Exclusive Brethren Information Guestbook Page 22

This page contains entries 1051 through 1100 in the guestbook. Entries were made between January 1 and March 11, 2002.

These names and addresses are posted to enable people to contact friends and loved ones. Please do not exploit this information for commercial purposes.

Guest: Kelly and Rebecca Wilke
Guest E-mail: raiders@dircomsys.net
City, Country: Montana
Date & Comments: January 1, 2002
Hello all,

We finally got our permanent new e-mail address, which is.......(drum roll please)

raiders@dircomsys.net

This is a great email address, and for all of you who must know:

GO OAKLAND RAIDERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Guest: Nigel & Rosanne Herbert
Guest E-mail: NPHerbert@aol.com or RIMHerbert@aol.com
City, Country: Cardiff, South Wales, UK
Date & Comments: January 2, 2002
Happy New Year to all!

Some time since we last posted on this Website, so thought we'd just add an entry to make up for lost time!

Greetings to all who know us. Thanks to the many who have sent e-mails to us over the last 6 months or so, and for the cheer they have brought.

Looking forward to the imminent return of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Anticipating that day when "at the Name of Jesus every knee shall bow.... ....and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to God the Father's glory"! (Phil 2:9-11)

Would be glad to hear from anyone who's interested in making contact.

Nigel & Rosanne Herbert

NPHerbert@aol.com
RIMHerbert@aol.com
Mobile: +44 (0)771 585 6123

Guest: Ray Gilliland
Guest E-mail: ray@charismaprint.com
City, Country: Birmingham UK
Date & Comments: January 2, 2002
Tonight I watched a new TV quiz show called Britain's Brainiest where 12 people from a particular profession battle it out to be the winner in their category. Tonight it was teachers. One of them introduced himself as Dave Berry who teaches in a Plymouth Brethren school in Nottingham. He himself obviously wasn't a PB simply because he had a degree in mathematics, his hair was too long and he was appearing on TV! He was however the runner up proving again the the PB's are quite happy to hire in people to do things they can't or aren't allowed to do.

Guest: Jill Mytton
Guest E-mail: E.J.Mytton@uel.ac.uk
City, Country: Beckenham
Date & Comments: January 03, 2002
I would like to wish all current and past members of the feeb email forum a very Happy New Year. Of course I would also like to wish the same for everyone espsecially any of my relatives (hello Joan L!!) who regularly read this page and also any past friends.

We (my daughter and I) now live in Beckenham rather than Bromley as before, but it is only a 2 mile trip from the old house to the new.

Still trying to complete my research - first priority is to write up what I have found so far before launching into new territories. However if there are any recent leavers (say over the last 4-5 years) out there who would be happy to talk to one of my students about friendships please let me know.

Jill Mytton

Guest: Girum Molla, Pastor
Guest E-mail: Molla_gw@hotmail.com
City, Country: Addis Ababa, ETHIOPIA
Date & Comments: January 3, 2002
I need to know the difference between open and closed brethren furthermore to have or keep contact with you.

GOD BLESS!

Guest: withheld
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: January 4, 2002
My son has been married for about 10 years and they have two children aged 6 and 7. They live about 800 Kms from Sydney, where I live consequently I see them only three or four times per year. Prior to the marriage my daughter in law stated that she belonged to a Christian religion that had 'no name', she attended 'meeting' not church and she would not enter into any conversation concerning her religion. She does not cut her hair, wears no makeup, wears old fashioned clothing, etc. Over the years she has displayed unusual behaviour regarding radio, TV, walks on the beach, holidays, etc. She is extremely dominant within her household and mine when she is visiting, insisting that we turn the TV off, etc. It wouldn't be so bad if she would explain why she reacts to certain situations, but she always refuses to discuss it. It has reached the stage where my son, who was a normal, healthy, well adjusted young man, is a nervous wreck and is considering separation. I believed that the cause of the all the tension in my son's household is caused by his wife's religion and recently decided I would endeavour to discover what it was. I just happened to discover this Web Site and it has revealed the answer. She and her family must be members of the Brethren cult. I am now very concerned that my grandchildren are being 'brainwashed' with this terrible doctrine and will be forced to live a restricted, unhappy and controlled life. I visualise them in a few years sending Emails to your Web Site with a plea for help. I have recently noticed a change in my grandchildren. They are becoming quiet and seem as though they don't want to have much to do with me. My son has been living in this tense and apparently unpredictable environment for ten years and I'm sure he thinks that his wife is just 'hard to live with'. He doesn't know that his life and that of his children is carefully and systemmatically being controlled by this cult. Now that I know the answer I have listed many of the past incidents and identified these with the 'rules' that I found listed on this Web Site.

I will soon be giving him my 'report' and discussing the situation with him. My son can easily walk away from this cult control but my main concern is for my grandchildren. To stop the indoctrination before it is too late.

Can anyone tell me how the cult 'teaches' children? When they go to 'meeting' do they have classes for children or is the instruction given to them by the parent? My son has already told his wife that he does not want his children to go to 'meeting' and she has suggested a compromise of going every second week. Would it help if he took his children to a regular Sunday School every second week? If he insisted that his children not go to 'meeting' would the Courts support him? How can I determine if my daughter in law is in the 'exclusive' or the 'open' brethren? Would my son's wife be telling her children that their father is 'evil' for engaging in normal activities such as owning a boat, swimming, pool and wanting to go on holidays? I will monitor this Web Site for any replies and advice. Thank You.

Guest: Anon
City, Country: England
Date & Comments: January 4, 2002
I posted a message on 4th November regarding the sexual abuse suffered by my wife by a current member of the EB's and am absolutely shocked by the lack of comment by anyone ? Is paedophilia that common in this " religion " that no-one bothers ? My forgiving spirit is wearing thin....names will shortly be named and a universally known ministering " brother " could soon be facing consequences here, as well as eternally. I just fear for other family members and indeed grandchildren. My concience is weighing heavily upon me.....so if you do read this....be warned.

Guest: wallace
Date & Comments: January 6, 2002

Guest: Matthew Linden
Guest E-mail: revsrus@earthlink.net
City, Country: Bloomsbury, NJ
Date & Comments: January 7, 2002
I suppose I am a bit of an oddball here, having come to this site out of curiosity. I am a Methodist minister who grew up in Westfield, NJ; a town with a large Taylorite community. I've always wondered about the religion of those kids in my school who weren't allowed to eat in the cafeteria or go on class trips and preached on the street corners on Thursday evenings, so much that when I was in seminary I spent an afternoon in the library researching Darby. It was only through a web search that I found out about the Taylorites. It seems strange to have grown up in near one of the largest Taylorite communities but knew so little about it.

Interesting website.

Guest: Daniel J Roberts
Guest E-mail: daniel@roberts.at
City, Country: England
Date & Comments: January 5, 2002
Dear friends

Change of e-mail address

My wife and I have changed our e-mail addresses as follows:
Myself daniel@roberts.at
Ruth ruth@roberts.at

My normal business e-mail remains djroberts@containerclub.com.

No, we have not moved to Austria – but we really have a softspot for that lovely country. I hope to put up a website www.roberts.at in duecourse. Please keep in touch

God bless

Daniel & Ruth Roberts
e-mail daniel@roberts.at

Guest: vanessa
Date & Comments: January 3, 2002
Yes Christmas is a pleasure peter. Always fun for me. I enjoy giving but we do not have to give presents but having friends and making them feel welcome at my place is important to. Vanessa

Guest: Russ McDonald
Guest E-mail: Russ.McDonald@gems2.gov.bc.ca
City, Country: Victoria, BC CANADA
Date & Comments: January 8, 2002

To Anon, country England re their January 4 posting: I for one was saddened and sickened by what you revealed on November 4/01. But it was not indifference in that that I did not comment.

Personally, I find it difficult to have a meaningful dialogue on such a sensitive subject in a public place like this site. I would prefer to (and do) make one on one contact. I certainly understand your wishing to be anonymous however; I just wanted to say that my heart goes out to you and your wife; I hope she can recover and you will be ok.

I think the cult does suppress this issue and never really deals with it. It's little comfort, but your wife is certainly not alone with regard to what she suffered at the hands of a family member. And to be balanced, I think we should acknowledge that these crimes happen in non-cult families too. However, I also think that these kinds of crimes are committed at a higher ratio within the cult than throughout the general population. I sure hope that changes someday.

Guest: Pauline Fleet
City, Country: England
Date & Comments: January 9, 2002

Guest: Mike Rolfe
Guest E-mail: rolfes@kessingland.fsnet.co.uk
City, Country: Lowestoft, UK
Date & Comments: January 9, 2002
Ex EB. Found this web site today. Learn from the past, live in the present, look to the future.

Guest: Alistair Deayton
Guest E-mail: Alistair@Deayton.freeserve.co.uk
City, Country: Paisley, Scotland
Date & Comments: January 9, 2002
To "witheld", Sydney

Your daughter-in-law could not be a member of the Taylorite exclusive brethren, as there is no way they would countenance a member marrying a non-member. She may be a member of one of the offshoots. There are a number of legalistic fundamentalist Christian groups around, which may have rules about different things such as TV, swimming, etc.

To the Indian (?) pastor who asked the difference between open and exclusive brethren. The split happenbed in 1846.

The open brethren would have a single local church, the exclusive are part of a world-wide grouping.

The open allow anyone to take communion (break bread), although you might have to have a letter from your local church. in the exclusives communion is restricted to members only. I hope this helps. There are a lot of other differences, even within these two groupings. Alistair

Guest: Bevan Lawry
Guest E-mail: lawryb@esc.net.au
City, Country: Adelaide
Date & Comments: January 9, 2002
Those who know my family in Christchurch will be interested to learn of the passing of my father yesterday 9th Jan 2002. He is being buried today. Those of us who are out are grateful for the information given to us by our family. We could reflect on what could be said but is much better left unsaid. We could reminisce over what could have been but how much more profitable to know what will be.

Guest: anonexeb
Guest E-mail: anonexeb@hotmail.com
Date & Comments: January 10, 2002
Dear "withheld" of January 4th,

Just a brief note to warn you that the group which your daughter-in-law seems to belong to, is very likely NOT the Taylor exclusives. It could be another branch of the exclusive brethren or perhaps another non-brethren group such as the Cooneyites. Send me an email for more details of why I think this if you wish.

Bye

Guest: Liz Bennett
City, Country: Adelaide, Australia
Date & Comments: January 12, 2002
Often thumb through the pages and am reminded of those in my past and how thankful I am for escaping what could have been a solitary, lonely and depressing future.

I have to thank the Exclusives for 'shutting me up' when I was 17, for it gave me the courage to stand up for my principles and leave this controlling and fearful sect.

I took this opportunity to establish my own boundaries, values and beliefs and to live life to the fullest and enjoy each day. We are all survivors!!

Guest: Graham Nason
Guest E-mail: rodney_ruger@hotmail.com
City, Country: Western NSW, Australia
Date & Comments: January 12, 2002
To anon, country England. Jan 4th.

From what I know (33 yrs of it), [news of behavior] like that is suppressed, especially if the cops can be involved as they definitely do not want any bad publicity. They reserve the right to "cover a matter" whenever they wish. You'd be surprised at what "criminal" offences are buried in "priestly matters" they don't want anyone to know!

They reserve the right though, to re-open a case whenever it suits them just to keep you on your toes. Therefore, you are always looking over your shoulder to see who is watching you. Believe me; I witnessed my Father doing it all through my teens.

Guest: Graham Nason
Guest E-mail: rodney_ruger@hotmail.com
City, Country: Western NSW, Australia
Date & Comments: January 12, 2002
As to the query of fax machines; as at 1992 when I left the EB's, we were told, Quote "we don't need them" unquote. At that same time, I knew an EB who had constantly used a neighbouring business house fax to do his business. Also, at that same aproximate time, give or take a year, I learned that the Bible and Gospel Trust, which is the printer for the the EB ministry, indeed had a "fax machine".

Has anyone heard of a bloke called George Orwell? He wrote a book once, remember, called Animal Farm. Anyone read it? I did when I was still an EB, which is a sin cause it's a novel and they're "out". I couldn't help thinking at the time, ...how like the life in the brethren. Unless you were on the top, that is....

