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| Title: Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre | |
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Ex_Member
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Date Posted：09/12/2007 3:54 AMCopy HTML The Geelong AdvertiserThe following articles appeared in The Geelong Advertiser in March and April, 2004. Church bars womanby SARAH BIESKE, 16 March 2004, p.5A WOMAN given just two years to live says she has been ostracised from her church because she moved in with her family. Zivka Igic, 62, arrived at the Geelong Revival Centre with a personal carer last month after being released from hospital, only to be turned away because she is living with her daughter and son-in-law who were ex-communicated from the assembly last year. The Yugoslavia-born woman, who suffered a ruptured artery and was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver in January, was given a letter and told she would have to meet with pastor Noel Hollins before returning to the church again. "She's a very sick lady who needs looking after and we're the only family she has," son-in-law David Erwin said. "But basically what the church is saying is that if she wants to go back there she must also go back to living on her own." Lyn McCarter, from Best of Care, accompanied Mrs Igic to the revival centre and said her patient, who she labelled as frail, did not receive a welcome reception. "She was given the letter and although she couldn't understand what it said because she needed it to be interpreted, she was concerned about what was in it," Mrs McCarter said. The letter from Mr Hollins informed Mrs Igic, a member of the church for 18 years, that the only other people to attend the meeting about her future with the assembly would be two elders and a translator if needed. Mr Erwin replied to the church and said his wife, who has power of attorney for her mother, would be present if a meeting took place. He has not had a response. "We gave them seven days to reply, that's now over two weeks ago and have since confirmed that Zivka has been ostracised from the church fellowship, " he said. "It's not the first time this has happened. It happened to myself and my wife but to do it to an elderly lady is just wrong." Mr Erwin and his wife Helena were ousted from the church but have never been given an official reason for their ex-communication. Mr Hollins could not be contacted yesterday but an elder from the church said the centre would not comment on the matter. |
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piano_accordian
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：15/03/2006 8:55 AMCopy HTML What amazes me the most is that people who were MY best friends and
practically family wont even talk to me now that im out of fellowship...
its so sad.
What i want to know is where has the love gone that they once felt for me? and how can it just go from love and talking EVERY day to being cold and not friendly at all?Surely the Lord wouldn't want this. What are they so afraid of? surely they dont believe that just by talking to me they will be damned to hell!! I cant believe it. When i was still attending meetings i always said hello to "backsliders" and ppl who were "out of fellowship" and they were friendly back. Its not really a big deal. Its not like all of a sudden these ppl have horns coming out of their head and carry a pitched fork around!This organisation is based on fear, not love. When NHH put me out of fellowship he told me that i was going to be very lonely - he said it to me about 4 times. What is the point of telling me that now? i cant change my mind and NOT be put out! He told me that if i wanted to i could call him in 3 months - he gave no indication of how long id put out for and i wasnt encouraged to seek the lord at all. i was put out at camp and saw several ppl on the track - their reaction to see me was a happy one - til i told them i was out - then they quickly turned cold and hurried away.Im still the same person - i havent really changed - except now i feel free and im much happier - i can see the assembly for what it is. I had questioned several of the GUIDELINES and was never really given answers that satisfied me.Im not out to cause ppl in the assembly grief - but honestly- when you see us "backsliders" or "out of fellowshippers" just say hello - we arent going to attack you... most of us dont want a conversation or to tell you our "story" - but really its not hard to be friendly - i promise that you wont go to hell for it - after all - Jesus talked to all the sinners and i think he made it to heaven! Its really not a good testimony for you to be rude to us - why on earth would i want to go back there when you wont even say hello to me in the street!?You are no better than me - and i bet a lot of assembly go-ers have demons in their closet - i know of someone who takes communion when she is an adulterer!! Other people who drink, have oral sex, take recreational drugs. And the rest of you sit there and have "fellowship" with them. Just because you attend the meetings and outings doesnt mean you are any more saved than I am.Im not bitter against the assembly at all... But the life on the outside is good.Id be happy to hear from anyone who wants to comment on this. |
