Directory
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PAGES
- Directory
This page contains the site table of contents. Use it to quickly find content on this website.
- Other JW Sites
A broad selection of websites, blogs, forums, and videos dedicated to the discussion of Jehovah's Witnesses and the Watchtower Society's leadership.
- Cult Free Radio Archives 2012
Scroll down to listen to the second season of Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio podcasts. Sweeney invites you to listen here, or you can download the shows to your…
- Cult Free Radio Archives 2011
Scroll down and listen to the first season of Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio podcasts. Sweeney invites you to listen here, or you can download the shows to your…
- Cult Free Radio
Cult Free Radio is Mad Sweeney's UStream podcast. Our editor interviews Sweeney to find out how he hopes to reach out to current and former Jehovah's Witnesses.
- Jehovah's Witnesses
Jehovah's Witnesses are followers of the teachings of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York and Pennsylvania. Jehovah's Witnesses are categorized…
- Changes and Challenges Facing the Watchtower
The Watchtower's leaders may be forced to pick retaining some important features of the religion, or finding ways to make the faith acceptable to new converts.
- Video - Early History
A broad compilation of videos examining the early history of the Watchtower Society. Founded and led by Charles Taze Russell from the late 1870s until 1916.
- About Ex-JW.com
The Editor created this website to provide one important service to all lovers of truth and righteousness: To let the "light of truth" shine on the Watchtower…
- Article Directory
Here is a complete listing of all published articles on Ex-Jehovah's Witnesses Online (www.ex-jw.com). Listed by subject categories.
- Contact Us
We invite you to comment on our articles. If you have a story or something else to offer as a former or current Jehovah's Witness, we'd like to hear from you.
- Privacy Policy
Ex-JW.com is a privately owned and managed website intended for the use, enjoyment and education of our visitors, subscribers, and readers. We take every…
- Who are Ex-JWs?
It can be tough to be an ex-JW. You may lose all of your friends. Your family may not speak to you except in rare situations. Your life will be changed forever.
ARTICLES
- Category: Biblical Teachings
- Jehovah's Witnesses and Bible Study
Many former Jehovah's Witnesses will admit that one reason they left the Organization was because they actually finally read the Bible cover to cover.
- Category: Biographies
- A personal view of Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's writings can be described as modest and real. His character is in his words and can be seen if you read even one paragraph of either of his books.
- Remembering Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's love for God, justice, and Christian freedom shines brilliantly in his book. Our prayer is that the God he loved so much will remember him always.
- Video Memorial to Ray Franz
A fine video tribute to Ray Franz made by "V" with the help of many people who took the time to record a brief message about what Ray Franz meant to them.
- Conscience and Courage
Starting over at his age (in his late 50s) with basically nothing to his name - except his conscience and ethics - was the most courageous things I've seen.
- A Sad Day
Ray left everything behind, and continued his fight for justice by confronting and uncovering the contradictions of the Watchtower until the end of his life.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Category: Book Reviews
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- Dick Kelly Exorcises His Ghosts
Richard E. Kelly's latest book, The Ghosts from Mama's Club, has just been released. Copies are available at Amazon.com in popular paperback (208 pages;…
- InsidetheWatchtower.com
For those readers who have not found it yet, we'd like to announce our new website, Inside the Watchtower. It's been online since late July, but was only…
- Read this book! You too could be homeless
Brianna's book is about discrimination against the homeless people among us - and the almost insurmountable obstacles society places in their path to recovery.
- Confronting Misinformation
If former Jehovah's Witnesses read these books, they will be amazed how refreshing and energizing basic science and honest history can be.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Exposing Cults at the Tucson Book Fair
An interactive dialogue about growing up in different cults, exposing surprising and shocking similarities between two unique and secretive religious groups.
- Five books you should read about Jehovah's Witnesses
Here are five great books that we recommend available through bookstores and Amazon.com. These books are informative about the Witness religion and history.
- Category: Celebrities
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 1
Part 1 of a group of articles identifying prominent and famous Jehovah's Witnesses. Michael Jackson, Jill Scott, Prince, Mickey Spillane, and George Benson.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs – Part 6
This group of 5 celebrities includes musician Hank Marvin, singer Jean Terrell, TV personality Sherri Shepherd, rapper Xzibit, and the infamous Rodney King.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 5
This list includes Kid Gavilan (athlete), Evelyn Mandela (politician's wife). Dave Meyers (athlete), Selena Quintanilla (singer) and Michelle Rodriguez (actor).
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 4
Readers seem to enjoy articles about famous (and in some cases, infamous) people well-known for their careers in the arts, sports, literature and even politics.
- The [Two] Three Funerals of Michael Jackson
In a a private ceremony held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in a mortuary chapel a Jehovah's Witness funeral service was conducted by Michael Jackson’s cousin.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs – Part 3
This time we will dig a little deeper and highlight five people that you may not know were Witnesses or they may have faded into obscurity before their time.
- Michael Jackson: The Magic and the Sadness
We should shed a tear for Michael Jackson and learn from his experience. Let's never allow our own children to be forced to live under those same pressures.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 2
This time we introduce five more celebrities (actually more than five, as you will see) from the past and present that are or were Jehovah's Witnesses.
- Category: Conventions
- JW.org: "Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Shun"
The Watchtower Society's website, JW.org, now claims that "Those who were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses but no longer preach to others, perhaps even…
- "Jehovah's Friend" DVD announced
The Watchtower Society is releasing a four-part DVD called "Become Jehovah's Friend" at the 2012 summer District Conventions. As with many new releases, within…
- A Protestant visits the Jehovahs Witness Convention
Bridget Anderson is not a Jehovah's Witness and never has been, but has had enough contact with them to have more than a basic understanding of their culture.
- Category: Documents & History
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- Celebrate 1914 to 2014: End of an "Error"
A Message from Barbara Anderson. . .
Announcing a Website to Celebrate 1914 to 2014: The End of an Error for Jehovah’s Witnesses.
On October 2, 1914,…
- Why Judge Rutherford went to prison
Joseph Rutherford and 7 other board members of the Watchtower Society went to prison in 1918 for "sedition." Were they guilty? A look at The Finished Mystery.
- The Finished Mystery - the book Jesus approved
The Finished Mystery was the main publication that was being distributed worldwide when Jesus supposedly chose the Watchtower as his only true religion in 1918.
- An open letter to the Governing Body
Governing Body: Act as men of principle. Allow Jehovah's Witnesses the freedom to choose for themselves whether they want to be a part of your organization.
- Are changes coming to the Watchtower?
What future circumstances will force the Watchtower Society to modify their current approach to managing their religion, their properties, and their followers?
- Watchtower "breakdown" on the Highway to Paradise
The engine which drives the Watchtower bus to Paradise keeps breaking down, forcing the bus to the side of the road and making passengers wait for repairs.
- Takeover in Menlo Park - Part One
A small group of Jehovah's Witnesses, former elders, have filed a lawsuit in federal district court charging Watchtower representatives with "Conspiracy."
- Going to the Public Talk
This video, containing a huge dose of satire, nails the basic experience of Jehovah's Witnesses attending a local Kingdom Hall's "public talk."
- Kingdom Halls - Who owns them?
In past years local Jehovah’s Witnesses owned their Kingdom Hall and had full responsibility for it. They were OK with that because it made sense. Not…
- A Sad Day
Ray left everything behind, and continued his fight for justice by confronting and uncovering the contradictions of the Watchtower until the end of his life.