And they maintain the EB are our "family" and vehemently deny they are a "hierarchy". Yeah right!

These are just a couple of inconsistancies; hypocricies even, that I wasn't even game to ask about; let alone challenge!

Guest: Robin, Edwina and Melody Townshend
Guest E-mail: rgtownshend@iafrica.com
City, Country: Hilton, 3245, South Africa
Date & Comments: January 13, 2002
Hi friends

Please note that our Email address at home has changed with immediate effect to: rgtownshend@iafrica.com

This is in order to get rid of unwanted spam, marketing stuff, etc.

Please update your records!

Robin, Edwina and Melody Townshend 9 Longwood Mews, 8 Acutt Road,
Hilton, 3245, South Africa
Phone: +27 33 343 1538

Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: January 13, 2002
I noticed with interest the recent passing of John Hales in Sydney. What puzzles me is what happens to all the innocent victims who suffered during his regime? I am familiar with several cases where there has been untold offense by him, and no apologies recieved. I might add that I am one of these victims. I pray that the next leader treats the poor Brethren with more respect than they have been used to getting.

Guest: L.A.H.
Date & Comments: January 13, 2002
To withheld Sydney of 4/1/02,

An interesting site about the Cooneyites can be found at www.home.earthlink.net/~truth/ if your interested.

Guest: pmclarke
Guest E-mail: clarke trim@shaw.ca
City, Country: Victoria, BC, Canada
Date & Comments: January 13, 2002
With the passing of John Hales, a new leader will emerge, but one wonders at what cost. Typically these power struggles consist of two or more contenders who gather a following of supporters, who then become expendable once the winner emerges. One can only speculate on the misery that befalls the losers, and their supporters. In such an autocratic and closed system, the new leader can be expected to move swiftly to eliminate all contenders, and their followers. The casualties, disillusioned with the whole system, are cast aside, and often drop any pretence of christianity whatsoever, and attempt to make their way "outside". What a sad commentary on what was once an evangelical, bible based gathering of believers who placed their faith and trust in a risen Lord! Those of us who have been out for a long time should be ready to help if we can. While the natural [and quite understandable] response is "I told you so" we need to be reminded that we have been forgiven much. Sometimes it is hard to see, but the Lord is over all, and everything will work out exactly the way He intends it to, and there is no such thing as "chance" This, however, does not let any of us off the hook when it comes to our own responsability.

Guest: anonymous
City, Country: Melbourne Australia
Date & Comments: January 13, 2002
Full agreeance with p.m.clarke dated 13th January 2002. However, history will show that each regime sees a proving of 'strong leadership' which is exerted by 'new rules' and legalities to 'out-do' the previous. All you can say is and reverently so "God help them"., especially if one of John Hales' sons is the winner!!

Guest: Jenny Kells
Guest E-mail: Jenny.Kells@xtra.co.nz
City, Country: New Zealand
Date & Comments: January 14, 2002
To 'witheld" 4th Jan

Your daughter in law would definitely not belong to the Exclusive Brethren. If she was one, she would not have been allowed to marry your son in the first place. They do not have mixed marriages. She would not visit you or go to any house with a TV, (turned off or not). Women are not allowed to be dominant either. I believe that she belongs to some other cult and probably not Cooneites as I know some who live near to me and they are not as you describe your daughter-in-law. All the same I would be worried. If you wish to know more please email me.

Guest: Phil Kerkham
Guest E-mail: jackie.kerkham@blueyonder.co.uk
City, Country: Surbiton, England
Date & Comments: January 14, 2002
Happy New Year to everyone.

Has there been a change of rules regarding Christmas? A local pb business had an advertisment in the local paper wishing all customers a Happy Christmas etc. Also in their shop window was a Christmas tree with lights!

Best wishes to anyone that remembers me or my family

Guest: p.samuel john
Guest E-mail: sheba_ministries@rediffmail.com
City, Country: guntur a.p india
Date & Comments: January 14, 2002
it's very well remember us in ur prayers

may God bless u
in His Grace
p samuel john
1 john1:3,4.

Guest: Phil
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: January 14, 2002
Apparently JSH apologised to many people for his actions in the 60's. He forgot to apologise to me an many others for his actions in the 70's and 80's!

Guest: Trevor & Winifred Fry (nee Palmer)
Guest E-mail: millsmary@bushinternet.com
City, Country: Spalding Lincs England
Date & Comments: January 14, 2002
Hallo to everyone who remembers us from the old Croydon days. We were told about this site only a week ago and have spent a long time going through it all and seeing so many familiar names and many old friends. We left the confines of the Frost Party 19 years ago with our 3 daughters and attended Westminster Chapel in London where our spiritual lives really took off and christianity came alive to us1! Our daughters are all married now and we have two grandchildren aged 5 & 3 and another due this summer. Erica lives in Coulsdon and as a family worship at Banstead Baptist. Shirley and her husband live in Nottinghamshire and also attend a Baptist church near their village. Rosemarie met a young Swedish man while she was employed on the QE2 and after suffering much on several round the world trips, they got engaged, came off the ship and got married!! They live in Verwood in Hants. Winifreds parents, Leslie and Margaret went to be with the Lord 3 years ago within 3 weeks of each other which was very sad for us but lovely for them. They were still with the Frosts, so we had two burials to go to in quick succession. Most were friendly, sadly some were not. Trevor's brother could really be included in the latter unfortunately but his sister is very friendly towards us and we visit from time to time. We would love to hear from anyone who would like to contact us and a warm welcome awaits!

Guest: Gerard Rayment
Guest E-mail: gerardandmonica@blueyonder.co.uk
City, Country: Southend England
Date & Comments: January 14, 2002
Be interesting to see how the new power struggle goes. Anyone running a book on it? I understand the bookies are offering odds on who becomes the next Archbishop of Canterbury.

One of the peeb's claims is continuity of leadership, so any losers and their supporters can be kicked out just because they didn't support the new leader from day one.

Guest: Terry Layton
City, Country: Walgett Australia
Date & Comments: January 15, 2002

Guest: Iris Schurz (Smith)
Guest E-mail: gerhard_schurz@telus.net
City, Country: Surrey B.C. Canada
Date & Comments: January 15, 2002
Just an update on our e-mail now live in B.C. but I am originally from Hamilton Ont. My sister just left in Sept. and it has been a joy but also a struggle after being in 37 years.Would love to hear from old friends and can pass on any messages to my sister Sylvia.

Guest: pmclarke
Guest E-mail: clarke trim@shaw.ca
City, Country: Victoria, BC, Canada
Date & Comments: January 15, 2002
I would submit the reason each successive leadership is more harsh than the last one is to keep the membership in a constant state of fear [although both leadership and memebers would stoutly deny it] The only way any group can be held in bondage is because they are afraid of the repercussions of standing up to it. This isn't anything new, it's all in the scriptures, the Pharisees operated in exactly the same way, and that's why they hated our Lord- the common people were drawn to Him, they weren't afraid of Him, and that's why the religeous leaders crucified Him [not knowing they were fulfilling God's plan of salvation for us].

The good news is, they can't hold the people down forever, but they will try, because the moment they let up, the general population will turn on them. However, one wonders how many more will be hurt before this comes to pass, and people discover what true christianity is-acting like our Lord.

Guest: Michael Reijnders
Guest E-mail: reijnders@gmx.net
City, Country: Weinstadt, Germany
Date & Comments: January 15, 2002
I am new on this page. When I startet to read an articel of F. B. Hole, I thought: Wow, sounds good. Living here in the middle of a dying christian world, with most of the christians not even knowing what could be really the content of the word of GOD, I was quite happy to see brothers and sisters here, that are aquainted with the Lord our GOD. But oh, ... reading through the guestbook, I got this strange, strength draining feeling, if you know what I mean. Tears are in my eyes. It is more than sad, how born again brothers and sisters have to go through a spiritual hell, where there are bible teachings everywhere. How can people follow the Lord, and develop such a destorted view on what discipleship could really mean? There is revelation, for shure. There is separation - it must be there. No TV - well, that is absolutely clear - but what went wrong?

Something must be fleshly and twisted. I just got this intention reading through the guestbook. Maybe I am wrong. I hope that I am wrong.

Matt 13:41-43

41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

43 Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

(KJV)

Thank you for reading so far!

Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: Cambridge, UK
Date & Comments: January 15, 2002
It's a sobering reflection, and not one to be dwelt on in a gloating fashion, how JSH will feel when he 'sees face to face.'

I am assuming that at some time, and no matter how his faith later became corrupted and overlaid, he put his trust in Christ as his Saviour, in which case he is now with Him. In which case, he will also be there alongside people whom he oppressed, despised and cast out, people who by persisting in a faithful adherence to the scriptures will through eternity be worthy of a richer crown.

A hard lesson to learn, especially when it comes too late. I am reminded of an old brother (in an open assembly), who when treated with what semed like unbearable discourtesy by another brother, simply said 'Well, we'll have to learn to get on together somehow. After all, we're going to have to spend eternity together.'

Guest: Rodney Wilkins
Guest E-mail: wilkins@austarnet.com.au
City, Country: Mackay, Queensland, Australia
Date & Comments: January 16, 2002
Soon after leaving the EBs a family friend told me that his father once said "The only prophetic thing about the Tuesday night meeting for prophetic ministry is my prediction of who will give the words"! How true, and when I saw Gerard Rayment's entry "Be interesting to see how the new power struggle goes. Anyone running a book on it? I understand the bookies are offering odds on who becomes the next Archbishop of Canterbury" I immediately thought "Count me in"! Who are the contenders? Let me know and I'll be pleased to place my bet.

I have already suggested to a group of ex-EB friends that I would like to assume the leadership and settle a few old scores but I was told "Rod, you will have to invest in a few cardigans, navy or dark brown, sober trousers, white shirts. Also start producing your own ministry books and decide upon the colour of the outside."

Well, none of that is a problem (except I will have to stop wearing a tie), but I'm not sure what colour is still available. How about puce?

Guest: Peter Wilson
Guest E-mail: pjwilsy@hotmail.com
City, Country: New York, USA
Date & Comments: January 16, 2002
Anonymous of Cambridge UK seems to think that JSH "is now with Him" which in a way is a pity as I was hoping he was rotting in Hell with earlier EB leaders.

But in a way that gives me hope because if "we're going to have to spend eternity together" then at least that will give me a chance to make his eternity hell!

Guest: Robin Townshend
Guest E-mail: rgtownshend@iafrica.com
City, Country: Hilton, 3245, South Africa
Date & Comments: January 16, 2002
Dear friends

I found that there was an error in the last message, so that the reply-to address was the old one. Should now be correct! Please use rgtownshend@iafrica.com in future to get me at HOME.

Robin Townshend
9 Longwood Mews, 8 Acutt Road,
Hilton, 3245, South Africa
Phone: +27 33 343 1538

Guest: Leslie B Alderton
Guest E-mail: ricald&pipeline.com.au
City, Country: Geelong Vic
Date & Comments: January 17, 2002
I lived in West Ryde NSW. I Now Live in Geelong VIC. My Phone is 0352505191 or 0417014063.

Guest: Iain Gibb
Guest E-mail: Iain.Gibb@campbell-lee.co.uk
City, Country: Grangemouth, Scotland
Date & Comments: January 17, 2002
I find Anonymous of Cambridge on January 15 expresses my own feelings very well - except that I do not know why he had to sign it 'Anonymous'!

One of the eye-openers for me in the EB system was hearing it considered questionable whether certain people who had fallen foul of the leadership would be in heaven. Even a hardened EB supporter like me could see that was a diabolical insult to the perfect work of Christ, who saves 'whoever believes in Him'. But, there must be millions in quasi-Christian cults like the EBs, mis-guided, doing more harm than good, bringing the name of Jesus Christ into disrepute, but still in some way trusting Him, and I am sure they (and that inclueds the EBs) will find greater mercy than they have shown to others.

