com.au
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Date & Comments: October 14, 2001
I was Joyce White and lived in Sydney in my E.B. days. I was withdrawn from in 1972. I must admit to being a very lonely soul for quite some time but of course, have no regrets, except for the loss of my family.
My family lived around the corner from Bruce and Consie Hales in Strathfield, Sydney. I am anxious to contact Jimmy Hales, their eldest child. I understand he left the E.B's in 1980 or thereabouts. Does anyone know of his whereabouts? If so, could you e-mail me please. Thanks.
Guest: Angie Devenish (1st married name Gilliland)
Guest E-mail: angie@normanathome.dabsol.co.uk
City, Country: Birmingham, England
Date & Comments: October 14, 2001
I was brought up in Woking, Surrey (Guildford City) and left the PB's in 1975, whilst married to Ray Gilliland and living in Birmingham (now divorced). My mother and father are Paul & Marjorie Devenish (still in)and my brothers and sisters are June (out), Jackie (still in), Richard (still in), Tim (still in). I have 4 children from my first marriage and am now remarried.
I would love to here from anyone who used to know me or my family.
NOTE TO SAM WARD - I knew your father. I am Stuart Packer's cousin. Also brought up in same meetings as Pallisters.
Guest: Adrian Sloan
Guest E-mail: Carolandadrian@sloan52.fsnet.co.uk
City, Country: Bristol, UK
Date & Comments: October 14, 2001
I thought I would sign on again & say Hi to anyone who remembers me from the Croydon meeting at the time of Aberdeen, when 75% of us left the Exclusives (about 320 people at one go!). Among those who stayed in were my cousin Jennifer Bance (formerly Pannell), who had recently got married. We understand she and Anthony now have 5 children and probably 1 or more grandchildren. If anyone knows anything about them please would they e-mail me. Her mother would very much like any news (no contact since Aberdeen).
Guest: anonexeb
Guest E-mail: anonexeb@hotmail.com
City, Country:
Date & Comments: October 14, 2001
15-10-01
Dear BBxx
A few words in response to your note about mobile phones. I write from personal experience up until '98.
First of all the EBs do not have a "BOOK" of rules. But as much as they deny it, they DO have rules. The only time that the "rules" are ever written is when they are spoken by their "elect vessel" (their leader) in the "assembly" (in church) and are therefore printed. (All of his meetings are printed). Otherwise the rules (or directives as they prefer to call them) can be very vague and are interpreted and enforced by the local leaders.
Now this is not to suggest that they are not organised - they are VERY organised. Their strong point is their organisation, but nevertheless when you have 45000 or so adherents scattered around the world you will always get some slight discrepancies in the way various "truths" are interpreted. So do not be too surprised if the change of attitude you are speaking of, could be more a fresh local emphasis and may not be a decree which applies right across the world.
Now - about mobile phones.
A mobile phone is regarded as unacceptable because it is, in principle, a "radio". As such it must not be "touched" - even in an emergency. A few years ago there was a purge on the issue in which people had to confess publicly to their local assembly if they had ever used a mobile phone. No difference was made at that time between emergency usage and non-essential usage.
However because of the EB ingenuity, they will try to find a way around the problem. In this case it became very expedient for EB businesses to employ a "worldly" person who owned and was prepared to use his or her mobile phone for business related calls. Because no direct word was forthcoming by the leader against this practice, the EB rank and file seemed to become more and more comfortable with this idea as time went on.
In essence it was seen as similar to a fax machine. "Don't own one yourself ... but by all means use someone else's." Information to hand indicates that the increasing need of computers in business will be overcome the same way.
But remember, the assumption that it was ok for worldly employees to use their own mobiles, was never official and the leader has not necessarily "rubber-stamped" this practice. So therefore at any time, it is quite possible that he will ban or at least tighten up these practices. After all, some of us have written in to them about "hypocrisy" often enough, surely, to make them feel uncomfortable with this sort of thing.
Of course any tightening of these policies will have more and more of an impact on the "bottom-line" in EB businesses and this is where it really hurts them.
Maybe others can confirm or otherwise whether this is a worldwide trend.
Anonexeb
Guest: Pattieone
City, Country: Oz
Date & Comments: October 15, 2001
Re trends with technology and mobile phones. Lately the workplace I am in has begun using email externally, as faxing is becoming a thing of the past! What next...PC's ??? If only.
Guest: Doug Holt
Guest E-mail: doogle66@hotmail.com
City, Country: Brisbane
Date & Comments: October 15, 2001
Left EB in 1981 have one sister and two brothers also out. Married with 2 children Ryan 10 and Jodie 8. My wife had never heard of EB. Have worked in the sugar cane industry in far north Queensland most of the time. If anyone out there remembers me contact me at above email address.
One question... why do ppl display their home or business phone numbers on here?!?!?! Dont you realise that this is the Evil Internet?!?!?!
*S*
cheers Doug.
Guest: P. Cresswell
Guest E-mail: phill007@hotmail.com
City, Country: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Date & Comments: October 18, 2001
My mother was excumunicated from the brethran when she was 21 - for going out with my agnostic father. I grew up seeing my mother brought to tears consistantly through attempts to communicate with her father on the phone. I can only remember my grandfather twice in my life.
Once at 19 (32yrs old now) I wanted to say hello and was allowed a meeting. The secound time was 3 years ago when my sister was dying of a long cruel illness in hospital and he showed up in a wheel chair with two elders. He didn't even say hello or look at me. He just went to say a "prayer" for my sister then left.
Obviously when my sister died no-one from my mothers direct family attended (except her sister, also excumincated)which again upset my mother.
To say that one of the happiest times in my life was when my grandfather died. I couldn't stop laughing.
The only thing I could think of was - I'm glad the pain and hurt is finally over. No more cruel and uncaring family!
His name was Eric Codd and lived in Nottingham, England.
Guest: Gabriel Pino
Guest E-mail: gabrielpino@tutopia.com
City, Country: Rosario, Argentina
Date & Comments: October 18, 2001
Next weekend EBs from all over the world meetings are comming to Argentina just as do every year.
I hope they pray for the war to stop and for all these homeless and hungry people that are running away from hell looking for a peacefull place to stay.
Gabriel
Guest: Sheila Ellen McLellan Hutt (maiden name Mitchell)
Guest E-mail: via dwyman@cloudnet.com
City, Country: Bath, UK
Date & Comments: October 19, 2001
My mother Isabella Mitchell (nee McLellan) has a sister named Jenny Stanners (married name) who sailed from Glasgow as a war bride, in the EBs, married Max Stanners in Auckland.
The 2 sisters have never seen each other since!!!
My mum and dad left the EB's at Aberdeen and never looked back, and are still alive happy in Worthing UK.
Any news about any of the family of Jenny would be great! Is she still alive?
Jenny was oldest, Jim next (now decd), Greta (decd), Gilbert (decd), Isabel (very alive!), and finally a younger sister (still alive)
Let me know of any info, relatives I don't even know about etc.
Sheila
Guest: Chloe Pallister
City, Country: Kingston, UK
Date & Comments: October 20, 2001
Hi everyone,
I left the peebs just four and a half months ago, to get some freedom and life. It has been a tough break from family and friends, but am finding what it is to really live! It is great to find ex-peebs and others that are interested in us. At present I am living with Sam Ward(ex-peeb) where I would love to have contact with anyone who knows me or any of the london area brethren/ex-pebbs.
Sam's email address is samgward@aol.com.
If there is anyone out there who would like to know of any news about family or friends, please do get in touch.
Regards
Chloe
Guest: Sam Ward
Guest E-mail: samgward@aol.com
City, Country: London, UK (ex- Andover)
Date & Comments: October 20, 2001
Hi everyone,
Just thought I would say Hi to you all out there!
I have been out for nearly 8 years and I have just got myself onto this list. It has taken me ages to get here, but it is so interesting to know how my friends and fellow ex-peebs are doing!
Could anyone tell me how often everyone gets together? I have heard that sometimes there are reunions?? Can anyone tell me more about these???
Speak to you all again soon.
Regards
Sam
Guest: Graham Sutherland
Guest E-mail: thevoice@netrover.com
City, Country: Windsor, Canada
Date & Comments: October 20, 2001
just thought I would give my new email address
Guest: Pattieone
City, Country: Oz
Date & Comments: October 22, 2001
Does anyone have any knowledge of a group begun in Ivanhoe, Vic in the sixties and now operating in Bright, Vic, run by Ron Clark an ex=brethren from NZ? I don't know if he was exclusive brethren or not. My sister was involved with this cult which so-called majored in deliverance and healthy living. The young people who were recruited to this cult, were stripped of their posessions and sent to work, and gave all their income to Ron. He (and they) lived in a mansion in Ivanhoe. He had a wife Margaret and 5 children. Adherents were told to give up on their families for the sake of loving God more.
I would be v interested if anyone could tell me if they know about this group. I believe it is still operative and owns quite a few businesses in Bright. The ABC (I think) did an investigative tv programme on them in the 80's. I can be contacted through Dick.
Guest: Kim Myrwick
Guest E-mail: via dwyman@cloudnet.com
City, Country: DK-6400 Soenderborg
Date & Comments: October 23, 2001
in year 2001 I lost my mother - but I found my old friend Anthony (we worked together at Simpsons Piccadelly London in 1977, and then I lost the contact with him from 1985 until now.
the 4th. of October was a really good day for me, because he phoned me too say hallo.
thanks Anthony and love too you and your family
Guest: Ian P Johns
Guest E-mail: robson@chariot.net.au
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Date & Comments: October 28, 2001
Just to notify change of e-mail address.
New e-mail address is robson@chariot.net.au
Guest: withheld
Date & Comments: October 28, 2001
I feel so alone sometimes and feel that this may help my healing of many wounds I have.
Guest: Hazel Wickham
Guest E-mail: HHazelOK@aol.com
City, Country: Sheffield England
Date & Comments: October 30, 2001
I've read this web site with a great deal of interest. I was brought up in the Exculsives but we 'came out' in 1960. We lived in Workington in Cumbria and my parents are Jim and May Stevenson (brought up in Scotland). They are both still alive and moved to live in Sheffield 5 years ago as my sister and I both live here. They have read many of the stories on this site and were interested to ehar of some of the people they knew all those years ago.