- Raymond Franz, RIP
Raymond Franz, author of Crisis of Conscience and In Search of Christian Freedom, died on June 2, 2010 due to the effects of a stroke he suffered on May 30th.
- The Watchtower redefines a "generation"
The Watchtower Society has created an incredible new definition for the word "generation" in order to cover up another of their failed prophecies.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Category: General Information
- JW News Aggregation Website Announced
TSPublishing (USA) has notified us that they are providing a unique new website directed at Jehovah's Witnesses, former JWs, and critics of that religious…
- Celebrate 1914 to 2014: End of an "Error"
A Message from Barbara Anderson. . .
Announcing a Website to Celebrate 1914 to 2014: The End of an Error for Jehovah’s Witnesses.
On October 2, 1914,…
- Why So Quiet?
By John Hoyle, Editor
I want to apologize to all the readers and supporters of EX-JW.com for the lack of activity on this website over the past three…
- JWSurvey.org announces 2012 Global Survey
There is a new online survey about Jehovah's Witnesses available for participation by all current and former members at JWSurvey.org.
"Cedars," the founder…
- Some quick updates
Please note that Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio program #7 is now online. It's been added to the Cult Free archive page. #7 was another great program with an…
- InsidetheWatchtower.com
For those readers who have not found it yet, we'd like to announce our new website, Inside the Watchtower. It's been online since late July, but was only…
- Registration Turned Off - and On
Reader registration on Ex-JW.com has been turned off temporarily.
- Apostate in the neighborhood
I'm sure that local Jehovah's Witnesses have flagged my house as a "den of iniquity, inhabited by an apostate." I do see them, but they never knock on my door.
- What happens after leaving the JWs?
Leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses is like having the rug pulled out from under you. You have an opportunity to get up, brush yourself off, and start over.
- New additions to "Other JW Sites"
We've added several links to other websites that discuss the beliefs and history of Jehovah's Witnesses, including three maintained by the Watchtower Society.
- The Truth shall set you free!
This website has a single purpose - to let the light shine on the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society and its followers known as Jehovah's Witnesses.
- Welcome to Ex-Jehovah's Witnesses Online
A one-stop online location that points to the best (and also the worst) information and news about Jehovah's Witnesses, ex-JWs, and the Watchtower Society.
- Category: Historical Personalities
- Discovering the "Truth" - My three years as a JW
Ian Haynes from the UK shares his personal story of how he learned the truth about the Truth during his three years as an active Jehovah's Witness.
- Category: Humor
- Watchtower's Pecking Order
The Watchtower is just a corporation that happens to print religious literature. Its structure has various levels, responsibilities, privileges - and stature.
- "Dubs for Dummies"
What if Jehovah's Witnesses published simplified explanations for all their strange beliefs, dumbed down so that anyone could understand their basic teachings?
- Watchtower "breakdown" on the Highway to Paradise
The engine which drives the Watchtower bus to Paradise keeps breaking down, forcing the bus to the side of the road and making passengers wait for repairs.
- Going to the Public Talk
This video, containing a huge dose of satire, nails the basic experience of Jehovah's Witnesses attending a local Kingdom Hall's "public talk."
- A Craigslist Cry for Help
Editor's Note: This was an actual ad posted on Craigslist.org in mid-September in New Mexico. I first learned of this ad while browsing the Jehovah's Witness…
- Category: JW Teachings
- JW.org: "Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Shun"
The Watchtower Society's website, JW.org, now claims that "Those who were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses but no longer preach to others, perhaps even…
- Watchtower Society Goes Under the Microscope
John Cedars has published the first post of a four-part series that closely examines the Watchtower Society's claim to be "God's Spirit Directed Organization"…
- Sudbury Elders: Reconsider Your Actions
By Rory Sullivan
Editor's Introduction:
Even though this letter has appeared on other websites by now, Mr. Sullivan was kind enough to let me to…
- Dear Watchtower: Why the insults and name-calling?
I THOUGHT I KNEW YOU
An open letter from Barbara Anderson to the
Watch Tower’s Writing Department
In 1517, Martin Luther wrote in a letter to…
- Coping with False Prophecy
By Cynthia Hampton
For several years I have been honored to coordinate and moderate a Jehovah's Witness support group based in Los Angeles and San Jose,…
- Happy Holidays
By the Editor
Within the next few days, millions of people in the western world will celebrate Christmas, followed a week later by the New Year. In most…
- The Finished Mystery - the book Jesus approved
The Finished Mystery was the main publication that was being distributed worldwide when Jesus supposedly chose the Watchtower as his only true religion in 1918.
- Watchtower forgets that "Content is King"
Jehovah's Witness meetings and magazines have become too stale to interest anyone who thinks for themselves. The JW's don't understand that "content is King."
- Watchtower's Pecking Order
The Watchtower is just a corporation that happens to print religious literature. Its structure has various levels, responsibilities, privileges - and stature.
- Disfellowshipping - who's at fault?
"John Doe is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses," is repeated some 70,000 times each year in Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Halls worldwide. Why the increase?
- A letter to the Watchtower
If a near perfect Witness did not accept a teaching of the Watchtower "old light" as true while it was promoted as "new light," would they be disfellowshipped?
- An open letter to the Governing Body
Governing Body: Act as men of principle. Allow Jehovah's Witnesses the freedom to choose for themselves whether they want to be a part of your organization.
- "Dubs for Dummies"
What if Jehovah's Witnesses published simplified explanations for all their strange beliefs, dumbed down so that anyone could understand their basic teachings?
- Douglas's Story
Gordon Smith describes his childhood as a Jehovah's Witness in the UK. He left the cult in his early twenties to venture out on his own and find true freedom.
- Watchtower "breakdown" on the Highway to Paradise
The engine which drives the Watchtower bus to Paradise keeps breaking down, forcing the bus to the side of the road and making passengers wait for repairs.
- An Interesting Twist in a Child Custody Case
A mother believed that we could help her convince a court that her three children should not be baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses until they were 18 years old.
- Going to the Public Talk
This video, containing a huge dose of satire, nails the basic experience of Jehovah's Witnesses attending a local Kingdom Hall's "public talk."
- BBC goes to a Kingdom Hall
While a BBC-TV reporter notes that Jehovah's Witnesses are Bible quoting Christians, he saw some major differences between them and mainstream UK church-goers.
- Raymond Franz, RIP
Raymond Franz, author of Crisis of Conscience and In Search of Christian Freedom, died on June 2, 2010 due to the effects of a stroke he suffered on May 30th.
- The Watchtower redefines a "generation"
The Watchtower Society has created an incredible new definition for the word "generation" in order to cover up another of their failed prophecies.
- Jehovah's Witnesses and Bible Study
Many former Jehovah's Witnesses will admit that one reason they left the Organization was because they actually finally read the Bible cover to cover.
- An Elder shares his honest opinions
This article should be considered a “come to Jesus moment” for Jehovah's Witnesses. Hopefully, we’ll recognize the errors of our ways, and take a new…
- The truth about JW "Bible Studies"
The Watchtower's study book is your only guide. The Bible will be rarely opened, and when it is used, JW only refers to and reads one or two verses at a time.
