News

Michael J Dunn was convicted in 2004 of Sexual Conduct Without Consent on a 22 year old male in 2002 and sentenced to one year imprisoment.. He had a previous conviction in 1999 of Sexual Abuse-2nd Degree on a 13 year old male in 1998.

It is understood that after release from prison he was not allowed in meetings with the victim but otherwise allowed to go to fellowship meetings.

Below is my (Otto Herr) summary of the meeting that occurred at the elder’s home on Saturday July 8, 2023 in Bellefonte PA. All topics are summarized (not word verbatim unless in quotes) with the items that I deemed germane to the topic at hand. There was significant side conversation that occurred throughout the meeting. Also, I thought it is important to note that none of the workers took notes during the meeting. Note also, I had prepared a list of talking points and questions. We really didn’t go through any of them, as we got hung up on the first one (a registry of potential/convicted offenders).

Meeting consisted of 4 workers and 9 of the congregation. Workers present: Ralph Miller, Dan Helenek, Ruth Veltri, and Margret Long.

Opened with a quick intro by the elder. Then transferred to Ralph to essentially lead the discussion.

When we asked if we could audio record the meeting, we were unable to get full group consensus, so we ended up not doing so. Note that objection came from a few of the congregation, and some from the workers as well on this topic. That said, I think that Ralph would have been fine with it, as we noted that this was for our use only (not to be made public).

I pushed for forma! meeting minutes and was essentially told no to this (again, push back from a few in the congregation, and at least one worker – not Ralph).

Ralph gave a more in-depth intro on the problem at hand starting with the Dean Bruer incident and ending with noting that there was one worker on the “east coast”. However, I felt like he downplayed (or he did not know how far reaching) because he only noted one worker on the “east coast” (not by name, but assumed to Leslie White) and noted that much of known issues were on the “west coast”. So, I spoke up and listed the stats to provide a little more clarity as to how wide spread the issue really is ~500 perpetrators, 23 workers/elders removed, 3 conventions closed, and likely 1000s of victims).

Most didn’t know this. And, for the record, none of the workers disputed those numbers.

Ralph noted that the plan moving forward was threefold;

1. Minsters are to continue to take “Ministry Safe” training.

2, Mandatory reporting within 24-hours of any suspected or reported sexual abuse.

3, Anyone who has been reported, is then not allowed to attend meetings or gatherings until allegations have been investigated by the authorities, and they are given the all-clear. Then they MAY be allowed to attend (case specific).

I asked if there was a centralized list of those who are not to attend due to allegations/convictions. Ralph noted that there is a public list of registered sex offenders. I acknowledged that list, however, I noted that would not include those who were just recently reported and told not to attend meetings. I asked how workers from other areas would know if an individual is to not attend? Ralph essentially said that he talks to people, and “word would get around”. I presented the scenario where an individual was suspected of sexual abuse and Ralph reported it, then 2 weeks later, this individual traveled across the country to another state and attended a convention. I asked how those at that convention would know that this individual was not supposed to be attending? No real clear answer was given. I asked if a centralized list could be kept, that would be accessible to workers everywhere (essentially worldwide) so that workers from different areas could be keep up to date. After discussion, it didn’t really seem to me like they were getting this idea…or really knew of a way to implement it. I explained that this list may help to limit liability to those within the work, because then they could point to the list and note that an individual was reported. On this topic, it did not seem to go any further. It was also unclear as to whether or not this would be taken up the chain of command. We did not really get any further on this topic.

As indicated in my list of prepared questions (separate document), I noted that I thought that there would be more of a “plan” moving forward, and if not, I had some ideas on how things could be done if they were willing to listen to them (i.e. this meeting used to collect “questions & concerns” with a future meeting to address all). They didn’t seem to know if that would even be possible.

It was noted by an individual that there were recent letters in Canada that described anticipated changes in the way conventions would proceed. The letter described changes in over-night sleeping accommodations, bathroom visits, etc. When asked if there would be any changes here in PA, Ralph stated that he didn’t think so, and that things would proceed as they normally do.

