Thursday, January 28, 2016

EXPOSÉ: Gerald Flurry's Years in WCG

I would like to thank Black Ops Mikey for inspiring me to make the following post.

***

As noted by experts some leaders of authoritarian religious groups choose to keep their life before leading the group quiet in order to obscure the fact that their lives were fairly ordinary and not particularly remarkable before leading the group. PCG rarely talks about Gerald Flurry's life before he was removed from WCG in December 1989. Let us take a look at what happened with Gerald Flurry before he established PCG.

(Worldwide News, July 30, 1984, p. 4.)

Gerald Ray Flurry was born on April 12, 1935 in Oklahoma. By his own account it was his mother who first got into Armstrongism via HWA's World Tomorrow broadcast in 1957. At first he was uninterested until 1961 when he decided to give it a try and he joined HWA's Radio Church of God and got baptized. By this time he was living in St. Louis.
My mother had been called into the truth in 1957, and from that time until 1961 she tried endlessly to convert me. I rebelled against that and persecuted her for what she was doing. Whenever Herbert Armstrong came on the radio, she would turn up the volume so I could hear him, and that upset me. I was antagonistic against him and his message— that is, until my life had finally become so miserable and hopeless that I would do anything to change it, even if it meant getting interested in “mom’s religion.”

I eventually came into the Church and began to think of Mr. Armstrong as a father. My own father was lacking in many ways—he didn’t know how to teach me; no one had taught him. But I saw that Mr. Armstrong was very stable. Following him helped me stabilize my life and become stronger. (Gerald Flurry, Royal Vision, July-August 2000, p. 9.)
In a recent PCG article it was mentioned that Gerald Flurry applied to enter Ambassador College at one point but his application was rejected. It is quite vague so at present it is not possible to know precisely when this application occurred.
Mr. Flurry shared that his first Ambassador College application was rejected. He assumed he needed to move on, so he married and continued to live in the St. Louis, Missouri, area, attending the Worldwide Church of God. (Phillip Nice and Grant Turgeon, Graduates, "Faculty Attend First Herbert W. Armstrong College Reunion," January 8, 2016.)
(Grant Turgeon is Gerald Flurry's grandson.)

From 1964 to 1966 Gerald Flurry worked as a regional reporter and later a regional editor for Church of God News. It should be noted that the site looked at only has issues of Church of God News published from 1962 till 1966.

Gerald Flurry wrote an article entitled "Mr. Baird Returns" for the September 1964 issue of Church of God News. (pp. 1-2.)
"Around the World in 80 Days" could almost be Mr. Hal Bird's theme song after returning from a nation-wide baptizing tour this summer. Mr. Baird returned to St. Louis August 28 after an 80-day whirlwind tour covering 40% of the states in the U.S.A. and half the provinces of Canada!

In addition to driving 14,000 miles, Mr. Baird and Mr. Prumer also flew approximately 1,200 miles. This combined mileage amounts to more than half the distance around the earth! That's where the "almost" came in -- the "Around the World in 80 Days" theme.

Sabbath, August 29, Mr. Baird's sermon dwelt mainly with the more interesting and profitable highlights of his tour. Mr. Baird and Mr. Pruner baptized 40.8% of those who were met!

After having covered so much territory, there was one thing in particular that impressed Mr. Baird concerning our nation. He said that the physical pollution of our streams and rivers is very extant throughout the country, whereas 25 years ago [c. 1939] such conditions did not exist. Factory and industrial wastes, raw sewage, and pollutions of every type are being dumped in to our rivers and are in evidence everywhere. This just another sign of the times.

We are all very happy to have Mr. Baird back with us again and certainly appreciate the golden opportunities we have in a local church area especially after hearing of those who are not so fortunate.

Remember, if you are ever inclined to give Mr. Baird a stereo album--he especially like, "Almost Around the World in 80 Days." (pp. 1-2.)
In the October 1964 issue of Church of God News it is mentioned that Gerald Flurry is credited as the regional reporter for St. Louis. (p. 2.)

Gerald Flurry is credited as one of four "regional editors" for the Church of God News in the October-November 1965 and April-May 1966 issues as well as may be seen on page 2 of those issues.

In 1967 Gerald Flurry was accepted for Ambassador College.
Chancellor Flurry spoke for 30 minutes about his personal experiences, centering on his time at Ambassador between his acceptance in 1967 and his graduation in 1970. ... But then the door to attend Ambassador College as a married student opened at the last minute. Mr. Flurry said he was accepted on a Friday and he and his wife, Barbara, left for Pasadena, California, less than three days later. (Phillip Nice and Grant Turgeon, "Graduates, Faculty Attend First Herbert W. Armstrong College Reunion," January 8, 2016.)
Gerald Flurry graduated in 1970. He was well on his way to becoming a minister for WCG.

The April 30, 1973 issue of Worldwide News lists Flurry as a local elder.
Local Elders (in our employ) .... Gerald R. Flurry. Norwalk-Santa Ana, Calif; (p. 20.)
The November 26, 1973 issue of Worldwide News also lists Flurry as a local elder. 
Local Elders (in our employ) .... Gerald R. Flurry. Norwalk-Santa Ana, Calif; (p. 14.)
The May 26, 1975 issue of Worldwide News lists Flurry as a preaching elder in Norwalk, California. (p. 2.)

Later in 1975 Flurry was transferred to Pasco, Washington. He would remain there as minister for WCG until 1985.

The March 15, 1976 issue of Worldwide News mentions a Spokesman Club meeting in Richland, Washington.
PASCO, Wash. - An inn in Richland, Wash., was the gathering place for the first Spokesman Club ladies' night of the season here the evening of Feb. 7. Jerry Ribail, president, welcomed the 19 regulars and 22 guests to a dinner of roast turkey. Toastmaster was Joe Daniels, and topicmaster was Richard Green . Guests came from as far as Spokane, Wash. (160 miles), outdistancing the participants themselves, who are from such places as Walla Walla, Moses Lake and Yakima, Wash., and Pilot Rock, Ore. Trophies were won by Jack Elder, Kelly Gangnath and Charles Lenhart. Gerald Flurry, director and minister, made the awards. (p. 13.)
(Right below that article is another little article describing a gathering of "nonwhite" South African members of WCG. At the time South Africa was severely segregated under the Apartheid regime. Shamefully PCG has continuously chosen to sympathize with the Apartheid regime to this day.)

The August 2, 1976 issue of Worldwide News mentions a celebration of the bicentennial in 1976 with a camping trip at Pendleton, Oregon.
PASCO, Wash. - The church here celebrated the bicentennial July 3, 4 and 5 with a three-day camp-out at Westminster Woods, in the Blue Mountains 25 miles east of Pendleton, Ore. ... Afternoon services were attended by 89 people, conducted by pastor Gerald Flurry in the outdoor amphitheater under blue skies and majestic pines. (p. 14.)
The September 23, 1976 issue of Worldwide News mentions a marriage officiated by Flurry. (p. 10.)

The April 25, 1977 issue of Worldwide News contains the following anecdote.
Minister Gerald Flurry had the misfortune of pushing down the button on a spray can that was pointed in the wrong direction. (p. 12.)
The May 9, 1977 issue of Worldwide News discussed an AICF seminar that was promoted by Gerald Flurry and Dennis Leap.
PASCO, Wash. - Art Mokarow, director of the AICF Extension Center, held an all-day session with two seminars here April 10, with about 150 attending. The first was "Talent and Skill Development" and dealt with choosing a career and finding ways to discover and develop one's talents. The second seminar, "Achieving Marital Compatability," gave insight into the formula for a more successful marriage relationship. For several weeks prior to the seminars, Gerald Flurry, pastor here, and Dennis Leap, librarian for Umatilla County Library and AICF representative, spoke at Rotary, Kiwanis and other service clubs about the seminars. (p. 8.)
Umatilla County is in Oregon. Could it be that it was during the preparations for this event that Gerald Flurry and Dennis Leap first met? If so this would prove to have been a fateful encounter. Leap would later become one of Flurry's main collaborators in establishing PCG. Several early booklets are credited as being co-written by him.

The May 1, 1978 issue of Pastor's Report lists a new church in Quincy, Washington that was under Gerald Flurry. (p. 2.)

The May 8, 1978 issue of Worldwide News mentions that a new congregation was established in Quincy, Washington with Flurry as pastor. (p. 1.)

The February 8, 1980 issue of Pastor General's Report contains the following brief report from Flurry.
Gerald Flurry, Tonasket, WA: "Strong little Church with good spirit."

Gerald Flurry, Pasco, WA: "Overall, people are in a good spirit--excited about the Work. Some growth." (p. 7.)
The June 2, 1980 issue of Worldwide News mentions that Gerald Flurry got caught up in the traffic disruption caused by the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980. Note that it is not Flurry who speaks in this article.
Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Pasco, Wash., church 145 miles due east of the mountain, and of the Yakima and Quincy churches, which are closer and in the direct path of the cloud of ash, was visiting in northern Washington Sunday. He was stranded in Ephrata, near Quincy, when the highway patrol closed all roads to travel. Mr. Flurry stayed there with local elder Irvin Hardman until Tuesday when highways were clear enough for some traffic, but Mr. Hardman said driving conditions are still dangerous.
"The dust is like driving into flour," he said. "You go about 20 miles before your air filter is filled up." (p. 1.)
The July 25, 1980 issue of the Pastor General's Report contains the following "special letter of appreciation" from Gerald Flurry and his wife.
We can't ever remember foundational knowledge having such an impact on our lives. Our hands are almost paralyzed from writing! It seems to us that the ministry is more unified and teachable than we have been for years. And the greatest Teacher of all is truly teaching as never before. We thank God and Mr. Armstrong for making it all possible. Gerald and Barbara Flurry (p. 6.)
Flurry had no idea that anything like the Tkach changes would occur just a few years later.

The November 14, 1980 issue of the Pastor General's Report contains the following letter from a lay member affirming loyalty to the local ministry. In this instance the praise is directed towards Gerald Flurry.
Thank the Eternal God who gave our small church here in Quincy a man like Mr. Gerald Flurry to be a minister over us. He is a very loyal man to the Church and with his love has helped us all. We are so blessed to have him here with us. (p. 22.)
The January 26, 1981 issue of Worldwide News mentions a family night held on December 27, 1980.
The TONASKET, Wash., church had a family night Dec. 27. following services and a potluck dinner, the activities began and included games for those of YES age, a discussion by minister Gerald Flurry with the YOU and dancing for every age, led by minister Eldon Davis and his wife. (p. 4.)
The May 18, 1981 issue of Worldwide News contains a story about a WCG member who said that her son was miraculously healed. Flurry is mentioned in the report.
"During her contractions, the baby's heart would stop," said Gerald R. Flurry, pastor of the Pasco, Wash., church. ... [After the mother was told her new born baby was severely disabled she called Flurry to pray for her new born baby.]