Guest: June Devenish (previous surnames Foster and Michel)
Guest E-mail: JuneDevenish@hotmail.com
City, Country: Watford, Herts, England
Date & Comments: October 31, 2001
Just signing in with my new email address. I moved about four months ago to Abbots Langley outside Watford with my 12 year old son James. I was brought up in Woking, Surrey and am sister to Angie who has recently signed the guestbook.....would love to hear from anyone who knew me.....
I have been to a few get togethers and will let you know Sam when there is another one.....or perhaps you would like to suggest a time and place?!! (btw knew your family well and spent a lot of childhood in Andover with the Packers.)
Chloe are you related to Rodney, David and Arthur? We were all kids together!!
Guest: Anon
Date & Comments: November 1, 2001
I have heard that various EB leadership monitor this page and contents? Excellent. There is something I want them to know...
You have broken up my family, caused hurt, tears, heart break and despondancy - tried to take away my education, career opportunities, and compassion. BUT YOU WILL NEVER SUCCEED IN CRUSHING MY SPIRIT. I have discovered, and I now KNOW that being a Christian is not about rules and regulations, it's not about whether my hair is long or short, it's not about cellphones or TV's - it's about a RELATIONSHIP. It's about being in love, and loved by a powerful and loving Father God. It's about making mistakes and knocking my head - and knowing I am still loved by my Father in Heaven who cared so much that He sent His Son to die for me. I am so excited that HE will never excommunicate me from HIS presence. I am learning about abundant life and being free in Christ. So, to the EB - thank you for teaching me to appreciate things that others take for granted. I don't want to spend the rest of my life looking back with hatred at how you have manipulated and distorted the truth.
Here is where I let go - here is where I embrace the truth of Jesus Christ and leap forward into LIFE MORE ABUNDANTLY!
Dick, thank you very much for this site.
Guest: Charles Turner
Guest E-mail: charlesandrewturner@hotmail.com
City, Country: Richmond, Surrey
Date & Comments: November 1, 2001
I left the PB's in 1984 at the age of 18. I was based in Kings Lynn in Norfolk. I didn't keep in contact with my family or earlier life. I would be interested to know whether all my family are still in the PB's. My sister Julia married Dick Burke in Leicester. I also believe my sister Lois married in that area as well. My younger sister is Pippa and I also have a younger brother Rodney.
I never had any doubt from an early age that the religion didn't stack up and being kicked out was by far the best thing that ever happened to me. I havn't kept in touch with many ex PB's I find wingeing about the past to be regressive. Love to hear from anyone that knows me and has got the PB's out of their system and is living a normal life
Guest: Graham Frost
Guest E-mail: grahamfrost@hotmail.com
City, Country: Peterborough, U.K.
Date & Comments: November 4, 2001
Just a message to let everyone (particularly in the U.K.) know that there will be a pre-Xmas ex-EB's reunion on Saturday December 8. The venue is not yet decided, but it is likely to be in the Watford area. It would be great to see as many people as possible, even if you are not part of the 'usual suspects' of Feeb or Exybees. I will post more details as soon as they become available. -Graham.
Guest: Anon
Guest E-mail: via dwyman@cloudnet.com
City, Country: England
Date & Comments: November 4, 2001
I too, hope that this site is monitored by the EB's. My wife and I left, of our own free will, about 10 years ago and have neither regretted our carefully made decision to do so, or indeed lost our faith in our Lord Jesus. My wife is currently in a mental hospital, not least due to the fact that she was sexually abused by a member of her own family when only a child. The person involved is still alive and still in fellowship. It was the sheer hypocrisy of these people that forced us to leave in the first place, but this recent sad and totally shocking revelation has just made us so thankful that we have since put some mileage between ourselves and them. I am hoping that this may prick someone's concience and help them face their sin. As a practicing Christian, I would love to save this person from the eternal damnation that awaits the unrepenting sinner.
Guest: Joy Spreadborough (nee McClean)
Guest E-mail: rosyjoy@talk21.com
City, Country: Grimsby, England
Date & Comments: November 4, 2001
Joy Spreadborough, nee McClean
I was born in Edinburgh, local there 1952-1953.
Local in Coatbridge 1953-1956.
Joy Spreadborough nee McClean
Local in Grimsby 1956-1983.
Withdrawn from in 1983 after marrying 'outside'.
Mother - Mary McClean nee Mallinson
Father - Billy McClean, local Belfast / Wallsend / London / Edinburgh / Coatbridge / Grimsby Brother Robert - born 1954 Sister Felicity - born 1961. If anyone has news of David Mallinson, his wife Olive, my cousins (now in 30s or 40s )- Timothy, Enid, Philip, Naomi, & James, also, Peter Mallinson, his wife Grace, my cousins Nigel, Geoffrey and Joseph; I would love to hear from you. rosyjoy@talk21.com
Guest: Peter Gerald
Guest E-mail: Wr999@aol.com
City, Country: United Kingdom
Date & Comments: November 6, 2001
My e mail has changed to Wr999@aol.com and would like the names and guest book to show this change.
I am making contact with anyone who is ex EB and living in or connected with the South West of UK Devon and Cornwall Any correspondence would be most welcome Thank you I came out of the EBs in mid 1950,s and would like to make any contact who has memories of that time or whose mewmories have been passed down
Guest: Sam Ward
City, Country: London, UK
Date & Comments: November 10, 2001
Hi everyone, just wanted to let anyone who is writing to Chloe at my email address, that she has moved to her own little place. She has found a flat and moved on. Good luck to her. She is doing really well and I am sure that she will get in touch when she can.
Regards
Sam
Guest: Jill Mytton
Guest E-mail: E.J.Mytton@uel.ac.uk
City, Country: London
Date & Comments: November 9, 2001
As many of the visitors to this guest book know, I am engaged in research into the psychological problems that former members of the Exclusive Brethren might have. Currently one of my undergraduate students (at the University of East London) and I are carrying out a small study on the experience of former Exclusive Brethren in the area of friendships and socialising. We are looking for about 6 people who have left preferably in the last 3 or 4 years and who would be happy to answer three very simple questions. These questions would be asked either in a face to face interview, or over the phone or even by email. The research is being carried out according to the Code of Ethics of the British Psychological Society so confidentiality is assured as is anonymity. Anyone taking part can withdraw at any time they wish.
If you think you might be interested (or know of someone who might be interested) please email me as soon as possible.
We look forward to hearing from you
Jill
Guest: Scott Carroll
Guest E-mail: scarroll@shaw.ca
City, Country: Edmonton, Canada
Date & Comments: November 10, 2001
New e-mail address
Guest: Margie Oldham
Guest E-mail: edoldham@hotmail.com
City, Country: Regina, Sask.
Date & Comments: November 10, 2001
Please note new e-mail address.
Does anyone know anything about a new policy in the Exclusives regarding wills? My three children were contacted by their father, who hasn't had any contact with them for over 20 years, telling them that he wants to give them some money that he had been putting away for them over the years. There were some strings attached though and that was that the children had to sign a form saying that they would not contest their father's will when he eventually passes away if they accept this money now. I don't trust any of the group and just wondered if anyone knew what is behind this. I find it rather strange as I had asked the children's father for help when they were attending college and he absolutely refused to help at all.
Please e-mail me if anyone knows anything about this. Thanks!
Margie Oldham
Guest: Esther McLean
Guest E-mail: estim8or4u@icqmail.com
City, Country: Hastings, New Zealand
Date & Comments: November 11, 2001
Hi to all, especially Vanessa
Thanks for ur message, it was a great help and thank u for helping Uncle Arnold find me, I had a great time while they were here, and its so great to have family again! As for V S, please dont ask anyone to contact her about me, she is not very fond of me, and due to a misunderstanding thinks I am a "troublemaker"...which is kinda hurting me, and I just hope that time will change the way she thinks...she even went as far as to say that she wished she had never met me....not a very Christian attitude coming from a woman that professes to be one... Anyway, I just hope she reads this and regrets the way she was so double and led me to believe that things were ok, then writing a letter to me stating the exact opposite...sorry if I sound bitter and twisted but it really got to me!
Anyway enough negative and getting onto something more positive...I'm feeling a lot better about myself and am getting out and meeting new friends which has helped to get thru the stress and hardships that have come my way....anyway, if no one else cares at least God does. Anyway, thanks again to Vanessa, and u asked about Seth, I think he would like to be where u are, out of the religion and has recently got married to a girl Frizzell from down south somewhere. Thats about all I know, I was talking to D S and she said she was sure that Seth would like to be out of the religion and doing his own little thing...if that gives u any comfort? Well, I better go and start doing something positive to get rid of the negative... Love to all, and im striving to forgive...and forget...but it aint easy!
Esther
Guest: Vanessa Cummings Janson
City, Country: Orgin of Hastings New Zealand
Date & Comments: November 13, 2001
Hi there Esther
Thanks for your message and I am glad Arnold has mangaged to visit you. I remember him clearly as a kid , I stayed at his place and we always had fun. Say hello to him for me. Do not worry about vs. Abit strange at times and yep. So called christian. Not good ahe. It opens your eyes sometimes. We all make mistakes but some people need to get of their high horse. I do not know who ds is but thanks for the message about Seth. I had heard that he got married and feel he was made to get married. It was a shame that he didn't get on the phone or turn up at my place. After all he knows where I work. Please pass on the message to Seth that I say Hi and am always thinking of him. And he knows where I am if he wants me. I did not know who he married but the name is familier. A frizzel came through my aisle and gave me to much money. So I joked that He might give me a tip. ha ha ha It did not go down well at all. His reply was diffently not to you... I just cracked up laughing. Please take care and don't worry about vs.. You make the judge yourself of people and take them how you find them. I was told so much sxxt that my uncles where evil etc. And they are the most caring people around and such hard cases. Anyway I must be away Do take care Esther and a big hug from me
Vanessa
Guest: J.A. Emmans
Guest E-mail: emmans@intonet.co.uk
City, Country: Taxus, Darby Gardens, Lower Sunbury, Middlesex TW16 5JW
Date & Comments: November 13, 2001
My son Jim Emmans has interested me in your web site. I see my relatives and former "brethren" at Tesco grocery stores at Sunbury, Middlesex UK but have no idea how far they are now removed from my own cut off line 1969.