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Charlottes Web
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：27/03/2006 6:45 AMCopy HTML I have to say I do attend meetings, but I have beent out of fellowship before and got treated badly also. I have been back for ages now and a lot of people (not everyone) still treat me badly, but if I'm with someone else from grc when I run into the ones who treat me badly, then they're nice. HYPOCRITES is another name for it. I am not friends with anyone I was friends with before as they for some reason have forgotten all about our past friendships and won't even look at me. I know you're all thinking well why do you still go, I honestly don't know why, trapped from personal reasons I guess. I'm gutless at this point of losing everyone. I have walked past "backies" and snobed them, but I can assure you unintentually. I have gone home feeling bad for not reckognising someone till that split second too late and the damage is done. I am so sorry to anyone that I've done this too, I know I know, you don't know who I am, but I do feel bad to hurt peoples feelings. Just wanted to say that this is my post. |
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robust
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：23/04/2006 5:20 PMCopy HTML Hello again |
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Anonymous
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：29/05/2007 12:46 PMCopy HTML I write this short biography of events on behalf of my brother B.M.8 years ago when we (my family mum & dad & 2 other brothers) when we were all still living at home together, & attending the (Sydney Gospel Truth Fellowship) affiliated with GRC pty ltd. 1998 my brother B.M. was a 16 year old... I guess your average boy growing up looking at what he was missing out in the so-called evil world....Concluding already at this age of 16, that there was already so much hypocrisy with-in the GRC my brother started to buck the trend of conformity. He then faced fierce & stern discipline from mum & dad at home & the ministry, this caused him further to rebel & not comply with a hypocritical culture that says do one thing & then they do another. We often passed sporting fields on Sunday mornings & see people with their children playing netball, rugby league & soccer .B.M. would always make some comment under his breath in the back of the car & say, "Look at those people they have a life & are happy" He would often get reprimanded for such comments & told, "All those people are going to hell" And that he should feel privileged that he was saved from an eternal death (all fear & morbid comments to make him feel honoured of being apart of a elite society known as the GRC, Gods one & only chosen body to make it to heaven.) As time passed in 1998 B.M. was more & more disassociated & unhappy with hypocrisy at the functions within the Sydney GRC affiliated regime. Often told not to take communion, ostracised from group activities, told not to attend young peoples. So now looking back at all this you can see the perfect example how they can push people away that don't fall into conformity. Eventually... B.M. still didn't want to conform pressing on with his desire to just live a normal life in which mum & dad kept trying to tell him he had a more then normal life repeating the same old propaganda of GRC totalitarian leadership. So eventually Mick Brydon had placed a decision upon my parents that if B.M. didn't want to conform or be there. That they should not provide him with a roof over his head any longer & kick him out on to the streets if this is where he wanted to belong.So in 1998 B.M. at 16 years of age he was forced out of the family home & told if he doesn't want the Lord he can live on the streets. Faced with nowhere to go it was here B.M. began his life as a kid on the streets. In his unwillingness to conform B.M. stood at the prospects of living on the street & having to fend for himself at 16. Now before we start