After being called, Mr. Flurry contacted several other Church members and asked them to pray also. As [the mother] learned later, [the new born son] began breathing on his own almost immediately after the prayer request and was taken off an artificial respirator. ... 
"Now whenever the nurses talk about the ... baby, they refer to [the new born son] as the 'miracle baby,'" said Mr. Flurry. (p. 5.)
HWA and some of his imitators taught anti-medicine superstitions to their followers that caused many of his followers to neglect their health. Some even died because of this doctrine of death. Shamefully to this day Gerald Flurry continues to promote HWA's deadly anti-medicine superstition. He is fully aware that those indoctrinated to neglect their health can very well die because of such neglect as may be seen in these words printed in a 2004 booklet of his.
This is REAL, ABUNDANT LIVINGEVEN IF WE ARE DYING PHYSICALLY! Over the years in my ministry, I have seen a few people physically rot right before my eyes and yet remain loyal to God every step of the way to the end! Though it must be one of the most grotesque sights to see, at the same time it is one of the MOST MAJESTICALLY NOBLE examples ever on Earth, from God’s point of view! If someone is being loyal in circumstances like that, he or she is BEARING WITNESS OF THE FATHER! What a precious, extraordinary beauty that is! I know I will see those people again, and they will live FOREVER AND EVER! When resurrected, they won’t remember that trial for very long. They will have ETERNAL LIFE!
 
Are you prepared to trust God to heal you, now or in the resurrection? Well done, good and faithful servant, He will say if we trust Him to the end. (Gerald Flurry, The Last Hour, 2004, 2007, Chapter 5, p. 54.)
Could it be possible that this happy incident encouraged him to promote this dangerous superstition? That would be terrible. This dangerous anti-medicine superstition must be strongly opposed.

The August 21, 1981 issue of the Pastor General's Report contains this "comment from monthly church reports".
TONASKET, WA--GERALD R. FLURRY: This area seems to be getting more interested people. We're working with close to half a dozen new people! Some in this area are focused on personal survival. We're working to balance them out while helping them to focus on God! (p. 11.)
The January 18, 1982 issue of Worldwide News mentions a celebration of the five year anniversary of the Yakima congregation. (If it is good to celebrate a congregation's anniversary why is it wrong to celebrate the anniversary of your children's birth?)
A dinner marked the fifth anniversary celebration of the YAKIMA. Wash., church Nov. 14. Pastor Gerald Flurry pointed out a number of "firsts" in the church: first birth ... first baptisms ... first marriage ... first Ambassador student ... and the first outhouse blown down in the wind.... Don Talbot gave a historical five-year review of the church. The children's choir ... and children's games rounded out the program. A photo album-scrapbook provided memories for all to share. (p. 8.)
The February 15, 1982 issue of Worldwide News features this report of a celebration of the Pasco congregation's ten year anniversary. Notably the report was written by Dennis Leap who would be one of Flurry's early collaborators in establishing PCG. (If it is good to celebrate a congregation's anniversary why is it wrong to celebrate the anniversary of your children's birth?)
The PASCO, Wash., church's 10th anniversary was celebrated Jan. 20 with an elegant dinner prepared by deacon Jim Cobb. The gratis, sit-down meal consisted of salad, roast beef, baked potatoes, vegetables and apple pie and ice cream. The dinner was served by formally dressed YOU members. Minister Ed Oettel gave a short pictorial history of church events and socials, and pastor Gerald Flurry thanked everyone for his serving attitude, dedication and loyalty. Paul Heisler directed a musical presentation that featured piano and vocal solos and the church chorale. Dennis R. Leap. (p. 8.)
The April 26, 1982 issue of Worldwide News contains the following report.
A family weekend took place in SPOKANE. Wash., March 19 to 21 for eastern Washington, northern Idaho and western Montana members. Sabbath services were oriented to the family with the sermonette by Pasco. Wash., pastor Gerald Flurry and the sermon by pastor Roger Foster, who also conducted a Friday night Bible study. A dinner and dance that evening took place at the Masonic Temple. The YOU served the meal, which was prepared in advance by the women of the church. Sunday, families took part in the events at the Mead High School gym and field house. There were games, races and tournaments for all ages to enjoy. A high point was a basketball game with dads and young children. The YOU cheerleaders displayed their routines, and the boys their basketball skills. (pp. 8-9.)
The July 5, 1982 issue of Worldwide News contains an article discussing the recession. The article briefly mentions Flurry.
Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Pasco, Quincy, Tonasket and Yakima, Wash., churches, remarked that unemployment in the Tonasket area is above 20 percent, "but it's not quite that high in the church." (p. 8.)
The July 11, 1983 issue of Worldwide News contains an obituary mentioning that Flurry conducted a funeral. (p. 10.)

(This issue contains an article by a WCG writer visiting Syria. No mention is made of the insurgency that ended with such bloodshed in Hama just one year earlier with about 20,000 people killed off in a government crackdown. A generation later the government showed it learned nothing from it and provoked a popular uprising that some extremists like ISIL have since hijacked. The struggle continues.)

The October 24, 1983 issue of Worldwide News mentions that Gerald Flurry gave a sermon during the Feast of Tabernacles at Spokane, Washington.
Gerald Flurry asked how real the coming Kingdom is to brethren.... (p. 5.)
The February 27, 1984 issue of Worldwide News mentions a fund raising inventory that was made on the evening of January 14, 1984.
After the Sabbath Jan. 14, 112 Church and YOU members from PASCO and TONASKET, Wash., combined for a fund-raising inventory at the Bon Marche department store. Under the direction of Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Pasco, Quincy, Tonasket and Yakima, Wash., churches, the churches have conducted inventories to raise funds since 1978. The original contact with store officials was made by Patty Sexton, wife of Rex Sexton, a local elder in the Tonasket church. During the inventory 10 to 20 members assigned to each department in the store work under the supervision of department managers. ... Part of the money earned from the Bon Marche inventory will be sent to Pasadena, and the rest will help finance annual formal dances. "I believe the opportunity for direct service and working and cooperating between brethren is valuable experience for the future," said Mr. Flurry. "I believe we'll be doing a lot of this in the future." (p. 8.)
The July 30, 1984 issue of Worldwide News features a photo of Gerald and Barbara Flurry after they had completed a "ministerial refreshing program" that was held July 11-24, 1984. The caption reads as follows.
Gerald & Barbara Flurry
Church pastor
Pasco, Quincy, Tonasket and Yakima, Wash. (p. 4.)
The August 3, 1984 issue of the Pastor General's Report contains the following "comment from monthly church reports".
PASCO, WA--GERALD FLURRY: God is allowing His people to be tested. Most are responding extremely well. Some have had very difficult trials, but the end result has produced miraculous changes. The people involved are seeing that nothing short of what God allowed would have brought about the wonderful changes.
The November 12, 1984 issue of Worldwide News made the following report about the Feast of Tabernacles observed in Spokane, Washington.
SPOKANE, Wash. - The family that God is building forever was the theme of sermons at the Feast here where 2,816 attended. How to strengthen members' families tied in with the overall theme. Sermon topics included Christian leadership, the members' calling to be kings, judges and priests, and the Great White Throne Judgment by evangelist Richard Ames; ... the Eternal's Feast of Tabernacles by Gerald Flurry.... (p. 5.)
The March 8, 1985 issue of the Pastor General's Report contains the following announcement of Dennis Leap's ordination as a local church elder. Dennis Leap was one of Flurry's early supporters in establishing PCG. He even co-wrote several of PCG's early booklets.
Recent Ordinations

On the Sabbath, December 1, 1984, Mr. Dennis Leap was ordained a local church elder by Mr. Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Pasco, Washington congregation. Mr. Leap, who recently moved to New York, now serves in the Buffalo (South), New York church. (p. 3.)
The May 10, 1985 issue of the Pastor General's Report announces Gerald Flurry's transfer from Pasco, Washington to Oklahoma City. Flurry was replaced by Harold Smith. (p. 4.)

And so it came to pass that in 1985 Gerald Flurry had been transferred to Oklahoma City.

On January 16, 1986 HWA died and was succeeded by Joseph Tkach Sr. Tkach would later lead the Tkach changes in which most of HWA's teachings would be renounced by the organization.

The February 24, 1986 issue of Worldwide News mentions that Flurry officiated at a funeral. (p. 11.) 

The May 19, 1986 issue of Worldwide News mentions Flurry twice.

First a singles evening is mentioned.
OKLAHOMA CITY. Okla., singles built an evening around an old-fashioned box social March 29. Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Oklahoma City and Enid, Okla. churches, and Charles Holladay, associate pastor, auctioned prepared and decorated box dinners to the highest bidders.

After the meal singles viewed baby pictures of each other and tried to identify them. [Name] guessed all correctly. Mr. Flurry read facts about each single and invited the others to guess whom he described. [Name] and [Name] were winners of a card-game mixer. The auction covered the cost of the activity and added to the church activity fund. (p. 8.)
Secondly a near miss avoiding a tornado on May 8, 1986 is mentioned.
EDMOND, Okla. - A tornado cut a two-mile strip of destruction May 8 two blocks north and 1 [and a half] blocks west of the home of Gerald and Barbara Flurry. Mr. Flurry pastors the Enid and Oklahoma City, Okla. churches. The Flurrys left for a Bible study about 35 minutes before the tornado touched down. "We didn't know it had happened until after Bible study," said Mr. Flurry, "and then we couldn't get into our home because the area had been scaled off." Although the tornado destroyed 45 homes and damaged 90 others, there were only about 15 minor injuries. Seven or eight Church families live in Edmond, but nbne suffered properly damage or injury, Mr. Flurry said. "We were the closest," he said, "and yet at our house it hardly looked like there was a storm. A little of the fence was knocked down by the wind, but that's it." Mrs. Flurry said the area where the tornado touched down looked like a war zone," like an area that's just been bombed." (p. 12.)
The December 21, 1987 issue of Worldwide News mentions this event that occurred on November 15, 1987.
Forty widows and widowers attended a banquet in their honor at the Midwest City, Okla., Community Center Nov. 15 sponsored by the Oklahoma City, Okla., Church youths. ...

"When you look at the youth of the world, it is different to see our young people serving the seniors and enjoying it. It is proof that we are turning them around as God has told us we should do," said Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Oklahoma City and Enid, Okla., churches. "We were so impressed that we will make it an annual event to serve the Silver Ambassadors. It will also give our youth an opportunity to rehearse for the annual talent contest," he said. (p. 6.)
The May 30, 1988 issue of Worldwide News mentions that Gerald Flurry officiated at a wedding.
The ceremony was performed by Gerald Flurry, pastor of the Oklahoma City and Enid, Okla., churches. (p. 6.)
In December 1989 Gerald Flurry and John Amos were kicked out of WCG. They founded PCG.

The first booklet they published was Malachi's Message. It is widely known that many of the ideas within Malachi's Message were plagiarized from The Letter to Laodicea by Jules Dervaes, written December 1986-January 1988. It was sent to 237 WCG ministers including Gerald Flurry and John Amos. In fact on September 26, 1990 Jules Dervaes sent a letter to Gerald Flurry in which he denounces Malachi's Message as "a direct and clear plagiarism" of his work.

The June 24, 1991 issue of Worldwide News contains a polemic critiquing Malachi's Message as mentioned in a previous post. (p. 4.)

