eby, thanks for that link. I remember reading that. Here is the pertinent part from it...
The November 15, 2008, Watchtower, pages 14 and 15, paragraphs 12 and 13, states:
“Some individuals stop preaching and attending meetings because they have committed a serious
sin. They may feel that if they confess their wrongdoing to the elders, they will be disfellow-
shipped. But they will not be expelled from the congregation if they have discontinued the un-
scriptural practice and are genuinely repentant. (2 Cor. 7:10, 11) Instead, they will be welcomed
back, and the elders will give them the spiritual help they need. . . . The elders will know how to
assist anyone desiring to return and live in accord with God’s will. Loving discipline may be re-
quired. (Heb. 12:7-11) If the person acknowledges that he has sinned against God, has ceased to
engage in wrongdoing, and is truly repentant, the elders will help him, and he can receive Jeho-
vah’s forgiveness.—Isa. 1:18; 55:7; Jas. 5:13-16.”
As you can appreciate, good judgment is needed when handling these matters. If ques-
tions arise relative to a specific situation, please feel free to write the branch office and we will
provide assistance.
There is nothing here to indicate that a sin committed while away and inactive will be treated with impunity. If anything, what I read here is this message to elders, 'Ok elders. If someone comes in and committed fornication 10 years ago but wants to come back, hold a JC as normal, just don't disfellowship them.'
Thats what I get out of it.