- Category: Media
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- JW News Aggregation Website Announced
TSPublishing (USA) has notified us that they are providing a unique new website directed at Jehovah's Witnesses, former JWs, and critics of that religious…
- EX-JW.com: Update
This website is currently undergoing a major reconstruction and redesign. So many components of the site will change that I will have to do it in small bits…
- Review of "Witness to Murder" TV Documentary
James Kostelniuk, author of Wolves Among Sheep, has written a review of the ID Discovery cable television show about the horrific murder of his ex-wife and…
- JW Crime Story on Discovery ID August 20th
***IMPORTANT MESSAGE***
Airing Wednesday, August 20th in the United States a new documentary produced for television on Identification Discovery (ID)…
- "Truth Be Told" coming to Seattle, Portland
Gregorio Smith's documentary, "Truth Be Told," will be shown in the Pacific Northwest on Monday, September 16 in Seattle, Washington, and September 17 in…
- Category: Opinion
- Dear Watchtower: Why the insults and name-calling?
I THOUGHT I KNEW YOU
An open letter from Barbara Anderson to the
Watch Tower’s Writing Department
In 1517, Martin Luther wrote in a letter to…
- JWSurvey.org announces 2012 Global Survey
There is a new online survey about Jehovah's Witnesses available for participation by all current and former members at JWSurvey.org.
"Cedars," the founder…
- Happy Holidays
By the Editor
Within the next few days, millions of people in the western world will celebrate Christmas, followed a week later by the New Year. In most…
- Global Survey of Jehovah's Witnesses - 2011
JWSurvey.org is now online. Share your opinions about current teachings of the Watchtower Society. Free, quick, and includes instant results feedback.
- Cult Free Radio Archived at Ex-JW.com
We're pleased to announce that the first six podcasts of Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio are now archived here at Ex-JW.com.
- Watchtower forgets that "Content is King"
Jehovah's Witness meetings and magazines have become too stale to interest anyone who thinks for themselves. The JW's don't understand that "content is King."
- Are changes coming to the Watchtower?
What future circumstances will force the Watchtower Society to modify their current approach to managing their religion, their properties, and their followers?
- An Elder shares his honest opinions
This article should be considered a “come to Jesus moment” for Jehovah's Witnesses. Hopefully, we’ll recognize the errors of our ways, and take a new…
- Opinion: Raising kids as Witnesses
Want your children to spend their lives cleaning the restrooms or polishing floors at Wal-Mart? Then force them to become slaves of the Watchtower Society.
- Are Jehovah's Witnesses a Cult?
A Jehovah's Witness sent me a list of "Ten Signs of a Cult" to prove to me that the Watchtower and Jehovah's Witnesses was not a cult, but a true religion.
- Love and the Watchtower
How can Jehovah's Witnesses claim to be God’s chosen people when they do not follow the most basic of his commandments, namely to "love their neighbors?"
- Category: Reprints
- An open letter to the Governing Body
Governing Body: Act as men of principle. Allow Jehovah's Witnesses the freedom to choose for themselves whether they want to be a part of your organization.
- A Craigslist Cry for Help
Editor's Note: This was an actual ad posted on Craigslist.org in mid-September in New Mexico. I first learned of this ad while browsing the Jehovah's Witness…
- Religion Makes Me Sad
It makes me sad to know that Jehovah’s Witnesses and others believe in a God-delivered Armageddon, looking forward to the brutal murder of billions of people.
- Category: Testimonies
- Child Abuse and Jehovah's Witnesses
By Stephanie Hammond
If you found out that a man you trusted had molested your child, how would you feel? What would you do?
Do you know if there are…
- Sudbury Elders: Reconsider Your Actions
By Rory Sullivan
Editor's Introduction:
Even though this letter has appeared on other websites by now, Mr. Sullivan was kind enough to let me to…
- Coping with False Prophecy
By Cynthia Hampton
For several years I have been honored to coordinate and moderate a Jehovah's Witness support group based in Los Angeles and San Jose,…
- Confronting Misinformation
If former Jehovah's Witnesses read these books, they will be amazed how refreshing and energizing basic science and honest history can be.
- Elder reveals his secret
Dad was entering a new phase in his life as a Jehovah’s Witness. He turned the corner when he told me he'd written an article for an apostate website.
- A letter to the Watchtower
If a near perfect Witness did not accept a teaching of the Watchtower "old light" as true while it was promoted as "new light," would they be disfellowshipped?
- Douglas's Story
Gordon Smith describes his childhood as a Jehovah's Witness in the UK. He left the cult in his early twenties to venture out on his own and find true freedom.
- Discovering the "Truth" - My three years as a JW
Ian Haynes from the UK shares his personal story of how he learned the truth about the Truth during his three years as an active Jehovah's Witness.
- An Interesting Twist in a Child Custody Case
A mother believed that we could help her convince a court that her three children should not be baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses until they were 18 years old.
- 100 Speak Out
Phineas Treptow's documentary will allow former Jehovah's Witnesses to share personal stories about their mistreatment and abuse by the Watchtower Society.
- A personal view of Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's writings can be described as modest and real. His character is in his words and can be seen if you read even one paragraph of either of his books.
- Remembering Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's love for God, justice, and Christian freedom shines brilliantly in his book. Our prayer is that the God he loved so much will remember him always.
- Video Memorial to Ray Franz
A fine video tribute to Ray Franz made by "V" with the help of many people who took the time to record a brief message about what Ray Franz meant to them.
- Conscience and Courage
Starting over at his age (in his late 50s) with basically nothing to his name - except his conscience and ethics - was the most courageous things I've seen.
- A Sad Day
Ray left everything behind, and continued his fight for justice by confronting and uncovering the contradictions of the Watchtower until the end of his life.
- What happens after leaving the JWs?
Leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses is like having the rug pulled out from under you. You have an opportunity to get up, brush yourself off, and start over.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Sick of it!
This is a story of verbal, physical and extreme sexual abuse by her father, an active Jehovah's Witness and elder for much of his life, when she was fifteen.
- Category: Urgent News
- EX-JW.com: Update
This website is currently undergoing a major reconstruction and redesign. So many components of the site will change that I will have to do it in small bits…
- JW Crime Story on Discovery ID August 20th
***IMPORTANT MESSAGE***
Airing Wednesday, August 20th in the United States a new documentary produced for television on Identification Discovery (ID)…
- AAWA Releases New anti-Child Abuse Video
The activist group Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) has released a new video to the public that clearly describes the dangers inherent in a…
- "Truth Be Told" coming to Seattle, Portland
Gregorio Smith's documentary, "Truth Be Told," will be shown in the Pacific Northwest on Monday, September 16 in Seattle, Washington, and September 17 in…
- Tragedy in Gresham, Oregon
Whitney Heichel never made it to her job as a barrista at a local Starbucks last Tuesday (October 16). Her husband Clint reported her missing within three…
- Candace Conti Videos Now Online
A set of eleven YouTube videos (soon on Vimeo, as well) about Candace Conti's historic court case are now available. Access and view them by clicking on the…
- 2012 Memorial Protest Planned in UK
On the evening of April 5, 2012 a protest will be held outside the headquarters of the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society of Britain (IBSA). A protest…
- Expanded JW.org, Mini-Mags Announced
The Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has sent out a letter to all congregations worldwide announcing major changes in how it will distribute the…
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall Lawsuit Dismissed
By the Editor
A federal judge dismissed the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall lawsuit last week due to filing and jurisdictional issues.
On January 6, 2012 the…
- Registration Turned Off - and On
Reader registration on Ex-JW.com has been turned off temporarily.