to judge, I don't condone the activities my brother did as a street kid but when a child is forced to live upon the streets with no help he turned toward some criminal activities to survive & started with the use of illicit drugs use such as Marijuana & Ice. He led a lifestyle of complete lawlessness & stole to clothe himself & to eat. Eventually the law caught up with my brother, he was charged with auto theft & looked at the possible sentence of prison term. The turn around - B.M. sat in a Parramatta gaol cell awaiting a court hearing it was here he was sitting with some serious & hardened criminals & he realised that he wasn't a hardened criminal & was hoping for a way out. He was appointed a Salvation Army Officer representative who told the courts they would like the court to show him some leniency & give them (Salvation Army) time to rehabilitate him. So he was lucky enough to be given sometime to change his way & get some assistance.I t was here B.M. was placed in temporary boarding housing & took on casual employment tasks affiliated with Salvation Army operations (charitable activities feeding homeless etc)Anyhow B.M. now had a roof over his head & had ceased criminal activities & kicked the habit of regular drug use. In 1999 B.M. was introduced to a man Jeff Gambin a Multi millionaire who gives a tremendous amounts of time toward charitable work. It was here B.M. spent a lot of his time helping Jeff Gambin's daily operations through the organization he runs called Just Enough Faith(www.justenoughfaith.org) Now I have met this man Jeff Gambin in person & found him to be one of the most compassionate & sincere persons I have ever come across who gives generously & has so much time for those much more unfortunate then us. This person has more heart & compassion then most of those that I knew in the GRC pty ltd. This Man Jeff Gambin helped my brother & shaped him into a better person he also introduced him to 2 more interesting people Don & Margie McIntyrehttp://www.dicksmithfoods.com.au/dsf/index.php?d=news&p=47 ) It was here B.M. found himself working as deck hand on the Ice Breaker ship The Sir Hubert Wilkins which was co owned by the McIntyres & Dick Smith. B.M. was asked in 2000 when a position fell vacant to go on an Antarctic Expedition.By now he was rubbing shoulders with some influential people ( Daily Telegraph Editoral writer PIERS AKERMAN .... TV presenter SIMON NASH.... Australian Entrepreneur DICK SMITH.....My Brother was well & truly a different person as his life was taking shape & re-educated & helped by those who cared to help him as he helped himself. So here it was my brother travelling to parts of the world that we may never goto, venturing out with film crews to make documentaries & going on diving expeditions in remote places.Certainly a remarkable turn around for someone who was considered to be a misfit within the GRC & was expelled at the age of 16 when its so important when developing into a young man & still in need of love & caring.But he was dumped on the scrap heap he was ridiculed as those who attended the Sydney Gospel Truth here in Sydney spoke of B.M. as he was some piece of garbage who was a thorn in the side. I am proud of my brother B.M. he has achieved a lot more being outside GRC pty ltd & he done it with the help of his new friends but most of all he helped himself & has reached goals to most unreachable.He now resides on the other side of the country in Perth he met a lovely Girl & is buying a house & runs a small business there & he is only 25... He has a bright future & doesn't look back at anything lost.But most of all he is truly happy and has chosen to move on positively. One thing is B.M. has been urged to write a autobiography of his rise from tragic events being expelled by a Cult (GRC) & his own family & forced to live on the streets... & how he had risen above all this to make achievements & how he overcome adversity being told he wouldn't be blessed without God in his life.I hope one day if he has spare time that he will write of his experience within the cult & being expelled at 16 living on the streets & rising to a better life with the help of people who are criticised as men pleasers.I just wish I was more supportive of him back then as I also was guilty of ostracising him I'm just glad we are close now. That's the story in a nutshell about my brother B.M.Robust_18@yahoo.com.auWe're all in this together |
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Ex_Member
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：08/02/2008 5:33 AMCopy HTML
I along with many other young people within this unforgiving cult, have
been DRIVEN OUT!!