But there are still some very sobering considerations. Paul tells the Corinthians that certain people will suffer loss, though they themselves will be saved but only as one 'escaping through the flames'. And then to the Romans, he says 'Each of us will give an account of himself to God'. And the writer to the Hebrews says 'Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account'. I know I have enough to do to look after myself, but when I stand back and think of the appalling needless suffering that has been caused to thousands by these EB dictators, and their (failed) attempt to usurp the place of Christ in His church, I wonder what it will be like having to give an account to God.

Guest: Cheryl Green
Guest E-mail: c1green@aol.com
City, Country: Milton Keynes
Date & Comments: January 18, 2002
I wrote some time ago about my ex husband JD. I asked if anyone could explain why when he was deserted by his own family, does he still only agree to see his own children once, sometimes twice a year. I had many people reply to me and nearly all of them said that they would could not understand it. Just to update, JD still refuses to see his children. He has been to family weddings and parties but not bothered to mention that he is in the country. I also notice that he has not mentioned his children in any of his messages.

Guest: pmclarke
Guest E-mail: clarke trim@home.com
City, Country: Victoria, BC, Canada
Date & Comments: January 18, 2002
Speculating on whether or not who is, or isn't the Lord's is folly. The Lord knows those who are His. However, that said, the scripture also says "by their fruits ye shall know them". Merely claiming to be a "christian" doesn't make it so- any more than claiming to be a Doctor makes you one. Credentials must be produced- in the Christian's case, the one on one transaction of personal faith in the Lord dying for my sins, and rising again, constitutes salvation. Being in the "right position" going to church, doing good deads, "breaking bread" or any other claim, apart from personal faith does not make one a christian. Again, the Lord knows those who are His. It's not for me to judge, or even speculate.

Guest: anom
Date & Comments: January 18, 2002
APPRANTELY BRUCE HALES IS TRYING TO GET THE LEADER SHIP.. THIS MAN ALSO HAS HIS NAME ON THE VOTING PAPERS WITH NAME AND ADDRESS.

Guest: John Weightman
Guest E-mail: JWeigh6523@aol.com
Date & Comments: January 19, 2002
I'd like to record my appreciation for Iain Gibb's thoughtful, measured and appropriate response to the recent death of John Hales.

Guest: Garth Sanderson
Guest E-mail: agarfysh@aol.com
City, Country: Sydney.Australia
Date & Comments: January 19, 2002
Left the Brethren Sydney Base June 1981. My Father was Eric Sanderson & my mother, who is still alive & a member at Bundaberg Nth QLD, was Lorna Dunlop. My children of whom some are married are all members and I have not seen for many years. If any have imformation on My Mother or My Children I would appreciate it very much. My Sister Jennifer left the Brethren in 1973 and lives in Melbourne Victoria. I remarried some years ago & have a 13 year old daughter.

Guest: Neville and Rachel Silby
Guest E-mail: silbys@actrix.co.nz
City, Country: Whangarei New Zealand.
Date & Comments: January 19, 2002
We departed from the church September 1997.

Guest: E McLean
Guest E-mail: estim8or4u@icqmail.com
City, Country: Hastings, New Zealand
Date & Comments: January 19, 2002
To Anom....

Hey how did u find that out about Bruce Hales? Give me a call....u know my number...=)

Guest: Victor Congdon
Guest E-mail: jcongdon01@snet.net
City, Country: Portland, CT USA
Date & Comments: January 20, 2002
New Engalnd Patriots win over Oakland Raiders. !!!

It was in the middle of a snow storm. It was a good game, passing worked and running didn't.

4th quarter, Patriots down by 3 and they get a break. The ref's call a fumble by the QB an incomplete pass.

The Pat's go on to win in OT.

Raiders should have won.....and that from a Pat's fan who remembers Stabler, Plunkett (an exPat, not to be confused with exEB), Balindacoff and his pine tar, others, all of Raider fame.

Kelly & Rebecca, take it from a New England sports fan, as the Red Sox always say, "Wait 'till next year!" It was a fun game to watch, don't you agree?

A happy Pat's fan, Victor

Guest: J. Victor Congdon
Guest E-mail: jcongdon01@snet.net
City, Country: Portland, CT USA
Date & Comments: January 20, 2002
Thanks Iain, as John says, a wonderful view of John Hales death.

Who ever takes over may he/she (?) have the sense to see that they have a choice to make. They can continue to be abusive and make others abusive or they can let the grace of God shine out from them through the glorious gospel of Christ.

I have wonder for some time why persons sign in here anonymously? I can understand not giving an address but why not your name? I, perhaps the only one, will not trust anything over the name "Anonymous." It is not fear that makes the signature "Anonymous." If I must sign "Anonymous" then it is best I not make my statement. Maybe someone can show me why signing "Anonymous" is a good practice.

Only by grace, Victor

Guest: Michael S. Smits
Guest E-mail: caveman@itol.com
City, Country: Kewaunee, Wisconsin. USA
Date & Comments: January 20, 2002

Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: Australia
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
Just to let Victor Congdon know that I chose to remain anonymous when submitting an entry in the guest book because I value my privacy. There is no reason why the author of a statement should be compelled to reveal their name just because they have deciced to make an entry. Sometimes it is better if readers don't know who is commenting, that way no biased judgements can be passed on their particular entry, especially if the author is a well-known character in Exclusive Brethren circles!

Guest: Andy Giles
Guest E-mail: andygiles@classicfm.net
City, Country: Brighton, England
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
In reply to Victor Congdon's remarks regarding anonymous contributors. I assume they are still in the EB's and have somehow got access to a PC. Considering the fact that the EB's monitor this site one can well understand someone contributing anonymously. Such persons are likely to be going through the immense struggle involved in leaving, which in many cases (including my own) means leaving everything, I mean everything; family, every dear friend, employment, even house and car. Such a decision needs to be planned and to give a name on the website could get you thrown out, prempting such planning which could have disasterous results (eg someone could get thrown out before having been able to talk their spouse round, resulting in them being seperated for ever.) So give a thought to such and bear with the anonymity, the names will follow! Trust this makes sense.

Andy Giles

Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: Anon, Anonshire
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
Re: 'Anonymous' contributions

Sometimes it is less important to know Who said something than What was actually said?

Just another potentially untrustworthy observation ...

Guest: Cecilie Palmer (nee Boon)
Guest E-mail: wncs@watchdog.net.nz
City, Country: New Zealand
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
I may have asked this question before, but many more are now looking at this site.

Can anyone tell me what happened to David Baldwin of Manchester, England (or a nearby locality). He is a paraplegic, married Margaret (?) from Manchester, and she died during an asthma attack about 10 days after they married. The marriage would have been around 1975 I think. I know he was shut up for a while - did he go out, or is he still in? I wrote to him for a while before I left in 1977, but my parents stopped me after about 12 months. It wasn't a seemly thing to do! Margaret and I became very close during my visit where I stayed at her house for Manchester three day meetings in 1974.

Do email me if anyone has any info.

Many thanks.

Luv and hugs to all,

Cec

Guest: Gerard Rayment
Guest E-mail: gerardandmonica@blueyonder.co.uk
City, Country: Southend, England
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
If you are still in the peebs and want to be anonymous to avoid them getting to you why not use a pseudonym or nickname? When you leave you can post an entry like "Hi folks, I'm Socrates, my real name is 'xyz'...left the peebs now and started a real life ...enjoying every minute ...etc." Good luck anyway.

Guest: anonymous
City, Country: Melbourne - Australia
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
The movement of Exclusive Brethrenism demands uniformity of action, irrespective of personal conscience - paving the way for misery, delusion and condemnation.

Guest: Sue Wright
Guest E-mail: antoj@bigpond.com
City, Country: Australia
Date & Comments: January 21, 2002
I am looking for a copy of The Believers Tune book with words does anyone know where I might get copies - the publishers are Pickering & Inglis, London & Glasgow

Guest: Connie Bunning Barton
Guest E-mail: paco.bar@cox.net
City, Country: San Diego, California USA
Date & Comments: January 22, 2002
Hello to everyone! Please note that my e-mail address has changed to paco.bar@cox.net Would love to hear from anyone remembering the Bunning's from Indianapolis.

Guest: Dave and Karen Rowden
Guest E-mail: Dkrowden4@cs.com
City, Country: Rochester, NY, USA
Date & Comments: January 22, 2002

Guest: Jet Larsen
Guest E-mail: jetlarsen@hotmail.com
City, Country: New Zealand
Date & Comments: January 23, 2002
Roberta Wallace could you please get back to me re the email you sent the other day. I am sorry to be a pain I have just lost all my emails. Many thanks Jet.

Guest: Victor Congdon
Guest E-mail: despair@delusion.com
City, Country: USA
Date & Comments: January 23, 2002
Hi Anonymous, (Entry dated January 21, 2002)

It certainly is good to hear from you, again. Trust you and yours are keeping well.

How are things in Anonshire? I have often wanted to visit there but never got the time or courage to do so. Hearing from you reminds me of some events from the past. I believe it is now called history. Let me tell you a bit about this history.

I understand Anon is thought by many to be a very wonderful place. I have only been as far as Middlesex County, which is the county before Anonshire.

I have heard of what some call the beautiful lake that goes through your county and into the county on the far side of Anonshire. I believe it is called Lake Dee. It is famous for it's two bays. The "Bay of Delusion" and the "Bay of Despair." I have never been to the Bay if Despair but I know some who have been there. How sad. I also know many who frequent the Bay of Delusion. I am told it is an interesting experience. On a calm day you can look into the water to see your reflection, but a face of someone else always appears. Most fascinating.

Many years ago I had the opportunity to meet a person from Anon. I was in my early 20s when this person from Anon decided to write anonymous letters to me. I received a letter about every other week for over a year.

When these letters first arrived, in recognition of my big ego, I assumed they were from Ms Anon. As time went on and the letters began to contain sexual overtones and threats of violence I was certain they were from a Mr. Anon. Threats written in a manner that is known only to those who frequented the Bays of Despair and Delusion. I became alarmed. No one in the family would or could help so I went to the local Police. They said to call if there was a problem. I did not know if that meant to call from the Hospital Emergency Room or from the Morgue.

However, the Police did offer some help. They suggested that I obtain copies from the typewriters of all persons that I knew who had typewriters. I was taken by this suggestion so at the next "Care Meeting" I asked for the names of all who owned typewriters. Everyone was very cooperative and I obtained a list of names.

At the next Care Meeting I announced that I had receive many letters from a Mr. or Ms Anon and proceeded to read the most recent letter I had received, not missing any of the violence that was included nor the sexual overtones.

There was a hush over the room.

Then Mr. T said, "Shame on you for reading that."

I then asked Mr. T for a copy of typing from his typewriter. He was outraged and became very red in the face.

This was repeated with Mr. S and Mr. H, etc.

It was a time "Pre-LocalPriestom" and as Mr. T regained his composure he demanded that I leave. I informed him that I would leave only after he provided copy from his typewriter and then perhaps he would leave before me.

Rather bold for a 22-year-old, but enough was enough. I told them the Police had advised me to do this.

Three weeks later at the Wednesday "Bible Reading" at the end of the meeting Mr. X stood up and offered an apology to me for all the anonymous letters he had written me. He was very sorry. I immediately said he was forgiven. I felt so sorry for the old guy. Oh my, how sad. He had done no physical harm, only some anxious moments, and perhaps emotional harm. Forgiveness was granted and Mr. X had a second chance.

It is so sad for some of these old guys and gals too. They are so deluded. They so enjoyed the face they saw in the Bay of Delusion that they even relished the Bay of Despair. They never lived in Anonshire. Nor did they live in Middlesex. I believe they lived in Anonysex, which, is on the far side of Anonshire. Oh my, how sad.

Some from Anonysex are not so nice. They physically and sexually abuse persons and leave great damage in their wake. They are almost always close friends or relatives who joy in the gloom of Lake Dee. They go by various names. Mr. Anon, Ms Anon, Mrs. Anon, Uncle Anon, Aunt Anon, Dad Anon, etc. Those they abuse often weep their night periods away or live in locked houses for fear of the their particular Anon. In my country the law requires all Anons who abuse to be reported to the Authorities. The Authorities place the real names of these Anons on public lists and you are informed if any of them live in your neighborhood. It is called Megan's Law, named after a small girl named Megan who was murdered by an Anon.