- Menlo Park scandal on Cult Free Radio
The scandal at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall will be discussed May 28, 2011 (10 PM EDT) on a UStream podcast Cult Free Radio. Guest is the editor of Ex-JW.com.
- An Interesting Twist in a Child Custody Case
A mother believed that we could help her convince a court that her three children should not be baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses until they were 18 years old.
- Takeover in Menlo Park - Part One
A small group of Jehovah's Witnesses, former elders, have filed a lawsuit in federal district court charging Watchtower representatives with "Conspiracy."
- Raymond Franz, RIP
Raymond Franz, author of Crisis of Conscience and In Search of Christian Freedom, died on June 2, 2010 due to the effects of a stroke he suffered on May 30th.
- Ex-JWs Helping Haiti
Pick one of the charities listed and contribute as much as you can or whatever you can afford. Tell your friends and family about this project to help Haiti.
- Category: Watchtower Leaders
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- Governing Body Admits Doubts Over New Headquarters Plans
By Cedars
The latest August 15th Study Edition of the Watchtower includes a 4-page review from the annual meeting of the Watch Tower, Bible and Tract…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 3
This is the last segment of this series of articles about the Kingdom Hall takeover scandal in Menlo Park, California.
Two different court documents form…
- Expanded JW.org, Mini-Mags Announced
The Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has sent out a letter to all congregations worldwide announcing major changes in how it will distribute the…
- Global Survey of Jehovah's Witnesses - 2011
JWSurvey.org is now online. Share your opinions about current teachings of the Watchtower Society. Free, quick, and includes instant results feedback.
- Menlo Park: "The Truth" vs. the truth
The Watchtower continues to use theocratic war strategy in a attempt to prevent courts from discovering the truth about events at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall.
- "Seeds of dissent" against the Governing Body?
Editor's Note: I just received the following news release announcing an attempt to organize an underground movement of Jehovah's Witnesses who want a voice…
- Why Judge Rutherford went to prison
Joseph Rutherford and 7 other board members of the Watchtower Society went to prison in 1918 for "sedition." Were they guilty? A look at The Finished Mystery.
- Watchtower's Pecking Order
The Watchtower is just a corporation that happens to print religious literature. Its structure has various levels, responsibilities, privileges - and stature.
- Category: Watchtower Scandals
- JW.org: "Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Shun"
The Watchtower Society's website, JW.org, now claims that "Those who were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses but no longer preach to others, perhaps even…
- Review of "Witness to Murder" TV Documentary
James Kostelniuk, author of Wolves Among Sheep, has written a review of the ID Discovery cable television show about the horrific murder of his ex-wife and…
- AAWA Releases New anti-Child Abuse Video
The activist group Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) has released a new video to the public that clearly describes the dangers inherent in a…
- Child Abuse and Jehovah's Witnesses
By Stephanie Hammond
If you found out that a man you trusted had molested your child, how would you feel? What would you do?
Do you know if there are…
- Watchtower is at it again: Inheritances and Assets
Contributor: Mario Polgar
I am writing this article to share my personal experiences and to disclose to all current and former Jehovah’s Witnesses that…
- The Conti Case - Your Questions Answered
In March 2012 a new series of videos will be released on YouTube and various other websites that will provide answers to many of the common questions about the…
- Watchtower Facing Criminal Charges in Victoria
This time it's Australia.
The Watchtower Society is facing another major court case that will be necessary to resolve a Billion (Australian dollars)…
- Norwegian Media Exposes Watchtower Scandals
Beginning in early December, Norwegian newspapers, magazines and television station have decided to take on the powerful Watchtower Society and expose its…
- Tragedy in Gresham, Oregon
Whitney Heichel never made it to her job as a barrista at a local Starbucks last Tuesday (October 16). Her husband Clint reported her missing within three…
- Megan and Candace – Victims of Known Molesters
By Barbara J. Anderson
In over 90% of child sexual abuse cases, the abuser is someone the child knows and trusts. Too often, the offenders are known to be…
- Candace Conti Videos Now Online
A set of eleven YouTube videos (soon on Vimeo, as well) about Candace Conti's historic court case are now available. Access and view them by clicking on the…
- Watchtower Reply to Jury Verdict
The Watchtower released an official public statement about the million jury verdict awarded to a former Jehovah's Witness in California. The court found…
- Conti Verdict Explained
There are many questions about the recent jury verdict against the Watchtower Society in California that awarded Ms. Candace Conti million in damages. The…
- Watchtower Embarrassed in Court
On June 14, 2012 an Oakland, California jury took very little time to decide that the Watchtower Society was guilty of failing to protect the children in its…
- "Jehovah's Friend" DVD announced
The Watchtower Society is releasing a four-part DVD called "Become Jehovah's Friend" at the 2012 summer District Conventions. As with many new releases, within…
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall: The State Lawsuit
The Menlo Park Kingdom Hall takeover scandal is like a movie monster that just won't die.
Three former elders have filed Court cases in San Francisco…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 3
This is the last segment of this series of articles about the Kingdom Hall takeover scandal in Menlo Park, California.
Two different court documents form…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 2
Jason Cobb was one of the four elders serving in the Menlo Park (California) Kingdom Hall dismissed from their "theocratic assignments" effective July 1, 2010.…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 1
Readers of Ex-Jw.com who have been following this story know that on January 6, 2012 Federal Judge Maria-Elena James dismissed the lawsuit filed by two former…
- 2012 Memorial Protest Planned in UK
On the evening of April 5, 2012 a protest will be held outside the headquarters of the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society of Britain (IBSA). A protest…
- Menlo Park: From Behind the Scenes
By John Steele
Disclaimer: This article in no way reflects the views of the parties who run this website, are solely my views and opinions, and as such…
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall Lawsuit Dismissed
By the Editor
A federal judge dismissed the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall lawsuit last week due to filing and jurisdictional issues.
On January 6, 2012 the…
- Menlo Park: "The Truth" vs. the truth
The Watchtower continues to use theocratic war strategy in a attempt to prevent courts from discovering the truth about events at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall.
- Real Estate Magnates
Donated properties become part of the Watchtower Society's huge real estate portfolios, all tax-free when they are acquired, owned, and sold by the Society.
- Some quick updates
Please note that Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio program #7 is now online. It's been added to the Cult Free archive page. #7 was another great program with an…
- Menlo Park: What are they trying to hide?
What reason would there be to keep a Kingdom Hall's bank statements "confidential"? What could be on those statements that the elders don't want anyone to see?
- Another View of a Kingdom Hall Takeover
A second look at the events taking place at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall in California. The strong arguments on both sides will play out in a federal courthouse.
- Takeover: What really happened at Menlo Park?
Read the inside story of the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall takeover. Written by someone close to the plaintiffs in a federal court case, this is an extensive report.
- Menlo Park scandal on Cult Free Radio
The scandal at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall will be discussed May 28, 2011 (10 PM EDT) on a UStream podcast Cult Free Radio. Guest is the editor of Ex-JW.com.
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall - Updates
Since the previous article about the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall court case, published two weeks ago, I've received some updates and a few corrections.
- Fear and Loathing in Menlo Park
All that is good and bad about the Watchtower Society and Jehovah's Witnesses, is demonstrated by what is going on at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall.
- Disfellowshipping - who's at fault?
"John Doe is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses," is repeated some 70,000 times each year in Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Halls worldwide. Why the increase?
