Christian Congregation
of Jehovah's Witnesses
2528 Route 22 Phone (845) 306 1100
October 15, 2002
Re: Child Molestation.
Elders Supplementary Course
Dear brothers,
We are reminded of the scriptural view of Child Molestation and the explanation in 1/1/97w in the article "Abhor What is Wicked." On pages 26-29 it was clearly emphasized our serious view of child molestation. The admonition at Rom 12:9 reminds us we must abhor wickedness. Therefore let this serve as a reminder that child molestation is a sin, something viewed as abhorrent. It is a heinous crime according to Caesars law.
We recognize that it is primarily the parents responsibility to protect their own children. The congregation too, must protect children. Children are much easier to deceive, confuse, or terrorize. The Bible speaks of a childs lack of wisdom. The apostle Paul spoke of when he was a babe he used to think as a babe. Jesus used children as an example of humble innocence at Matt 18:4 he urged his listeners to humble themselves like little children. The 1/1/97w states: "The innocence of a child includes a complete lack of experience. Most children are open, eager to please, and thus vulnerable to abuse by a scheming adult whom they know and trust.. Hence , a child molester is subject to severe congregational discipline and restrictions."
Every accusation is investigated. It is not taken lightly even if there is only one accuser. If there is only one accuser and the accused denies the charge, no further congregational action can be taken , we can't go beyond the scriptures. (1 Tim 5:19) It is different if there are two accusers to separate incidents, their testimony may be taken into consideration for establishing a judicial hearing.
How should we view the victim? Often they are damaged for years. They may feel worthless, unlovable. We need to reassure them of Jehovahs love and of ours. (Ezek 34:15,16; Ps 34:18) Jehovah really cares and we should strive to imitate him. When we meet and speak with victims we need to clothe ourselves with love. ( Col 3:12) Let them feel our genuine love. (1 Th 5:14) As elders we should always be alert to show loving concern for children.
Certain restrictions are applicable to former known molesters. They are not to be alone in the company of minor children. They may continue under certain restrictions and do not qualify for privileges which may be many years if ever. When they work in the Field Service they are not to work alone. They should always be accompanied by an adult. These factors are in the best interests of children and the former abuser.
Regarding News Reports:
Over the years there have been many favorable reports of our work. Conventions, Kingdom Hall constructions etc.. that have been quite helpful to Gods organization. On the other hand at times news reports may quote apostate or unreliable sources. We encourage you to review 12/1/98w pp15-18 pars 10-19, "Defending Our Faith" for helpful information. We need to always be discerning. There is a time to keep quiet and a time to speak. We need to be cautious as serpents and innocent as doves. Jesus example at Mark 15:4,5 showed how fruitless it was to get into pointless arguments. Rom 16:17 says to avoid those who cause divisions. When Jesus was accused of false charges at Mark 3:20-30, he chose not to let them stand and offered a defense. What defense will we make? We will follow the admonition in the 11/15/76w 701-703, "To Christians such misrepresentations is one evidence that they are indeed walking in harmony with Gods truth." (Matt ,12) " Were Jehovahs Witnesses to immerse themselves in refuting all false charges made against them, they could also fall into a trap of the great accuser Satan the Devil, How so? Well, Satan would certainly be pleased to see a slowing down in the work of aiding honest-hearted persons to learn the truth. Yet that is exactly what would happen. By letting themselves become sidetracked, Jehovahs servants would lose valuable time that might otherwise have been used beneficially to help sincere persons to learn about Gods will and purposes respecting mankind."
Therefore we will ignore the lying misrepresentation by opposers as we are assured by Jehovah that we are walking well. We wait on Jehovah to provide a way out. (2 Cor. 4:6-8) As we live in this wicked system we know who it is that truly tries to live in harmony with Gods righteous standards. Those who attack us with false accusations will fail as Jehovah protects His righteous people. (Isa 54:17; Jer 1:19)
Please be assured of our continual prayers in your behalf as you carry out your weighty responsibility to shepherd the flock of God entrusted to your care.-(1 Peter 5:2, 3)
Your brothers,
Christian Congregation
of Jehovahs Witnesses
Note to the instructor: Read the following announcement;
The instructors have been directed to take no questions regarding the comments in this letter, no copy will be provided for the congregation file.
Edited by - messenger on 23 October 2002 13:13:20