Summary of other side-bar topics:

It was noted by some individuals in the meeting that more care should be taken on the part of parents to “educate” their kids as to “good touch, bad touch” type of things. This was acknowledged by the workers and everyone, but also noted that blame does not lie on the victim, but rather the perpetrator. Also, this is not a policy that the workers can enforce as they are not the ones implementing it.

It was acknowledged that “reform” of perpetrators of sexual abuse (particularly those of CSA}, rarely works, and that most will repeat offend.

It was also acknowledged that the number of “false cases” of accusations, are very rare. Both Ralph and I noted that statistically, they are less than 4% and they are nearly zero if it’s a child that’s reporting it.

I stated that I had prepared questions and talking points for the meeting. That I’d be willing to share them with them via email, but that I’d only do that if they promised to provide actual responses to them in writing. I didn’t feel that I got a clear positive response on that and to date, I have NOT sent my list to them formally. However, I may in the near future.

After meeting discussions:

When discussing if there was “hierarchy” to the ministry, the sister worker that I was having a conversation with all but denied that there is “organization” or that they could be classified as an “organization” I felt, and noted directly with her, that she was parsing words with me, and there, most certainly, is organization and there is “hierarchy” to it. She did not agree. She stated that “some have more responsibilities”, but there weren’t “leaders” (other than god/Jesus).

Original Talking points/Notes/Comments/Questions for the Workers pertaining discovery of CSA/SA throughout the church group (globally) and allegations of cover-ups:

Would like to note the scope of the crisis: ~500 alleged perpetrators of sexual abuse within the church (taken from a few different sources). To date, here in North America, there have been at least 23 workers (or Ex-Workers)/Elders removed, and 3 conventions that have ceased. While the numbers of victims have not been tallied, it’s been reported that those are within the thousands (world-wide). Keep in mind, statistics indicate that nearly 80% of sexual abuse is NOT reported, and the recidivism rate of those who are convicted is very high. Also, instances of false reporting are less than 4%.

1. We are advocating for open and clear written communication moving forward. Due to integrity issues and the image that leadership is inept, can we agree that this is truly the only path forward? If so, what’s the plan? (Note that the only written and publicized communication is worker lists).
Here are a few suggestions:

a. Please take note and record all the questions in this meeting all the meetings that are literally happening all of the States and Canada this week, compile the questions, and publish written responses to them. There are already a few websites that have been created, I can assemble that information and get it to Ray if he already isn’t aware of it where this information can be published openly.

b. Then have a second meeting (say on a Wednesday night when all are normally gathered together anyway) at someone’s home that is technologically literate and have a mass video conference call (say entire eastern seaboard – or by time zone) that addresses all the questions (summarized) and outlines a what the current policy is moving forward with those who have been convicted or have allegations of sexual abuse. Note that the Wings for Truth website has a written “code of conduct” related to CSA/SA. https://wingsfortruth.info/2023/04/01/csa-code-of-conduct-2013/

c. Provide some written open guidance on what the actual doctrine is. This is due to differences that are present in a global (and even regional setting here with the US). In addition to theology (things like trinity, celibate & itinerant ministry, etc), this should also include things like dress, adornment, technology (i.e. TVs, computers, etc), taking part in meeting if divorced, etc.

2. We have a question specifically for the sister workers here today. This is due to reports that are publicized on Wings for Truth site, and the lack of a credible rebuttal that refutes the treatment of the sisters, and our care for them. Question: were you told to not answer questions? If so, was there an explanation as to why?

3. Following up on the previous question, does anyone know if the meeting minutes indicated on the Wing for Truth website from the Milford NH Town Hall are accurate? Has anyone here reviewed them?

4. Do you have a complete list of how many people (workers/friends) there are with CSA/SA accusations?

5. What is the official stance on those who have been convicted or have accusations of SA as it relates to attending meetings/conventions/funerals/preps?

6. Other than police, who do we contact to notify that a person has accusations that can then be noted on the repository that’s made public? We are advocating for a collective database that is (or can be centralized). Do you agree with that approach, if not, why, and what’s the plan?

7. How will individuals with CSA/SA accusations/convictions be prevented from attending meetings/conventions/preps?

8. Questions directly for Ray & Barry (if present):

a. Why did it take someone calling Ray to finally get Leslie White completely banned from meetings?

b. Is Peter Mousseau (NH) still allowed to attend meetings/conventions/preps? If not, when was he told that he was no longer allowed to attend?

c. Are there others we should know about?

