Congregation member lists: do they still use them? Current Dubz only!

by MinisterAmos 21 Replies latest jw friends

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  MinisterAmos

  For some reason (read they are afraid that exiting JWs will use them to "stumble" other Bros.) my new congo will not issue the normal member list with names, addies, numbers and congo appointments; the same list that everyone uses to call their JW buddies over for a booze party.

  I was switched to this new congo two or so years ago and since have heard of two OTHER congos that have stopped distributing lists. Since I have only inquired of two congoes, I ASS-ume that the distribution of "friends" personal info is now forbidden?

  Please comment all you current members/faders
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  Tristram

  We have a list that is given to anyone in the hall who wants it. This has never been an issue as far as I can recall.
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  MinisterAmos

  Maybe the Apostate danger is greater here than in your area......
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  blondie

  While not a current dub, I do know that they are not officialy maintained and passed around the congregation. Do elders or individual JWs maintain their own, of course they do. How else do elders who to call regarding their book studies, or the school overseer schedule talks and follow up on them, or the secretary keep the publisher record cards up to date. Or individual dubs know who to invite to their parties. Elders are counseled not to keep them on their hard drives.
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  Bumble Bee

  It depends on the cong. I've been to congs where it's one of the first things they give you, others don't do it and in others you have to be "approved" (reg service, meeting attendance/answering etc) before you'll ever see one.

  BB
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  MinisterAmos

  in others you have to be "approved" (reg service, meeting attendance/answering etc) before you'll ever see one.

  That would seem to be in synch with a comment made from the audience at the study this Sunday to "not speak with weak Brothers."

  Nice
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  Doubting Bro

  As shocking as this may seem, I don't believe there is an official Bethel policy. I do know that late last year, there was a request from Bethel for congregations to compile such lists (if they don't have them already) which should include cell phones numbers if possible, for use by the elders when there is an emergency (actually good planning in my opinion). If I remember, that expanded information list (with the cell phone numbers) was to remain confidential.

  I've been in places where they've distributed them and places not. I could see if you had an unlisted number why you wouldn't want it on the list. But, if you really thought these folks were your brothers and sisters, why wouldn't you want them to have it? I never got a straight answer on that line of reasoning. Now, I understand the real reason, the members really don't consider themselves brothers/sisters.
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  daystar

  MA

  I suppose I don't have a legitimate comment on your request. However, out of curiousity, why would you specify, and adamantly, that only "current dubz" respond?
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  Outaservice

  The fear is, if you have a list and turn so-called apostate, they would not want you to be able to make a mass mailing to the whole congregation about your reasons for leaving. Some who have written letters of disassociation send them to the whole congregation, timing them to arrive at people's homes at the right time so as to have individuals time to read them before any congregation platform announcement not to read them.

  Outaservice
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  RULES & REGULATIONS

  It depends on the cong. I've been to congs where it's one of the first things they give you, others don't do it and in others you have to be "approved" (reg service, meeting attendance/answering etc) before you'll ever see one.

  At my congregation, anyone who is approved and attends the book study receives a congregation member list.If you are "weak" in any way,they will not give you one.Since I am considered "inactive",they do not invite me to any weddings or social events.I just found out that my congregation is renting out a clubhouse for a gathering and that I wasn't invited.That's all fine with me.Wait until someone asks me for a favor next time! They are the modern day PHARISEES.