But by then Flurry's bridges with WCG had been well and truly burned. PCG proceeded to exploit the escalating turmoil of the Tkach changes for all they could.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

PCG's Hypocritical Defence of Democracy Against Liberals and Germans

Recently PCG's website has highlighted a 2010 article by Joel Hilliker insinuating that American liberals are pining for dictatorship. He cites Thomas Friedman and Rosie O'Donnell to make this accusation.
Western liberals say America’s system is broken and the government needs more power. Guess who agrees.
Strange trend: Liberals in America pining for authoritarianism.
What's strange is that a man who is in a group that regularly insists on having its members submit themselves to one man rule would defend democracy in such a way. How is PCG not a dictatorship itself? It has one man rule. Members kicked out are disfellowshipped and shunned by PCG members. This is often reported to be so. How is that not a dictatorship?

How many readers of this article will know that PCG regularly insists on practicing one man rule?

Just one denunciation of democracy by PCG's leader, Gerald Flurry, may be seen in this previous post. The following is from Gerald Flurry's 2014 book The Former Prophets. That book appears to have been partly edited by Joel Hilliker.
Ancient Democracy
The overarching point of the book of Judges is repeated for emphasis: “In those days there was no king in Israel: EVERY MAN DID THAT WHICH WAS RIGHT IN HIS OWN EYES” (Judges 21:25). GOD INSPIRED THAT STATEMENT TO BE REPEATED OVER AND OVER. He concludes the book with it.

This was the kind of “government” Israel descended into after Joshua died. After a certain point, nobody really cared what the leaders were doing. Everyone just did his own thing. Sound familiar?

Remember, THIS IS A BOOK OF PROPHECY. You can find Israel on Earth today by understanding this verse! What nations are passionately into democracy? America, Britain, the Jewish state and most of the democracies in northwestern Europe.

This is exactly the state of affairs in the modern nations of Israel! Everybody wants to do it their own way—whatever is right in their own eyes. THAT IS PROPHECY FOR RIGHT NOW IN THE NATIONS OF ISRAEL! People talk so much about freedom—but the freedom they cherish is really just the freedom to wreck their lives! They are plagued by wretched sins; they hate law and government. Who can lead these people into anything constructive or profitable?

This history vividly shows the terrible results of that kind of lawlessness. When God’s government isn’t in place, when His law is being ignored—when everyone is doing whatever is right in his own eyes—you have miserable anarchy.

These modern nations of biblical Israel are about to become the bloodiest nations ever because they reject God’s rule! EVERYBODY TODAY WANTS TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT IN HIS OWN EYES. THE BOOK OF JUDGES PROPHESIES THE TERRIFYING OUTCOME OF SUCH A DEMOCRACY!

This is always the fate of Israel without a strong Moses or Joshua to lead the people to God. Satan knows how to exploit the many weaknesses of a democracy to bring it down.

Even though democracy is probably the best government man has created, it is always destined to fail. (Gerald Flurry, The Former Prophets: How to Become a King, Chapter 3, pp. 51-52.)
But Hilliker is not finished yet. He then insinuates that "German elites" are plotting to impose some sort of authoritarian regime upon Europe.
Guess who’s listening—and agreeing? German elites. ...

They sound a lot like Thomas Friedman: Democracy has them frustrated, for several reasons. Its inertia. Its sluggishness. Its susceptibility to corruption by special interest groups. ...

It’s one thing to hear a self-impressed reporter making an eyebrow-raising talking point on a Sunday morning news program. It’s quite another to get a glimpse, via a prestigious German-language policy journal, at what German industrialists and foreign-policy specialists are whispering “out of earshot of the public.” Particularly given German and European history, which has been a repetitious cycle of weak and failed administrations giving way to the rule of dictators. And the fact that Germany now languishes under a weak and failed administration. 
Recently I read this fascinating book analyzing racism, namely Racism: A Critical Analysis by Mike Cole. I don't necessarily agree everything in that book but one thought that struck me was that he noted that there are different kinds of racism. There is color coded racism such as that directed against Native Americans, African Americans, Chinese, Japanese, etc. And there is also non-color coded racism such as that directed against Jews, Russians, Eastern Europeans, etc.

PCG's demonization of Germans and fear mongering of "German elites" in this article seem to be a form of non-color coded racism against Germans.

Hilliker states that throughout history elites have viewed the common people with contempt and disdain.
Now in response—no surprise—we see intellectuals criticizing the notion that the only legitimate government is a popularly elected government. This is hardly a new criticism: Throughout history the elite have tended to sneer at the idea that government should be entrusted to the stupid and mediocre masses.
So Hilliker condemns "the elite" for looking at the common people with contempt. But how is that any different from PCG's condemnation of any move away from "one-man rule"?

When Roderick Meredith started up the Global Church of God in 1992 and quickly became the largest COG splinter group Gerald Flurry responded to that by writing a booklet that insisted that only one man rule was permissible within the true church, namely PCG.

Regardless of whether PCG's leaders feel contempt to the lay members or not advocating for one man rule inherently renders the members powerless and leave them vulnerable to exploitation. Those rendered powerless are easy prey for any who wish to exploit the situation.

Also PCG has no "popularly elected government" for themselves. They have one man rule under Gerald Flurry. It is asserted by PCG that God's favor is on PCG alone and that Malachi's Message (which is widely believed to have been plagiarized) is proof of this divine favor.

Hilliker then asserts that Germans are predisposed to authoritarian rule
Well, it would be unknown—that is, without the testimony of history. Germany’s present period of democracy is a historical anomaly. Germans—and not just the elites—have always preferred a strongman government. Democracy has always been imposed from outside. And it has always collapsed and been subsumed by a reversion to totalitarianism.
So Hilliker is not just vilifying German elites he is vilifying Germans as a whole as yearning for dictatorship. How is it not racist to single out an entire people in such a way?

We must be careful to assign responsibility correctly. We need to view people as they are instead of imposing simple stereotypes upon them.

Never mind that West Germany have consistently had a democratic government for about 70 years by now. Ignore all that this article asks of us. Just believe that Germans want "a strongman government" like Hitler even after 70 years. That is what this article asks of the reader.

How the Nazi regime established itself in Germany and later plunged the world into genocide and catastrophe is a complicated topic that is too vast for this post. But it was not just because "Germans ... have always preferred a strongman government." That is very misleading and simplistic. If they did actual research on this topic instead of being blinded by their dogmas and HWA's scare mongering against Germans they would know that.

We must be careful to distinguish between the guilty and the innocent. 
As the Trumpet has repeatedly written, biblical prophecy is clear that Germany will rise one last time, in our day, to draw the world into global war—under the robust leadership of a strongman. That private yearning for “a flirt with dictatorship” is about to become very public; and as Revelation 17:1-2 show, those elites will get more than a flirt with it.
PCG does not promote "biblical prophecy". It is PCG's prophecy, an offshoot of HWA's prophecies. And those prophecies have constantly failed as will this one. PCG are but false prophets.

Impoverished Holocaust Survivors in Israel

How very sad. It is terrible to imagine that people who had suffered so much in their younger days should happen to be living in such distress now.
Tens of thousands of Israeli Holocaust survivors are living in abject poverty

As the world marks Holocaust Memorial Day, a generation whose childhood was taken by the Nazis is spending its final years struggling with hunger, cold and homelessness....

As the world marks International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Wednesday, we will see haunting black-and-white images of children caught up in Hitler’s industrialised slaughter.
Many of those children are now in their late eighties, struggling with ill health and trying to survive on meagre pensions and small compensation payments still made to survivors of the Holocaust.
A survey in 2015 found that of the roughly 189,000 Holocaust survivors living in Israel, about 45,000 are in poverty. In the two other major population centers for survivors - New York City and the countries of the former Soviet Union - the rates of destitution are even worse.(Daily Telegraph, January 27, 2016.)

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

The COGs and Netanyahu's "Mouthpiece" Israel Hayom

Israel Hayom is a right wing Israeli newspaper heavily funded by Las Vegas casino mogul, Sheldon Adelson. Currently it is the most popular newspaper in Israel not least because it happens to be given away for free.

Back on August 30, 2015 it was mentioned in a previous post that an article in Haaretz that described the newspaper Israel Hayom as serving as Netanyahu's mouthpiece.
We can assume that in the coming days we’ll see much more of Netanyahu and the blue pen in that photo. His spokesmen will tell us how busy he is making last-minute changes. His mouthpiece, the newspaper Israel Hayom, will probably trumpet this address for the umpteenth time as “the speech of his life.” (March 1, 2015.) 
Here's more evidence that Israel Hayom is widely perceived to a partisan supporter for Netanyahu. This time it is from The Times of Israel.
To get the other side of the story, one must only look at Netanyahu-friendly Israel Hayom. Its front page quotes a source in Netanyahu’s office: “It’s essential that the prime minister speaks to prevent a bad deal” on Iranian nukes. The source says that Israel’s security concerns trump the elections. “The speech is to Congress is a speech about diplomacy and security only,” the source said.  (The Times of Israel, January 25, 2015. )
Adelson, the largest donor to Republican causes in the US in 2012, is considered to be Netanyahu’s close ally and patron. He owns the Israel Hayom free daily newspaper, known for its support of Netanyahu. (The Times of Israel, February 6, 2015.)
In the Netanyahu-friendly Israel Hayom daily, Obama’s much longed-after phone call is mentioned in passing, and the paper notes that officials in Washington have indicated that the White House is considering a “reevaluation” of its relations with Israel, due to Netanyahu’s rejection of a Palestinian state ahead of the general elections. (The Times of Israel, March 20, 2015.)
During her interrogation, Sara denied all charges, Israel Hayom, the Bibi-loving tabloid, reports, employing its beloved technique of putting headlines in quotation marks, despite no one actually saying them in the article. (The Times of Israel, January 1, 2016.)

Israel Hayom, oft considered a blindly pro-Bibi publication, buries Netanyahu’s victory deep in the paper, leaving front page room for a local story about an Israeli grocery chain, Mega, that stands to close and put some 3,500 people out of work. (The Times of Israel, January 14, 2016.)
The COGs at present seem rather uninterested with Israel Hayom. But they never appear to have bothered to mention to their readers the political leanings of this newspaper.

PCG has quoted Israel Hayom eight times in their articles. UCG, LCG and RCG have quoted from Israel Hayom once each so far.

Let's see what they say when they quote from Israel Hayom.

PCG Quoting Israel Hayom

So far PCG have quoted Israel Hayom eight times in their articles. This use of Israel Hayom by PCG's writers possibly reflects PCG's involvement with the archaeological digs in Jerusalem.
At Israel Hayom, another columnist wrote: “The difficulties that Morsi faces will emerge gradually. When he finds it hard to bridge the gap between Egypt’s political and economic interests and the disappointment of the masses, he may be forced to take populist measures. And in the Middle East this usually means inciting against Israel .… It is easy to envisage Morsi emulating the Islamic Republic [of Iran].”  (Stephen Flurry, Egypt is Lost, June 29, 2012.)