This page contains the site table of contents. Use it to quickly find content on this website.
A broad selection of websites, blogs, forums, and videos dedicated to the discussion of Jehovah's Witnesses and the Watchtower Society's leadership.
- Cult Free Radio Archives 2012
Scroll down to listen to the second season of Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio podcasts. Sweeney invites you to listen here, or you can download the shows to your…
- Cult Free Radio Archives 2011
Scroll down and listen to the first season of Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio podcasts. Sweeney invites you to listen here, or you can download the shows to your…
- Cult Free Radio
Cult Free Radio is Mad Sweeney's UStream podcast. Our editor interviews Sweeney to find out how he hopes to reach out to current and former Jehovah's Witnesses.
Jehovah's Witnesses are followers of the teachings of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York and Pennsylvania. Jehovah's Witnesses are categorized…
- Changes and Challenges Facing the Watchtower
The Watchtower's leaders may be forced to pick retaining some important features of the religion, or finding ways to make the faith acceptable to new converts.
- Video - Early History
A broad compilation of videos examining the early history of the Watchtower Society. Founded and led by Charles Taze Russell from the late 1870s until 1916.
The Editor created this website to provide one important service to all lovers of truth and righteousness: To let the "light of truth" shine on the Watchtower…
- Article Directory
Here is a complete listing of all published articles on Ex-Jehovah's Witnesses Online (www.ex-jw.com). Listed by subject categories.
We invite you to comment on our articles. If you have a story or something else to offer as a former or current Jehovah's Witness, we'd like to hear from you.
- Privacy Policy
Ex-JW.com is a privately owned and managed website intended for the use, enjoyment and education of our visitors, subscribers, and readers. We take every…
It can be tough to be an ex-JW. You may lose all of your friends. Your family may not speak to you except in rare situations. Your life will be changed forever.
- Jehovah's Witnesses and Bible Study
Many former Jehovah's Witnesses will admit that one reason they left the Organization was because they actually finally read the Bible cover to cover.
- A personal view of Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's writings can be described as modest and real. His character is in his words and can be seen if you read even one paragraph of either of his books.
- Remembering Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's love for God, justice, and Christian freedom shines brilliantly in his book. Our prayer is that the God he loved so much will remember him always.
- Video Memorial to Ray Franz
A fine video tribute to Ray Franz made by "V" with the help of many people who took the time to record a brief message about what Ray Franz meant to them.
- Conscience and Courage
Starting over at his age (in his late 50s) with basically nothing to his name - except his conscience and ethics - was the most courageous things I've seen.
- A Sad Day
Ray left everything behind, and continued his fight for justice by confronting and uncovering the contradictions of the Watchtower until the end of his life.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- Dick Kelly Exorcises His Ghosts
Richard E. Kelly's latest book, The Ghosts from Mama's Club, has just been released. Copies are available at Amazon.com in popular paperback (208 pages;…
- InsidetheWatchtower.com
For those readers who have not found it yet, we'd like to announce our new website, Inside the Watchtower. It's been online since late July, but was only…
- Read this book! You too could be homeless
Brianna's book is about discrimination against the homeless people among us - and the almost insurmountable obstacles society places in their path to recovery.
- Confronting Misinformation
If former Jehovah's Witnesses read these books, they will be amazed how refreshing and energizing basic science and honest history can be.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Exposing Cults at the Tucson Book Fair
An interactive dialogue about growing up in different cults, exposing surprising and shocking similarities between two unique and secretive religious groups.
- Five books you should read about Jehovah's Witnesses
Here are five great books that we recommend available through bookstores and Amazon.com. These books are informative about the Witness religion and history.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 1
Part 1 of a group of articles identifying prominent and famous Jehovah's Witnesses. Michael Jackson, Jill Scott, Prince, Mickey Spillane, and George Benson.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs – Part 6
This group of 5 celebrities includes musician Hank Marvin, singer Jean Terrell, TV personality Sherri Shepherd, rapper Xzibit, and the infamous Rodney King.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 5
This list includes Kid Gavilan (athlete), Evelyn Mandela (politician's wife). Dave Meyers (athlete), Selena Quintanilla (singer) and Michelle Rodriguez (actor).
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 4
Readers seem to enjoy articles about famous (and in some cases, infamous) people well-known for their careers in the arts, sports, literature and even politics.
- The [Two] Three Funerals of Michael Jackson
In a a private ceremony held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in a mortuary chapel a Jehovah's Witness funeral service was conducted by Michael Jackson’s cousin.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs – Part 3
This time we will dig a little deeper and highlight five people that you may not know were Witnesses or they may have faded into obscurity before their time.
- Michael Jackson: The Magic and the Sadness
We should shed a tear for Michael Jackson and learn from his experience. Let's never allow our own children to be forced to live under those same pressures.
- Celebrities who are (or were) JWs - Part 2
This time we introduce five more celebrities (actually more than five, as you will see) from the past and present that are or were Jehovah's Witnesses.
- JW.org: "Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Shun"
The Watchtower Society's website, JW.org, now claims that "Those who were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses but no longer preach to others, perhaps even…
- "Jehovah's Friend" DVD announced
The Watchtower Society is releasing a four-part DVD called "Become Jehovah's Friend" at the 2012 summer District Conventions. As with many new releases, within…
- A Protestant visits the Jehovahs Witness Convention
Bridget Anderson is not a Jehovah's Witness and never has been, but has had enough contact with them to have more than a basic understanding of their culture.
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- Celebrate 1914 to 2014: End of an "Error"
A Message from Barbara Anderson. . . Announcing a Website to Celebrate 1914 to 2014: The End of an Error for Jehovah’s Witnesses. On October 2, 1914,…
- Why Judge Rutherford went to prison
Joseph Rutherford and 7 other board members of the Watchtower Society went to prison in 1918 for "sedition." Were they guilty? A look at The Finished Mystery.
- The Finished Mystery - the book Jesus approved
The Finished Mystery was the main publication that was being distributed worldwide when Jesus supposedly chose the Watchtower as his only true religion in 1918.
- An open letter to the Governing Body
Governing Body: Act as men of principle. Allow Jehovah's Witnesses the freedom to choose for themselves whether they want to be a part of your organization.
- Are changes coming to the Watchtower?
What future circumstances will force the Watchtower Society to modify their current approach to managing their religion, their properties, and their followers?
- Watchtower "breakdown" on the Highway to Paradise
The engine which drives the Watchtower bus to Paradise keeps breaking down, forcing the bus to the side of the road and making passengers wait for repairs.
- Takeover in Menlo Park - Part One
A small group of Jehovah's Witnesses, former elders, have filed a lawsuit in federal district court charging Watchtower representatives with "Conspiracy."
- Going to the Public Talk
This video, containing a huge dose of satire, nails the basic experience of Jehovah's Witnesses attending a local Kingdom Hall's "public talk."
- Kingdom Halls - Who owns them?
In past years local Jehovah’s Witnesses owned their Kingdom Hall and had full responsibility for it. They were OK with that because it made sense. Not…
- A Sad Day
Ray left everything behind, and continued his fight for justice by confronting and uncovering the contradictions of the Watchtower until the end of his life.
- Raymond Franz, RIP
Raymond Franz, author of Crisis of Conscience and In Search of Christian Freedom, died on June 2, 2010 due to the effects of a stroke he suffered on May 30th.