The life in Anonysex. Well that's another chapter in the long History of EBs. At present it is not a chapter, only an Appendix in the History Book. In time this Appendix shall be written into a full Chapter in the Exclusive Brethren History Book as well as in the history books of almost all organized groups. I do believe it will be one of the early Chapters too. Oh my, how sad.

Only by grace, Victor

PS #1 Mr. T, Mr. S, Mr. H, Mr. X and others involved are now dead. The personal pronoun me and I replaces the name of a loved member in my family. All of the abused shall have protection.

PS #2 There is such a thing as a second chance. However, for those Anons who abuse their second chance shall be only with their God. They must never have a second chance to continue to abuse and hurt others. Know them by name and never let them live as an Anon ever again. In my country all leaders or teachers in churches are required to report all evidence of child abuse to the Authorities. Please do not be in delusion and think it only happens somewhere else. It happens in your neighborhood so do something to stop it, now.

PS #3 We all need a Savior. I know I do. Oh how wonderful, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, a sinner like me. Only by grace.

Guest: Geoffrey M Gardiner
Guest E-mail: geoff@intercity-epp.com
City, Country: United Kingdom
Date & Comments: January 23, 2002
Words cannot say how much this visit means to me.

Guest: Harriette Shurtleff
Guest E-mail: hs54128@alltel.net
City, Country: Gothenburg, Nebraska, USA
Date & Comments: January 23, 2002
Does anyone know anything about my 2 daughters? I haven't seen or heard from them in about 26 years. One is Deborah Widfeldt (Doug) of Council Bluffs-maiden name is Franzen. The other daughter is Janet Gay (Alan) of Oxbow, Sask. Canada. Maiden name the same, of course. Doug W. is son of Rhoda Samuels Widfeldt and Kenny-both deceased. Alan Gay is son of _______ and Ruth Gay-sister of Mrs. Symington.

Thank you, Sincerely, Harriette Shurtleff, Gothenburg

Guest: Francis Mortyn
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: California
Date & Comments: January 24, 2002
May all persons whose lives have been touched by John Hales, whether for good or ill, pray for his soul in the company of a forgiving Lord.

Guest: Ted and Esther Druckenmiller
Guest E-mail: teddruck@quixnet.net
City, Country: Trenton, Missouri, USA
Date & Comments: January 24, 2002
See Encouragement in the Faith Does God's Hand Direct My Life? for the remainder of this message.

Guest: Geoffrey
Guest E-mail: geoff@intercity-epp,com
City, Country: United kingdom, England
Date & Comments: January 25, 2002
Suffer the little children to come unto me.

Guest: Guy Wilson
Guest E-mail: grwilson45@btinternet.com
City, Country: Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Date & Comments: January 26, 2002
Does anyone have any information about Timothy Sharp of Luton who married Elizabeth Forshaw of Croydon in or around 1969. I think they are still in the Taylor party. I also think they have six children.

Guest: Gordon Woodman
Guest E-mail: gordon_woodman@hotmail.com
City, Country: New Zealand
Date & Comments: January 26, 2002
This brings back many old memories

Guest: Garth Sanderson
Guest E-mail: agarfysh@aol.com
Date & Comments: January 26, 2002

Guest: Jim Graham
Guest E-mail: jimmgraham@supanet.com
City, Country: Ealing, England
Date & Comments: January 27, 2002
I was kicked out when I was 16 from Ealing, West London. Am now 37 and would be interested to hear from anyone who knows me or my brother, Robert who also left with me. This has been a good decision for both of us.

Guest: Heather
City, Country: USA
Date & Comments: January 28, 2002
Upon reading Cheryl Green's January 18th entry, I felt I had to respond.

It is sad when children become victims of a broken relationship, however I believe one should always come to the conclusion that there are two sides to a story before making judgements against anyone no matter what they may have done.

Guest: Liz Hughes
Guest E-mail: philanliz@aol.com
City, Country: Princethorpe, Warwickshire, UK
Date & Comments: January 29, 2002
I was very disturbed to hear, recently, that my husband's elderly uncle and aunt have been put into residential care by the EB's, and what is worse, that they have been placed in separate homes. Can anyone tell me whether this is true and if so, where they are? They are Douglas and Hephzibah Arran, both in their 80's, formerly from Bishp's Stortford later from Thaxted. I am a social worker and have done a lot of work on placement of elderly people using various kinds of care contract and I am certain that the local social services dept. would not countenance such a separation if they knew about it. Knowing the EB's as I do, they may well have concealed the truth. Can anyone help?

Guest: Graham Smith
City, Country: England
Date & Comments: January 29, 2002
Hi Everyone, thanks for the news on the late Mr skeffington, am I right in believing that on one occasion he mentioned something about icicles in June........ And can anyone recall Donald Smith?

Love to all Graham

Guest: Graham Smith
City, Country: Plymouth Uk
Date & Comments: January 29, 2002
Hi

It's good to know that some of the in's read this site, it would most likely be more edifying reading the bible, but as it would apear that they do not seem to know how to turn the pages, here is just a little verse from a multitude of scriptures that they should read. Oh Foolish Brethren who has bewitched you, it can be found in Galatians chapter 3, and you should read the whole chapter. Another, that will not do you any harm, but could open your blinkered eyes, is in 2 Thessalonians Ch: 2 v 10-12. The most important word being righteousness, you know doing what is right. The alternative is enjoying unrighteousness and it apears to me that many in's enjoy the later, God it says yes God will send them strong delusion. God is not mocked. Let him that is without sin cast the first stone. Love Love Love thy neighbour as thyself it is all so basic, yet so easily missed unless you can become as a little child. Well it appears that they have but completely in the wrong context. Squabbling squawking little brats that cannot agree on anything, and never will until filled with the one unifying factor the Holy Ghost. Paul said the Spirit bears witness, and it does, it is obvious the babe leaped in the womb. I once said to a man who was in, who's intials were WAR that Jesus ate with sinners, his reply was He Did Not, can you believe it? hard too, nevertheless factual. It might seem a little cold but as it appears that another leader has passed away still stumbling about in the wilderness of delusion. Just guessing as I never new the man. However I did hear that he tried to outpredict The Lord, about the rapture, Silly Silly Man No one Know's the time or the Season, especially misguided misiles. I did hear his brother once or twice though. Never underestimate the power of the Word of God and just because he used an ass once, don't please carry on making succesive mistakes. Christ is the Head of the Church, the brethren should wake up to the truth and walk in the Spirit, but I guess that a lot need to get saved first. Perhaps it might be quite interesting hearing a few testimonies of how the ins were saved.

It certainly didn't hapen to me whilst I was in.

By Grace

Thanks for reading
Graham

Guest: Hedley Hulbert
Guest E-mail: hedleyjhulbert@btopenworld.com
Date & Comments: January 30, 2002
Please note E-Mail address for Hedley J Hulbert has changed from h.j.hulbert@barclays.net To:- hedleyjhulbert@btopenworld.com

Guest: Phillip Minnis
Guest E-mail: sfvm@hinet.net.au
City, Country: New South Wales AUSTRALIA
Date & Comments: January 31, 2002
I am the son of Ken & Muriel Minnis. My whole family was ex-communicated from the Plymouth Brethren in 1979. Within a short time I met a wonderful person who was to become my soul-mate. I married Karen in 1983. We are now in our 18th year of marriage and have two beautiful daughters, aged 7 and 9. My brother, Mark, is married with two children and lives in Central Queensland. My sister, Esther, is divorced, also has two children, and lives in the Central West of New South Wales.

Since leaving the Brethren I have managed a radio station, Karen and I have managed two motels, and we currently operate a tourism-based business. I am also currently 3/4s of the way through a university degree. We have travelled the world twice, lived for a year in the UK and, thanks to God, have a pretty happy and good life.

I have never regretted my upbringing in the Brethren, but I am extremely glad to be out! We do not attend church but we are basically a Christian household. Our children attend a Christian school.

Like many others who have contributed to this site have stated, the trauma of ex-communication is massive and somewhat overwhelming. Originally, I relied on the friendship of other ex-brethren to help overcome the huge change in my life. However, as the years went by, I increasingly found that I gathered a whole new circle of friends, in which my past life is virtually unknown and unmentioned.

This does not mean that I have a phobia about socialising with ex-brethren (a couple of my closest friends are ex-brethren) and I sometimes catch up with long-lost friends from the Brethren days. I just find that we all come out with so much 'baggage'. I had enough problems dealing with and resolving my own that I now tend to avoid contact with recently ex-communicated brethren. I do not wish to clutter my life, and consequently my family's, with the 'hang-ups' and diverse opinions and beliefs of the more recently 'brain-washed' ex-communicated. However, if any ex-brethren from 'my era' wish to contact me, I would be delighted to correspond with them.

To any guests visiting this site who are finding it difficult to deal with the trauma of ex-communication - time does heal - the hurt and bitterness does wane, and if you wish it to, ultimately disappears. Be positive, be determined to make something of your life. Try to avoid being vindictive, bitter or angry - while you are in this state you will be unable to move forward and start a happy and rewarding new life on the 'outside'.

Phillip Minnis

Guest: Ron Bond
Guest E-mail: RonBond@canada.com
City, Country: Surrey, B.C.
Date & Comments: January 31, 2002
Hi, I was just wondering if anyone had any information with respect to Cecile and Beryl Knowles of Christchuch, New Zealand and also Lionel Larson. The last time I saw them was in 1970??? I suspect Uncle Cecile and Aunty Beryl have passed away, however cousin Lionel would probably be in his 70's. My father was William Ralph Bond, his father was Harry Bond...My father came to Canada (Maple Creek, Saskatchewan) when he was 18 and passed away in 1969 at the age of 60...I have never been to New Zealand so know nothing of my father's side of the family except for those mentioned above

Guest: William D Greer
City, Country: Baltimore, MD U.S.A.
Date & Comments: January 31, 2002
Thank you for the time and effort you have put in to this site. I was raised among the Open Brethren, but am not aware of most of the history of the Brethren. I do know that whatever faults they may have had as a movement, they have been greatly used of God and many, many people will be in heaven because of them.

Guest: Emmans, Aldred
Guest E-mail: emmans@intonet.co.uk
City, Country: Sunbury on Thames
Date & Comments: February 1, 2002
My sister Joy Bellard gave me your web page. We were Aberdeen brethren. I still love the Lord.

Guest: noneb
City, Country: Oz
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002
To Mr Congdon

Re Anon. I use a pseudonym as I value my work place. Someone I met on this website, lost her job of 6 years duration, after making one innocent entry!! Some of us have to make a living still.

To the entry from Melbourne re faxes to All pumps, can you tell me why it is so many EB Business Names start with 'All'? Is it to be first in the phone listing? or another profound reason??

Guest: Freda Ellis
Guest E-mail: fellis@onetel.net.uk
City, Country: London, UK
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002

Guest: Heather Chappell (Marlard)
Guest E-mail: marlandfire@bigpond.com.au
City, Country: Wyong N.S.W 2259 Australia
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002

Left exclusives 1989. My parents are Bob & Heather Chappell, I am married with two children Matthew & Laura-Marie. I have found out recently that my parents have moved. Information would be appreciated

Regards Heather

Guest: Oliver Bedford
Guest E-mail: oliverwbedford@bigpond.com
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002
To "noneb", Oz:

If your friend was dismissed after six years of employment for making "one innocent entry" on this site, then it occurs to me that under Australian law she should have a pretty good case for wrongful dismissal !

Guest: Francis
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: Southern California
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002
Dick's observations about one Mr. Bill refraining from self-promotion brought back some memories. When J.T. died, the real one, there could be little question that the best-qualified successor was A. J. Gardiner of Streatham, London. But self-promotion was alien to A.J.G.'s personality, and the niche of leadership was open in 1953. Some of us thought Stanley McCallum of Detroit should have it. But aggressive self-promotion by J.T. Jr. beat out all competitors, and the rest is history. Regrettable, but it's true in my opinion.

