Date Posted:03:44:41 03/31/05 Thu Author: Chris Subject: Re: New testimony In reply to:
Andrew S.
's message, "New testimony" on 22:27:38 03/30/05 Wed
Andrew, thank you so much for writing that testimony. It is one of the best testimonies from ex members I ever read. I think it will be extremely helpful for current members and people recruited by UBF so that they can understand the dynamics behind.
One thing that was particularly bewildering to read was how you have been officially "annointed" as a "shepherd" and worked as a presider – yet you were considered "not yet ready" to receive baptism! How can somebody who is not even baptized and considered unworthy to receive baptism at the same time be called a "shepherd" for others?
By the way, I made the same experience. I myself was baptized (in another church) after being 10 years a shepherd in UBF already.
May I publish a German translation of your testimony on ubf-info.de? As I said, the testimony is really helpful and a good supplement to the other existing testimonies. It explains a lot HOW spiritual abuse works and what makes UBF members submit under this abuse. I really like the focus on explanation rather than condemnaiton, and your honesty about yourself. In UBF you unlearn this kind of honesty. I believe most UBF members have similar feelings and thoughts, but few would admit them so honestly as you did.