Aldred
Guest: Graham Nason
Guest E-mail: imi50ae@pcpro.net.au
Date & Comments: November 13, 2001
Please send ALL mail to this new address. Thank you
Graham Nason.
Guest: Dave Heap
Guest E-mail: dheap@metz.une.edu.au
City, Country: Armidale NSW, Australia
Date & Comments: November 13, 2001
Margie Oldham asked about wills policy.
A few years ago my father unexpectedly sent us some money. On enquiring around about this, a (then) recently excommunicated Exclusive friend explained that they had developed a policy based on the incident in Genesis where Abraham gave a gift to Ishmael (Hagar's son) and sent him away. He explained that this was their way of fulfilling their duty to the illegitimate (i.e. apostate) children, and cutting them off, to retain the inheritance for the true (i.e. faithful to the EBs) children.
Guest: Kerry Pile
Guest E-mail: cuhdear8@hotmail.com
City, Country: Texas
Date & Comments: November 9, 2001
Please email me ladies if you are interested in participating in a women's retreat. It will be for all women who have been in the EBs at some time in their life. It will be a structured, but rejuvenating weekend some time in the summer.
Guest: Susan Malone
Guest E-mail: susanmal@primus.com.au
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Date & Comments: November 14, 2001
I have enjoyed reading all the information & correspondance on this site..I have also read ALL the information on the Plymouth Brethren site. A family of Brethrens (?) bought the house next door to us & our immediate neighbourhood changed from a happy, cohesive, sharing, caring, friendly,loud one to a sombre, tense one with complaints (coming from the new residents - not us). They have made us feel too intimidated to walk around free, swim in our kiddies pool, scream around playing games & music etc etc. They have also officially complained to the agency handling our lease....We have been here for 3 years with no trouble. They have been here for 2 months. Now, after visiting these sites, I have more of an understanding of the nature of their expectations & behaviour, BUT, I think I have less respect & will try to continue life in our own happy manner & NOT change so as not to 'offend' our new neighbours.
Guest: Quentin Wiltshire
Guest E-mail: Quiffy22@aol.com
City, Country: Luton, England
Date & Comments: November 14, 2001
Hi everyone.
I left the peebs nearly 4 years ago and have felt so much better! I was born in St. Albans and attended meetings in Watford. Ever since having left the peebs I have been able to fufil my wishes of playing football and mixing socially with friends etc! So I am wondering is there any one who remembers me? If so then theres my e-mail addy so look forward to hearing from u. Take care! Quentin!
Guest: Abigail Handcock
Guest E-mail: abby_susan@hotmail.com
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: November 17, 2001
I have spent hours reading this guestbook, it is absolutely FANTASTIC!!!! I left the EBs on 23 January 2000, a very momentous date in my life. I had been unhappy for years but with the emotional blackmail, felt obliged to stay. Finally at 27 years of age I felt I had to do something, so packed my bags & ran (literally!) I was originally local in Leeton in NSW, my parents are still there. I also have two brothers who left years ago they have been a great support. Nelson left in 1983 and also lives in Melbourne with his partner, they have a little baby. Michael left in 1984, & is now an engineer in the merchant navy, currently in the gulf - please pray for his safety. I am currently doing my nursing training and am planning to move to England in about 12 months time, so would be glad of any contacts - please write! For the time being I am enjoying the freedom which is something I'm sure all who have logged on to here can relate to. I miss my family very much but what I have gained instead makes up for things. Thanks again for this website, it is a great support. Love to all, and courage for those who are struggling - you HAVE made the right decision. Abby
PS While I was in the brethren I was known as Gail so if anyone can't work out who this Abby person is it's one & the same!
Guest: anon
Date & Comments: November 17, 2001
Just to let you know Esther and Vanessa, Seth married a Suckling not Frizzel and yes down from south
Guest: Chris Jones
Guest E-mail: mangoye@hotmail.com
City, Country: Originally Forest Hill, London, UK
Date & Comments: November 17, 2001
I remember the "Plym's Gambling Association", or PGA. At Park Street, London, in the late 1960s we used to place bets on which individuals would stand up and give "The Word" at the "Ministry Meeting" on Tuesday evenings. In retrospect, it must have been conspicuous, all the "young brothers" insisting on being present, money changing hands, and much applause when certain favourites stood up. I once successfully forecast all three "Words" one evening and went home telling astonished saints that "I knew the Lord's mind".
This was about the time of the Chinese Cultural Revolution, and I used to scrawl "Big Jim Taylor - Mao of the West" in various prominent places around Park Street. I refused to take part in their meetings as a matter of principle. However, once, for a bet, I stood up in the Prayer Meeting and prayed for "Mr Taylor, what a resposibility he has..." You should have heard the "Amens". It was all very childish, I suppose, and for many years I had planned to leave when I was 16. The opportunity was presented to me on a plate in 1970 with the disarray caused by the Aberdeen incident, and I was able to break away easily and completely, leaving behind my Exclusive Brethren name "Cedric Barber" some of you out there might remember me by.
Guest: open?
City, Country: N. Ireland
Date & Comments: November 7, 2001
I was brought up in the socalled open brethren, we still have the old guys with the end is nigh jackets except now they have megaphones, with the semmingly obligatory grey hat and suit/raincoat passing out tracts, though I'm glad to see they they are a dissapearing breed in the centre of town at market day. While the open is supposed to be more liberal they still have the same mindset in a modern world. How I used to hate Sundays, locked in the house not allowed out to play as a child, TV switched off and dragged to the most boring bible class followed by evening meetings. Above the preacher was a clock, the slowest clock that the world ever made, how long can an hour possibly last! My father longer than I can remember beat my mother, raped her and lead her through a live of general subdominance. My mother herself was a strict person, grewing up with Victorian values with constant criticism. I'm in my 30's now (single suprisingly enough!) I still find it hard to communicate in crowds though nobody could tell, cause I'm the joker, the fool. But I'm so sensitive I find the realities of a relationship hard to take. Simple human traits like flirting, lies, even just hurtful comments are magnified causing me to withdraw. My worst shame is behaving as my parents both have and their teachings, I tend to push people away with my criticisms, only surpassed with my own for myself. Don't get me wrong I'm considered as the nicest guy most people know and get 'on' with most. It's a life that I guess most brethren open or closed must feel, but thankfully it's something I'm aware of and can fight (albiet with a few teeth marks on my tongue :)) the joy of god somewhat missed me as a child, but as an adult coming to terms with myself and accepting responsibilty for all my 'training' I'm only finding in the last five years a happier life and happier by the year. The hardest part is knowing when you've been wronged or is it just the past creeping up on you. Living alone for this time as helped me find myself no end. my father died 2 years ago, he knew inside what training he had was wrong and was a far more humble man when he died, my mother left him when i was 15 (I went with her) and is now crippled with bone disease, even now her cloud hangs heavy, though her criticisms are more guarded, she still has to utter the words I love you (something that I've had to learn myself) I don't hate my father in fact I love him as a father, I just see him as weak, my mother I can't bring myself to break the mould and tell her how much I love her either. One brother 2 years older than me has finally started a full time job for the first time and is getting married, my other has worked from day one, red faced and full of contempt for himself and most others. Excuse the long post but this is nothing to what life must be like in the closed brethren. oh and I'm a an athiest now and much happier for it. Formerly 'open' brethren
Guest: open?
City, Country: N. Ireland
Date & Comments: November 7, 2001
Sorry if I offend the many good people of the open brethren and realise that my own problems are an extreme of that particular ideology. However I know my experiences have been shared to varying extents by other members not just the brethren gospel but many of the socalled small time gospel halls. Maybe as much a reference to extremism in many versions of brotherhood from catholicism to methodist, baptist, mormon etc., the life hidden behind the beaming smile from simple depression to clear but hidden cases of mental and physical abuse. I'm not actually very bitter about all this, just when you read some of the worst it gets my goat!
Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: November 18, 2001
Having been only too familiar with the false doctrines of this cult, I would like to remind those like Susan Malone, that the poor sufferers in cases like this, are the EBs themselves. Being anti-social is a primary rule, unless it is in association with other members of the cult. No matter how Christian you may be, no contact is allowed with any person not attending "the church". Let it be known, that there are many people in there who are living a lie. The only reason they treat other people like that, is because they are under the false impression that everyone besides them are evil. Many EBs live more
"worldly" lives than ordinary citizens, but because
they are tied in there with their families, they carry on a double life!
Guest: Kris Pambid
Guest E-mail: kpambid@hotmail.com
City, Country: Brisbane, Australia
Date & Comments: November 18, 2001
What a helpfull site you have going here. I have found this site has helped answer many fustrating questions going through my head about this cult. I am currently living next door to a family of brethrens..whom have just moved into the community. At first I didn't understand anything about this so called religion but the more I read the more I can understand what is happening in their family. I really don't mind what they do and how they live their life but what has really got to me is the fact that they contiually comment about my music that I play ...I did make an effort to approach them one afternoon ..and she told me that she "didnt want my music to ruin her life" ...from that point on I just sort of had a little chuckle to myself. From there the next thing was when the husband approacned my flatmate and he asked her to tell me that they don't appreciate me sunbaking in my backyard in my speedos ......and then they had the nerve to tell me to close my bathroom window when I shower as they felt they didn't have to be subjected to seeing me in the shower . Now I never shower with the window open and knowing that they can see me really makes me feel violated and makes me feel as if I can't do anything in my own home because I'd hate to upset them. They have also commented and asked me to keep my curtains closed so they can't see into my bedroom. Now I really don't mind what they do but when they begin to impose all their beliefs into my life it really begins to make me mad. But most of all I feel very very sorry for their famliy as my belief is that we only live on earth once and we need to make the most of it and see the most of it and enjoy it while were here ..and I feel deeply sorry for the children born into this cult and who have no say into the way they live their one and only life that they have.