Forced to lose most of our closest friends and families because we would not subject to this hypocritical, facist cult! I was disgusted to come to a realisation of how unforgiving and judgmental within this church is!! The pastors will make rules aka LAWS according to their own opinions and general outlooks on different situations! Will someone PLEASE tell me why there are rules for some and not another. I was told that my clothing was offensive because: A: It had a pink stripe around 1 sleeve. B: My jeans were too tight...aparently? Welcome to the 2000's...We dont wear sloppy oversized garments...and we cant all be homies lol. C: I dressed to Feminine and i was offending ALL the brothers in the assembly! Not to sound harsh or abrupt but TAKE A LOOK AROUND U!!! According to the "Un-Saved" i was very under dressed, and if anything, i was mocked for looking daggy or under dressed! What annoyed me the most was the pastors son (Stuart) was one, if not THE main offender!! But was he ever told off??? If i didnt know him well i may of begun to make assumptions lol. It hurt me soo much because i could just see the hypocritical side too all of this. So i've come to the conclusion of... "Its ok if you are a guy that wears jeans that look like they have been painted on, and you may wear T-shirts that hug your body to show off years of vanity, IF and only IF you are the pastors son or somebody that crawls up his anus and subjects to his hypocritical ways"! Its exactly the same as the whole Melissa Brydon ordeal! Everytime i questioned him about victimising me and scrutinising me for things that many other people were doing he would pause, looking worried and say "Well its not about them, its about you" or when all else fails "You have no vision". Maybe they should set the example by first pulling THEIR families into line before patronising people such as me?? But i bear in mind that only God can judge me! All i can say is "Look in the mirror!" (Message edited by Uncoolman On 20/06/2010 05:17) |
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beentherenowout
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：01/03/2008 3:36 PMCopy HTML My story of Sydney hellI first heard of the doctrine associated with the GRC and affiliates from a long time friend in Sydney when I was twenty three years old, it was early 1983 .At first of course I rejected this and went about my ways, I used marijuana on a regular basis and was going through a rough, self destructive patch and after hearing of this so called “word” I tried hallucinates which did not leave me in a good state of mind leaving me vulnerable to the likes of the GRC and it’s affiliates. Due to being somewhat affected by the substances and being a person who’s physiology does not bear well with the intake of any substance that would cause a degradation of physical or mental health I fell into a state of mental illness and became very fearful of death, this caused me to think on this “word” that I had heard. I first of all sought out this friend, I arranged to go to a meeting in MB’s house at Condell Park Sydney, I was at the time sharing a house in an outer western suburb with another friend who had some insight into Pentecostalism and he came as well. we both sat through “the word” and at the end of this we agreed to be baptised, I was amazed at the harsh responses towards my friend, he mentioned to MB that he didn’t wear under wear and this brought about a very strange reaction from MB, instead of what one would expect, the offering of the necessary clothing (the clothing for baptisms was always in a kit, so what was the problem?) and an understanding that all people are different, MB’s reaction was one of disgust and his muttering and mumbling about how “we don’t care for your flesh” or words to that affect, he acted extremely offended that this man would mention this fact , and went on about it for some minutes. Eventually we were baptised in this house and were settled down to “call on the lord” shouting hallelujahs into the pillows on the chairs of this house, I did not speak in tongues at that point. At a later date, probably the midweek meeting which was held at Springwood in the blue mountains at that point, I once again was given a lift to have my time hearing the word and calling hallelujah at a pillow while two men touched me on the back, one spraying forth in English loudly how the lord should fill me with the holly spirit etc and the other speaking in tongues, once again I did not speak in tongues myself. however later on that night as we were about to be driven home bibles were offered to each of us, and at this stage I was somewhat “weirded out" by all this and used this offering as a point at which to take offence and accuse MB of attempting to bribe us, little did I know it was my so called “saved’ friend who had bought them for us. (someone who I still miss and has had a woeful time under Mick) We were taken home and had little to do with these people for some time. At a later date when I was living alone and somewhat feeling the need to find out if this “word” which was preached to me was true due to my mental state not being at it’s best I sought out MB and once again was involved in this ritual of shouting hallelujah at a pillow while being touched on the shoulder by two men, I was constantly being told to “Speak it out” and at that point felt extremely silly and wanted the whole thing to stop, I decided then and there to just make up some babble and go with it, this was just what was wanted, and something that dogged me for years to come after, I at my first “prayer and fast” was once again calling Hallelujah at a pillow feeling somewhat dirty as I felt I had sinned being a fraud, MB came to me and encouraged me to speak in the language god had given me, I then proceeded to cry and admit my folly of faking the babble, to which MB proceeded to inform me that my thoughts were those the devil had given me to take tmy "joy" away. I was learning fast that what you said was just put aside with some routine saying such as that, I quickly learnt that silence on most accounts was the best and almost all things I may have said were treated contrarily, MB has this ability to offer