Hi Flipper,
In the late 1970’s there was an elder in our hall that was
removed for having sex with a minor within our congregation. He was
disfellowshipped and the girl disappeared. (Moved to a different area) Through the
years, the brother became reinstated and worked hard to regain his reputation.
He was told that he would never serve in the capacity of an elder again.
I saw the brother a few months ago and he said that he had
good news to tell me. He said that they were considering him for a position within
the congregation. I asked him how that could be the case. He said that the new
CO said that since the incident happened years ago and he evidently has displayed
Jehovah’s spirit, that it was possible within the next few months he can be
appointed a MS and shortly afterwards an elder. He was so excited at the prospect. I care for
the person, however I was devastated at the news.
My ex was also an elder and was removed and publically reproved
for domestic battery. He has been working towards reappointment himself.
Although he has not been reappointed, he works behind the literature counter
and has various responsibilities within the congregation. He is hoping to gain
a helping hand to into a position of authority again.
I shudder at the thought of any of this happening, but it is
understandable from the viewpoint that there are very few men reaching out for
oversight. THE WT is in a bind and need qualified men. HOWEVER, although it is
understandable, it is unacceptable that these people could regain positions of
oversight. Can you imagine if either of these men was reappointed and were
assigned to a committee dealing with abuse? The victim would not stand a chance
given their background and attitudes. God, I'm so glad I'm out!