Even still, there’s a huge risk in accepting a last-minute, nuclear threshold strategy, as Gold points out. “If all that is left to complete an operational nuclear weapon is a few more weeks of work, then letting Iran reach a threshold capacity is very dangerous for obvious reasons: When nuclear breakout occurs, Iran can quickly build a substantial nuclear arsenal,” he wrote (Israel Hayom, August 31). (Stephen Flurry, After America, Where Will Israel Go for Help?, September 3, 2012.)

The bottom line, as Israel Hayom’s editor in chief Amir Mizroch wrote on December 9, is that things in the West Bank are changing—and fast! According to Mizroch, the Palestinians have seen what Gaza’s rulers have achieved by standing up to Israel and now they want change too. (Stephen Flurry, Hamas Sets Its Sights on the West Bank, December 23, 2012.)

An article titled “A Quiet Intifada in Jerusalem” claims it’s been taking place for a few months now. “It’s quiet,” the article says, “because the media isn’t telling you about it.”
“There have been thousands of incidents of attacks on Jews, with rocks thrown, fireworks show as weapons (the newest thing), and Molotov cocktails hurled at Jews where the east and west of the city meet, as well as dozens of cases of frustrated Jews attacking Arabs. Not to mention isolated cases of shootings spattered throughout the city reported on the back pages of newspapers,” Nadav Shragai wrote in Israel Hayom (September 3). (Daryle Hochstetler, A Third Intifada in Jerusalem—Happening Now?, November 10, 2014.)

The attackers were reportedly affiliated with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, according to Israel Hayom, although no terrorist group has claimed the attack. (Brent Nagtegaal, Four Jews Savagely Murdered in Jerusalem Synagogue Attack, November 18, 2014.)

“In moments like these, facing a terrorist, you act mainly by intuition and do what anyone would be expected to do—take out the terrorist,” wrote the mayor in Israel Hayom on Monday. Later, he wrote, “Anyone who tries to attack us will pay dearly. You can’t hesitate in the face of terrorism.” (Brent Nagtegaal, Mayor of Jerusalem Takes Down Terrorist, February 25, 2015.)

According to Israel Hayom, “Herzog, who now vows to protect Jerusalem’s ‘strength,’ made it clear after he was elected as Labor chairman (in an interview with Yedioth Ahronoth) that he sees Jerusalem serving as two political capitals—the capital of the Jewish state on its west, and the capital of the Palestinian state on its east.”  (Brent Nagtegaal, Netanyahu Wins Israeli Election, March 17, 2015.)

Yedioth Ahronoth’s headline said, “Jerusalem: Soldiers to Guard Buses.” Israel Hayom said, “Army to enter cities.” Haaretz’s main headline said the Israeli “Cabinet Is Considering Cutting Off East Jerusalem.”
These are the early stages of the division of Jerusalem—the once united capital of Israel.
Another Israel Hayom article said, “As terrorism mounts, Israelis take security into their own hands.” It noted a sharp increase in Israeli civilians purchasing pepper sprays, stun guns and clubs to protect themselves. Jewish citizens are enrolling in classes where they can learn to fight like the Israeli military.  (Stephen Flurry, How the Jerusalem Awakening Is Prophesied to End, October 16, 2015.)
PCG has also cited articles from Israel Hayom in the February 28 and August 15 issues of The Trumpet Weekly as noted in a previous post: Notes from PCG's Trumpet Weekly (2015).

LCG Quoting Israel Hayom

In contrast to PCG the other COGs have only quoted Israel Hayom once in their writings. This is the case with LCG, UCG and RCG alike.
The Vatican has long desired to gain control of Jerusalem and is patiently working towards this end.  Now, “Israel has granted the pope an official seat in the room where the Last Supper is believed to have taken place, on Mount Zion in Jerusalem” (Israel Hayom, January 30, 2013). (Vatican invited to sit on Mount Zion!, February 18, 2013.)

UCG Quoting Israel Hayom
Speaking to the Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom , prominent Harvard legal expert Alan Dershowitz, not one known for conservative views, drew similar comparisons, saying that Barack Obama might go down as another Neville Chamberlain if Iran gets hold of a nuclear weapon. “It would be better to have no deal at all than a bad deal,” he said (Feb. 18, 2015). (Michael Kelley, Are We in a Dangerous Age of Appeasement?, May 1, 2015.)

RCG Quoting Israel Hayom

(Note: Due to reports that RCG's websites adds browser cookies to one's browser when visiting their website causing their advertising to appear while one is elsewhere on the Internet I do not link to this website.)
Another source revealed more about Mr. Netanyahu’s plan: “A day after world powers and Iran reached a comprehensive nuclear agreement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched an international media campaign against the deal, highlighting its flaws. ‘Iran has here two paths to the bomb,’ Netanyahu said in an interview with NBC News on Wednesday. ‘One is if they keep the deal, and the other is if they cheat on the deal. They can cheat on the deal because inspections are not instantaneous, anywhere, anytime, as Foreign Minister of Iran [Mohammad Javad] Zarif said correctly. In fact, you don’t have inspections within 24 hours; you have 24 days before you can inspect any site that you find suspicious in Iran. Twenty-four days. Can you imagine giving a drug dealer 24 days’ notice before you check the premises? That’s a lot of time to flush a lot of meth down the toilet.’ In an address to the Knesset on Wednesday…Netanyahu said he plans to apply pressure on the U.S. Congress to thwart the implementation of the deal” (Israel Hayom). (David C. Pack, World News Report: August 2015, August 13, 2015.)

So we see that at present the COGs do not seem to be too interested with Israel Hayom, except possibly PCG, but even in that case their use of Israel Hayom seems marginal. Israel Hayom's political leanings are never mentioned by the COGs to their readers.

Monday, January 25, 2016

PCG's Jeremiah Jacques Posts Tweet Mocking Iraqi Refugees

The following is from a man who never saw his homeland get destroyed by war and economic deprivation.


In case it goes missing here is what is written here.
Not warm & sunni enough?

"70% of refugees in Finland abandon asylum claims & return home": http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2016/01/22/Many-Iraqis-abandon-Finnish-asylum-process-to-return-home-.html …
It is dated 8:18 AM, January 25, 2016.

The article linked in this tweet discusses Iraqi refugees applying for asylum in Finland.

Here are the responses to this tweet by Jeremiah Jacques.

The first one is of 14 emoticons of faces with tears of joy.

Here are some others.
S,now benifits maybe.

Perhaps all the Syrian "Refugees" Obama is bringing in should be housed up in Alaska wilderness somewhere?
The article was talking about Iraqi refugees, not Syrians.
shows again all ones leaving,their is no need for them here in these countries
Here's one tweet that confused Finland with Finland. 
If refugees are returning home because Sweden is too cold,could things really have been as bad as they claimed.
Here's a really nasty tweet that stereotypes Middle Eastern people as "Islamists" even though many are not like that at all and insinuates that "they" are out to rape white women.
Maybe the #Islamists ran out of Nordic women to rape.
Accusing outsiders of wanting to rape women has often been used to attack ethnic minorities. Such accusations loosely made like this are very dangerous and inflammatory.
Fins thanking God

They should do that here!

there must be joy in Finland

I'm sure the ppl are thrilled get the f out

Thank God!!!!

Yep the 70% of the 10 counted in this story

How deep's all the white global warming that fell? It could be the one elixir that keeps 'em from staying. If only..

great, maybe the weather could save us from are traitor politicians social experiment.
This mean spirited tweet and the responses to it provides further evidence of PCG's xenophobia of non-white persos migrating to the United States.

Armstrongism mainly caters for whites partly due to their false dogma of British Israelism. If there is no white majority in the United States it will be harder for PCG to use British Israelism to gain more recruits.

PCG Insists HWAC's Lack of Accreditation Not Important

PCG's Herbert W. Armstrong College is unaccredited. Some within PCG realize that it would be better to seek a degree that is actually accredited.

PCG's 1% are not pleased at this perfectly reasonable response to PCG's neglect in gaining accreditation after all this time.
Another excuse young people use in not applying to AC is that it is unaccredited. While true, in the grand scheme of things this fact means very little. Armstrong College students are able to put their practical job training to use in the real world immediately after graduation. Don’t let the accreditation factor keep you from applying to AC. (Michael Cocomise, Why Attend Armstrong College?, January 21, 2015.)
That is not an "excuse". Those who want to study at College deserve to work for a degree that will actually be recognized by potential employers rather than risking it all for a degree no one recognizes except PCG.

Israeli Pundit Insinuates Swedish Foreign Minister Deserves to be Assassinated

Recently Israel has waded into an argument with the Swedish Foreign Minister. And in the latest twist of this spat an Israeli pundit insinuated that she deserved to be assassinated.

The article was in Hebrew but thankfully it has been analyzed here.

Of course it is wrong to say something like this. Life is precious. We must use free speech responsibly and not insinuate that one deserves to die like this.

13 Year Old Palestinian Girl Shot to Death Outside Anatot Settlement

The latest ghastly tragedy in the current round of violence afflicting the Holy Land. A 13 year old Palestinian girl was shot to death after apparently approaching a security guard outside the settlement of Anatot.


But there's more. Turns out there was a really nasty attack by some of the settlers of Anatot against a protest of left wing activists in Anatot back in 2011. Some of the settlers who attacked these protesters work for the police. Here are some of the testimonies about what sounds like quite a nasty attack against protesters.

Senior Israeli Police Officer Brutally Assaulted Activists in Anatot Pogrom, October 2, 2011.

The Ugly Face of Occupation, October 3, 2011.

The Anatot mob attacks: a watershed moment for Israeli democracy, October 5, 2011.

And here's the really bad one: Link, October 5, 2011.

Trying to Make Sense, October 6, 2011.

It was believed among the protesters that the case would never be properly investigated because many of those settlers are in the police.

Islamophobia Studies Journal

Turns out there is an Islamophobia Studies Journal out and about.

Here are the issues.

Volume 1, Issue 1

Volume 2, Issue 1

Volume 2, Issue 2

Volume 3, Issue 1

Naftali Bennett Says Anti-Semitism in Europe Today is "Unprecedented"

Not so long ago a certain dictatorial regime led by one Adolf Hitler launched a campaign of genocide against the Jews murdering about six million innocent people just because they were Jews. The Nazis even blamed the victims for it.

But despite that ghastly genocide still in living memory according to Israel's Education Minister Naftali Bennett today Jews in Europe are enduring an "unprecedented" level of anti-Semitism.
Diaspora Affairs Minister Naftali Bennett painted a dark picture of Jewish life in Europe on Sunday, telling the cabinet anti-Semitism on the Continent has reached an “unprecedented” level.

The minister briefs the government on such trends every year immediately prior to International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which falls on Wednesday, January 27. ('European anti-Semitism has reached unprecedented levels', The Jerusalem Post, January 24, 2016.)
Naturally some will not be impressed with such talk.





Let us be careful with our words to avoid offense.

Saturday, January 23, 2016

Letters to PCG's Philadelphia Trumpet (2013-4)

This is the 1500th post for the Living Armstrongism blog. Thank you to all readers for inspiring me to continue this blog.

***

Continuing from previous posts (1998-2010 and 2010-2013) let us continue taking a look at the letters published in PCG's recruitment magazine, The Philadelphia Trumpet.