9. Rochelle and I have both discussed this at length, and we honestly feel like we don’t have a clear understanding. We have also noted to each other that we have not felt free to even ask this question (which we now wonder why that is). Can you please describe the hierarchy of the ministry. How does one become an overseer? Who is the overseer of the entire planet?

10. Similarly, can women sit in positions of overseers? If not, why?

11. Finally, questions related to money – its access, its distribution, and the amount. We feel this is important to ask in the context of CSA (and for other reasons open and clear communication and transparency).

a. How is money distributed within the work? Who has control of that money? How much of that money has been used for legal counsel?

b. If a worker is accused of sexual abuse, are legal fees paid from the donations of the friends?

c. Can some of that money be used to subsidize help for victims? We understand that has happened in the past (i.e. Jean Austin (Trotter) – but funds were cut off to her by Ray Hoffmann in 2016)?

The following letter is a collective cry from some of us who love the fellowship that we have enjoyed and are horrified and heartbroken over the recent revelations of years of Child Sexual Abuse and Sexual Abuse within our fellowship and the handling of these situations. These revelations have highlighted a need for accountability and meaningful change within the structure of the ministry.  We are aware that we have many honest and loving workers who seek to point us to Jesus and they are feeling overwhelmed and hurt by all of this as well. We seek only to encourage and support them and each other with a healthier fellowship and ministry. 

This letter is written in two parts. The first part is addressed to three specific overseers pleading that they examine themselves and take responsibility for what has happened under their watch. The second part is written to the broader church with a suggestion for a path forward. It is our sincere desire that the path forward is led by God and is scripturally sound and thus it needs further thought, prayer and guidance by the church.   

This letter was not written in haste, anger or bitterness but with serious and prayerful input from many people over the last couple of months as we have sought confirmation from the Holy Spirit.

If this letter reflects the cry of your heart, you can support it by adding your signature. The letter will be open for signatures until July 17, 2023.

To Ray Hoffmann, Barry Barkley, and Dale Shultz:

We are writing this in good faith and out of great concern for the state of our fellowship and ministry. We have enjoyed many years of fellowship and we have a love for one another and for our ministers who love and point us to Jesus. Most importantly we have a love for God, and a sincere desire to know Him better through His son. We feel profound hurt, disappointment, and righteous anger as revelations of abuse, coverup, and mistreatment continue to come to light. We are sorrowful over those who have felt they must leave the fellowship because of these things. While CSA/5A is horrific and the most pressing issue that needs to be resolved, these past days have revealed there are many other things in our fellowship and ministry that are not Christlike, including:

• CSA / SA being allowed to proliferate even when obvious to overseers, workers and others
• Decisions that are not aligned with the Spirit of Christ
• Dysfunction in the ministry causing mental health problems and burnout
• Abuse of power and authority
• Unwillingness to believe and work with victims or advocates of victims

The continued lack of a spirit of deep humility and repentance by you specifically is distressing. The apostle John asks us to try the spirits, and when we do that, we find ourselves asking – where is the Christlike response? Where is the asking ‘”what can we do to help?” Where is the compassion? Where is the sackcloth and ashes? How can the church be expected to believe you didn’t have knowledge of so many of these crimes and moral shortcomings, when over and over people have spoken and indicated your awareness, and even mistreatment of them for bringing the accusations forward?

Three specific examples involve Ira Hobbs, Leslie White and Robert Corfield. We continue to read honest and heartfelt accounts by those who testify that you had knowledge of a buses by these men, as well as others, over the course of years. Indeed, there are numerous accounts of weaponizing our faith and using fear to silence and shame people for bringing legitimate CSA/SA and other concerns forward. In some cases, people have been removed from meetings because they dared to speak up about the abuse and wrong in the ministry. These situations are examples of a failure of leadership and do not reflect a Spirit led ministry.