the opposite opinion to anything one may say if he chooses to treat that particular person that way, I was one who seemed to need to be contradicted. I also quickly learnt the punishment for doing anything no matter how minor that may be construed as wrong or of need of correction, the consequences were brisk and embarrassing, almost always the offender needed to be briskly made to feel small and stupid in front of the whole assembly, MB would yell his rebuke and stare directly at the offender those of us who were a bit naughty soon referred to MB as mad Mick, a name he acquired during his bike riding days MB was before being a “saint” an only child of a domineering mother and a former bikie, (a typical pre-requisit for becoming an "oversight" in a place like this) with long red hair and a beard etc etc, my friend who originally “witnessed” to myself was the type of person who learnt slowly, his quirky traits giving MB regular opportunity to attack him from the rostrum. I was soon able to (as one does) put aside my thoughts of how I deliberately faked the “speaking in tongues” learning as so many do to ignore the truth that is always at the back of ones mind and go on blindly adhering to the ways and doctrines of the “saints” I learnt to phone mick when I felt someone was erring (though I stopped that early on), and to hide my own problems as I felt all to often they would be mentioned every time I was in MB’s presence (nothing was ever forgotten and often brought back up) and he would make me feel like I could never leave anything I went through behind, slowly more and more I felt condemned and unable to live up to the level expected of me, I felt I had to keep the fasard up, if one let their guard down MB would pounce and the consequences were worse than trying to deal with it oneself. Having had little to no experience in the “world” with women, I soon developed a desire to approach a particular woman (Known as a sister) and hopefully date and marry etc, after ten months of attending this church, I, one day in a very nervous condition (I hated approaching MB at the best of times) approached MB and told him of my desire, he in his usual way brusquely told me how I had not reached the mandatory one year mark necessary to reach before one can be involved with a “sister” and only then if the “pastor” approves, and if he don’t, move on, to say the least he made me as usual feel rather badly and condemned for having feeling of any kind, the "sister" and I had talked previously and she was as keen on me as I were on her, we were both given a cruel brow beating for our sins and weren’t to talk to each other for another two months. I should add here, that this “sister” and I would sometimes talk, mostly in the company of other “saints” at young peoples meeting and if MB was the chair of such a meeting we would quickly be put into place, briskly, loudly and so everyone present could hear and learn from our misdemeanour (felt more like we had committed as major sin) that single males do not converse with single females even if the conversation was bland and of no sin in anyway, remembering that we were adults, there was no problem with me talking to a married “sister” just this particular single one. We did eventually start dating, we were very much in love after a short time, and we were often in trouble. At the first camp while we were dating, at Ocean Grove, I had to work, something that gave the ministry an excuse to attack those poor souls that could not get that time of year off to attend camp, I could only get a few days in camp, so I caught a bus down to Melbourne and was picked up by my girlfriend and taken to camp. on our way to camp we dropped by a supermarket to buy goods, at one stage during this shopping expedition we stopped and being very much in love cuddled as we felt no one was watching, this quick cuddle was noticed by some other “saint”, reported to NH and upon our return to camp my girlfriend was grilled intensely by NH, she did complain to me of the severity of the grilling and was in tears during this intense treatment and still after as she explained it to me, she was accused of having “done the deed” (the wrong thing as they call it) and after her expression of innocence was treated as a liar and accused further, we both at this point considered leaving this so called church, but felt there was nothing outside for us and we stayed, upon return to Sydney MB who had been over seas came to me and was extremely harsh threatening to break us up making statements such as he did not want my girlfriend to end up like another “sister” who was single as her husband quickly decided to not “follow the lord” and they soon after split. In August 85 (August presents me with many milestones I have found) we were married, on the day my wife to be was late, the celebrant was threatening to leave, this gave MB much to”minister” to me about, it seems I should have kept him further informed as to the arrangements, something I found out he needed more input into after the wedding (now honestly, he knew were doing this thing, how did he not know we would be hiring a celebrant.. he was unable to marry us) and as usual I sat there and said yes sir rather than have what seemed to be brutal “ministry” if you at all questioned his words or reasoning. Three months into the marriage my wife felt a strong urge to have a baby, we talked and decided to go ahead, we were extremely committed to each other and it seemed only natural, sadly we forgot to clear this decision with MB, I still remember the feeling of inadequacy as he flew into us for not coming to him so he could dish out to us his form of family planning, two weeks short of our first anniversary my son was born, to my surprise we were accused of having conceived this child outside of wedlock, I at that point realised how reactionary this man was and how little thought he put into his statements before verbalising them, a 50 week pregnancy would have been a first I’m sure MB!!!!!! The years following this are somewhat a blur, there are many many things I will ad to this over the next few months, needless to say my time in that place from then on was truly one of a struggle, trying my best to