- The Watchtower redefines a "generation"
The Watchtower Society has created an incredible new definition for the word "generation" in order to cover up another of their failed prophecies.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- JW News Aggregation Website Announced
TSPublishing (USA) has notified us that they are providing a unique new website directed at Jehovah's Witnesses, former JWs, and critics of that religious…
- Celebrate 1914 to 2014: End of an "Error"
A Message from Barbara Anderson. . . Announcing a Website to Celebrate 1914 to 2014: The End of an Error for Jehovah’s Witnesses. On October 2, 1914,…
- Why So Quiet?
By John Hoyle, Editor I want to apologize to all the readers and supporters of EX-JW.com for the lack of activity on this website over the past three…
- JWSurvey.org announces 2012 Global Survey
There is a new online survey about Jehovah's Witnesses available for participation by all current and former members at JWSurvey.org. "Cedars," the founder…
- Some quick updates
Please note that Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio program #7 is now online. It's been added to the Cult Free archive page. #7 was another great program with an…
- InsidetheWatchtower.com
For those readers who have not found it yet, we'd like to announce our new website, Inside the Watchtower. It's been online since late July, but was only…
- Registration Turned Off - and On
Reader registration on Ex-JW.com has been turned off temporarily.
- Apostate in the neighborhood
I'm sure that local Jehovah's Witnesses have flagged my house as a "den of iniquity, inhabited by an apostate." I do see them, but they never knock on my door.
- What happens after leaving the JWs?
Leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses is like having the rug pulled out from under you. You have an opportunity to get up, brush yourself off, and start over.
- New additions to "Other JW Sites"
We've added several links to other websites that discuss the beliefs and history of Jehovah's Witnesses, including three maintained by the Watchtower Society.
- The Truth shall set you free!
This website has a single purpose - to let the light shine on the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society and its followers known as Jehovah's Witnesses.
- Welcome to Ex-Jehovah's Witnesses Online
A one-stop online location that points to the best (and also the worst) information and news about Jehovah's Witnesses, ex-JWs, and the Watchtower Society.
- Discovering the "Truth" - My three years as a JW
Ian Haynes from the UK shares his personal story of how he learned the truth about the Truth during his three years as an active Jehovah's Witness.
- Watchtower's Pecking Order
The Watchtower is just a corporation that happens to print religious literature. Its structure has various levels, responsibilities, privileges - and stature.
- "Dubs for Dummies"
What if Jehovah's Witnesses published simplified explanations for all their strange beliefs, dumbed down so that anyone could understand their basic teachings?
- Watchtower "breakdown" on the Highway to Paradise
The engine which drives the Watchtower bus to Paradise keeps breaking down, forcing the bus to the side of the road and making passengers wait for repairs.
- Going to the Public Talk
This video, containing a huge dose of satire, nails the basic experience of Jehovah's Witnesses attending a local Kingdom Hall's "public talk."
- A Craigslist Cry for Help
Editor's Note: This was an actual ad posted on Craigslist.org in mid-September in New Mexico. I first learned of this ad while browsing the Jehovah's Witness…
- JW.org: "Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Shun"
The Watchtower Society's website, JW.org, now claims that "Those who were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses but no longer preach to others, perhaps even…
- Watchtower Society Goes Under the Microscope
John Cedars has published the first post of a four-part series that closely examines the Watchtower Society's claim to be "God's Spirit Directed Organization"…
- Sudbury Elders: Reconsider Your Actions
By Rory Sullivan Editor's Introduction: Even though this letter has appeared on other websites by now, Mr. Sullivan was kind enough to let me to…
- Dear Watchtower: Why the insults and name-calling?
I THOUGHT I KNEW YOU An open letter from Barbara Anderson to the Watch Tower’s Writing Department In 1517, Martin Luther wrote in a letter to…
- Coping with False Prophecy
By Cynthia Hampton For several years I have been honored to coordinate and moderate a Jehovah's Witness support group based in Los Angeles and San Jose,…
- Happy Holidays
By the Editor Within the next few days, millions of people in the western world will celebrate Christmas, followed a week later by the New Year. In most…
- The Finished Mystery - the book Jesus approved
The Finished Mystery was the main publication that was being distributed worldwide when Jesus supposedly chose the Watchtower as his only true religion in 1918.
- Watchtower forgets that "Content is King"
Jehovah's Witness meetings and magazines have become too stale to interest anyone who thinks for themselves. The JW's don't understand that "content is King."
- Watchtower's Pecking Order
The Watchtower is just a corporation that happens to print religious literature. Its structure has various levels, responsibilities, privileges - and stature.
- Disfellowshipping - who's at fault?
"John Doe is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses," is repeated some 70,000 times each year in Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Halls worldwide. Why the increase?
- A letter to the Watchtower
If a near perfect Witness did not accept a teaching of the Watchtower "old light" as true while it was promoted as "new light," would they be disfellowshipped?
- An open letter to the Governing Body
Governing Body: Act as men of principle. Allow Jehovah's Witnesses the freedom to choose for themselves whether they want to be a part of your organization.
- "Dubs for Dummies"
What if Jehovah's Witnesses published simplified explanations for all their strange beliefs, dumbed down so that anyone could understand their basic teachings?
- Douglas's Story
Gordon Smith describes his childhood as a Jehovah's Witness in the UK. He left the cult in his early twenties to venture out on his own and find true freedom.
- Watchtower "breakdown" on the Highway to Paradise
The engine which drives the Watchtower bus to Paradise keeps breaking down, forcing the bus to the side of the road and making passengers wait for repairs.
- An Interesting Twist in a Child Custody Case
A mother believed that we could help her convince a court that her three children should not be baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses until they were 18 years old.
- Going to the Public Talk
This video, containing a huge dose of satire, nails the basic experience of Jehovah's Witnesses attending a local Kingdom Hall's "public talk."
- BBC goes to a Kingdom Hall
While a BBC-TV reporter notes that Jehovah's Witnesses are Bible quoting Christians, he saw some major differences between them and mainstream UK church-goers.
- Raymond Franz, RIP
Raymond Franz, author of Crisis of Conscience and In Search of Christian Freedom, died on June 2, 2010 due to the effects of a stroke he suffered on May 30th.
- The Watchtower redefines a "generation"
The Watchtower Society has created an incredible new definition for the word "generation" in order to cover up another of their failed prophecies.
- Jehovah's Witnesses and Bible Study
Many former Jehovah's Witnesses will admit that one reason they left the Organization was because they actually finally read the Bible cover to cover.
- An Elder shares his honest opinions
This article should be considered a “come to Jesus moment” for Jehovah's Witnesses. Hopefully, we’ll recognize the errors of our ways, and take a new…
- The truth about JW "Bible Studies"
The Watchtower's study book is your only guide. The Bible will be rarely opened, and when it is used, JW only refers to and reads one or two verses at a time.
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- JW News Aggregation Website Announced
TSPublishing (USA) has notified us that they are providing a unique new website directed at Jehovah's Witnesses, former JWs, and critics of that religious…
- EX-JW.com: Update
This website is currently undergoing a major reconstruction and redesign. So many components of the site will change that I will have to do it in small bits…
- Review of "Witness to Murder" TV Documentary
James Kostelniuk, author of Wolves Among Sheep, has written a review of the ID Discovery cable television show about the horrific murder of his ex-wife and…
- JW Crime Story on Discovery ID August 20th
***IMPORTANT MESSAGE*** Airing Wednesday, August 20th in the United States a new documentary produced for television on Identification Discovery (ID)…
- "Truth Be Told" coming to Seattle, Portland
Gregorio Smith's documentary, "Truth Be Told," will be shown in the Pacific Northwest on Monday, September 16 in Seattle, Washington, and September 17 in…
- Dear Watchtower: Why the insults and name-calling?