September 2013

Here's one letter praising PCG for saying Satan is using President Obama as a tool to destroy the United States.
With all of these scandals raging it’s easy to become worried and even angry.... The comment about an evil spirit working to destroy the nation really puts things into perspective. I’m sure that there are many people that will just laugh at that. Thank you for stripping away the whitewash, Mr. Flurry, and for providing the perspective that no one else in the world is.
Here's one letter from a person who thinks that Constitution is somehow gone.
As a kid I didn’t really appreciate the Constitution the way I should have. Now it doesn’t exist anymore, and we are about to learn a priceless lesson for all time as to why it matters so much. 
I advice this person not to give in to despair. Perhaps this person should get involved in politics. Stand up for what you believe in.

Here's one letter comparing a former aide for President Obama with the Nazis. What a way to demonize a Presidential Administration one does not like.
Never let a crisis go to waste—isn’t that the same mindset of Adolf Hitler’s minister of propaganda and enlightenment, Dr. Paul Joseph Göbbels? .... From what I have read, the Nazis created situations of crisis in order to promote their agenda. It’s the same spirit behind it.
Here's one letter from South Africa.The references to "spiritual Israel" referring to WCG indicates this was written by a PCG member.
Wow! What a read! Thank you for writing this in-depth article that points to the source of all these scandals besetting modern Israel. Just like the conspirators of spiritual Israel (inside the WCG), the conspirators of physical Israel are following the same pattern of lies and deceit, and destruction is the end result. As the prophecies of spiritual Israel’s fall have come to fruition, we can only look on as the world’s most powerful nation is sucked into immorality and reaps the rewards for complete lawlessness. At the same time, we are refreshed, knowing God is already restoring His law, and righteous government in the minds of his saints. We look forward to the time just ahead of us when we will be able to restore peace to all the families and nations on this Earth.
Here's one letter by a writer who despairs at not having learned PCG dogma enough. Here we see how guilt is leads to this individual to seek more conformity.
The article hit my heart and mind really hard.... My Bible study has been on and off, and I can honestly sense I have not being receiving my daily bread. I completely let my daily life come before my heavenly Father and what He wants me to know. This article and God’s words made me realize how selfish I have been and how I really was not seeing the big picture at hand. Another thing I have realized is that because my study and time with the Lord has lacked, so have other parts in my life. God’s Word and the eagerness in wanting to learn and know more about our Lord is more important than we tend to realize. I thank you so much for bringing this to my attention. I pray the Lord continues to inspire and bless you with your work.
Here's one letter from the Philippines complaining that political correctness is not strong enough and should be replaced by a word or phrase that inspire intense disgust and anger.
I think the term “political correctness” becomes ineffective, insipid and trite nowadays to describe the poison that particularly the West is taking towards self-destruction and self-immolation.... We need a more jolting and strong term to describe such malignancy. “Political correctness” may even be a term coined by the left? The left knows when you control how you define an issue, you already have won half of the battles. Why not replace “political correctness” by out-and-out blatant censorship, which evokes more emotions, protests and opposition, thus waking up the generally lethargic public.
October 2013

Here's one letter thanking PCG for denying climate change.
My compliments to you on this article ... that exposes the falsehood of so-called climate change. Great job! I think you had a very balanced approach, bringing in all the facts, and acknowledging that while some of man’s activities do harm and affect the environment, they cannot account for the scale of weather disasters assaulting the civilized world today. That 15-year study you cited was a great way to cement your point. Global warming, climate change, whatever they call it now, is such a proven fallacy, it’s sad to see so many people believing it, especially because it obscures the real source of the problem, which is our sins. I hope your article will help wake them up. So kudos to you, and keep up the great writing and research.
Here's one letter mentioning how the writer discovered PCG's recruitment writings in 2002.
It was in 2002 when I first picked up a copy of the Trumpet. I had never heard of it before, but was very intrigued as I remembered the Bible using the word “trumpet” in it in the book of Revelation. I prayed and asked God to show me the truth and He still is today through this wonderful, refreshing magazine and website. I feel very grateful everyday for being able to come here and read real “news.”
Here's one letter insisting that PCG's recruitment writings are the real news. This denigrates other news sources as unreliable.
This is why I read The Trumpet Weekly and go to theTrumpet.com every day to.... Get the real news.
(Incidentally there is a media outlet called The Real News. It is based in Baltimore and Toronto. It views political matters quite differently from PCG however.)

Here's one letter from South Africa.
Thank you for a very informative article.... Even though I live at the bottom end of Africa, it’s still pretty much close to home. May our Father send His Son very soon to restore His government to Earth. 
 Here's one letter condemning the Queen for signing legislation granting marriages between same sex couples.
I know the Queen is more a figurehead than a politician, but regardless of parliamentary procedure she did not have to sign the homosexual “marriage” law. Isn’t it better to fear God than to fear man?
December 2013

This letter discusses the previous issues' discussion of PCG's involvement in archaeological digs in Jerusalem. PCG is in constant competition with the other COGs to gain more recruits. Very few WCG ministers joined PCG. Most WCG ministers and members joined other COG groups or got out of Armstrongism all together. Joining these archaeological digs is one way PCG tries to stand out from the other COG groups to prop up their legitimacy in the eyes of members of potential recruits.

According to a 2010 National Geographic report the digs are partly funded by Elad (City of David), a settler organization dedicated to filling up East Jerusalem with Israeli Jews. This is done despite the objections of the many Palestinians who already live there who wish to be part of a Palestinian state and view such moves as threatening this dream.

East Jerusalem is not regarded as a part of the State of Israel by any of the 160 nation states that recognize the State of Israel. Those 160 nation states only recognize the State of Israel's right to rule over the land within the 1949-1967 borders. This includes the United States under Presidents Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush and Obama.

Here is one letter expressing joy and reassurance at the archaeological discoveries.
It is truly heartwarming to gain some of the past missing details about the archaeological digging which has been successful in Israel, and to know how closely God’s Church in America has been involved.... How jolting, yet warm and reassuring, are these recent discoveries, such as the medallion and even Nehemiah’s wall. At this late time in mankind’s history on this Earth, it makes one’s head swim—and heart fly—to realize that God is blessing these efforts, and that within His quiet glory, while humans continue to destroy and doubt, He is in control. He simply will not let this amazing and fruitful work be stopped or interfered with. Regardless of the doubt and ridicule which taints the air as always, the facts and stories in the pages of God’s book, the Bible, shine and speak to us today, ever more sweetly!
Here's one letter praising the previous issue as one of the best this person had ever read.
This month’s Trumpet is one of the best I have ever read. God’s blessing continues as you continue with Mr. Armstrong’s legacy. Wow, what a find! Not monetary wise, but as proof of God’s Word the Bible being true. I love it. It has really lifted my spirit and given me proof. Thank you and may God continue with His blessing to you, as He reveals Himself to us in these times before His return.
Here's one letter speculating that the tombs of the kings might soon be discovered.
The tombs of the kings might be the next to be discovered.... Thank you, Mr. Flurry, for having the faith to continue Mr. Armstrong’s legacy.
Here's one letter from Australia.
The articles in this special edition are an incredible witness to the skeptics and doubters. However, this article really brings shivers and tingles to my skin. The anticipation of the possibility of such an historic find makes me want to pack a shovel and come on over. I look forward to hearing what comes next.
Here's another letter blessing these archaeological excavations.
I believe that Ms. Mazar has brought a lot of biblical history to light at this important site of biblical history.... May God bless her and her efforts.
Here's one letter praising the excavations and fondly remembering the Ambassador International Cultural Foundation (AICF). From PCG's perspective the whole point of these excavations is to convince people that PCG is the sole, legitimate continuation of HWA's WCG.
As one who remembers the Ambassador International Cultural Foundation in my early beginnings with the WCG, it brings me much joy to see this relationship flourish again.... And furthermore, the news regarding the new findings of the gold jewelry and other historic finds brings me much joy. Mr. Armstrong would be nothing less than proud to see the fruits of his successors. What a wonderful brief history as well.
Here's one letter that waxes almost poetic in describing how PCG got to participate in these archaeological digs.
A seed was planted in the mind of Dr. Eilat Mazar when she was just a child when she witnessed the partnership between Mr. Armstrong and her grandfather. Today, that seed has sprouted and taken root in a renewed partnership between Mr. Flurry and Dr. Mazar. How wonderful to see these two working together.
Here's one letter praising the excavations for religious reasons.
Isn’t God wonderful? .... Doesn’t He show us how He cherishes friendship, partnership and continuity and that He is on our side helping us to reveal the truth of the Bible, His Word? Praise to Him who does it all.
Here's one letter praising Dr. Eilat Mazar's personal character.
Thanks for distilling down her character traits .... I am inspired and impressed and also encouraged to emulate her and her character. So many gifts this woman is channeling to the world—beyond even her comprehension. 
 Here is another such letter.
Thank you for this wonderful insight into Dr. Mazar’s character. As a voracious, vicarious voyeur of the HWAC connection to the various digs, her amazing qualities are well known. It is a good thing to show the world that her honesty, integrity, love of family, and trust in God’s Word are the true treasures to be cherished above that which she uncovers with a brush. To quote her son, “She is amazing.”
If East Jerusalem was controlled by Palestinians as part of an independent State of Palestine it is very doubtful that they would allow PCG to participate in these excavations.

January 2014

Here's one letter that calls out PCG for vilifying Germany as a war mongering nation state. While I would have preferred if stronger language than "mistakes" were used, for the most part this letter is correct.
No offense, but I think most people who agree with this article don’t know about the current German mentality. Yeah, it’s a shame what happened in history, and, yes, Germany did mistakes, but while you all are talking about “Germany” as one big thing, you forget what a country is made of and that the mentality matters. You can’t talk about a tendency for starting a war—that’s just ignorant and totally forgets that a country is a moving and changing structure. Besides, Germany lacks everything a war-preparing country could have. You wouldn’t even find more than 10 percent of their citizens calling themselves patriotic because everyone is ashamed of their terrible past. History teachers get more and more time to speak about the time of the Nazis and all those mistakes every year, and people there are so open-minded and harmless they probably would not even fight if Germany gets attacked. I was born and raised in Germany and I think most people should look on the inside of Germany before talking about a potentially war starter country. It also hurts me if you think our citizens and government are that stupid and angry to start a war, as we are loving the peace.
Here's one letter insisting that the United States is already bankrupt and that this has caused the re-pivot towards Asia. The US is not bankrupt. It is not true to say that.
Everyone in Asia knows that the Americans only re-pivoted into the Asian region in order to sell U.S.-made military weapons ... and then, because it is bankrupt, it will re-pivot out of Asia. The Americans are too bankrupt to police the whole world and therefore they are likely to only focus on the Middle East. America needs allies in the Asia who can be strong enough to hold their own in the region and be a real ally and Japan is one of the likely choices.
Here's one letter from South Africa. It is certainly true that South Africa has a most severe problem of widespread violence. But unfortunately PCG has a tendency to rubbish South Africa and denigrate the nation's liberation from the racist system of apartheid. Unfortunately PCG tends to blind themselves to the role of apartheid in causing the current dire situation.
I live here and can vouch for the fact that the writer of this article is not exaggerating.... We are so desensitized to the violence that it’s not even newsworthy any - more. I was victimized by the police for reporting the fact that my family and I were robbed at gunpoint, along with 30 other restaurant patrons and kept hostage for over an hour. Last year, 30 of this elite cop group were arrested, and between them have over 100 counts of murder being prepared. Perhaps I am not so crazy after all to be building a sailboat, our “family ark,” to sail away from it all.
Here's another letter from South Africa.
I am sick to my stomach after reading this article. I have lived in South Africa all my life, and never has it been more obvious that this country is on the brink of extinction. There truly is nothing good left in this land, and getting out would be a huge blessing. I was crying whilst reading this article—there is so much suffering and people just turn a blind eye! Thank you for making people aware of what is going on. God’s Kingdom really can’t come soon enough.
Here's one letter from South Africa that complains of being called racist for talking about problems in South Africa and complains that people excuse the high rate of violence.
Thank you for sharing this! This is our everyday life in South Africa. It is hard, and so many of our families and friends die due to violence. The saddest part of it all is when you voice your concerns, you are branded as a racist. What’s more shocking is the fact that so many find “excuses” for these brutal acts of crime. But hopefully with more people like you, our voices will be heard and our plea for a savior country will be heard, not because we are white, but because we are human beings and part of this country.
February 2014