hide my true feelings for the sake of this woman I loved so much and my new family which was to grow a little more before long, the constant fear of being pulled aside by MB and being accused of this or that, hiding my feelings of self condemnation due to my inability to live up to the expectations, hearing from those that had become hateful of him and knew if they voiced their dislike of this man that voicing it within earshot of myself would not bring about a pastoral visit, his ability to poo poo other peoples pain or grief and to develop what we titled “Mini Micks” who would strut around telling this one or that one they were wrong dispelling advice in a staunch “Mick” fashion, the times between meetings where he seemed to always end up opposite me as we ate, all to often setting me up by leading me in conversation to a point where he could spurt forward loudly some statement to make me feel two inches tall as the whole "assembly" had no choice but to stop and listen as their attention would be unavoidably taken by his loud outburst, one time a young child spilt boiling water on his lap and Mick loudly proclaimed the child was just acting (phreaking ouch Mick you fool!!!) the list is long and the bitterness deep. I now seven years forward of being told to leave my family home felt I may have moved on and have lost the bitterness, sadness and associated grief from what transpired, but it is still a big part of my life today and probably always will be. Watch this space been there got out of that
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beentherenowout
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：26/04/2009 5:42 AMCopy HTML I was originally invited to my daughters 21st by my ex in-laws (parents
of a GRC member) I have just been informed that I am now uninvited as it
makes my ex uncomfortable .... how sad .. I organised our son's 21st at
his Aunties .. this aunty is from her side of the family ... she was
invited ... she attended ... (our son lives with me as they drove him
out by making him leave good jobs) .. my ex in-laws invite me to the
21st of my daughter that they have arranged (we are close as they have
suffered the same rubbish that broke our marriage) ... when my ex finds
out she uninvites me ...... how sad are these pious fools!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I rang my Daughter to find out what birthday present she wished, I was informed a Laptop, I was then informed contrary to what my ex-mother in-law informed me (that it was my ex wife who still attends the GTF in Sydney who banned me from the 21st) that is was her (my daughter) that did not want me there, apparently I have been rubbing thier faces in it... I can only assume from this that "rubbing their faces in it" means that the fact that my son now works in a job and has held this job for several years, (they forced him out of jobs for pathetic reasons .. it's so easy for them to find evil where no evil exists) that I have a partner I am happy with and am marginally succesful and not in "backslider hell!!"... so if you don't fall down dead or your life does not turn to crap... your rubbing the so called followers of christ who still persist with the GRC and it's affilaites faces in "it" whatever "it" is!!!! All that my ex wife and my daughter know about me they have found out through accident or through others... so how is that "rubbing their faces in "it" ?????? I have never told them or bragged about any aspect of my life!!! I mean to say .. when I turned away from this awful place after many years of being put down in front of the other members for whatever thing Mickey boy felt was not as he would do stuff or whatever, being glared at from the rostrom for having a problem.. and have even seen the rostrom bashed with his fist over things he felt to minister over (I was not a big bad problem to him, but his brand of ministry states that everyone needs a good "putting down" every now and then).... I was not to know anything about my childrens life, they were told not to tell your Father anything .. (common practice) I was limited to access them thewhen asked to leave as I "would not do as I know I should" then told they did not want to see me... and that they were old enough to make that desision and I had no way to counter that as their wishes would stand in court, sadly I did not have the money to test this, and sadly I believed her (lies for christ) when my son finally decided to leave the place and move in with me, I asked him about this and he had no knowleadge of this.... so why would I now go about to converse with my ex about my life now ... and even though I love my daughter very much, I understand she is endoctrinated and will take on the churches view... I could hear the tone I have heard so often when a member of the place starts the retoric, I knew straight away, regardelss of the fact she stated it was her choice and not the churches that Mickey Boy had told her what to say!!!! to exclude me from an event .. an event NOT held by the church ... they love to reach out and hurt those who reject them ... however... ??when is the hurt that causes us to turn away going to stop??? I still think of the time when I sat eating between meeting.. and talking to a brother about how I was not happy yet with the drainage in my garden and would continue working on the soil till it was right.... Mickey Boy chimes in loudly and to atract the attention of all and says "well if you would stop building your garden with rubbish" the abusive commentary went on longer than that .. but at that point I stoped listening and had had enough and knew I must leave that awful place ... If one did not do things as mickey boy did ... one was doing things wrong ... and my ability to make something nice in a different way to him was unaceptable ... and his personality type to was clone everyone to a "Mickey Boy nasty ass" or drive them out ... which is what has happened sadly to many!!! how sad it is that there are so many families without sons in that place!!!!! been there got out of that
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LSlurper
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：17/06/2010 2:38 AMCopy HTML Hello Everyone!