Guest: Walter Howe
Guest E-mail: wc_howe@yahoo.com
City, Country: Cincinnati, Ohio
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002
I am very thankful that I still have good memories of the Wymans, having enjoyed their hospitality on a number of occasions, along with others whom I once fellowshiped with some forty years ago. I have some bad memories too, standing by as an elder brother, Mr. Acomb, was "stoned to death" with words. There were others too. I had my part in their being withdrawn from by just standing by. They were not "bad apples", but like myself just not understanding the ministry of the many allusions to God's dealings with Israel, and applying them to our calling and walk today as "believers in Christ" and members of His body which we still are though outside "the camp".

Our walk and talk should be for God's glory as Paul would have us to walk and talk. Read the seven walks in his letter to the Ephesians. "-----speak truth every one with his neighbour,-----" "Let no corrupt word go out of your mouth,------" Eph. 4:25 & 29 We are still a, " ----peculiar people,- ----." Titus 2:14. Not having had any contact with any one for a good many years I did not know how sad conditions became until I found the "My Brethren" and Dick's Web sites. I say sad because it sounds much like the "last days": parents giving up their children, and children their parents. May each find God's grace sufficent to bear the burden He has laid upon you. Looking forward to that blessed day when Christ will "present the assembly to Himself glorious--" Ephesians 5

Guest: Simon Von Meininger
Guest E-mail: simonvs7@hotmail.com
City, Country: Little Rock, Arkansas
Date & Comments: February 2, 2002
This organisation is possibly the most evil ever known on Earth, it is a Dogma, not a religion, it is so extreme it might as well be a new religion, it twists things in the bible into a totaly new meaning & turns good christians against God. It is obviously satans pride & joy, the sad thing is many good people in the sect don't know this, although about %85 of the elders do.

Guest: Anonymous
City, Country: Anon, Anonshire
Date & Comments: February 3, 2002
In my opinion (albeit still 'untrustworthy'), Mr Greer's (comparatively 'trustworthy') comments from Jan 31st, 2002 require a postscript. He is right in that the Open Brethren are a strongly evangelical movement who have had immense impact on a global basis.

It would be wrong to suggest however that the EB's have had a similar spiritual impact, either inside or without. There are going to be a lot of millstones added to deserving necks. Many many people have been spiritually stumbled by this evil crew and with that comes a terrifying price.

On the basis that you reap what you sow, what was sown from 1960 onward, born from selfish pride and inflamed ego, have ripped all love from a semblance of Christianity. Even where there was once light, even the windows were bricked closed both on halls and in hearts.

Where once perfume ascended, there is now but a stench. Stagnation of waters that no longer flow. It is death. And now they seek a new neck!

God help them.

Guest: Edwin & Pamela Hopkins
Guest E-mail: edwin@ephopkins.freeserve.co.uk
Date & Comments: February 3, 2002
Does anyone know of the whereabouts of John Rendell who came over from India in the 1950's and lived in the Ilford and Hornchurch, Essex area in the 1960's. If so, could they please contact Eddie on edwin@ephopkins.freeserve.co.uk

Guest: Graham Smith
Guest E-mail: graham@derna.freeserve.co.uk
City, Country: Plymouth, Devon
Date & Comments: February 3, 2002
Hi

I have noticed a few references to Stanley Macullum of Detroit, I am a little perplexed as he seems to be held in quite high regard. When I left the EBs in 1968-70, I'm a little fuzzy being an ex hippy, but I was under the impression that he was kicked out. As my greatest wish is to understand the truth of the Aberdeen period, perhaps he was simply a casualty from this period, set up and destroyed by so called men of God. Hopefully a contributor to this site could enlighten me by e-mail me, or post it, whatever it would be much appreciated. I do not want to fall into the trap of being a false accuser, God knows there are enough of them still in. By the by does anyone know of a James Havey from Harlesden/Wembly/Harrow. It would be interesting to know the reason he was kicked out, but there again he might be back in.

Hope to hear from anyone who can help and will continue to visit this facinating site. by grace Graham

Guest: bob amor
Guest E-mail: bob amor@hotmail.com
City, Country: Londonderry N.Ireland.
Date & Comments: February 3, 2002
Hello to the many people whose names I recognise from these pages. Began life as Robert in York /Leeds. Moved to Grangemouth 1970 (Bob) and now living near Derry N.Ireland. Would like to hear from anyone who cares to contact me especially if anyone has any news of my family members. My aunt Valerie Amor (if alive) last known location Harrow and my sisters Elizabeth Rubie (Yeovil) Marilyn Lyon(Harrow) Helen Weberley (Southend).

Bob Amor

Guest: Francis Mortyn
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: Southern California
Date & Comments: February 3, 2002
My thoughts turned to the Brethren this morning during the Mass. Our Old Testament lesson was from Amos, about walking in humility. The New Testament lesson was Christ's words, "Blessed are the meek." The priest's homily pointed out that this is the reverse of the world's values system. Sitting there I reflected that it is also the reverse of the Brethren's arrogance in presuming to be the chosen elect, the sole faithful remnant. Then in our Anglican liturgy we arrived at "prayers of the people" and I wanted to pray aloud with 500 people for John Hales but I couldn't do it. I am not yet ready. But in good time it will be. Until then, I just allowed my thoughts to turn to the Magnificat, the Song of Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin Mary, so I looked up the words in the Book of Common Prayer. However warped his Christianity, i reflected, I do not question that John Hales feared God. And the Magnificat says "His mercy is on them that fear Him, throughout all generations." I found comfort in that. Pray for John Hales when you can, please. .. .

Guest: Tony Joyce
Guest E-mail: tonyjoyce_1@mailcity.com
City, Country: Perth, Australia
Date & Comments: February 3, 2002
Have noted with interest the death of John Hales and subsequent comments about successor. Bruce Hales was mentioned (presumably son) and I've heard similar elsewhere. Doubt he is fits the Bill as many would know about his past - smoking outside the Ashfield meeting in his teens and when his father was out in the late 70's, he & his wife hired pleasure-cruise boats on the Hawkesbury River and dined in resturants. Hardly qualifies as one set apart from his mother's womb to as if by abortion be the next elect vessel!

Possibly Osama Bin Laden is a better candidate - He is a religious fanatic who is into the suppression of women, good at getting others to do his dirty work and could give the EBs a whole new meaning to laying one's body on the altar!

This is my 1st entry to this page though I have checked out this amazing site since April 98 and fully appreciate the time and effort that must be put into it. I am the father of Caroline & Kenneth Joyce who live here in Perth with their mother Wendy. I have been thwarted in every attempt to see my children and would love to know about them. If anybody can inform me, please send an email.

Kind Regards,

Tony Joyce

Guest: Cam
Guest E-mail: cameron.elkins@csfb.com
City, Country: London
Date & Comments: February 4, 2002
Apparently David Bill is now in the chair. I have checked to see if this has already been mentioned. I apologise if this is old news. I have heard this from someone who has just left in the UK so I think its true, but it would be good to have this confirmed.

I saw either Patsy or Paulie (the Twins from Bromley - I forget their surname) in Hastings on Saturday she saw me and her face lit up in recognition and I heard her say my name. She looked pleased for a second then it changed. As she went past me she said 'its so sad to see you'. I wish I could of said something especially as she didnt have a headscarf on.

Does anyone know what to say in these situations.

Hope everyone is having a great 2002

Guest: pmclarke
Guest E-mail: clarke trim@home.com
Date & Comments: February 4, 2002
Although commonly accepted by many denominations,I submit there is not one scrap of new testiment verification for a "universal leader". Leadership, yes, but a single "universal leader"-absolutely not-show me in the scriptures where it says that? Any system that sets up, by word, or deed, any head apart from Christ is outside the authority of scripture, and indeed may be open to the charge of false teaching and systemized error. Whatever man sets up, apart from the authority of the Word of God is doomed to failure, and the sad history of departure from scriptural grounds by "Exclusive brethren" is proof of that, and has been the case for a very long time.

Guest: Peta Hills
Guest E-mail: shills64@dodo.com.au
City, Country: Geelong, Australia
Date & Comments: February 4, 2002
Hello, my name is Peta & I am a spirit filled christian. We live up the road from an Exclusive Bretheren 'church' & I have felt a real drawing to the women of the group, I have talked to one of them in the supermarket where I shop & that only made me want to know more, & then today my husband asked me to find out information on the group, but I wasn't to ask him why, it will have something to do with the counselling ministry he is involved with. I know it might be a bit close to the bone for some of you, but if anyone is able to help me, that would be wonderful, also if anyone is in Geelong & needs help, in anyway, please either contact me on my email, or my mobile, 0409 175 332, I will come & get you.

Peta

Guest: Mrs. Terri Allen
Guest E-mail: terrrialllen@aol.com
City, Country: Fort Washington, Maryland
Date & Comments: February 4, 2002
Always look towards the sun/SON and the shadows shall fall behind you!

Guest: Cathy Layton
City, Country: Brisbane, Queensland
Date & Comments: February 5, 2002
I left the Brethren in 1995 at the age of 18.

I lived in Orange N.S.W. for 21 years and am now living in Queensland.

If anyone would be interested in contacting me who lived in this particular area then do so.

Guest: Dr Peter French
Guest E-mail: DrPJFrench@CarlyleEducation.com.au
City, Country: Meloburne, Australia
Date & Comments: February 5, 2002
A little laughter lightens the load and brightens the day. This is what Tony Joyce's message was to me.

On the other hand, the bow he drew linking the Hales group with Osama Bin Laden or however the animal spells his name, does bear some consideration. There is a parallel, and I wonder how many of us have carried it out of the peebs into our new lives?

Who washed the dishes or packed the dishwasher at your house today? Who made the bed this morning? Who ironed your shirts? Who got the breakfast? Who made all of the decisions today?

My late father, when marrying for the third time [the second killed the second wife, and the third killed him] invited me to his wedding. He was out and 'Renton-ish' or whatever. The men, apart from 1 or 2, sat firmly entrenched on their backsides, while 99% of the work was done by the women. Having been away from the mob for several years, this struck me more than anything - more than the pretence, the 'spiritual superiority', the self righteousness ... the superiority of the male, the inferiority of the female ... come one, God make us equal didn't he? The peebs debased us.

So who will make the bed tomorrow? ...get the breakfast? ...iron your shirt? I hope that it isn't the lady of the house. I also hope that you defer to her opinion on some matter (for a chnage?)

And you women, stand up for yourselves - you are the most beautiful of God's creations - demand respect, demand equality - why, God chose a WOMAN to bring His Son in to the world - get your head around that fellows....!

Here endeth the lesson ... and they used to say "May God bless the word!"

Peter French

Guest: Belinda Scott
Guest E-mail: scottsinwagga@bigpond.com.au
City, Country: Wagga Wagga, Australia
Date & Comments: February 5, 2002
Parents emigrated to Sydney, Australia in 1961 from Exeter, to escape the Brethren fallout. Anyone from those days from the Alex Lucas/ Hilda Bell families, who are keen to follow up long lost relatives, I would be happy to hear from you. I was not personally involved as I was born in Australia after the event, (praise God!) but the effects are still seen in my folks, forty years down the track.

Guest: Doug Neilson
Guest E-mail: dneilson@jps.net
City, Country: Seattle Washington
Date & Comments: February 5, 2002
I would like to here from friends in the Detroit area. Anyone have contact with the Murray Hewines family?

Guest: Geoffrey Gardiner
Guest E-mail: geoff@intercity-epp.com
City, Country: Birmingham, England
Date & Comments: February 6, 2002
Man proposes, God disposes.

Guest: Elaine Hanley
Guest E-mail: bobedhan@localnet.com
City, Country: PA. USA
Date & Comments: February 6, 2002
To Anon from Anonshire dated 2/3/2002 Well said, my friend. Likely great judgment ahead for any who knowingly lead others astray. To Matthew Linden, Methodist minister in NJ. What a fortunate person you were and blessed to only have known of us but not been one of us. To all ebs, oppressed, distressed and depressed xebs realize that - God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses and sins, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus, in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Eph. 2:4-7. 1Thes. 4:15-18.

Guest: Liz Goldswain
City, Country: Durban, South Africa
Date & Comments: February 8, 2002
Mugabe is an excellent candidate for the next leader. He has destroyed Zimbabwe and now he can play in a larger global arena.