Here's one letter citing Winston Churchill to condemn socialism and insinuate that Germany will soon arise to replace the United States as the most powerful nation on Earth. This fixation on Germany indicates this person has been reading PCG's writings for quite sometime.
It is almost a childlike mentality in the culture of Washington politics.... To let the most powerful country the world has ever seen before, self-destruct shows the total selfishness of a few politicians. Winston Churchill stated, “Socialism is the philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance and the gospel of envy.” Germany will rise to the occasion. American politicians will continue to ruin every part of our lives, for as the founders of the Constitution said, moral and biblically astute men are necessary for America to survive. 
Here's one letter that complains that everything is falling apart. It is even insinuated that the US currency could soon be rendered worthless in a single moment. Such an eventually is at present most unlikely.
It seems our whole society is falling apart. Dozens of “knockout” punches to innocent people just walking along, home invasions, horrific traffic crashes caused by drunken drivers, rubbish on TV and in the movies, a 50 percent divorce rate, daily financial manipulations by the U.S. government and now a new government medical system that can’t even get out of the hangar. What has happened to the U.S. is unreal. We are going down and going down quickly. One big wind hits and our pile of worthless paper money is blown away.
Here's one letter from South Africa.
Thank you for a really sobering yet enlightening article, which documents the background of these kings of the East, and draws our attention to the makeup of that future army of frightening proportions.... While one’s blood chills at the mental picture of the horrors to come, it is so encouraging to remember that this leads to the best possible news ever—the return of Christ to restore the very government of God! Thank you so much for this very fact. Every article draws the reader to this ultimate conclusion—the restoration of God’s government!
Here's a letter criticizing PCG's fixation on the United States' perspective. It is rare for PCG to print criticism such as this.
All that “pax” is about to get the axe. If you asked the Vietnamese, Koreans, Iraqis, Afghans, Serbs, etc., I think they’ll think you guys were actually pretty brutal. Perhaps the world will become a more peaceful place with the pax getting the axe finally.
Here's a letter hailing PCG's writings as the greatest thing ever.
The Trumpet is the greatest source for truth and knowledge, other than the Bible. It’s so great to have a place like this.
Now where would this person get that idea from?

March 2014

Here's one letter from South Africa from a person very impressed with Gerald Flurry's proclamation that Vladimir Putin is the "Prince of Rosh" prophesied to rule until several years after Christ's return. This false prophecy will surely fail.
Wow.... This is simply amazing! We are living in the passages of God’s Word today! Thank you for this article. No doubt Mr. Putin is a man being used by God to cause the Bible to come alive. The messages are getting stronger and stronger and the picture is getting clearer. It is just astounding to look at the words record - ed in the Bible, and by revelation, realize that we are living in a time when specific people can now be identified. This is enough to make a person dizzy! I look forward to how God reveals His plan as world events unfold.
Here's one letter from Norway that speculates that PCG is right to call Putin the "Prince of Rosh."
Putin is an interesting man. He came out of obscurity as an ex-KGB officer and then advanced to president. Some genealogists claim he is related to Russian royalty from the old Putyanin clan. He would be a good match as the prince of Rosh, Meshech and Tubal. I think it is interesting that the Bible calls Gog a chief prince, not a king, because a prince is a man of royal descent who has not been crowned as king yet.
Here's one letter that imagines the grotesque scenario that PCG promotes by insisting that Putin will fulfil Ezekiel 38 and 39.
Seven 30-day months to bury 200 million people means putting close to a million people in the ground every single day for seven months straight. What a nightmare.
Here's one letter that sympathetically portrays Putin as "a great leader" and as merely defending the interests of his nation from those of the United States.
Putin is a great leader. He knows the direction he wants to take Russia. Russia needs to remain strong because Russia is constantly surrounded by U.S. bases, missiles and such, that Putin has no choice but to take Russia towards a more assertive role. And apparently, as the article brings out, this has God’s approval. Thank God for strong Russia and Asia. 
This letter was written by the widowed wife of the late Wilbur Malone. Is PCG so desperate for letters of praise? Also she is wrong to insinuate that the United States is like some sort of Ponzi-scheme. This is wrong.
This article hits the nail on the head.... The unbelievably sad economic state this country is in is brought out clearly in reporting how things are in the personal financial affairs of the people, as well as the government. Now people are too weak in character to change the greedy, Ponzi-scheme lifestyle they live. Herbert W. Armstrong was right when he warned of what lies ahead.
Here's one letter from Canada which condemns Universities as leaning to the left. PCG often condemn Universities. PCG have their own unaccredited College so PCG has a vested interest in discrediting similar educational institutions.
As a recent university-goer, I can say that these institutions are declining. From the professors’ desire to convey material to the material itself, even the students are being pounded with left- leaning propaganda that has nothing to do with their studies. Why do I have to take a minimum of 10 courses of “social sciences”? Social sciences are not the concrete sciences, but rather the kind that try to get me to agree with the left’s ideas or ethics, when it’s completely the opposite of my upbringing. My math teachers couldn’t have even known I existed, and I could get a high grade because of the concrete substance of the subject. However, if my social science professor didn’t like that I disagreed with the idea of two men or two women raising children together, they could have happily failed me.
Here's one letter from Canada written by a person who seems to think society can fall apart at any moment.I advice such persons not to give in to despair.
This was a very disturbing article to read, but the situation is not surprising.... From past experience I have found that not all law enforcement officers are good people. The percentage of humans deceived by Satan in the police force is the same percent in the rest of society. I always prepare myself mentally for the day when society breaks down. I know that someone with a badge knocking on my door could be just as affected by evil as a person without a badge. If this person were issued a machine gun, it would be mind- boggling. The story of the local sheriff using a drone on a family farm was quite an eye opener. Satan has already tempted law enforcement to take all this military hardware. Society can collapse very quickly.
April 2014

Here's one letter from a women raised as a Catholic now made fearful about worshiping on Sunday because of PCG's fear inducing writings. Such fear is used in PCG's writings to get more recruits. That inflammatory doctrine is a way for PCG to discredit the competition to get more recruits.
I just started to read your articles and it amazes me how much information I missed in the Bible.... I now have a deep understanding here. I read aloud to my spouse and he said, “Don’t let the Internet put fear in your trust in God.” I said, “I know, but this website is honest and true.” I used to be Catholic and my spouse is still a faithful baptized member today. I asked my spouse how we are going to survive when we say no to the mark of the beast, but he couldn’t answer.
Here's one letter from Nigeria that seems to agree with PCG's paranoid view of the Papacy.
The Catholic Church is well known for its crafty approach to matters that are of vital importance to its institution. Its canny acts are always elusive. Thank God Almighty for granting us the opportunity to be pre-informed of its nature, at this last time of human rule. A new world order is all mankind needs.
Here's one letter insisting that the Papacy is a sinister, Satanic counterfeit of the the Millennial rule of Christ as taught by PCG. This reads as though the writer has been involved with PCG for some time.
How crafty Satan is. His counterfeit is almost a copy of what God’s true government will be, with its king and priest—state and church. The greatest difference is Jesus Christ will be King of kings and Lord of lords, as well as the most High Priest, of a truly righteous and benevolent empire. Thank you for this warning to watch and discern this Third Way.
Here's one letter that brings up the tragic memories of the fascist Franco dictatorship in Spain (1936-75) to justify PCG's demonization of the Papacy.
Spot on.... This is a country divided, and the church is more than culpable in this. And the comment about the Muslims and Jews being either thrown out or put in the service of the “superior” Catholics is as relevant as the events before and during the Civil War. The connections between the Partido Popular, Catholic Church and the dictatorship are not to be underestimated.
Here's a letter from the Philippines from a person seemingly convinced that PCG somehow predicted the Ukrainian revolution and the civil war that emerged. PCG are but false prophets.
I just want to thank you, sir, for this astonishing prophecy! .... Everything you predicted in the past is all coming true. It is just so amazing that it cannot be denied where the true work of God is. I believe that what happened in Ukraine was prophesied. And the two men you mentioned, Putin and Guttenberg, are both intriguing and exciting to watch!
Here's one letter from a person who has decided to change opinions because of PCG's writings.
Our entire family sat down, read and discussed this article together.... I was encouraged that we are on the right track in some areas, but I also realized we are off-track in others. I am excited to begin implementing these strategies and even more excited for immediate results and the long-term fruits! As always, thank you for your service.
Here's one letter praising PCG's writings for (supposedly) getting to the heart of matters. The letter also expresses frustration at other media outlets for superficial coverage of events.
Excellent, excellent article! .... It’s the type of information I keep hoping to find something of on the news—but to no avail! You’d think that in these dire times some - one would be speaking out forcefully. But instead it’s all about the Super Bowl, a cute dog story, or petty local events or, at the very least, all the serious news is after the fact—whether it’s a weather disaster or shooting in a school. They never get to the root causes of things or even seem to try. Yes, sadly, as scriptures say, truly in the last days people will be lovers of themselves, eating and drinking, and going about with their own affairs.
Here's one letter that criticizes US foreign policy as being too vague.
The U.S. has been fighting wars in Iraq and Afghanistan for nearly a quarter of a century without a clear definition of who the enemy is and what determines a victorious outcome. We heard from our previous President George W. Bush, that “we are fighting a war on terror.” But what does that mean? Who are we really fighting? And secondly, how do we know when we have won the war? In 2013 President Obama declared, “Global war on terror is over.” Seriously, does anyone believe that to be true?
Here's one letter gushing that World War III is just about to occur.
The way world history is charging along at the moment, it appears that the main players in the end-time drama are already taking up their positions.... It is also very obvious that most are unaware of where all this is heading.
Here's a letter saying that the West will raise up zu Guttenburg to stand against Russia but will he merely betray the United States and Britain. Since 2009 PCG has continuously promoted Karl Theodor zu Guttenburg as a possible candidate fated to become the European dictator fated to conquer America.
I think the West will push Mr. Guttenberg toward European politics as an opponent to Putin. He will be the strongman to stand up to Russia. Unfortunately, the West and American leadership won’t understand exactly who Guttenberg is until it is too late. It’s like watching a horror movie with a plot that unfolds with great evil at the climax of a terrible story—that ultimately has a glorious ending!
Here's one letter praising an article as being very beautiful. If only this person was aware of the problems within PCG.
This is surely the most beautiful writing of truth I’ve read from another human being in a long time.... Surely this is beautiful, and it is the truth all in a nutshell—simply beautiful.
Here's a letter from one person who muses that there is nothing wrong with being extreme while trying to follow one's religion.How unfortunate it is that this person is quite likely unaware of how extreme such of PCG's practices are such as shunning members of other COG groups, even if they are close family members. Or their promotion of HWA's anti-medicine superstition.
You grabbed me with your opening line: How far are you willing to go for God? Taking drastic measures is what I’ve had to do. I recently cut all social media out of my life because some of it was getting in the way. I’ve been told that I’m extreme, and I admit, at times I am. But why not be extreme for God? It’s different if it’s something like a diet or being extreme about fitness or something physical. But when it’s about a relationship with God, again, why not be extreme? And it’s not about penance—that’s no good. It’s about sacrifice, and as you said, “If we hold back, we might lose out entirely!” Thanks for this article. It has been strong encouragement for me to go the distance! This is just what I needed. Like your article mentions, it’s not easy to do these things, so to have the encouragement is comforting and it keeps me pushing on.
Here's one letter from Suriname.
“Real spiritual growth comes when you are totally wrapped up in God’s work.” That is so true, and studying recent history has undoubtedly proven this fact. God help us all to wholeheartedly support the work of God. Thanks again for reminding us about this crucial element of our going with God.
Here's a letter which expresses a desire to be a "true Christian believer" instead of just being a churchgoer. PCG seek to discredit other churches to convince people to join PCG and pay three tithes for the rest of their lives.
This is the kind of work I want to do. Thank you for this piece of writing. It is by far the best and most inspiring piece of writing I’ve read. May all Christians who seek to hear from God read and abide by this and they will see the wonderful hand of God in their lives. The Bible says I will make you rich so you can be generous at all times. As Christians we must live a Christ-like life, which differentiates true Christian believers from just churchgoers.
May 2014