Guest: Lydia Moffitt
Guest E-mail: Moffittw2Lmm@aol.com
City, Country: Hemel Hempstead England
Date & Comments: November 18, 2001
Just to let everyone know there is a reunion of all Ex EBs arranged for the 8th December at the Hilton Hotel in Watford on the A41. If anyone hopes to come into Watford by train they can email me and I can arrange to pick them up. We do hope that we will see many new and old faces there.
Guest: Heather Anderson (Formerly Hindley, nee Archbold)
Guest E-mail: AHeatherAnderson@AOL.com
City, Country: Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire.
Date & Comments: November 18, 2001
Hello to all. I have recently got onto the net and thoroughly enjoying it. Would be glad to hear from anyone who may remember me and also any who may wish to contact me for a chat. We as a family came out some 17 years or so ago. My parents James and Jean Archbold followed soon after and were very supportive to us and to me during very testing and traumatic times. Now they are both with the Lord. I am divorced due to my husband's (he was Edward Hindley originally from Buckhurst Hill, Essex) unfaithfulness so have abandoned his name hence me now being known as Anderson.
Can anyone help me find a very dear long lost friend originally living in Peterhead, Scotland? Her name was Gena Buchan (an adopted daughter) who left home age about 19 and I believe may now live in the Peterhead/Fraserborough area. I would dearly love to find her, hopefully someone can help. Many thanks Heather.
Guest: Esther McLean
Guest E-mail: estim8or4u@icqmail.com
City, Country: Hastings, New Zealand
Date & Comments: November 18, 2001
Hi there Vanessa
Thanks for your reply...someone else I see has left a message saying that Seth married a Suckling...strange cos Delia....M. Smith's daughter came into work and I asked her and she thought that she was a Scarlett...but never mind...he's married anyway...I kinda don't know if I'd ever get a word to him without his wife being there and I dont know how well she would take me saying something like that. Do u know Donna...she left almost five years ago....her father was Terry....she was a Senior...my brother married her sister Josie.... I caught up with her for the first time in six years the other day and was so pleased to see her again as we got on really well before she left home. She has been married for seven months, and her husband is a great guy...so she is very happy and very lucky! As for Val - no I'm not worried....she will get what she deserves in the finish...I'll let God do the judging....after all He'd be much better at that than me! But as for Seth, I'll try and say something to him next time I see him as he isn't happy where he is...I'm sure of it...he doesn't look happy. And just in case anyone who is still in the exclusives is reading this...if u want help to get out, then email me....I'm sure there is something I can do to help you....I'd be more than happy to set you free. My only advice is...think about what u really want...once you have gone so far there is no turning back...it means losing your family....can u face that? Well, thanks again Vanessa, and a big hug back to you....I felt it all the way across the net....=) Lots of love Esther
Guest: Julian Fryer
Guest E-mail: julianfryer@aol.com
City, Country: Peterborough, England
Date & Comments: November 19, 2001
I left the EB's in 1989, and since then I have been there, done that and got at least two tee-shirts!!! A real 'bad one'. Recently, God touched me in the most personal way and helped me, when I asked him to. After all I had done, He still answered a prayer from me. If God answers a prayer from me, then surely he can answer prayers from anyone who calls on Him from the heart. That includes EB's, Methodists, Pentecostals, Anglicans, Church of England, etc etc, Christians from all around the World. Satan hates it when we tell him to 'Get Lost', so let's all tell him to 'Get Lost' together, and stop looking at each other. I pray that all Christians around the World, whoever they are, and whatever they are, stand united, against Satan. He is the enemy that divides us. Don't let us cause further division. Let's get it together!!!!
Julian
Guest: Bro. Francis CCN
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: San Diego, Southern California
Date & Comments: November 20, 2001
There are escapees from the EBs who will recognize the name of Francis Everitt. If you do a websearch on Gravity Probe B, you can learn about the work of a Stanford University team carrying out one of the largest and costliest experiments in the history of science, with the potential to overthrow Einstein's Theory of General Relativity. Francis, formerly a Peeb of Scotland, is the Principal Investigator on this team, and the website on Gravity Probe B, maintained by Stanford University, is fascinating. If you love science as I do, take a look. And rejoice to see that a former Peeb has risen to do so well. ..
Guest: Alistair Deayton
Guest E-mail: Alistair@Deayton.freeserve.co.uk
City, Country: Paisley, Scotland
Date & Comments: November 20, 2001
First time signing on here for a few years,. although I check the guestbook weely of more often for mew messages. I am writing now to stop an ugly rumour that is going round ex-peebs in Australia. An ex-peeb friend of my wife's sister in Perth, told her he had heard a rumour that was "all over the Internet in Australia", that my wife and I had split up. That is totally untrue. I can only imagine that somebody has logged onto my story on Dick's contributions section, has not read to the end and has confused the present with my divorce from my first wife a quarter of a century ago.
Love to all
Alistair
Guest: Elaine Hanley
Guest E-mail: bobedhan@localnet.com
City, Country: PA, USA
Date & Comments: November 20, 2001
I had sent earlier messages but they were not posted. Perhaps Valerie might reconsider selling ministry books written by FER, JT Sr. and JT JR. It might be better to discard them since they may contain evil doctrine. FER (before he died) said that if he could live life over, he would pray more and read the Bible less. To ANON dated 11/1/01, good comments. To saltydog N.Ireland: GOD is not EB, open brethren, Baptist, atheist, etc. I can understand having bitter feelings (I have) but it would be helpful to read the Bible again. To start read Isaiah 40,55,61, & Psalms.
Good comments from Ted Fry & Ted Druckenmiller.
Guest: Lydia Moffitt
Guest E-mail: Moffittw2Lmm@aol.com
City, Country: Herts England
Date & Comments: November 21, 2001
Just to add to the piece I entered the other day about the reunion, We hope to be there at around 2pm and if anybody wishes to ring me about the venue etc my mobile no. is 07799 067204.
Guest: Gerard Rayment
Guest E-mail: gerardandmonica@blueyonder.co.uk
City, Country: Southend England
Date & Comments: November 22, 2001
I've just recovered loadsa "lost" emails, and I think there's more that have gone forever. Please email again if you've not had a reply from me, it's working all right now. Or phone on 01702 316706/304848 or mob. 07720 434139.
Guest: anon
Date & Comments: November 23, 2001
opps yes it was a scarlett sorry vanessa
Guest: Alan Goody
Guest E-mail: alanalgood@aol.com
City, Country: Ipswich, Suffolk, England
Date & Comments: November 23, 2001
Guest: Elaine Hanley
Guest E-mail: bobedhan@localnet.com
City, Country: PA, USA
Date & Comments: November 23, 2001
To Anonymous, Sydney, Aust.11/23/01. Good reminder that EBs are miserable, sadly deceived folk that believe they are only privileged to occupy Heaven. I was EB, headed for Christless eternity. When I was delvrd from EB stranglehold, then Light of God's love could shine. To EB and closed groups, read JOHN 17, where Christ prays 3x His body be one. His prayer is unanswered and how much have EBs/closed contributed to horrible division for righteousness sake, accusing others'evil and excusing themselves. Ecumenicalism is evil, also "we withdraw from you; you are shut-up until you submit to the man of God." EBs-who do you think you are? There is only one Man of God-Christ Jesus the Lord. Endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, Eph.4:3. "The Brethren are remarkable people for rightly dividing the Word of truth and wrongly dividing themselves. People who are very particular about Breaking Bread and careless about breaking hearts"(grieves Holy Spirit). To EB and "closed" groups, since you highly esteem the closed position, why not just close and lock your meeting rooms permanently?? This would please God. If God were "closed" He would not have sent His Son to die for sinful man. All mankind be eternally condemned. Instead, the gates of Heaven are open wide since Christ said, "It is finished" and the veil rent. The Lord said,"him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out", John 6:37. To all tormented EBs, PRAISE the Lord when you are "cast" from Satan's grip and into the Lord's presence. 2 Cor.3:17, Now the Lord is that Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 1 Thes. 4:16-18 and Rev. 22:17
Guest: Joe Croft
City, Country: Cornwall, UK
Date & Comments: November 24, 2001
Hi !! back again.
Just to say thanks loads Dick for all you do here - it's helping so many people !! You're a Star !!
Love
Joe
Guest: Vanessa Cummings
Date & Comments: November 24, 2001
Hi there Esther
Thanks for your message. Glad you are getting on with your life. Yes I remember Donna. Yes Donna was tied up in a church that involves my father's sister Lynnie Atkinson. She is the pastor of it and runs it on the early days of EBs. Not my scene at all and after many years I contacted her and she said she write but never did. So I can't be bothered. I never mentioned her when you asked if there where any other ex members in Hastings because I don't think you need religion pushed down your throat. And that was what I was worried about. She put the hard word on me and found out that I disappeared on her. Anyway Esther we live and learn sometimes the hard way but I believe it makes us stronger sometimes and more determined. What ever you believe in I don't care or judge you. You are you, and I am me. I don't judge people who go to church or not. If they do that and they enjoy it then good for them. And remember that we are entitled to have opionions and should be able to voice them. Anyway I must be away. Bye for now Vanessa :) to you too.
Guest: Ken and Kerry Wallis
Guest E-mail: kenker1@hotmail.com
City, Country: Quinns Rocks Western Australia 6030
Date & Comments: November 25, 2001
Guest: James and Linda Strachan
Guest E-mail: glendalenurseries@hotmail.com
City, Country: Peterhead Scotland
Date & Comments: November 25, 2001
We left the Taylors in the 70s and would like to contact any relatives who log on this site. Linda's sister is Helen Ashmore (nee Patrick) from Nottingham and my sister is Wilma White (nee Strachan) from Merton Park. Any information about our families would be most welcome. Christian greetings to any who remember us.