I THOUGHT I KNEW YOU An open letter from Barbara Anderson to the Watch Tower’s Writing Department In 1517, Martin Luther wrote in a letter to…
- JWSurvey.org announces 2012 Global Survey
There is a new online survey about Jehovah's Witnesses available for participation by all current and former members at JWSurvey.org. "Cedars," the founder…
- Happy Holidays
By the Editor Within the next few days, millions of people in the western world will celebrate Christmas, followed a week later by the New Year. In most…
- Global Survey of Jehovah's Witnesses - 2011
JWSurvey.org is now online. Share your opinions about current teachings of the Watchtower Society. Free, quick, and includes instant results feedback.
- Cult Free Radio Archived at Ex-JW.com
We're pleased to announce that the first six podcasts of Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio are now archived here at Ex-JW.com.
- Watchtower forgets that "Content is King"
Jehovah's Witness meetings and magazines have become too stale to interest anyone who thinks for themselves. The JW's don't understand that "content is King."
- Are changes coming to the Watchtower?
What future circumstances will force the Watchtower Society to modify their current approach to managing their religion, their properties, and their followers?
- An Elder shares his honest opinions
This article should be considered a “come to Jesus moment” for Jehovah's Witnesses. Hopefully, we’ll recognize the errors of our ways, and take a new…
- Opinion: Raising kids as Witnesses
Want your children to spend their lives cleaning the restrooms or polishing floors at Wal-Mart? Then force them to become slaves of the Watchtower Society.
- Are Jehovah's Witnesses a Cult?
A Jehovah's Witness sent me a list of "Ten Signs of a Cult" to prove to me that the Watchtower and Jehovah's Witnesses was not a cult, but a true religion.
- Love and the Watchtower
How can Jehovah's Witnesses claim to be God’s chosen people when they do not follow the most basic of his commandments, namely to "love their neighbors?"
- An open letter to the Governing Body
Governing Body: Act as men of principle. Allow Jehovah's Witnesses the freedom to choose for themselves whether they want to be a part of your organization.
- A Craigslist Cry for Help
Editor's Note: This was an actual ad posted on Craigslist.org in mid-September in New Mexico. I first learned of this ad while browsing the Jehovah's Witness…
- Religion Makes Me Sad
It makes me sad to know that Jehovah’s Witnesses and others believe in a God-delivered Armageddon, looking forward to the brutal murder of billions of people.
- Child Abuse and Jehovah's Witnesses
By Stephanie Hammond If you found out that a man you trusted had molested your child, how would you feel? What would you do? Do you know if there are…
- Sudbury Elders: Reconsider Your Actions
By Rory Sullivan Editor's Introduction: Even though this letter has appeared on other websites by now, Mr. Sullivan was kind enough to let me to…
- Coping with False Prophecy
By Cynthia Hampton For several years I have been honored to coordinate and moderate a Jehovah's Witness support group based in Los Angeles and San Jose,…
- Confronting Misinformation
If former Jehovah's Witnesses read these books, they will be amazed how refreshing and energizing basic science and honest history can be.
- Elder reveals his secret
Dad was entering a new phase in his life as a Jehovah’s Witness. He turned the corner when he told me he'd written an article for an apostate website.
- A letter to the Watchtower
If a near perfect Witness did not accept a teaching of the Watchtower "old light" as true while it was promoted as "new light," would they be disfellowshipped?
- Douglas's Story
Gordon Smith describes his childhood as a Jehovah's Witness in the UK. He left the cult in his early twenties to venture out on his own and find true freedom.
- Discovering the "Truth" - My three years as a JW
Ian Haynes from the UK shares his personal story of how he learned the truth about the Truth during his three years as an active Jehovah's Witness.
- An Interesting Twist in a Child Custody Case
A mother believed that we could help her convince a court that her three children should not be baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses until they were 18 years old.
- 100 Speak Out
Phineas Treptow's documentary will allow former Jehovah's Witnesses to share personal stories about their mistreatment and abuse by the Watchtower Society.
- A personal view of Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's writings can be described as modest and real. His character is in his words and can be seen if you read even one paragraph of either of his books.
- Remembering Raymond Franz
Ray Franz's love for God, justice, and Christian freedom shines brilliantly in his book. Our prayer is that the God he loved so much will remember him always.
- Video Memorial to Ray Franz
A fine video tribute to Ray Franz made by "V" with the help of many people who took the time to record a brief message about what Ray Franz meant to them.
- Conscience and Courage
Starting over at his age (in his late 50s) with basically nothing to his name - except his conscience and ethics - was the most courageous things I've seen.
- A Sad Day
Ray left everything behind, and continued his fight for justice by confronting and uncovering the contradictions of the Watchtower until the end of his life.
- What happens after leaving the JWs?
Leaving the Jehovah's Witnesses is like having the rug pulled out from under you. You have an opportunity to get up, brush yourself off, and start over.
- Dick Kelly on "Six Screens"
Author Richard E. Kelly will be part of a conference call sponsored by "Six Screens of the Watchtower," Saturday evening, September 26, 2009 at 7:00 PM (EST).
- Sick of it!
This is a story of verbal, physical and extreme sexual abuse by her father, an active Jehovah's Witness and elder for much of his life, when she was fifteen.
- EX-JW.com: Update
This website is currently undergoing a major reconstruction and redesign. So many components of the site will change that I will have to do it in small bits…
- JW Crime Story on Discovery ID August 20th
***IMPORTANT MESSAGE*** Airing Wednesday, August 20th in the United States a new documentary produced for television on Identification Discovery (ID)…
- AAWA Releases New anti-Child Abuse Video
The activist group Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) has released a new video to the public that clearly describes the dangers inherent in a…
- "Truth Be Told" coming to Seattle, Portland
Gregorio Smith's documentary, "Truth Be Told," will be shown in the Pacific Northwest on Monday, September 16 in Seattle, Washington, and September 17 in…
- Tragedy in Gresham, Oregon
Whitney Heichel never made it to her job as a barrista at a local Starbucks last Tuesday (October 16). Her husband Clint reported her missing within three…
- Candace Conti Videos Now Online
A set of eleven YouTube videos (soon on Vimeo, as well) about Candace Conti's historic court case are now available. Access and view them by clicking on the…
- 2012 Memorial Protest Planned in UK
On the evening of April 5, 2012 a protest will be held outside the headquarters of the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society of Britain (IBSA). A protest…
- Expanded JW.org, Mini-Mags Announced
The Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has sent out a letter to all congregations worldwide announcing major changes in how it will distribute the…
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall Lawsuit Dismissed
By the Editor A federal judge dismissed the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall lawsuit last week due to filing and jurisdictional issues. On January 6, 2012 the…
- Registration Turned Off - and On
Reader registration on Ex-JW.com has been turned off temporarily.
- Menlo Park scandal on Cult Free Radio
The scandal at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall will be discussed May 28, 2011 (10 PM EDT) on a UStream podcast Cult Free Radio. Guest is the editor of Ex-JW.com.