Here's one letter thanking PCG for its scare mongering about Germany. PCG has constantly insisted that important events are fated to occur on January 16, the anniversary of HWA's death in 1986. This is merely a superstition.
Thank you for this very revealing look at the new Germany—or, should I say old? .... I am happy that you clarified that the Germans are a great people, and Germany is a great nation. Some people misinterpret what you say about Germany thinking that you are being judgmental, when in reality, you are simply relating facts of history which we could all learn from. I found this article about the world-shaking event that occurred on January 15/16, to be a huge stamp of authentication as to who had it right all along. The articles on theTrumpet.com are a continuation of that same great work. He was right!
Here's one letter from a person who has been reading Armstrongite writings intermittently since the 1960s. This letter alludes to a fascinating contradiction within COG writings. If the COGs know what will happen in the future than why doesn't the political leaders of the world outside the COGs simply read the COGs' writings and act on this revealed knowledge one way or another? That is because these prophecies are not made for world leaders but for potential recruits to get them to join.
I started reading the Plain Truth in the '60s wherever I could find it. I didn’t even know how to order it. I began reading the Trumpet wherever I could find it until I learned to order it. I haven’t missed reading the magazine or the e-mail since I subscribed and urge everyone I know or talk with to do the same. ... I wish world leaders would read them, but then they would not be leaders of the world. Such is the nature of man.
Here's one letter saying that a PCG article had brought the reader to tears.
Your description of the hole that is in each human being brought me to tears. I see the results all around me of people trying to fill that void with something other than God. For some it is drugs, others illicit sex, still others fill their minds with mind-numbing amounts of sports. Whatever the solution, it is never the right one! As you said, the hole comes back deeper than before. What a wonderful thing to know that soon everyone will be able to have that relationship with their heavenly Father and will no longer seek after a substitute relationship that can only leave them unfulfilled.
Here's one letter criticizing the ban against marijuana. PCG sometimes publishes letters they disagree with. This is one of those letters.
The war on pot is a joke and nothing more than a tool to control the masses. Marijuana has many health benefits and cures, which is the real reason they want to keep it illegal. Only the ignorant and the biased that have bought into the lies that they’ve been told believe.
Here's one letter from one who had been reading COG writings since the early 1970s.
I have been a reader of your materials since the early 1970s and wish to thank you for all your hard work.
July 2014

Here's one letter seemingly thanking PCG for presenting a "new revelation" about the nature of the future European Empire that Armstrongism has constantly insisted since the 1930s will soon conquer the United States. It has always failed.
Thanks for this new revelation about the fact that the resurrected Roman Empire will likely be bi-polar with two power centers.... This illuminates the picture greatly. And yes, Putin is a rare man, one of a kind. We cannot understand the danger that Europe faces as well as the people of Poland. I actually believe that, given their past experience, they are the best barometer to measure the new Russian threat. So as long as the current aggression from Putin continues, it may take few years for Europe to unite. It is real and present danger.
Here's one letter from Columbia agreeing with PCG and saying that the United States was following Germany's lead during the Yugoslav Wars. Since 1999 PCG has chosen to sympathize with Slobodan Milošević and his fellows in an attempt to demonize Germany by exploiting the terrible suffering of the Yugoslav Wars and blaming it all on Germany.
You are absolutely right.... What Putin is doing is very serious, but what happened with the breakup of Yugoslavia was much more serious. The bloodshed was led by the United States in favor of the bloodiest nation in history, Germany.
Here's one letter speculating that the European Union will soon send peace keepers to Lebanon after reading a PCG article about Lebanon.
What a jaw-dropping article. With civil war brewing, sentiment turning against Hezbollah and a sizable Christian population, Lebanon is the perfect place for the EU to put peacekeepers right next to Israel in the prelude to World War III. All of God’s prophecies are being fulfilled, which means Jesus Christ is soon to return.
Here's one paranoid letter asserting that the Iron Curtain did not really fall. Note the way how "Communist ideology" is described as being "socialist-leftist". This is red baiting designed to slur the left in democratic countries with the crimes of Lenin and Stalin. The spirit of McCarthyism is alive and well and sadly PCG is helping to promote it. 
Great article about the fall of the Iron Curtain and fall of the Soviet Empire.... This supposed fall of the Iron Curtain was also a covert way of spreading of the Communist ideology (socialist-leftist) throughout the world. Look at America today: Through Communist beliefs, the old Soviets have accomplished more to destroy America by stealth than by military might. It reminds me of Hitler’s methodology compared to the EU’s, of military might versus undemocratic stealth, to form the final revived Holy Roman Empire.
Here's one letter that remembers the Iranian hostage crisis in 1979 and mentions believing at the time that Christ would have been back by now. This person is still waiting 35 years later when this letter was written.
Thanks for the great article. It seems sometimes that the prophecies that we have been expecting to come to pass long ago are long overdue. It is comforting to be reminded that everything is shaping up just as God said it would, in His time line, not ours. I remember ’79 very well, along with others my age, and thought that things would have surely been wrapped up by now. Keep up the great work!
Here's one letter expressing frustration and fear that the government is getting too powerful and is about to become a tyranny. If PCG really feels that President Obama or another one is about to become a tyrant maybe they should vote and encourage others to vote.
What a revealing article.... Now that America has taken up the practice of executing its own citizens without due process of law, spying on everyone and taking away our freedoms, not to mention abandoning our allies, we have disgraced and degraded the words of our “Star Spangled Banner,” “land of the free and home of the brave.” Those words drew many people here, away from other lands where they had no freedom of religion or any guarantee of personal privacy. Your comment that “if Congress cannot or will not rein in America’s spy agencies, there isn’t much protection left against a president becoming a tyrant” has far-reaching ramifications, not only for the average American, but for anyone who values freedom of religion. Thanks for another enlightening look at the new America.
Here's one letter accusing mainstream society of being in a trance and insinuates that no one else is raising their voice about such things except PCG's Trumpet. (Did this writer not notice how often PCG relies on mainly right wing news sources to inform themselves about current affairs?)
One of the most alarming and shameful points is that the majority of Americans are asleep and in some sort of trance. Nobody seems to care. Who is raising their voice in addition to the Trumpet? If this occurred 25 years ago, there would be a much different attitude of anger toward this lawless behavior. Most citizens in this country care more about who will make the next headlines in the entertainment world or not missing their next reality show.
Here's one letter expressing fear of the occult.
I used to love horror movies—watched them all the time.... Then came these witchcraft movies. I started watching them until they started bothering me. I would get the chills and just got so bothered by them I would not watch them anymore. My younger brother told me he was out with his friends drinking one night and they went to one of his friend’s house to play cards and drink. His friend said he had a ouija board, so they started to use it. They were sitting at the table having a good time, then started to clown around with the board and started mocking it. My brother told me the board flew up in the air and hit the wall. They were scared at what happened. I told him anything to do with witchcraft is dangerous. I told him to stay away from tarot cards and fortune-tellers who attract demons that can possess you. He does not play with ouija boards anymore.
Here's one letter asserting that social standards are falling apart in the West.
I like this article. Has anyone else noticed how far civilization has come? I was born into a Third World country that not so long ago practiced head hunting, cannibalism, paganism. Although Christian missionaries seemed to have done their part, there is still that mixture of pagan culture with their supposed Christian beliefs. I did, however, have an opportunity to do high school in a First World, Western country. After 17 years, I decided to come back to live in this Western, modern country and was mildly taken aback by how things have changed. I noticed there were people who have an inner ring which enlarges the ear lobes with a big hole that can fit a coin. This was unheard of before! I couldn’t believe the first time I saw it. This was exactly the same practice of my grandmother and their generations, who were from pagan culture. This is what they do to their ears! Have we come full circle or what? Tattoos are rampant. Vampires and monsters are the norm on TV. Boys and men dress in short shorts (like girly pants) and brightly colored garments (pink, fluorescent colors, etc.). Men are depicted on screen as clumsy, weak and with no backbone, while the women are the ones who are smart and brave. These are just a few observations to add to homosexual and feminist movements gripping our times. We all are in for a wild ride in these last days.
August 2014