Guest: Elaine Hanley
Guest E-mail: bobedhan@localnet.com
City, Country: PA, USA
Date & Comments: November 26, 2001
I made a mistake on last message: supposed to read to ANON, Sydney, Australia dated 11/18/01 not 11/23/01. Women Pastors?? Let the women keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but let them subject themselves, just as the Law also says. And if they desire to learn anything, let them ask their husband or another brother; for it is improper for a woman to speak in the assembly or congregation.
Guest: anon
Date & Comments: November 27, 2001
To Elaine Hanley
Who do you think you are?? Gods Gift?! I doubt that very much as you are very judgemental. Every one has a right. My Aunty is a woman pastor. You are a very subject little wife. You obviously meek and get told what to do and run away like a good little girl
Cheers for womans rights too
Guest: Lydia Moffitt nee Evershed
Guest E-mail: moffittw2LMM@aol.com
City, Country: Watford, Herts
Date & Comments: November 27, 2001
Has anyone heard from Richard Devine who used to live in Orpington? I would love to get in touch. Please email me if anyone has any information. I understand he left the peebs some time ago.
Guest: Valerie Saulle
Guest E-mail: saulle@optusnet.com.au
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: November 27, 2001
Hello to everyone, and I wish to let everyone know about I sold the ministry books to the brethren last Monday. The two priests came to my house to collect them and they were very nice and polite. We were breifly talking for few minutes. I think that it is good idea to sell the books to the brethren if anyone does not need to keep them.
Guest: Joy Spreadborough
Guest E-mail: rosyjoy@talk21.com
City, Country: Grimsby U.K.
Date & Comments: November 27, 2001
Thank you so much to everybody who replied to my request to find out information about the Mallinsons. I have learned that my dear uncle - David Mallinson of Barnet, was taken to be with the Lord on August 14th 1995. James Mallinson, my cousin, born May 1964, left the 'Jims' about 18 years ago. Does anyone know where he is? He is the son of David and Olive Mallinson. James was only 6 when we last saw him, and he may not know he has cousins & an aunt and uncle in Grimsby. God bless you all. Joy
Guest: anom
Guest E-mail: sootieii24@hotmail.com
City, Country: Wellington, New Zealand
Date & Comments: November 27, 2001
G'day all!! I left the Eb's last Sept! I am looking for Priscilla Wood (nee Hill) of Motueka NZ. Can anyone help me?
I would be more than happy to hear from anyone!
I am 25, and now living a very happy life.
Good luck
Guest: Stuart Mclean
Guest E-mail: sootieii24@hotmail.com
City, Country: Wellington, New Zealand
Date & Comments: November 27, 2001
Guest: Ormond Stewart
City, Country: Levin, New Zealand
Date & Comments: November 28, 2001
Guest: Peter Harrison
Guest E-mail: peter.harrison10@virgin.net
City, Country: Derby. UK
Date & Comments: November 29, 2001
Hi to everyone looking through this guestbook.
I'm wondering if anyone who has left the EB's recently can give details of what time the EB's meetings are now. I often see EB's shopping in the supermarkets on a Saturday morning around 10am and have been wondering. What time their Saturday meeting are now? Are they now allowed to go shopping on Saturdays? When I left the EB's in 1979 shopping on Saturdays was considered a sin, as it was the Sabbath, I have recently been reading 'Acts of Faith' written by Eric Segal (of Love Story fame)an amazing story of two people who fall in love, One is Jewish and the other Roman Catholic. What has amazed me are certain rules from both these faiths that are adhered to by the EB's also. Interested to hear from anyone on these subjects. Regards to all Peter.
Guest: Elizabeth Beck Bunting, nee Todd
Guest E-mail: dbunting@shaw.ca
Date & Comments: November 30, 2001
Guest: Esther McLean
Guest E-mail: estim8or4u@icqmail.com
City, Country: Hastings
Date & Comments: November 30, 2001
Well I must admit that I am very surprised to see Mr Ormond Stewart's name on this page....probably just a prank someone is pulling, no doubt. Small things amuse small minds...... Well thanks for the reply Vanessa and hope things go well for you always....I've only just got the time to look this site up again...=) Well got to go to bed as i have some travelling to do tomorrow... Love to all Esther
Guest: Vanessa Cummings
Date & Comments: December 1, 2001
Hi there! Could someone know where the whereabouts is Grace Jeffery?? She was fromm New Castle NSW and left the ebs around Dec 85 . I left about Feb 86 and used to write to her. I was Vanessa Janson orginally of Hastings NZ... If anyone could help thanks Vanessa
Guest: Dick Wyman
Guest E-mail: dwyman@cloudnet.com
City, Country: St. Cloud, Minn
Date & Comments: December 2, 2001
According to someone who contacted Ormond Stewart after an entry with his name was entered in the guestbook, he says he did not make the entry. I have removed the comment.
Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: New Zealand
Date & Comments: December 3, 2001
It is not our place to judge the reasoning behind the prank entry for Ormond Stewart as there is a strong possibiltiy that this is someone's way of dealing with the unchristianlike way that have been treated by the EB's. There is a lot of hurt out there and some of it takes a lot of getting over. It's all very well putting your head down and tail up and getting on with life but the hurt is still there deep down inside. Well anyway the prank worked. I actually rang the phone number given and the mode was "all stations on alert" and they knew all about it. I think there had been many calls. This site is definitely monitored by EB's. They are hypocrites and seem to be getting worse. They really do need help. I think Alcoholics Anonymous would be a good place to start.
Anon
Guest: Stephen Holt
Guest E-mail: steve_holt@bigpond.com
City, Country: Silkwood, QLD Australia
Date & Comments: December 5, 2001
4th child of Gordon & Valerie Holt of Picton N.S.W. Currently living in far north Queensland, married with 2 daughters & a son. Working as a plant operator in the sugar industry.
Guest: Stephen Rodgers
Guest E-mail: justinscifiction@aol.com.au
City, Country: Melbourne......Australia
Date & Comments: December 5, 2001
Very ineresting and informative site. No doubt much blessing can be received throught this site. Many brethren carry huge scars, pschologically and spiritually from this cult. Any religion that follows a man blindly has to qualify for being a cult. We must remember Truth can never reside in doctrines or words or even a book, no matter how Holy. Jesus is the TRUE word of God. The Truth is a PERSON not a book and THAT PERSON IS OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. Remember as Jesus stood before the Temporal power of this world, He was asked by Pilate: "What is Truth?" Jesus stood there in absolute silence...HE WAS THE TRUTH IN ITS ABSOLUTE FORM....I wonder how many modern preachers would react if they were asked what the Truth is? Would they reel out reams of scripture quotes, a large spiel? I am not saying God's word in the scripture is not truth...but if you receive it from a book and not the Person of Jesus "it will kill you" but the "spirit makes alive"...so Jesus did not leave us orphans..He came to us as the "Spirit of Truth". I may add not only exclusive brethren are cruel to their brethren, but I have found brethren of the Gospel Hall tradition cruel to their own chidren, when they suspect what they decide is heresy...such as my in-laws.
Guest: Francis
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: California
Date & Comments: December 5, 2001
The reported "charm offensive" is interesting because when I met Bruce Hales forty years ago I was impressed by his intelligence and his ability in his professional field which was industrial management. He surely knows full well that treating people kindly is a potent way to win them. Harshness only dooms a movement as he must well understand; he is not stupid.
Guest: Graham Smith
City, Country: Plymouth, UK
Date & Comments: December 5, 2001
Hi everyone
I'm ex eb thank God. Does anyone remember a guy called Skeffington from Park St or a guy called Stacey, or even God Bless Him Percy Lyons? Graham
Guest: Debbie (Grugeon) Elrick
Guest E-mail: deb_elrick@hotmail.com
City, Country: Dubai UAE now - from Peterhead Scotland
Date & Comments: December 6, 2001
Would love to hear from anyone who would like to get in touch. Found site by chance and will comment when read fully. I live in Dubai with my husband Drew and daughter Yvonne and attend the Baptist church there.
Guest: Ian and Hannah Arbon
Guest E-mail: h.s.arbon@ukgateway.net or ian.arbon@ukgateway.net
City, Country: Stamford, Lincs., England
Date & Comments: December 6, 2001
Please note current email addresses
Guest: Anon
Date & Comments: December 7, 2001
Elaine Hanley comments that "FER (before he died) said that if he could live life over, he would pray more and read the Bible less". Did he really say that? There is of course nothing wrong with prayer! Luther said "To pray well is to study well." Check here for more info: http://www.pray.net/Luther.htm Let us all resort to prayer that our fellow brethren trapped in the evil system started by JT Jnr may be released. "With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." Matt 19:26
Guest: Graham Frost
Guest E-mail: grahamfrost@hotmail.com
City, Country: Peterborough, U.K.
Date & Comments: December 7, 2001
Just been reading the last few messages. I remember old Mr. Skeffington from London. He used to fall asleep quite regularly in the meetings at Park Street. I believe he lived with his sister somewhere in South London.
I have also heard the name Grugeon from Peterhead before. Looking forward to Debbie's further contributions!
Guest: J. K. Richardson
Date & Comments: December 7, 2001
Guest: L Mason
Guest E-mail: trislaura@hotmail.com
City, Country: Wellington, NZ
Date & Comments: December 8, 2001
Hello to everyone, I became interested in the brethren simply because in the place where I live there are a lot of the E.B's around. When I am doing my grocery shopping I notice that a lot of them look at me. In a strange way. I don't know why, but, it made me want to find out more about them, and what they believed in and why they looked the way they did. This website has been very useful to me and I appreciate the personal and not so personal things that I have read here ....so, thank you to all those whose contributions I read. I feel something akin to sympathy, though not quite, towards these women and children that I have seen, especially since reading this website's contents. I would like to say to all of you who have left this religious group that I think you have been very brave and I wish you all the best wishes I have in my heart. In Wellington where I live from what I have found out, there is a school for the E.B children, sparate from other children. I would like to know if any government in any other country has ever questioned the value of this separatism...if that is the right way to put it. Many people in this website have gone so far as to say that this is a cult....and if this is their belief, which they seem to have an intimate knowledge of, I would very much like to know more. The way that these women have looked at me is odd....my sister said that perhaps it was curiosity or perhaps loathing....I don't know, but if there is anyone out there who would be able to talk to me more about this, I would really appreciate it. Thank you.