Guest: James (Jim) Kennard
Guest E-mail: oysters_kennard@yahoo.com.au
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: February 8, 2002
Hello everyone,

This is my first entry so excuse the spelling mistakes & grammatical errors. Having lived in Sydney up until 12 months ago I have now moved to Scotts Head (Coffs Harbour area). Would love to hear from anyone who knows anything in relation to my family etc...

BDH for leader!!!!!! You're got to be joking. I was engaged to his daughter and then prommptly left. Strong leader- do what he wants, his way and when he wants it and you will get on like a house on fire. I'll stop now or one will get worked up.

Look forward to hearing from everyone.

ml
jim

Guest: Murray Hewines
Guest E-mail: mhewines @711online.net
City, Country: Detroit, USA
Date & Comments: February 9, 2002
Left February 2001 with wife and 2 children at home. Son, married, left at same time with wife and one child. Reunited with daughter who is now married. We have found a good bible-believing church and are very happy. We pray constantly for the release of those still trapped - 2 sets of parent, 5 siblings.

Guest: Esther McLean
Guest E-mail: esther0800@icqmail.com
City, Country: Napier
Date & Comments: February 9, 2002
Hi to all

Just to let everyone i have a new email address and that the old one is now invalid - thanks to the ex....he kindly checks my mail now and again...lol Well hope everyone is having a great time and keeping well. Hugs, Esther

Guest: HEAL, JENNIFER (JENNY)
Guest E-mail: jenh@myaccess.com.au
City, Country: WARRAGUL, AUSTRALIA
Date & Comments: February 9, 2002
I was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about my sister Helen who married Alan Stewart from Wellsford New Zealand, as I haven't heard anything since I left 9 years ago.

Also if anyone knows anything about my Mother Norma Heal (Stuart's wife)it would be appreciated as I believe she has cancer.

Guest: Not so lost
Date & Comments: February 10, 2002
This site is amazing, it has opened the door to a whole new world for me. Im a relatively new "leaver", still finding my feet & wish to remain totally anonymous, but I would like to say to all of you, thank you for sharing your truths so that others might see. For laying the foundations so that I & others don't feel so alone out here treading the path to freedom, & for exposing the EB's & sharing with the world your knowledge. Your world, this world, is frightening to me. I have yet to know it, but after spending the last 4 hrs in this web site I somehow feel stronger & a little lighter for having been here. "DW" Thank you for creating this place. Thank you & may God bless you all.

Not so lost

Guest: Peter French
Guest E-mail: PJFrench@CarlyleEducation.com.au
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: February 10, 2002
Interesting Thoughts ...

In the Roman Catholic Church on occasions we receive a 'PAPAL BULL'.I wonder what the comparison will be in future with the 'PEEB BILL'? At least the Papal Bull is arrived at through consensus even though some members may be of variable moral persuasions ...

In the Roman Catholic Church you believe and practice the bits you want to - will the Peebs ever advance that far?

The Roman Catholics exhibit a remarkable tolerance for moral deficiencies in their 'front men' - priests, and others ... serious moral breakdown qualified John Hales for the top spot [remember The System?] - I wonder what secrets exist about Mr Bill and how he fell far enough to qualify? John Hales' sons didn't make the grade, as they passed ther pale of acceptable misdemeanours - well for one, smoking at the front door of church isn't real smart, nor is sleeping off a hangover in a public park ... maybe dear John excelled also at fatherhood?

But then there have always been practice rules for the plebs, and another set for the leaders. Didn't one peeb leader in the past commit adultery with a member's wife, then when she became pregnant have him [the member] murdered?

Sorry, that was King David - maybe he set the pattern that others have followed ... I am always getting religion mixed up with belief and faith.

But it does make you wonder, and not being a peeb any more it is OK to wonder about such things ... and I dare say many readers here are putting me on their 'list', but if ONE thinks about this, it is worth it.

Someone last week told me to use a quote from Marx rather than say '...and may God Bless HIS Word...', but I couldn't find anything fitting, so have a good day, enjoy the freedom that release from one of the wort cult brings, and don't lose it '...don't be again held in bondage...'

Peter French

Guest: Esther McLean
Guest E-mail: estim8or4u2@icqmail.com
Date & Comments: February 10, 2002
Hi everyone

Sorry to bother you all again but the email i put up here the other day does not seem to be working and i am having trouble accessing it. So if you want to contact me please do so from the new one above...thanks Esther

Guest: Geoffrey Gardiner
Guest E-mail: geoff@intercity-epp.com
City, Country: Birmingham, England
Date & Comments: February 10, 2002
Just to say Hi and welcome to 'Not so lost'. 10/02/02.

Guest: Joy Spreadborough
Guest E-mail: rosyjoy@talk21.com
City, Country: Grimsby U.K.
Date & Comments: February 11, 2002
To: Not so lost (100202).

However unsure you are of the big wide world; know this - you are safe in the arms of Jesus. God bless Joy

Guest: Stephen Muir
Guest E-mail: stephen@emthealthcare.com
Date & Comments: February 11, 2002

Guest: Peter French
Guest E-mail: PJFrench@CarlyleEducation.com.au
City, Country: Melbourne, Australia
Date & Comments: February 12, 2002

For those who have left and have doubts, fears, a certainty of eternal damnation, and that God will never hear your prayers again, consider the following:

A lot of us have experienced a terrible wrenching and tearing of the very basic fabric of human existence and relations as we sepearated or were separated from what was our social cell. This has caused many of us to wonder if there really is a God ... if we can ever pray again ... if we will in fact be delivered unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh?

A life had been built up within an exclusive environment where everthing that is normal to other people has no place. This environment had provided the air that is breathed, the food that is eaten, the clothes that are worn, and the jobs that are performed. This environment was a total control environment. People thought what they were entitled to think, did what they were entitled to do, and in the end knew nothing else and were able to do nothing else.

This is total control. This is insidious control. This is a cult, and the evil leaders of today, whatever they may have been in the past, depict a further regression towards the darkness than the previous leaders did.

The longer we stayed the more brainwashed we became. How many of us were almost at the point of no return before we left? How many of us would never have had the power to leave of our own accord unless we were thrown out by them?

I know the trauma that my family and I went through. One day everthing was OK - the next day we were shut up, shut out, cut off from everything that we had depended on for our spiritual, social and psychological survival. I remember believing that I was lost for all eternity, that my family would also be lost, that I could never pray again. I remember that I used to try to pray, and that terribly helpless feeling that God was not hearing me, and never would again.

The power of the cult - it is NO religion and never was - seemed stronger out than when we were in. How many of us have memories of this that we will never forget?

But there is another world, and there is a new beginning, no matter how far we fall as we attempt to find our feet again. It is not how we fall, but how we pick ourselves up that counts. The moment that we face the reality of where we have been and of what we had become - as we were truly Exclusive Brethren - and get back to the simplest tenets of Christianity in whatever form that may be to us, things change for the better. God is real, He does exist, He does care about us, He provides in the simplest ways to prove His greatness, and we emerge from the terrible power of darkness into a wonderful world of light.

To those who have just left - there is light at the other end of the tunnel, and it is not the next freight train coming either. To those who are trying to pluck up the courage to do it - there is no gain without pain, but it is surmountable, and recovery is real. There is grass the other side of the fence, and it is greener but maybe in other ways to what we expected. The flowers in the field have a colour they never had before and their perfume will replace the stench of a corrupt and systematised pretence of religion.

We live again - or maybe we should say that we now live.

Guest: Oliver Bedford
Guest E-mail: oliverwbedford@bigpond.com
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: February 12, 2002
Yes, welcome to "not so lost". For those who come out now, it must be so much harder than for those of us who came out in the 1960's or earlier and who had experienced belonging to school teams, reading good books, eating with other people, and sneaking into school lovies (sorry, movies, was that typo a Freudian slip ?)

As for the question of who is the new leader, I don't think it really matters. We are talking about people who NEED to obey someone, whomever it may be. It reminds me of the English aristo (the Duke of Norfolk), taken prisoner by the new King Henry VII after the last battle in the Wars of the Roses, who, when asked by Henry "How could you possibly fight for a so-and-so like Richard III ?", answered "Sire, if that gatepost over there had a crown on it, I would fight for it". With that sort of mentality in the followers, it doesn't matter who the leader is, he has an open invitation to take advantage of them.

Cheers

Oliver

Guest: Petrina Cartwright
Guest E-mail: p.l.cartwright@ncl.ac.uk
City, Country: Newcastle
Date & Comments: February 12, 2002
Hi I am a Religious Studies student currently writing an essay titled:'Discuss the similarities and differences between the fundamentalism of the Exclusive Brethren and that of the Evangelical Church'I would love to hear from people out there that have anything to share on their personal experience of the PB and what made them make the decision to leave. I am a Christian in a very anti Christian enviroment and seek through my essays to share the truth of the gospel to my lecturers and fellow students s any help would be apprieciated Thanks Petrina

Guest: Hazel Silcock nee Shimwell
Guest E-mail: via dwyman@cloudnet.com
City, Country: Plymouth England
Date & Comments: February 12, 2002

Guest: anonymous at this stageor else " 2 kiwis nearly free"
City, Country: Up North, New Zealand.
Date & Comments: February 13, 2002
Hi everybody. I have to remain anonymous at this stage as we are still in the EB sect and in case they look thru this file. I was really interested to read thru your choice guestbook and to see so many names that i knew from ages back. 2 of us are currently trying to get out of the sect. It has really waned from the old teaching of the bible and now with BDH as leader who knows what is ahead for us. As so many would know, we are taught that if you leave the EB sect that you will go to hell, and if any mishap befalls you when you have left then this is said to be the government of god, dealing with you for leaving what the EB say is the only true position today. I take courage in the fact that the lord knows those that are his. There is also so much pref and prejudice today and if you have wealth, name or position you can do and say whatever and get away with it. I believe christianity is an individual thing between me and god and i know he died on the cross to save me and i know my sins forgiven. No 1 is righteous and all have sinned and come short of the glory of god. Its all in the scriptures. The EB these days read the bible and instruct on their interpretation of what it means which is foreign as the scriptures are the inspired word of god. It is true what i have noted in comments in the guestbook, that so many EB have long sad faces. We were young in the 1980's and had lots of music and singing at home when we had vissies for meals but it's not done so much now. It's all a soleum time now. The only happy EB now are the few of us who still live life as we feel itis spose to be lived. We have no immediate family to leave behind and my biggest test will be my employment as i work for a EB and i know i will be hassled and they will try to make me turn from the world.??? So keep up the good work all you fellow christians and pray for us that we may soon be free from the EB sect. Please Mr Wyman don't print my Email address yet but you may corrosponde to me if you wish. With love in him.

Guest: Rachel Moxham
Guest E-mail: mmoxham@xtra.co.nz
City, Country: Auckland, NZ
Date & Comments: February 13, 2002

Guest: anonymous
City, Country: Melbourne
Date & Comments: February 13, 2002
After leaving the Exclusive Brethren I had the awful idea that I was worthless and that the Lord Jesus had washed His hands of me - I was lost for ever and that nothing could 'save me', that when I left the E'B's, I had also left the Lord. That for years I had listened to this and believed it. However, some years after, I came to know the real truth, in that none are worthy, and that the Lord Jesus went to the Cross, to take all that unworthiness away enabling me to enter into His presence by simply believing that. JUST A SIMPLE BELIEF..and a trust, like that of a child. Praise HIM..Now I have a love and a trust in ONLY Him, and He has become very near and dear to me, giving me a fulfilling life here and one Eternally where I shall praise HIM FOREVER...

Guest: John Spinks
Guest E-mail: jhspnks@aol.com
City, Country: Wirral, England
Date & Comments: February 13, 2002
Dear brothers and sisters

I left the Exclusive Brethren in 1988, to enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin. However, In 1990, the Father, my Father, graciously revealed to me that following Jesus and following the EB were not compatible. Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, whilst the EB is a man-made cult. I had been following a so-called 'man of god' and his system, instead of following the Son of God, Jesus Christ.