Here's one letter expressing hope and excitement that Christ will soon return.
What a powerful and stirring message! Thank you for always framing up exactly what is happening as the world braces for its descent into incomprehensible misery. I take comfort in knowing that all these things must be fulfilled in order for the Son of man to come through the clouds with power and great glory!
Here's one letter from Australia discussing the crisis in Ukraine.
Fantastic article! .... Without the history you wrote about, it’s impossible to understand what exactly is going on in Eastern Europe. You cannot understand what Putin is doing unless you know the history of Russia and the millions of Russians that have been slaughtered by invading armies from Europe. History dictates that Putin cannot allow the EU and NATO to expand to Russian borders.
The Russians remember what Germany has done to them. Poland and other nations are caught in the crossfire. Let’s remember a lot of these Eastern European nations like Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia and the Ukraine have blood on their hands; they were Nazi supporters and committed some pretty horrific acts against Jews and Russians. They are not innocent angels. As long as the EU and NATO continue to expand towards Russia’s borders, then Russia has no option but to counteract that expansion. It would be an act of treason for a Russian leader not to do anything about it.
Here's one letter mentioning that the writer makes the children of the family read PCG's recruitment magazine.
I truly love the factual and historical perspectives. It is mandatory reading in my home, even for my children. This particular article is right to the point. Russia will go to every extreme to protect what it believes to be its borders. Of course the irony is that Russia protects its own as it kills and oppresses them to no end.
Here's one letter that praises PCG's recruitment magazine as explaining things instead of just saying a few words like some generals on Fox News. PCG is right wing so their recruitment writings are more inclined to attract right wing leaning people. That is their target demographic.
Yes, the Trumpet is the only source that can prove God’s Word through history. You hear a little from generals on Fox News, but you don’t get the background and all the information to prove that by looking back at history, you can prove the future. The Trumpet gives a thorough analysis of history because it comes from God.
Here's one letter that insists that most people are clueless about what is going on and praises PCG's recruitment website as "a modern-day Noah".
What an apt description of the world we live in.... Your article is like a huge wake-up call! This is one that every person on Earth needs to hear. Our modern world is so full of gadgets, games and entertainment that the average man on the street is clueless as to where things are really headed, just as it was in the days of Noah. This website is like a modern-day Noah, warning this world that we are on a train speeding toward the worst disaster Earth has ever seen. Thank you for the heads-up.
Here's one letter commenting about the Cliven Bundy armed stand off with federal authorities. I wonder if this letter is talking about a certain ethnic minority?
The unrestrained welfare mentality has gone wild under the present administration and threatens to bankrupt our nation economically and morally....
September 2014

This letter was written by the late Wilbur Malone's wife. Is PCG so desperate for letters of praise they write such things themselves?
Thank you for exposing the real meaning of the pope’s visit to Jerusalem and the Middle Eastern area.... No one else has the courage or understanding to report these events and the historical facts showing the meaning behind what is going on in this world.
Here's one letter praising PCG's recruitment magazine. The fact that this writer uses the phrase "prophesy again" indicates this person has read their writings for awhile.
I thank God for being able to catch up and read the Plain Truth magazines. What made the magazine so important and striking is how the warning was preached with such great details, and spoken in plain-truth simple language that all can understand. And now the Trumpet is trumpeting the Plain Truth details. The Trumpet has matured in getting these details out with proof of how history repeats itself. The words are not as plain as far as vocabulary, but its powerful message has twice the power of the Plain Truth, and does provide a strong “prophesy again” message.
Here's one letter that scare mongers about Germans.
Absolutely brilliant article.... I enjoyed it immensely. Your authors have a fantastic way of explaining very complicated issues so that any half-wit can understand. My father worked in Germany before World War II from 1933 to 1936, and saw how the country was preparing for war again while he was there. He saw how the German people in general were so cultured, intelligent, disciplined and advanced in so many ways in science and technology. They hugely admired Britain, especially its mighty empire and the way it controlled huge amounts of the world so efficiently and humanely. But, he said, underneath the above traits there was an extremely dark side to their nature. After the war, when all the war crimes they committed came to light, he was not surprised at all. It’s just so sad how human beings can be so evil to other human beings. As he said, the Germans’ real character comes to light when they feel they have a calling to dominate everything around them. So Europe beware.
The British Empire was so efficient and humane that in 1775 the Americans felt compelled to launch a War of Independence against that Empire.

Here's one letter about encountering that anti-Semitism whenever people learn of (presumably) the annual holidays observed by Armstrongism. Anti-Semitism and racism is always wrong.
Anti-Semitism is rampant on an individual basis in small towns and communities as well.... I encounter it if someone learns of my “Jewish” days or beliefs. I wonder just how secure my physical family is.
Now there is very little information given in this letter. Presumably this is from a PCG member. Any act of hatred deserves to be condemned without qualification.

It is also reasonable to note that the COGs' have constantly asserted that persecution will soon be unleashed against them and that they need to flee to a "place of safety" when the Great Tribulation starts. In all likelihood such assertions has also exaggerated these fears.

The COGs have constantly insisted that catastrophe will soon arise but it has never happened.   

October 2014

Here's one letter that absurdly compares immigrants to the United States to an atomic bomb. Oh, what hatred and contempt must one have to compare people to an atomic bomb? (And PCG thought this was worth reprinting?)
The building of the atom bomb that ended World War II in the Pacific theater and secured our nation’s freedom and posterity was called “The Manhattan Project.” The current administration is swiftly building an immigration bomb that will help to fundamentally change the nation’s law-based freedoms and constitutional moral heritage. It should be called “The Washington Project.”
Here's one letter that defends the British Empire. Never mind about the armed interventions suppressing various insurgencies in the Middle East in Iraq (1920) and Palestine (1936-9). Never mind about the wars fought in Kenya and Cyprus to maintain British rule. All was well. Or well enough.
What a beautiful article, so full of hope and inspiration for the future. When I do get into discussions regarding the British Empire with people and the state of the world, they just go on about all the negatives regarding the greatest empire the world has ever seen. They go on about the slave trade, Britain exploiting other nation’s resources, etc. I let them finish and just ask them do they think if the empire was still in existence today, would the world be worse or better? Ninety percent say “better” as there would be much more stability in the world especially in the extremely explosive region of the Middle East. There would not be so much mass starvation, injustice and hatred in the former third world nations Britain once ruled with a sense of fair play and justice. I rest my case.
Three letters talk about the advance of Abu Bakr al Baghdadi's lackeys into Sunni Iraq.
The lack of will among Americans is contributing to this ISIS problem.... America is the most powerful country on Earth and it should act like one. Why wait until there are mass killings and displacements of people to do something? American media plays a huge part in not taking enough interest in what is happening in Iraq at the moment.
Here's one letter from a person who regularly writes to PCG.
The November 2001 Trumpet edition warned that the only way to overcome Islamic terrorism is to dry out the entire “terrorist swamp” and not by merely killing individual terrorists. Only an all-out attack on its main source would be effective. America failed to do so. Now the door is open to the European “strongman” to accomplish this task. Again, three cheers for the Trumpet staff for their fantastic insight!
In that 2001 issue PCG asserted that Iran was the main problem. The "head of the snake". In fact Iran hates Abu Bakr al Baghdadi's lackeys.

Here's one letter saying no one else even came close to describing ISIL the way PCG did. Never mind all the testimonies from people who were actually there or the reporters who talked to those directly effected.
Wow! What a great article! No other news source even came close to exposing the truth about ISIS like this one did. How shameful of our so-called “free press.” Thank you Trumpet staff for publishing the facts!
Here's one letter expressing hope and prayers that the Great Tribulation will soon occur as quickly as possible.
It’s good to know that these times are moving so fast.... I pray that it will all be over in a very short amount of time. Thank God that He is in complete control of it all.
Here's one letter citing the problems in Detroit regarding water and electric companies to insist that the recent health care reform will not work.
I certainly appreciated your article.... What has happened to Detroit’s publicly owned water and electric companies is why Obamacare will not work. Most people, like the leaders in Detroit, are myopic; they cannot see past their liberal ideology. So, it is going to take a wake-up call, like the Tribulation to open their eyes and see that God’s way is the answer.
Here's one letter that portrays liberals as deceptive and as secretly knowing that they are wrong but continues to pursue such things regardless. The possibility that they are sincere is ignored.
What an eye-opener. If only the liberals would read this article, but you know they won’t. I believe deep down that they know their system is unfair and selfish. They just don’t want to be embarrassed enough to admit it. In the meantime they are ruining our country. The World Tomorrow is almost here. I can hardly wait! It will be a world without competition, political races, pain or suffering. Thank you!
Here's one letter mournfully proclaiming that the United States will soon no longer be a major political power in the world. This is an absurd fear to have in the present situation.
It is hard to read, but prophecy tells us the U.S. will not be a factor in the end days. God is going to remove us from the world stage as a major power. This process will not be pretty. As His word is being fulfilled, we must accept what is coming with the knowledge that God is in control and His will shall be done.
Here's one letter written by a person who is clearly very worried about things falling apart very soon. It is unfortunate that PCG's fear mongering inflames such fearful attitudes.
There is a sense in the air that our national slide into decadence is not even a downward slope. It’s not a case of 2013 being 3 percent more deviant than 2012, while on track to be 30 percent more deviant in 2023. Oh no! Not necessarily on public display, but unless washed, dirty laundry gets stashed and hidden until there is no closet room left. So, hedonism is an exponential slope, growing yearly worse and worse until there is no room to hide it. In two years could we see 80 percent of our people a-okay with porn, divorce, homosexuality, public lewdness, drugs, etc.? By 2018, 95 percent of all U.S. and British citizens will be flushed down the moral toilet.
November 2014 

On the letters page of this issue is a picture of Stephen Flurry presenting an episode of his Trumpet Daily in front of a picture of ISIL murderer Mohammad Emwazi, recently deceased, about to execute Steven Sotloff in one of ISIL's infamous propaganda videos.  

Here's one letter expressing fear that Germany will break with the United States in an argument over gold. Are PCG members still worried about that?
Add to that America still hasn’t given back all the German gold. If the Germans can confirm there is no gold, it will just add more fuel for their wrath.
Here's one letter from Kansas that complains that most of the people at work are quite uninformed about world news. There are of course many Americans who pay close attention to world affairs, perhaps this person should find some of them.
I am not trying to be mean, but the people I meet in my day job, Americans mostly, are totally uninformed on world news. But just ask them about sports or movies.
Here's one letter that wonders if politicians believe things that are not true. I do wonder sometimes what it must be like making decisions and yet having the power to do something about it.
Articles like this make me wonder if our so-called leaders might actually believe their own lies.
Here's another letter insinuating that the Obama Administration wants the United States to become irrelevant. I cannot understand this claim that the Obama Administration wants the United States to lose face in the international community. I cannot believe it.
To the world, America is rapidly becoming irrelevant. I guess to the current administration, it is awesome too. It seems to be what they want.
Here's one letter saying Putin is so powerful.
Mr. Putin really is a law unto himself.... It’s easy to see why the Russian people are behind him. The fact is he does actually lead without any concern for what others might think. Contrast that with the leaders in the West who are too frightened to make a decision without a Gallup poll.
Here's one letter from Norway speculating that Russians can endure anything.
Sanctions, whether physical sanctions on goods or financial ones, don’t bite on the Russians it seems. I cannot think of a people tougher than them. Over the years I have read stories about some Russians not being paid for months, but still they show up at work every morning. Can you imagine that happening in the West? Hardly not. Russian society seems to manage even though much of the outer structure is torn down.
And so 2015 begins but this post ends here.