Back again...hoping some kind person here will again be able to help me acheive some understanding/insight.....please allow me to share this - for what it is worth - from a non-GRC stand-point: Just a bit of back story refresher - I have never been a GRC (or any other 'church'/cult) member. But GRC has played a big part of my life. One sibling was lost to them when I was 7 yo and a second sibling followed a decade later. Ironically, those 2 siblings NEVER got along, and the story is - they still don't - even within the 'church' LOL! Both later married within GRC and both had a number of children who are now all adults. There is a new generation on the way! Of all of those children, only one has left GRC, but I know nothing of the circumstances. For me it has been a long road. There has been lots to overcome in order to cope. When I was underage I was taken to meetings without parental knowledge or consent and sworn to secrecy. I had many mixed messages, but even as a child felt there was something very very wrong with these people. The things they threatened me with, and the incidious way they tried to convert me was the stuff of nightmares for years, and therapy as an adult. As I grew I still had contact with these siblings. Ironically, I was frequently used as a very convienient babysitter, always oncall. I was good enough to care for these precious children, but had to suffer the indignity of sitting across the table from toddlers asking their parents if Aunty was on "the right side of the Lord" and having to hear their parents (my own siblings' no less) horrifying responses about my soul and all the usual stuff.....arghhhhhh! So for the last almost 2 decades of my almost 40 years of GRC I have kept a reasonable distance, if only for self preservation. Sometimes I feel sorrow for the family I have lost, and chose to try and be understanding of people so heavily brainwashed that they can no longer make judgements of their own, and for children who have never had a chance to know otherwise. Yet sometimes, like now I grow angry. In my extended family I was the only underage child - so the only real opportunity they had to exert any influence - which I instinctively rejected. There were numerous more attempts in latter years, with their own children seemingly used as bait. I again rejected advances. Thing is, I was the only family member who copped this treatment. I have lived a quiet law-abiding life, am educated and do my little bit for society....(not to suggest my non-GRC siblings are not similar) but no other family member has received a similar treatment. I don't think I was 'chosen' for any particular reason, other than I bothered to stay in contact, and dearly felt the loss of these much-loved siblings. The reason I am angry is that my other non-GRC siblings (and their spouses and children) do not suffer a similar treatment...although one in-law lives in fear of when there will attempts to 'save' them. LOL! The GRC still act as siblings to these siblings, their children can be cousins to their non-GRC cousins and so on....it might be building to something, I am not sure...there may be issues (I suspect) of money - that GRC family members want to claim eventual inheritances and valuables off various non-GRC family members...but that is pure supposition on my behalf. There has never been a big clashor falling out, nor have I ever questioned their beliefs. Years back at the sudden death of a parent I listened quietly as a GRC in law raved outside while the person from my parent's church of choice came to visit with my remaining parent to discuss service arrangements. GRC in-law almost needed sedation!!! So the respect does not run both ways...and there a a kazillion more examples of this kind of behaviour. Anyway, I moved back to the town where they all live...arghhhh! Had kept some email and other casual contact with nephews and nieces, and always shown interest in their lives. Was slow to realise I had been 'black listed' when all attempts to make arrangements to meet up were responded with; "Will say 'Hi" if I see you in the supermarket.' After a while it became insulting. Comments were downright rude. I used to think this next generation of kids just showed the usual signs of youth; brash, over-confident and so on... the sort of stuff that younguns eventually grow out of. Thing is, these GRC children - well into their 20s - are