P.S...I hope that all who went to the reunion thing had a really good time!
Guest: Bernt Lindberg
Guest E-mail: berntlindberg@swipnet.se
City, Country: Sweden
Date & Comments: December 8, 2001
From now this e-mail address: berntlindberg@swipnet.se should be used for e-mails to me
Bernt Lindberg
Guest: Rodney Wilkins
Guest E-mail: wilkins@austarnet.com.au
City, Country: Mackay, Queensland, Australia
Date & Comments: December 8, 2001
Graham Smith asks: "Does anyone remember a guy called Skeffington from Park St ... ?"
Yes - as I remember he was widely referred to as "The Late Mr Skeffington" - not because he was dead (which he wasn't), but because he was always late for meetings!
Guest: Bruce Moulding
Guest E-mail: bruce.moulding@ntlworld.com
City, Country: Luton - England
Date & Comments: December 8, 2001
I left the peebs some 17 years ago when my mother had the heartbreaking decision to stay with her children or leave to be reunited with her husband who had been withdrawn from 4 years earlier. Thankfully she chose the latter, although she had no choice but to leave two older children in there; who are in there to this day. I was only eight when we left the peebs, but what I witnessed, what I experienced and what I learnt I will take with me into eternity. Despite their obsession with secturisation from mainstream life and their many twisted biblical views, they actually provide a child with security, love and a very strong sense of moral awareness. They instill standards that are mocked in today's world (and even church), they impart intensive biblical teaching, (allbeit with their own angle), and they share each other's lives in a way that seems alien to an outsider. The effect of those very short eight years has made me the person I am today. However, had I spent any longer in there, then I believe I would have become part of their system and shared many of their narrow minded views. In closing I would say this; The Lord calls us to be separate not isolated, how can we share Christ with people if we can not eat with them, how can we convince the world that Christian marriages work if one is withdrawn from the other - What God has joined together let no man seperate. I thank God for those eight years he gave me as a stepping stone into a real and vibrant relationship which I now enjoy.
Guest: Michael Gurr
Guest E-mail: magic-mick@another.com
City, Country: Bedford, England
Date & Comments: December 9, 2001
Formerly of Redhill and Reigate. So nice to meet everybody on the 8/12/01 in Watford. Special thanks to Lydia for organising the event. Interested to chat to anybody who knows the Gurr family from Redhill. I "got out" @ 1955.
Guest: [withheld]
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: December 9, 2001
All Pumps' Sales and Service (Stephen Hales' Company in Sydney, Australia) certainly has a fax machine.
The Number is (+61) 2 9630 0369.
It is a source of mirth among staff at All Pumps'that the number itself, leaving out the area code, is a palindrome. I have had cause to use this fax number on many occasions for business purposes. I still use it, as do others where I work, so would prefer to be not named.
Guest: John Gibbs
Guest E-mail: JGibbs@hatch.co.za
City, Country: Johannesburg SA
Date & Comments: December 10, 2001
This is an extract from a newsletter about persecution of Christians in muslim countries. The portion highlighted sounds ominously familiar does it not?
The position of Christians in other Islamic nations is not much better. In Morocco, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Tunisia it is illegal to proselytize on behalf of Christianity. Throughout the Islamic world, leaving Islam for another religion is regarded as apostasy and is forbidden. Apostates can be disinherited, forced to divorce their spouses and prevented from ever seeing their children again. In some Islamic countries, they can be killed.
Guest: Michael Gardiner
Guest E-mail: gardiners@dccnet.com
City, Country: Vancouver, Canada
Date & Comments: December 10, 2001
The mention of Arthur Skeffington has prompted me to comment. While it may have looked like the old fella was fast asleep, I have witnessed the same man in action, he was incredibly well read, and his rather sporadic contributions in meetings were incisive and directly in line with the subject in question. I could not say I knew him well, but I did speak with him on quite a few occasions, and he certainly had a rather wicked sense of humour, and a sparkle in his eyes,,,,,,when they were open. He was a dear brother, I am sure that he is missed by the brethren in London. Nice to see some more names from the dim and distant past.
Guest: David Pirie
Guest E-mail: dpirie@unb.ca
City, Country: Fredericton NB, Canada (St.Andrews, Scotland)
Date & Comments: December 11, 2001
Many thanks to Dick for this site, it is a wonderful resource. I was born in St. Andrews, Scotland and had many friends in the EB's in Fife, Perth, Blairgowrie, Peterhead and the Glasgow area and would love to hear from any of them that may wish to write. I left the EB's in the late 60's, moved to Papua New Guinea from 1976 - 81 and am now living in New Brunswick, Canada. Yours sincerely, David Pirie
Guest: Anom
City, Country: New Zealand
Date & Comments: December 11, 2001
Just quick note to say hi! to evereyone. I have not long left. I had to more or less flee the town I was in! to escape abuse from church members! now this has left me very bitter towards those in the place I came from!!
When I was still in the church they openly discussed me in the church about facts that were not TRUE!! They had NO basis to do so!! Also members made comments about memebers of my family that were nasty and untrue!! IS THIS CHRISTIANITY??? HOW DO I COUNTER FOR THIS SORT OF BEHAVIOUR??? This has left me emotionally upset!
My family feel it very much as they know that I had to flee and are 100% with what I have done, even though they have had to put me at a distance. They saw me nearly ready to have a nervous breakdown over it.
I don't think I will ever be able to forgive the local bretheren for this UNRULY behaviour!! Can anyone help me as to how to deal with this, as I feel I can not let this by!!
Much love to all!!
Anom
Guest: Joy Nason
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: December 12, 2001
I left the EBs in 1968 and while I have continued to lead a happy, fulfilling and successful life since then, I am continually reminded of my previous existence by contact from nephews and nieces born after I left, and who have now left the EBs. I am convinced that having the accident of birth as an EB leaves a permanent scar, which can be covered over to a greater or lesser extent by one's own endeavours. I also believe that one of the worst disadvantages is the lack of formal education. Luckily I completed a university education in 1988 and still continually update my learning. I feel those young people escaping the EBs now are very poorly equipped to meet the common vicissitudes of life.
Guest: Abigail Handcock
Guest E-mail: abby_susan@ hotmail.com
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: December 12, 2001
To Anom
December 11, 2001
Very much feel for you in what you have been through. Sounds very familiar to my experiences. I also had to flee where I was originally local and am now very happy in Melbourne. I may not be able to help you but please write to me at my email address. Just sharing experiences helps SO much, I know. I also feel very bitter and angry about the way I was treated, a lot of injustice done to me and my family. Talking to people helps a lot and just sitting and reading this website is also very therapeutic. Keep your chin up, you've made the right decision. Talk to you soon. Love, Abby.
Guest: Oliver W Bedford
Guest E-mail: oliverb@tcorp.nsw.gov.au
City, Country: Sydney (ex UK)
Date & Comments: December 12, 2001
Dear Anom
You're obviously a very courageous person! Keep your chin up, even if things seem difficult at first. You'll find there are some very friendly and helpful people around you, which is an experience many of us ex EB's have had once we made the plunge.
Cheers
Oliver
Guest: Ray Taylor
Guest E-mail: rayjaytay@altavista.com
City, Country: Ayer MA (formerly NYC)
Date & Comments: December 14, 2001
To Anom of 12/11/01
Many of us have had similar feelings of anxiety and bitterness with no clear avenue for recourse. The EB would like to think of this as a foretaste of outer darkness, and perhaps it is. Up to very recently in time, it was difficult to find a sympathetic and understanding ear. That has changed due to the popularity of this site that may serve to help you here. I trust that others geographically closer to you who read your entry will step forward with solid counsel. You may wish to contact them. If libel is inferred in a public place and witnesses come forward as a result of an ensuing public investigation, you may well have done what many of us only wished we could have. If facts are untrue, they are not facts: what is said may quite possibly be libelous.
Chin up! Feelings of forgiveness will develop as you begin to see the ineptness of their sense of justice and that for the most part the many are caught up in waves of false euphoria as they blindly follow a leader who is as humanly prone to failure as you and I. You may soon see that this has been a means of deliverance for you.
Sincerely,
Ray Taylor
Guest: Joy Nason
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: December 14, 2001
I posted some comments yesterday, but unfortunately a final paragaph I had intended was not included. I actually wanted to say how much I admire Dick Wyman and this Website and feel it must be very supportive for many struggling to cope with life after the EBs to realise they are not alone. Dick Wyman is to be congratulated for his efforts.
I also want to encourage anyone reading this note not to give up in your efforts to make a successful transition to a normal life. It is possible and your scars will heal. I have never regretted my decision to leave - in fact I am more convinced than ever that the EBs are on a par with many other equally insidious and damaging cults in this world and I can only feel heartfelt relief that I had the courage to escape 33 years ago.
Happy seasons greetings to all!