Upon this realisation, I called to my Lord and Saviour in great earnest, because I had been on sinking sand and knew no other to turn to who I could trust except the Rock of my Salvation.

I could have turned to the countless 'churches' of christendom, the 'wise' opinions of men, books, or even my interpretation of the bible. I turned to none of those sources. That afternoon at about 4pm on the 23rd December 1990, I turned to the Lamb of God who has taken away all my sins and who has washed me clean by his own blood.

As I earnestly sought the Lord Jesus with all my heart on my knees, in praise and worship, I suddenly found something was overflowing from the depths of my being. As I looked only to Jesus, I found myself continuing to praise Him but in a language I hadn't learnt before. It flowed out of me like rivers of living water and simultaneously, a massive weight was lifted out of me and I was filled with unspeakable joy and a peace that I can't describe in words.

As I continued to speak in this new language, it was like I had been incredibly thirsty but was now drinking pure, fresh living water that was unbelievably satisfying. I could feel myself being strengthened, edified, and built up in the love of God. A strong and urgent desire and conviction to obey Jesus and get baptized in water came on me and I willfully chose to obey that very evening. My parents had me immersed in the EB, but that wasn't out of my obedience or faith in Jesus Christ. I was only a baby.

As the days went by I found that my love for people had grown tremendously and I saw every saint as part of my family. I found that as I prayed each day in this language that Jesus had given me, my perspective of life was renewed. I could easily discern between good and evil, and the evil thoughts that had been with me continually were now abominable to me. The following scriptures took on a new meaning to me: (preferably read the whole chapters)

John 7 v 37-39: In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) Luke 3 v 16: John answered, saying unto [them] all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Mark 16 v 17. Jesus said: And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; Acts 2 v 4: And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2 v 39: For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call. Acts 8 v 14-17: Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they [their] hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. Acts 10 v 44-46: While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Acts 11 v 15-16: And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Acts 19 v 2-6: He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard [this], they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid [his] hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. Romans 8 v 26-27: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 1 Corinthians 14 v 2: For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 1 Corinthians 14 v 18: I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: Jude v 20-21: But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Luke 11 v 13: If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall [your] heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? Acts 2 v 37-38: Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. John 2 v 5: His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

My beloved brothers and sisters who have experienced the pain of the pharisaical spirit that has held us and those precious saints in bondage all those years. I'm not trying to indoctrinate you. This is not about me, church, doctrine, or opinion. This is about you and Jesus. I not even asking you to believe my testimony if you don't want to. I have encountered hundreds of excuses why people reject what Jesus has for them. Don't talk and reason yourselves out of God's will for you. I am only imploring you to do one thing. Call on the Lord Jesus Christ now. Ask Him to baptize you with His Holy Spirit like He said He would. Let Him fill you right now. You are totally safe talking to Jesus. Jesus won't give you anything that can harm you. Every good and perfect gift comes from above. Follow Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, [be] with you all. Amen.

Guest: pmclarke
City, Country: Victoria, BC, Canada
Date & Comments: February 13, 2002
I have some very simple advice for anyone leaving, or contemplating leaving. Just read your Bible, specifically the gospels, and ask the Lord to show you the the way. Leave the ministry books on the shelves, at least for the time being. They are not indited by the Spirit of God, no matter who says what. Indeed, all cults, and all erronous doctrine originates in man made theories and "teachings" holding itself out to be the "current voice of the Spirit". You will note that all cults and sects strenuosly insist on their own particular brand of "ministry" and all "rules", "directives", whatever, that are so rigidly enforced find their authority in ministry, not scripture. Indeed, asking the question "show me where it says that in the Word of God?" silences most staunch upholders of whatever brand of "teaching" is being held forth.[ This is not to disparage any and all ministry- but the fact remains, it is not scripture, and does not have scriptural authority- period]

So, take some time, and read through the gospels, and ask yourself, how does what I am reading, fit in with what I have experianced?Did the Lord do that? Did the Lord say that? How did He interact with people-specifically those "outside"? Ask yourself, how does the "closed" system of PB's compare with the "open" appeal of the Lord" Come unto me" Guess what?- the people were drawn to Him! Did you ever see that attitude portayed by the PB leaders?

It is entirely natural and normal to feel angry, abandoned, and even question your faith- you're not the first one to do this- the apostle John did-, and the Lord did not condemn him for it-nor did He condemn Thomas for doubting, instead offered evidence of who He was, and what He did.In time,the doubts and fears are replaced with faith,and a deep confidence the Lord is in controll afterall, not the PB leadership.

"In all your ways, acknowlege Him, and He will make plain your paths"

Guest: Eric and Kathleen White
Guest E-mail: john.j.cairns@talk21.com
City, Country: Swindon
Date & Comments: February 13, 2002
We came out of the Plymouth Brethren about 40 years ago and therfore, we are not aloud to be in contact with HELEN BROWN, if ANYONE knows any information PLEASE email it to us, we would be delighted thank you,

Eric and Kathleen White

Guest: Cecilie Palmer
Guest E-mail: wncs@watchdog.net.nz
City, Country: Northland, New Zealand
Date & Comments: February 14, 2002
Greetings to "2 kiwis nearly free"

Life outside is not that bad, in fact it runs rings around life in there. I wish I had a job to offer to you - with unemployment like it is it may not be easy for you to get other work, but I can't see how you can continue working for them if you leave. Anything I can do to help, just let me know. If you want to talk to me, email me at my email directly, not through this site, and I will give you some phone numbers you can contact me on or give me a number I can get to you on. I could be a shoulder to cry on, lean on, or help where I could.

Be strong, you are so right in so much that you have said.

Luv and hugs,

Cecilie Palmer (nee Boon ex Wellington) now living in Northland

Guest: Graham Smith
Guest E-mail: graham@derna.freeserve.co.uk
City, Country: Plymouth, Devon, Uk
Date & Comments: February 14, 2002
Hi everyone,

Just browsing

By Grace

Graham

Guest: Roach, Tom & Barbara
Guest E-mail: roachb@ozemail.com.au
City, Country: Sydney, Australia
Date & Comments: February 14, 2002
Tomas Arthur (sometimes called Arthur, Tommy Arthur or Tom Jr.) - born Sydney 1934, originally married to Margaret Mansley. Have 9 children - 6 boys & 3 girls. 4 in ebs 5 out. Left ebs April 1986, Margaret went back to ebs in Aug 1990 and divorced Tom one year later.

Met Barbara Little (nee Joyce - Harold & Joy Joyce's daughter) in early 1993, began a relationship in August 1993 and married Feb 1994. We have 31 grandchildren between us, though some are in ebs. Barb has 2 children in and 2 out. Daniel Little lives in Canada and is registered on this web site. Peter Little also out and lives in Glenwood Park, Sydney.

Tom was diagnosed with Prostate cancer early 1993 and has been really well until end of 2000 when the PSA (prostate specific antigen) readings (the way of showing that there is prostate cancer) began to rise. By April 2001 the readings had dramatically risen. In July 2001 a bone scan was done, showing that the cancer had gone into his bones extensively and pain had begun to be a problem. By September Tom was getting very sick and was hospitalized in Bowral (where we own a property) for over two weeks. Bowral is a beautiful country town on the Southern Highlands of NSW but, whilst the hospital is a beautiful modern complex, there is a lack of knowledge of how to care for people with problems such as Tom had, so he was taken by ambulance to St. Vincents hospital in Sydney. He was given a nuclear injection called Strontium which is a "heavy metal" and coats the bones - it has stopped the pain and hopefully, slowed down the cancer. He is now on chemotherapy but doing well and has not been sick, due to new drugs which stopped the sickness.

We are both glad to have been brought up in the brethren, and equally glad to be free from the controlling pressure that is now experienced there. We both attend a church at Westmead called Essington Christian Centre (a Church of the Foursquare Gospel) and have found great love and fellowship amongst these Christians. The truth is upheld in a very strong way - eg sex before marriage in unacceptable, compromise is unacceptable, etc. Barbara has been studying at their L.I.F.E.Bible college, but has had to defer for the present to care for Tom.

We would greatly appreciate prayers for Tom and Barb so that we are able to cope with his illness.

We have made many lovely Christian friends, and some ex brethren who have been very kind and helpful to us as Tom has been getting sicker.

It is a joy to see some of the children coming back to knowing the Lord as their Saviour and we pray for those who have not. Many children have been hurt by what happened when they were kicked out (most unfairly)

Guest: Steve DuPlessie
Guest E-mail: sduplessie@stebbings.com
City, Country: Attleboro, Massachusetts
Date & Comments: February 14, 2002
This is the saddest web site I have seen in a long, long time. How could those so concerned about truth be so wrong? What ever happened to I Corinthians 3 ("I follow Paul, I follow Apollos...")?

I did not grow up in the Exclusives. Thanks be to God. Sounds like bondage to me. Gracless bondage to man-made laws and arrogant, self-important men. May God have mercy on them (Though I doubt it. Jesus reserved His most severe criticism for proud religious leaders who kept people in bondage.)

In fact, if I understand what I read on this site, many of these leaders have taken titles and OT prophecies from our Precious Lord and assigned them to themselves! I fear there is no mercy for such Lucifer-like defiance.

To those struggling with their former EB life; turn to Jesus and find in Him grace (Lk. 15), abundant life (Jn. 10:10), and liberty - "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36

Guest: Gerard Rayment
Guest E-mail: gerardandmonica@blueyonder.co.uk
City, Country: Southend England
Date & Comments: February 14, 2002
I agree fully with what pmclarke says about reading the gospels. King David has something of the character of the Lord Jesus Christ as well, and the books about him are fascinating too. You will find something similar in stories about Robin Hood, but the peeb leadership just doesn't fit in here. You will find them refered to in scripture: they're called "the Pharisees".

Guest: Laurie Twinam
Guest E-mail: Laurie@twinam.fsnet.co.uk
City, Country: Sevenoaks, UK
Date & Comments: February 15, 2002
It has been a delight to read some clear and fearless witnesses to our Lord Jesus on this site recently. He only is the Saviour of sinners, the secret of all true and lasting happiness, and the cure of all human woe.

Just a word to those who are hoping to escape from the ‘system’. A lot depends on your motives. If you just want to cast off all restraint and pursue all that this world has to offer, you will not find true happiness. If you are simply fed up, and escape for no other reason, you will be highly vulnerable in a very confusing and deceptive world. If however you are planning to leave because you have decided to follow Jesus rather than mere human leaders – take courage. The system in which you have lived is a dishonour to the name of Jesus Christ, and if you commit your future into His hands and make a move for that reason, He will lead and guide and support you. But beware of the subtle snares, keep near the Good Shepherd, and seek out some sound Christian friends.

Finally, a word to those who regularly monitor this site, taking note and maybe making trouble for those who are unhappy in the Jims. Perhaps it grieves and puzzles you that in spite of pressure, persuasion and threats there is still a steady stream of people leaving the system. Forty years ago, in June 1962, there were big meetings in the Great Hall of London’s Crystal Palace with Bruce Hales (WBH). There were many thousands present, and I remember the enthusiasm with which we sang ‘Hail to the Lord’s Anointed, Great David’s Greater Son’. When a large piece of the high ceiling fell, there was consternation. In God’s great mercy no-one was hurt, but His warning was sensed by many.

Now, forty ‘rolling years’ have run, and my daughter who was then present as a babe-in-arms will be celebrating her 40th birthday next week. In 2002, amazingly, we have another Bruce Hales (BDH). I have not met this popular young man – but what have we all learned in those forty terrible years ? Do we know yet who the true ‘Great David’s Greater Son’ is? There came a time in Israel’s history when, after 40 years of suffering under Saul’s reign, they turned to David with ‘one heart’, to make him King. Who is there today who will make a stand for JESUS ONLY, and repent in dust and ashes for the monstrous folly and wickedness, and public disgrace which has been perpetrated in His name for about two generations ?

