"144k, your original point is being lost in the shuffle. This thread is reminiscent of the one I started about the CBS/Silentlambs program where I declared that Bill Bowen had uttered what was at best a half truth (that anything an elder says is to be taken as the direct word of God)." - - gcc2k gcc2k, I too was disappointed with at least some of what was presented in that show. Sensationalism can backfire and hurt the cause one is trying to promote. Referring to the JW organization as a "pedophile paradise" seemed a little extreme to me, given the fact that I never heard of any molestation cases in our area. Certainly, there are molestors in the org, and it is probably true that the Watchtower's policies have facilitated their ability to escape prosecution and/or repeat their crimes with other children. I find it hard to believe that the problem is so pervasive as to warrant the characterization as a "pedophile paradise." Similarly, I found the phone call to the WT legal department to be rather unsavory. The problem showcased by the 20/20 show is certainly a serious problem and one deserving of media attention and very aggressive scrutiny, but I believe that open dishonesty (not informing the person on the line of the true nature of the call) does not reflect well upon the individual trying to make his/her point. Overall, I did think the program was a good development and brought attention to a problem that the general public is for the most part entirely ignorant of.
"I'm sure that Bill's mission (or mission in life?) is genuine and heartfelt, and perhaps it is the uphill battle that has him resorting to certain tactics that many do not agree with." I'm not convinced of that. I wonder what sort of compensation, if any, Mr. Bowen is receiving in connection with the silent lambs. Do they issue audited financial statements? Being a JW taught me to question everything; don't be too quick to buy into someone or something without asking the appropriate questions, notwithstanding the appearance of an individual/entity of being aligned with a cause yo believe in. I guess the JW experience made me a very suspicious guy.
"On this matter, my thoughts are clear. If there is a sin committed, judge the sin according to congregation guidelines. However, if there is a crime committed, even if only in allegation, then the authorities should be involved." I agree with this statement. The elders ought to immediately pass allegations regarding child abuse/molestation to law enforcement. Crimes of this nature are so heinous that they deserve a PROFESSIONAL response, rather than the bumbling of lay persons. This sort of crime leaves scars that last a lifetime. Allowing elders to decide whether law enforcement will be involved in investigating cases of this nature trivializes the seriousness of these crimes and demonstrates an absolute disregard for the welfare of children. How many children have to grow up to hate the Watchtower before they learn to exhibit at least a modicum of compassion towards the children who are forced to live this socially deviant lifestyle?