Guest: Vanessa Cummings (Janson)
City, Country: Org of Hastings NZ
Date & Comments: December 14, 2001
To Anon of New Zealand
Hi there and chin up. Please don't let bitterness get to you otherwise it will eat you up. If stories are not true , then in your heart you have not done no wrong. Give them a big wave and think of them as "You poor ignorant People" They will do their best to imtimidate you and try to make you feel as if you are the bad person. Please do not hold back on this and hold your head high as I do. You are not going to hell and think what you have been saved from. I have been gone for 16 years in Feb and they try to still hassle me by pointing at me, staring. They love bringing in the outer towners to look at me at my work. This is harassment and makes me think Thank God for saving me from those bunch of fruit cakes. Basically they are just a joke to me. I know you have family and that is hard. They are liars too. And twist stories. Apparently I have done lots of things too but I can honestly say I haven't. I know this sounds awful but I would advise you to counseling . We all think Oh we don't need it, but I do not know how old you are. And remember you can choose your friends but not your family. I am somewhat lucky that all my father's family is out of the church and my mother's family has not ever been in. So I have been somewhat balanced out and feel as if I have never been in. Though I have not relied on anyone of such and gone on to do my own thing. I am leading a very happy life and I am married to a great guy. He is very supportive and understanding . So there is life out here and us ex members are not evil. I am just an ordinary person leading an enjoyable life and living it to the fullest. Please remember that the Hanky Heads (ebs) are brought up to think they are better than everybody else. And they are not. In fact there are a lot better people out in the world. Please just accept people for who they are and please do not judge people. If you do not judge people lots of amazing people will help you and you will gather friends afar like I have. Please take care and I will think of you even though I do not know who you are and hopefully you will take courage and come out so people can help you. A shame your family cannot follow and be a family together. Try suggesting this and if they say about the drugs on the outside and the evil etc, tell them it is a totally up to you what trouble you get into. I have never taken drugs in life and tell them they drink like fishes (booze) and that is a drug if you drink far to much. Well I must be away anon Please take care
Vanessa
Guest: E CROSS
Guest E-mail: ecross7023@aol.com
City, Country: LONDON - UK
Date & Comments: December 14, 2001
I am researching for a biography on C H Mackintosh 1820 - 1896 can anyone provide copies of original material?
I need photographs, notices of meetings, old publications and tracts and any ephemera.
Is there anyone that can help? please email me on ecross7023@aol.com I hope to hear from you
Edwin
Guest: peter m clarke
Guest E-mail: clarketrim@shaw.ca
City, Country: Victoria, BC, Canada
Date & Comments: December 14, 2001
please note the change of e-mail address to clarketrim@shaw.ca
To anybody leaving
Leaving any "closed circuit" is very traumatic, be it a social one, religion, geographic, the reasons don't matter much, the emotional stress is similar. When one leaves such a closed system as the pb's, especially if it is all one has ever known, almost always results in an immediate relief of stress, but after a while, once the euphoria of deliverance subsides, it is not uncommon to start questioning everything, or even become disillusioned with all that once was accepted and even personal faith. Here is where it becomes essential to sort out what was nothing more than cult like activety and teaching, from what the scriptures teach, and seeing how our Lord interacted with the common people [non religious] Surprise! they were drawn to Him, He had compassion on them. This is not what the Pb's taught! So, I suggest when becoming free from the overbearing leadership, one can find our bearings, as it were, from looking at the scriptures, and not from our experiance in the "church" This does bring great comfort, and a sense of the Lord, not the pb leaders , being in control.
All this takes time, you don't "get it" in a few weeks, or even years, but it does come. Unfortunately, the loss of friends and relatives will always grieve us, and that will never go, but in time be replaced with acceptance, and sadness even as we move on and gain new friends in other circles. And even looking back, the common bond we once shared, is an experiance rarely found anywhwere else. I regret that, even yet.
Guest: Sharon Sobey
Guest E-mail: sharonsobey@yahoo.com
City, Country: Cape Town, South Africa
Date & Comments: December 15, 2001
Guest: Laurie Twinam
Guest E-mail: Laurie@twinam.fsnet.co.uk
City, Country: Sevenoaks, Kent UK
Date & Comments: December 16, 2001
Peter Clarke's recent helpful comment about our Lord's interaction with ordinary people spurs me to say something about Christmas. The old EB attitude to this was rather complex; we children got our Christmas presents and parties all right, and sang joyful carols round the domestic harmonium, but any idea of a Carol Service was decidedly 'out' even though the Babe in the manger was in the minds of thousands of people during the Christmas season. Ordinary people - by no means just the churchgoers - were open to the Gospel at such times, and unfortunately we let such opportunities slip through our fingers.
The Babe in the manger has enormous potential appeal to the ordinary person once the circumstances and the implications are presented. Even in our modern sophisticated society people can be reminded that our Saviour God made that great historic overture to the whole human race, accepting the limitations of poverty. We still know what it means to be crowded out of the inn by people with money, and there are still disadvantaged families sleeping in the streets or outhouses.
It would be a great idea if all of us who find interest in this website would just switch off for a few minutes this Christmas, to reflect on the fact that ALMIGHTY GOD was behind the shining light those shepherds saw, and speaking in the message that angel gave - and above all that ALMIGHTY GOD HIMSELF (for Jesus is no less) lay in that manger. Let the words of the beautiful carols resonate in our hearts - 'He came down to earth from Heaven, Who is God, and Lord of all ...'
If we do this truly and sincerely, our lives will take on fresh meaning. Troubles among the brethren, however severe, will recede into the background. We may even be thankful in a fresh way for some of the dear old Little Flock hymns which celebrated the manger and the cross.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL THIS CHRISTMAS! And if you believe in good resolutions, let's all whinge less this coming year and serve the Lord more. So many need a helping hand along the Christian road, including some contributors to this website.
Guest: peter m clarke
Guest E-mail: clarketrim@shaw.ca
City, Country:
Date & Comments: December 17, 2001
Our Lord was a friend of "tax gatherers and sinners" [however, I am more sympathetic with the latter] If we only go to church, mingle with christian friends and talk to other believers, then how in the world are we going to be a testimony? This isn't just preaching on the street corner [and I do not denigrate that] but simply looking for opportunities to do something for a neighbour, someone at work, offering to babysit for a single mom, the list is only limited by our imagination. At the Mennonite church my son attends, someone starting fixing brakes for single mom's in the church parking lot, another lady did hairdressing at the church on Saturday. That church now has two seperate services, just to handle the volume. The sunday school is overflowing. There are numerous directions in scripture- not to "hide our light under a bushel" or the story of the man who was given the talents, and hid them rather than trading. Each of us can do something, and missionary fields are right out the front door, in our own neighbourhoods, and city streets, not just in far corners of the earth. There is a lot of hurting people out there, but if we draw our cloaks around us, then how can we claim to be any diferent than the Pharisee's? The great commission is still in effect, inspite of pb teaching that "the day of the missionary ended with Paul" [and who gave them the authority to edit scripture?] "Behold, the fields are white to harvest, the work is great, and the workmen few"
Guest: Nick Angell
Guest E-mail: angell.clan@elstow.fsbusiness.co.uk
City, Country: Bedford, England
Date & Comments: December 17, 2001
Guest: Joanna
Guest E-mail: jomacsing@hotmail.com
City, Country: Singapore
Date & Comments: December 17, 2001
Hi Dick
I just found a website called schoolreunions.co.nz, which is like friends united. I know when some of my friends left the brethren they wanted to contact old school friends and found it difficult to locate people. For the kiwis out there this is a NZ site. I am also interested to know if Penny Judd (Whangarei) is still in the EBs.
Merry Christmas
Joanna
Guest: Timothy Smart
Guest E-mail: smart@eurobell.co.uk
City, Country: Plymouth, England
Date & Comments: December 19, 2001
Guest: Fouad Saliby
Guest E-mail: fouadsaliby@hotmail.com
Date & Comments: December 19, 2001
From the bretheren church in Lebanon
Guest: Sheila R. MacLachlan Seesahai
Guest E-mail: sseesahai@shaw.ca
City, Country: Winnipeg, Canada
Date & Comments: December 19, 2001
Hi,
My parents are Tony and Elsie MacLachlan of the Winnipeg EBs.
I have a new email address. sseesahai@shaw.ca
-Sheila Seesahai
Guest: Victor Congdon
Guest E-mail: jcongdon01@snet.net
City, Country: Connecticut, USA
Date & Comments: December 19, 2001
Greetings to All,
May all who visit this web site enjoy a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
A special Christmas and New Year greetings to Dick for his kind service in providing this help to so many. Dick, may your health be good in the New Year.
And, a very warm and special Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to my friends at feeb.
Only by grace, Victor Congdon
Guest: Roberta Wallace
Guest E-mail: roberta.wallace@nz.unisys.com
City, Country: Wellington, New Zealand
Date & Comments: December 19, 2001
I left in 1989 and am still living in Wellington.
I am a single parent of two great kids and we love camping, holidays, the beach and socialising.
I work at Unisys and really love my job.
My father was Don Wallace (out/deceased), my mum Pauline (nee Dartnall) and my sisters Andrea (Chris Wright in Brisbane), Julia (Ralph Wearmouth in Maungataroto), Glenda (Albert Wallace in Wollongong), Rachel (Mark Moxham in Auckland now all out) and Geoff (Sarah Murray from Tauranga).
My home number is (04) 970-6037
Work: (04) 462-2091
Mob: 025 963-459
Guest: Graham Frost
Guest E-mail: grahamfrost@hotmail.com
City, Country: Peterborough, U.K.
Date & Comments: December 20, 2001
Just a brief message to wish all who read this a happy Christmas and a peaceful and successful New Year.
Guest: Ted and Esther and Druckenmiller
Guest E-mail: teddruck@quixnet.net
City, Country: Warren, NJ 07059
Date & Comments: December 20, 2001
I certainly endorse Victor Congdon's praise message for our author of this wonderful website. Thanks again is due to you Dick for maintaining this wonderful way of contacting past brethren and getting acquainted with some very fine new friend. I just had a wonderful one today and it made my heart rejoice in how our Lord is working in so many areas.
We must keep urgently praying for the Lord to reunite broken families. He is working, Praise be to Him.