Guest: James Garvie
Guest E-mail: jimgarvie66@hotmail.com
City, Country: Farnham,Surrey England
Date & Comments: February 15, 2002
I left the Bretheren in 1989 I would like to hear from anyone, but especially any from the Garvie, Holder, or anyone with connections to South America. All of my family are still in and doing OK

Guest: Vanessa Cummings (Janson)
City, Country: Ogin of Hastings NZ
Date & Comments: February 15, 2002
To Anon,
To people who want to leave. Just think of freedom. Freedom to believe in what you want to believe in. Once you make that choice you will realise that it almost becomes unbearable to stay. There is nothing wrong with going to the movies, eating out, helping other folk. Nothing more gives me pleasure to see an ol' folks face light up when you take an interest in them . You don't have to go to church to be a good person. And please just except people for who they are. But one good advise I do give you. Leave town and start a new life. I did and it was the best thing I did. It ables you to be free with your thoughts. It is a shame you are working for an EB . Why I say that is that getting a reference is important if you can.. You will be amazed at how many people will help you In the end the angles will guide you.

Somewhere, there is someone who dreams of your smile
And finds that in your presence
Life is worthwhile
So when you are feeling
Sad and lonely
Remember that it's true
Someone, somewhere is thinking of you.

So who ever you are up North or anywhere, think positive and think others have done it. I lost my family but I gained a whole new family. My husbands family and my mothers family and my dad's family.

bye for now and will be thinking of you. Vanessa

Guest: Lois John (Duncan)
Guest E-mail: loisjohn@rogers.com
City, Country: Brantford, Canada
Date & Comments: February 15, 2002
Just a note regarding a change of e-mail address

Guest: Graham Smith
Guest E-mail: graham@derna.freeserve.co.uk
City, Country: Pymouth UK
Date & Comments: February 16, 2002
Hi Hazel

Greetings, I am wondering whether your husband's family come from the Kingston area of London UK.

I used to work for P. H. Tennent of Acton, another of his employees was a Mr Silcock, unfortunately I just cannot recall his christian name. I also remember the Shimwells, they were quite friendly with the Rawlinsons of Harlesden/Wembly assemblies.

It would be nice to hear from you,

sincerely

Graham

Guest: Phyllis Juul
Guest E-mail: pjuul@westpa.net
City, Country: Pennsylvania
Date & Comments: February 16, 2002
New e-mail address

Hi Everyone,

My new e-mail address is: pjuul@westpa.net
Please note, it's .net

Hope to hear from you.

Phyl

Guest: Elaine Hanley
Guest E-mail: a879nap@dfnow.com
City, Country: USA
Date & Comments: February 16, 2002
To Alistair Deayton: I hope that the "open" don't allow anyone break bread, but make sure that an individual is born again and that is more than the Taylor group has done. To answer Petrina Cartwright, there are many diff. between the Exclusive groups and other evangelicals. Contributions on this site will explain about the Raven/Taylor sect and also A Historical Sketch of the Brethren Movement by H.A.Ironside. Major diff. between "closed" or excl. is the Raven/Taylor have a leader being their head while other closed groups the LORD is still their Head.

Among the Taylor group, the fruit of the Spirit is missing and evangelism because the Lord is not Head. Among all closed, only members can break bread. I was told, we could break bread, just bring a letter. I asked, bring a letter from the fellowship where we go? NO, only a letter from another of their closed group will do. Orig. they told us they would have to examine us. Then we would be permitted to partake. That was 20 years ago. Examination must take a very long time.

Guest: David Layton
Guest E-mail: dandjrainbow@hotmail.com
City, Country: Brisbane Aust
Date & Comments: February 17, 2002
SO life goes ON. I was out at 14. Just a yong one BUT it take years to heal. I got to know JESUS AT 27. just see you you David

Guest: 2 kiwis nearly free
City, Country: up north New Zealand
Date & Comments: February 17, 2002
Hi Everyone. Well it was a comfort to read thru replies to my previous guestbook entry. Thank you. We have got to a point that we really want to be quit of the EB sect as life is not being lived as God would have it. It's a case of giving all and getting nothing in return. We have our bible for teaching and instruction in righteousness so we don't need a sect to order our lives. It is a big hurdle ahead but we feel that what we are doing is right and that the Lord won't see the righteous forsaken or the needy seeking bread. Thank you Vanessa. I remember you from years ago and thank you Cecille. Will contact you soon. Were you from Wellington originally? Who were your parents? Thanks again Mr Wyman for this wonderful site that is available for the likes of us 2. Lotsa Luv.

Guest: Laurie Twinam
City, Country: Sevenoaks, Kent UK
Date & Comments: February 17, 2002
Correction! The 1962 Bruce Hales (WBH) meetings I referred to were at Alexandra Palace in North London, NOT Crystal Palace!

Guest: Hugh Mackay
Guest E-mail: B.H.Mackay@wlv.ac.uk
City, Country: Walsall, UK
Date & Comments: February 17, 2002
Your website is so helpful. My father was plagued by the Brethren all his life, and by the so-called 'worthy' Christians. The awful thing was that when his father died, the only one who came to offer support and love was a member of the Glanton meeting.

I was raised Calvinistic Baptist, but found it was Exclusive Brethren by any other name, so I became an Anglo-Catholic.

The Exclusive Brethren are the anti-Christs of this world. My father summed them up like this

'...their leader was big Jim Taylor, whose teaching broke up homes, caused wife-beating and child abuse as well as suicides, a travesty of Christianity'

Guest: Joan Morris
Guest E-mail: d.joanm@sympatico.ca
City, Country: Canada
Date & Comments: February 16, 2002
Dear Dick Wyman, Please add my name to the guest book, It was in before under my daughters computer but as she has had trouble with her server etc. I now have my own toy? and email. My husband Howard left in l968 and have never looked back. I'm sure we would have turned into pillars of salt by now.!!! My single name was Penlington and I was born in Toronto, moving to Hamilton, in l95l. Thank you.

Guest: Francis Mortyn
Guest E-mail: frank59e@yahoo.com
City, Country: San Diego
Date & Comments: February 16, 2002
At Mattins, the morning prayer service in the Chapel of the Holy Family of Our Cathedral, we remembered George, Archbishop of Canterbury, and Elizabeth 2, Governor of the Church. Then I added the Bishop of Rome and the Metropolitan of Moscow, because the Holy Church is One, Catholic and Apostolic. There is only one. We cannot properly exclude the EBs from that One Holy Church, the espoused Bride of the Ascended Christ, and I propose that the EBs and their leaders be especially remembered in our prayers.

Guest: Geoffrey Gardiner
Guest E-mail: geoff@intercity-epp.com
City, Country: United Kingdom
Date & Comments: February 16, 2002
Once again, I have been reduced to tears. John 11:35 never seemed so real.

Thank you, Vanessa

Guest: Susan Ewing Diener
Guest E-mail: susanjohn59@mindspring.com
City, Country: Oak Park, IL., USA
Date & Comments: February 17, 2002
Just to let you know, my sister Joyce Ewing Steen has cancer. Two weeks ago tomarrow she had surgery to remove a tumor that had origenated from her ovary. The got 99% of the tumor out. Plus she had a blockage in her intestines, that was corrected. She faces Chemo. So please pray for her. She can't help but remember, just 4 years ago this month her husband, Eric Steen died soon after his first Chemo treatment. And also my mother Eunice Ewing and my sister Eunice Ewing Holt had the same thing as Joyce. As most of you know both of them are at home with the Lord now. If anyone wants to ge in contact with Joyce, she is living with her dauther Bonnie. Bonnie's e-mail is; angelwings149@hotmail.com

Thanks for your prayers.

Susan

Guest: Pauline Ward (nee woodfield)
Guest E-mail: nanna.pookie@virgin.net
City, Country: Andover, Hampshire
Date & Comments: February 17, 2002
If any of you remember the Wardies from Andover I am the mum. Please contact me, my maiden name was Woodfield and then local at Bournemouth. Having had many penfriends hopefully we can catch up.

ANYBODY OUT THERE

CHEERSXX

Guest: Matthew Ward
Guest E-mail: wardiematt@aol.com
City, Country: London UK
Date & Comments: February 18, 2002
Top of life to you all. First time on! If anyone remembers me give me a shout as I am living my life to the full. Used to be based in Andover until the pleb SS relieved us from duties!!!

Guest: Fran Gallotti
Guest E-mail: fgallotti@compusmart.ab.ca
City, Country: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Date & Comments: February 19, 2002
An exeb get together is being planned to be held in Edmonton on June 28th and 29th. The main even will be on Saturday, the 29th, but anyone who is in the city on the Friday night is welcome to join us for a pasta buffet. Please email me for more details. Hope many of you can attend. Telephone number is 780-450-3829, e mail address above.

Guest: Sharon Waterhouse (nee Currie, ex Hastings, NZ)
Guest E-mail: waterhouse@xtra.co.nz
City, Country: Whangarei, New Zealand
Date & Comments: February 20, 2002
To '2 Kiwis nearly free'

I agree with what you wrote. I didn't have a real relationship with the Lord until I left.

Really all I wanted to say though is you are more than welcome to email or ring me at any time if you need help or support or someone to talk to. Be strong and stick to your convictions.

All the Best,

Sharon

Guest: Cecilie Palmer
Guest E-mail: wncs@watchdog.net.nz
City, Country: Waimate North, New Zealand
Date & Comments: February 20, 2002
To 2 Kiwis Nearly Free

My parents are Eric and Nancy Boon of Wellington (still in), and my brothers are Michael, the late Stephen, and Philip - in Wellington. My uncle was Doug Boon, late of Whangarei, and his son, Ross, is therefore my first cousin. You are very welcome to contact me at any time - I run a small non-denominational Christian School at Waimate North - Waimate North Christian School - it has a mission basis and we do it for love not money, so we are not often away from the property. It is listed in the phone book, so call if you want, or come by if you are up this way.

Take care, be strong, and look forward to hearing from you.

Luv and hugs,

Cecilie

Guest: Cecilie Palmer
Guest E-mail: wncs@watchdog.net.nz
City, Country: Northland, New Zealand
Date & Comments: March 2, 2002
To 2 kiwis nearly free,
If the employment situation is all that is stopping you making the break, please get in touch with me. I have had an offer of work for you, but for the present the person making the offer would prefer not to be publicly named. Look forward to hearing from you.

Be strong.
Luv and hugs,
Cecilie

Guest: Vanessa
Date & Comments: March 2, 2002
To Two kiwis nearly free
All the best and get in contact with Celicie. A good start. Go now while you can and watch the oportunities unfold for you. Wish my family had the guts to stand up. Love Vanessa

Guest: Alyson Gilliland
Guest E-mail: alyson@skybluerecordings.com
City, Country: London, UK
Date & Comments: March 3, 2002
Whilst watching a channel 4 documentary the other night, I was fascinated to discover that "the most evil man in the world" - no other than Mr Alastair Crowley - born in Leamington Spa at the begining of the 20th century - was born into the Plymouth Brethren!!! - they kept that one quiet!!!!

Guest: Tam
Guest E-mail: tambiles@supanet.com
City, Country: Buckinghamshire
Date & Comments: March 3, 2002
My late Grandmother was in what my Mother calls 'County Plymoth Brethern'. Can anyone tell me whether this is the 'open' or 'closed' Brethern? My Grandmother's involvement affected my Mother's upbringing and I would like to know to what extent the County Plymouth Brethern may have influenced my Grandmother's life. Please, someone tell me.

Guest: Geoffrey Gardiner
Guest E-mail: geoff@intercity-epp.com
City, Country: Bimingham, England
Date & Comments: March 3, 2002
Just wish to wish the All Blacks well. Go for it, Kiwis!

Guest: Mathison, John (father) and Gordon Mathison
Guest E-mail: gmathison4954@shaw.ca
Date & Comments: March 3, 2002
Hi Dick,
Just an update of my email address. Anyone wanting to contact my father (now 86) can write c/o myself. Thanks,
Gordon (I was trying to find a better place to update but I guess this is it.)

Guest: Mary MacNeill
City, Country: Marysville, Wa., USA
Date & Comments: March 3, 2002
no message

Guest: Alan Carvell
Guest E-mail: alancarvell1@aol.com
City, Country: Dudley England
Date & Comments: March 4, 2002
Please note my new e-mail address

Guest: Jim
Guest E-mail: lumemiji@aol.com
City, Count