- An Interesting Twist in a Child Custody Case
A mother believed that we could help her convince a court that her three children should not be baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses until they were 18 years old.
- Takeover in Menlo Park - Part One
A small group of Jehovah's Witnesses, former elders, have filed a lawsuit in federal district court charging Watchtower representatives with "Conspiracy."
- Raymond Franz, RIP
Raymond Franz, author of Crisis of Conscience and In Search of Christian Freedom, died on June 2, 2010 due to the effects of a stroke he suffered on May 30th.
- Ex-JWs Helping Haiti
Pick one of the charities listed and contribute as much as you can or whatever you can afford. Tell your friends and family about this project to help Haiti.
- Lloyd Evans New Book Now Available
Lloyd Evans (AKA "John Cedars") has just announced that his first book is now available on Amazon.com. The original paperback edition of The Reluctant…
- Governing Body Admits Doubts Over New Headquarters Plans
By Cedars The latest August 15th Study Edition of the Watchtower includes a 4-page review from the annual meeting of the Watch Tower, Bible and Tract…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 3
This is the last segment of this series of articles about the Kingdom Hall takeover scandal in Menlo Park, California. Two different court documents form…
- Expanded JW.org, Mini-Mags Announced
The Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has sent out a letter to all congregations worldwide announcing major changes in how it will distribute the…
- Global Survey of Jehovah's Witnesses - 2011
JWSurvey.org is now online. Share your opinions about current teachings of the Watchtower Society. Free, quick, and includes instant results feedback.
- Menlo Park: "The Truth" vs. the truth
The Watchtower continues to use theocratic war strategy in a attempt to prevent courts from discovering the truth about events at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall.
- "Seeds of dissent" against the Governing Body?
Editor's Note: I just received the following news release announcing an attempt to organize an underground movement of Jehovah's Witnesses who want a voice…
- Why Judge Rutherford went to prison
Joseph Rutherford and 7 other board members of the Watchtower Society went to prison in 1918 for "sedition." Were they guilty? A look at The Finished Mystery.
- Watchtower's Pecking Order
The Watchtower is just a corporation that happens to print religious literature. Its structure has various levels, responsibilities, privileges - and stature.
- JW.org: "Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Shun"
The Watchtower Society's website, JW.org, now claims that "Those who were baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses but no longer preach to others, perhaps even…
- Review of "Witness to Murder" TV Documentary
James Kostelniuk, author of Wolves Among Sheep, has written a review of the ID Discovery cable television show about the horrific murder of his ex-wife and…
- AAWA Releases New anti-Child Abuse Video
The activist group Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses (AAWA) has released a new video to the public that clearly describes the dangers inherent in a…
- Child Abuse and Jehovah's Witnesses
By Stephanie Hammond If you found out that a man you trusted had molested your child, how would you feel? What would you do? Do you know if there are…
- Watchtower is at it again: Inheritances and Assets
Contributor: Mario Polgar I am writing this article to share my personal experiences and to disclose to all current and former Jehovah’s Witnesses that…
- The Conti Case - Your Questions Answered
In March 2012 a new series of videos will be released on YouTube and various other websites that will provide answers to many of the common questions about the…
- Watchtower Facing Criminal Charges in Victoria
This time it's Australia. The Watchtower Society is facing another major court case that will be necessary to resolve a Billion (Australian dollars)…
- Norwegian Media Exposes Watchtower Scandals
Beginning in early December, Norwegian newspapers, magazines and television station have decided to take on the powerful Watchtower Society and expose its…
- Tragedy in Gresham, Oregon
Whitney Heichel never made it to her job as a barrista at a local Starbucks last Tuesday (October 16). Her husband Clint reported her missing within three…
- Megan and Candace – Victims of Known Molesters
By Barbara J. Anderson In over 90% of child sexual abuse cases, the abuser is someone the child knows and trusts. Too often, the offenders are known to be…
- Candace Conti Videos Now Online
A set of eleven YouTube videos (soon on Vimeo, as well) about Candace Conti's historic court case are now available. Access and view them by clicking on the…
- Watchtower Reply to Jury Verdict
The Watchtower released an official public statement about the million jury verdict awarded to a former Jehovah's Witness in California. The court found…
- Conti Verdict Explained
There are many questions about the recent jury verdict against the Watchtower Society in California that awarded Ms. Candace Conti million in damages. The…
- Watchtower Embarrassed in Court
On June 14, 2012 an Oakland, California jury took very little time to decide that the Watchtower Society was guilty of failing to protect the children in its…
- "Jehovah's Friend" DVD announced
The Watchtower Society is releasing a four-part DVD called "Become Jehovah's Friend" at the 2012 summer District Conventions. As with many new releases, within…
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall: The State Lawsuit
The Menlo Park Kingdom Hall takeover scandal is like a movie monster that just won't die. Three former elders have filed Court cases in San Francisco…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 3
This is the last segment of this series of articles about the Kingdom Hall takeover scandal in Menlo Park, California. Two different court documents form…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 2
Jason Cobb was one of the four elders serving in the Menlo Park (California) Kingdom Hall dismissed from their "theocratic assignments" effective July 1, 2010.…
- Menlo Park: Elder Tells All - 1
Readers of Ex-Jw.com who have been following this story know that on January 6, 2012 Federal Judge Maria-Elena James dismissed the lawsuit filed by two former…
- 2012 Memorial Protest Planned in UK
On the evening of April 5, 2012 a protest will be held outside the headquarters of the Watchtower Bible & Tract Society of Britain (IBSA). A protest…
- Menlo Park: From Behind the Scenes
By John Steele Disclaimer: This article in no way reflects the views of the parties who run this website, are solely my views and opinions, and as such…
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall Lawsuit Dismissed
By the Editor A federal judge dismissed the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall lawsuit last week due to filing and jurisdictional issues. On January 6, 2012 the…
- Menlo Park: "The Truth" vs. the truth
The Watchtower continues to use theocratic war strategy in a attempt to prevent courts from discovering the truth about events at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall.
- Real Estate Magnates
Donated properties become part of the Watchtower Society's huge real estate portfolios, all tax-free when they are acquired, owned, and sold by the Society.
- Some quick updates
Please note that Mad Sweeney's Cult Free Radio program #7 is now online. It's been added to the Cult Free archive page. #7 was another great program with an…
- Menlo Park: What are they trying to hide?
What reason would there be to keep a Kingdom Hall's bank statements "confidential"? What could be on those statements that the elders don't want anyone to see?
- Another View of a Kingdom Hall Takeover
A second look at the events taking place at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall in California. The strong arguments on both sides will play out in a federal courthouse.
- Takeover: What really happened at Menlo Park?
Read the inside story of the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall takeover. Written by someone close to the plaintiffs in a federal court case, this is an extensive report.
- Menlo Park scandal on Cult Free Radio
The scandal at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall will be discussed May 28, 2011 (10 PM EDT) on a UStream podcast Cult Free Radio. Guest is the editor of Ex-JW.com.
- Menlo Park Kingdom Hall - Updates
Since the previous article about the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall court case, published two weeks ago, I've received some updates and a few corrections.
- Fear and Loathing in Menlo Park
All that is good and bad about the Watchtower Society and Jehovah's Witnesses, is demonstrated by what is going on at the Menlo Park Kingdom Hall.
- Disfellowshipping - who's at fault?
"John Doe is no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses," is repeated some 70,000 times each year in Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Halls worldwide. Why the increase?