Over the past few years I have especially enjoyed contributing to a Nursing Home ministry in our area. Started many years ago and continued by a few faithful ones. Share a little of your time and visit some of these shut in elderly ones. There is a whole system of music tapes and hymn books designed for this service for the elderly. Send me a request and I'll send more info to specific enquirers. In mid January I contemplate going off to Trenton Missouri on another consulting engineering assignment with the company I served during the summer in California. I expect another 4-6 months. Anybody out that way? We would love to pay a week end visit. At two nursing homes today we had two wonderful occasions. In the morning a usual song time with Christmas carols and a fine message from another senior contributor. In the afternoon a Memorial Service for a fine Christian woman whom the Lord Jesus called home on Tuesday. Twelve members of her family were present, a good number of the staff members and some twenty persons who normally come to our weekly song service. Jesus was present and truly honored by this precious and encouraging time. May you each have blessed Christmas. We need to honor and magnify the true meaning of this blessed time of the year. Just think of all the gifts our blessed God has and continues in His love to give. John 3:16 His only Son, Everlasting life, John 14:26,27 the Holy Spirit, Peace, John 16:23,24 Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, He will give, that your Joy may be full (try it and see), John 17:22 the Glory which you have given Me I have given them, Romans 5:17 Abundance of Grace and the gift of Righteousness, Romans 8:32 He who spared not His own son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him Freely give us All Things, and Ephesians 1:4-14 take a look at this list of gifts; Chosen in Him, Predestinated us to adoption as sons, Grace, Redemption, Forgiveness of sins, Wisdon, Understanding, Knowledge of the mystery of His will, Sealed us with the Holy Spirit and Guaranteed our inheritance of thing to come. WOW we are rejoicing and say as 2 Corinthians 9:15 "Thanks be to God for His indescribable GIFT!) Now "Freely you have received, freely give." The words of Jesus, Matthew 10:8. Wonderful opportunity for all of us in the New Year. With lots of love for a blessed Christmas to all. Ted and Esther Druckenmiller
Guest: Phil McGrath
Guest E-mail: philmcgrath@btconnect.com
City, Country: used to be Belfast Northern Ireland, then Leicester, then Manchester UK.
Date & Comments: December 21, 2001
Just thought I'd write a note to see if anyone remembers my family. My mother was Martha (Mattie) Gilliland from Saltcoats, Ayshire and she married Aubrey McGrath. They settled in Bangor Co. Down and then moved to Leicester, and then to Manchester. I have a sister, Hazel who married Andrew Haughton and now lives in West London. I have a brother Trevor who married a Simpson and lives in Manchester.
I really would like people who knew my parents particularly, to contact me. I am trying hard to find out more about my mother's side of the family. Her maiden name was Gilliland.
Her childhood friend was Florence McKillop who introduced her to the EB's.
Please e-mail or if you feel like it ring me on 01989 740300 or 07813 640602.
Regards
Phil McGrath
Guest: John T McMullan
Guest E-mail: dove@oberon.ark.com
City, Country: Quadra Island, BC. Canada
Date & Comments: December 21, 2001
I have recently moved and wanted to update my address in case any relatives may wish to contact me. Most of them are still in the EB's but God may answer our prayers to deliver them from this evil system. It is now over 40 years since I have had any news of them. I am originally from Londonderry, N Ireland but was never "in the meeting" as they used to say. I emigrated to Canada in 1954 and in 1966 I was converted and now we are a Christian family and of course find it hard to understand some of the peculiar teachings in EB. Even those who come out of it never seem to throw off the influence. May the Lord Jesus set them free! Sincerely John McMullan
Guest: Cecilie Palmer (nee Boon)
Guest E-mail: capalmer@watchdog.net.nz
City, Country: ex Welllington, New Zealand
Date & Comments: December 22, 2001
Thanks Dick for a great site. I check it frequently. As we know that the Exclusive Brethren monitor this site, I would like to send my love to my family in Wellington - parents, Eric and Nancy Boon, brothers Michael & wife Cecily and their family, my brother Steve's widow, Polly and her family, and Philip and his wife Philippa and their family. Love and hugs to you all. Christmas may be considered a pagan season by you, but for many it is a time when families get together, eat together, share their lives together. My leaving has meant that this is not possible for me any more, but to stay in the EB's was untenable for me. I had to leave, but I miss my family so much but especially when families all around are getting together. Belated birthday greetings, too, Philip on your 45th on the 20th, and Father, your 83rd on the 21st. I trust that someone who reads this passes all this on to my family. I do love you and miss you heaps.
Luv and hugs, Cecilie
Guest: Brian Martin
Guest E-mail: briandaniel67@hotmail.com
City, Country: Seattle, WA - USA
Date & Comments: December 22, 2001
This coming March, 2002, it will be 12 years since I left the exclusive brethren, and a strange journey it's been. But it's been good escaping.
At first I had to search out a new belief system - this was important to me. I've been an atheist for most of these past 12 years.
Peace.
Guest: Esther McLean
Guest E-mail: estim8or4u@icqmail.com
City, Country: Hastings
Date & Comments: December 22, 2001
To Anon
well...it sounds a bit like what my cousin went thru not long before i left....and he is now out as well and having the time of his life.... What they did to you is not true Christianity.....that is just petty and cruel....and i know what u must be feeling....good on your family for feelin as they do - mine dont...they are true to what they believe to the utmost and i really feel that....it becomes especially hard at this time of year as my mothers birthday falls on boxing day.... But, chin up...lifes not that bad....you will find happiness in the end and anyway you are far better off without all those jerks.....theyre so preferenced! Well, if u ever want to get in touch my email is available to anyone and my cell number is 021 269 6556.... Hi to everyone and Merry Xmas toall! Esther
Guest: Peter Harrison
Guest E-mail: peter.harrison10@virgin.net
City, Country: Derby. UK.
Date & Comments: December 23, 2001
A Happy Holy and Peaceful Christmas to everyone who visits this site.
I shall be attending midnight mass at the Cathedral here in Derby, we shall enter the cathedral in darkness and as we sit singing carols hundreds of white candles will be lit, to mark the light that came into the world on that Christmas Eve when Jesus our Saviour was born.
If you have recently left the EB's or have never ventured to another church, visit your local Cathedral for Midnight mass on Christmas Eve, it will fill your soul with joy.
A Very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year to you all too.
Love
Peter
Guest: Peter Wade
Guest E-mail: peter.wade@virgin.net
City, Country: Coventry U.K.
Date & Comments: December 25, 2001
I have just redone the info on the names menu minus the spelling mistakes. My excuse is the fact that I was very tired and should have been in bed.
I check in to this site most weeks and recognise a lot of names from the past.
As a family we attend the local Baptist Church where have learnt what it is like to be involved with a family of christians who are non judgmental and above all express unconditional love.
Guest: Anon
Date & Comments: December 25, 2001
What's this Christmas Thing then? Why did no-one warn me? Being 'out' and 'free' is all very well, but it's expensive out here. I suppose it explains why JND never publicly smiled, but help me here! Is it worth going back and being subject, solvent snd sozzled, or staying out in this place where I'm expected to smile at everyone, give money and do poopies in someone else's sewer?
Oh ... Decisions, Decisions ...
Guest: Arthur Dickson
Guest E-mail: arthur@rusper.net
City, Country: Horsham, United Kingdom
Date & Comments: December 26, 2001
I would welcome news of my sister Muriel Blake (married to Colin Blake) and family from Guildford, England. I last saw her in 1970. Has anyone had recent contact with them? If so, I would love to hear from you.
Please note my new e-mail address....
Arthur
Guest: fouad saliby
Guest E-mail: fouadsaliby@hotmail.com
Date & Comments: December 27, 2001
Guest: Michael Ivory
Guest E-mail: cmivory@fencepost.com
Date & Comments: December 29, 2001
Guest: Val Greene
Guest E-mail: GValgreene@aol.com
City, Country: Lincolnshire
Date & Comments: December 29, 2001
I live with my husband Arnold in Lincolnshire where we serve in the CofE as readers. We left the Exclisive brethren in 1961. The article on this site about "love saving me from life as a prisoner" is my husband's cousin's daughter and would love to contact her if that is possible or her us. Many people have been damaged by their exclusive upbringing and often need to talk.
Guest: Vanessa
Date & Comments: December 29, 2001
To Anon
About this christmas thing costing a lot. To be honest with you that was a bit of a silly thing to say. Oh Discissons etc. It only costs alot if you want it to. There are things such as take a plate and have friends around. People these days do that. And if you have to buy a present, will put names in a hat and buy for the one person that you draw out of the hat. Or make a limit on what you spend. Go christmas shopping after when the sales are on. Just use imagination and don't be silly about it. What about the every second sunday you or your mother would have to have relious goers at your house, often a house fill of fifteen to twenty and your selves and feed that lot all year. You now do not have to do that, think about it. Cost of going overseas to so called religious meetings for one day. Ha. And you think christmas was expensive.
Guest: phil mcgrath
Guest E-mail: philmcgrath@btconnect.com
City, Country: now hereford
Date & Comments: December 30, 2001
does anyone know the whereabouts of a long lost childhood frind of mine, David Escourt, formerly of Heaton Mersey locality, Manchester?? He was excomunicated about 1970'ish.
regards
phil mcgrath
Guest: Michael Gurr
Guest E-mail: magic-mick@another.com
City, Country: Bedford, UK
Date & Comments: December 30, 2001
Hi I am interested to know if anyone has a copy of the Reigate/Redhill photo album, which may include the Gurr family. Please e-mail me if you know anything. Thanks
Guest: Peter Harrison
Guest E-mail: peter.harrison10@virgin.net
City, Country: Derby. U.K.
Date & Comments: December 30, 2001
Re Anon-Vanessa entries
Subject, The Extra Cost of Christmas.
After leaving the EB's in 1979, it took me a while to adjust to celebrating Christmas. I felt very guilty buying my first Christmas Tree. As the years have sped on I now buy quite a few presents for friends at Christmas, and I find great pleasure in doing so. Christmas is all based on giving, The scipture says It is more blessed to give than to receive. God gave us the precious gift of his son at Christmastime. I start looking around for gifts to give for Christmas sometime in July onwards, that way you see things that you know are right for a particular person, and it also spreads the cost of the whole occassion. When I was in the EB's I used to argue about not celebrating Christmas, my mother use to say, we can give each other presents at any time. But did they? Never! as times went on, not only the giving at Christmas was banned, but also birthdays, in fact the scripture I have quoted was totally overlooked by the EB's, like so many others also. Happy 2002 Pete
Guest: Hedley J Hulbert
Guest E-mail: hedleyjhulbert@btopenworld.com
City, Country: Herefordshire (ex London)
Date & Comments: December 31, 2001
This is a new E-Mail address
N.C.C. 1954-56