There are two accounts in the Bible that come to mind of appropriate responses to shortcomings. The first is in 2 Sam 12 when Nathan came to David after he had sinned. Nathan said to David “Thou art the man.” David, the King in the highest place of authority, immediately said “I have sinned against the Lord.” When he learned what the consequences of his decision would be, the loss of a little one, he fasted and laid in sackcloth – a sign of real humility and sorrow.

The other account is that of Jonah when he came to Nineveh and told them of their sin and imminent destruction. The people of the city and even the king himself put on sackcloth and sat in ashes out of sorrow and repentance.

The church is saying to you: “Thou art the man”. The church is playing the part of Jonah. We are now months into these heartbreaking accounts being shared – where is the true sorrow? Where is the turning and repenting? Where is the Spirit led response? The actions to right these wrongs? There should be tears streaming down your cheeks out of compassion for all those who have been wronged and out of a deep repentance for your decisions. The apologies and actions of removing CSA offenders recently have come only after great pressure and exposure. While the decisions you were making were perhaps well- meaning at the time, the results have been undeniably poor. The fact that so many in our fellowship are hurting and crying out is evidence of these results.

You are the leaders of our ministry. In any organization, the culture and the tone are set by those in authority. It was as true in the time of the Kings in the Bible as it is now. It has become overwhelmingly clear that within our fellowship there are systemic problems that have resulted from decisions that are not scripturally sound or Spirit led. There has been a profound loss of trust and confidence in the leadership of our ministry. We cannot reasonably expect that the same men that led us into this situation can be the same men to lead us out. If what was happening in our fellowship was happening in any other group, there would be no choice but for leadership to step down for the good of the organization. Further, in the workplace, those committing or covering up serious crimes like these would be immediately fired. Heaven rejoices when even one lost sheep is found – are you willing to step down if it means the faith of even one soul is preserved?

Ray, Barry and Dale -the healing of the church cannot begin until there are real, meaningful changes in leadership. Wouldn’t it be better if the decision to step down came from a place of true humility and realization, rather than due to the call of others? To humbly take accountability and responsibility for past wrongs, as the highest authorities in our church? We truly hope you can examine yourselves, let the spirit of Jesus reign In your hearts, and humbly take the lower place.

To the church for consideration: a possible solution

The revelations of the past few months have highlighted a structure that lacks transparency and accountability. We believe our fellowship is precious and we desire it to continue in a healthy, Godly way. As an alternative to address the shortcomings of the current hierarchy and authority, one possible solution could be:

1. Those currently in the highest authority (Barry, Ray, and Dale specifically) humbly accept accountability and step down from leadership for the good of the church so that healing can begin; other leaders responsible for similar actions should step down as well
2. A council of workers and elders is formed in each region where worker staff is shared. An example of this may be found in Acts 15:22 – “Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabus. They chose Judas (called Barsabas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers.”
   • Council should consist of elders, wives and workers, including sister workers
   • Council members should serve single staggered 3 or 4 year rotational terms
   • Responsibilities of the council should include:
     • Appointment of head worker; removal of head worker if necessary
     • Oversight of independent investigations in cases of abuse or accusations of serious wrongdoing, Generally, issues should follow the scriptural intent in Matt 18 of taking the concern to the individual, then be addressed with a witness, and finally taken to the council/church. In cases of criminal abuse, authorities should be notified and handle the investigation.
     • Creation, maintenance, and communication of policies around CSA/SA and codes of worker conduct
     • Consultation on issues of doctrine, structure, finances and worker moves

Item # 2 above is only a suggested framework. The role of such councils would need to be further developed by ministers and elders based on their collective understanding of the scriptures and the needs of the church and ministry. Within the body there are many different gifts our friends and workers possess and utilizing their talents along with prayerful, thoughtful consideration, we are confident we can find a better path forward. We are all aware that doing nothing is effectively doing something and it has become abundantly clear the current structure is not healthy and has led to disastrous results for many. Thus, we plead that we would all humbly look to Jesus to be our guide and begin to take Christlike steps forward.

Signed by elders, friends, and former workers who love our fellowship

[Signed by 95 names at the time WINGS posted this report]

The letter is available to be signed at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfArTnmjoB6sv5gaFkqtGE9Vv4hBG16kOLli1rTGCINUZquVg/viewform