arrogant and rude. Without giving too much detail away (as so not to reveal my identity!) things were said to me via one GRC child (mid 20s) that demonstrated that they had judged me without any knowledge - worse still - made fun of me in the way that my arrogant GRC in laws did when I was a kid/teen. There contempt of me is quite outrageous, and rarely hidden. I am an object for complete derision - yet I have no clues why!? After this most recent event I removed this child from my contacts list, deciding I would no longer persue contact. The hurt is just not worth it. Soooooooo, just when I get back to my idea of 'live and let live', I get socked in the face by it all again. The irony completely gets me; a group that would seemingly support 'Christian' morals and beliefs, is judgemental, displays blind faith in following anything that has been said (despite lack of evidence or any research). I know these people pray for my heathen soul...but you know what? I am beginning to think it should be the other way around. I think of them often - and mostly in a kindly way. I attempt to understand their feelings and thoughts. Yet I doubt there has been very little time spent regarding me, beyond my future status in the fiery depths of wherever! I have one thing to thank the GRC for: as they appeared in my life so early, I learnt some valuable lessons in prejudice, ignorance, and tunnel vision. This gave me a thirst to understand more of the wider world, its history, beliefs, how things came to be. I completed my schooling, and a number of tertiary degrees. I keep trying to learn and understand....sadly, I suspect the GRC will remain a mystery to me. Although I don't want 'revenge' as such, I am forming plans for writing a novel ('faction' fictionalised fact) based around these events...if only to help myself to get some respite from the sadness I feel here. Thanks for listening! Never been a GRC member.
35+ years as sibling of 2 x GRC members.
Victim of pre-teenage attempts at GRC brainwashing.
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Uncoolman
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：20/06/2010 11:36 AMCopy HTML Family `torn apart' by church's edictby SARAH BIESKE, 29 April 2004, p.5A GEELONG teenager fought back tears yesterday as she told how her parents chose life in a church over their love for her. "Sue" (not her real name) left the Geelong Revival Centre more than a year ago because it forbids its members from making friends outside the church. But the 19-year-old never imagined her decision to leave the church would also mean cutting ties with her family. "I just wanted to live, I wanted to have a career and I wanted friends but when I told my mum I was leaving the church she basically said `There's the door, get out'," Sue said. "I don't think I ever really believed they'd tell me to leave but in the end it was either stay there and go to church and put my whole heart into it or leave home." Sue's father spoke in private with the Geelong Advertiser yesterday but declined to comment publicly. Sue said she wanted to tell her story after reading of the heartache experienced by other former members of the centre who spoke out against the church earlier this month. She said she longed to be a part of the "outside world" and told of her struggle to fit in at school. She also dreamed of being a ballerina, but knew it was nothing more than a dream because she said she "was never allowed to do anything if it wasn't with the church". For almost 17 years Sue said she accepted the church was her way of life -- even its doctrine forbidding members from visiting ex-members, which in her case included her older sister who she did not see for four years. Sue now lives with her grandparents, who were also members of the church for about 18 years. But they, too, have become strangers to their son and daughter-in-law, Sue's parents, after being told by a church leader they could not return to the centre while their granddaughter was living with them. Sue has only seen her parents twice since leaving the church 13 months ago. They missed her high school graduation and are not expected to join her for birthday celebrations. She said the loss was not getting any easier, but she was slowly coming to terms with life in a world that was very unfamiliar to her. "I miss them, the first few months were really, really hard," she said. "When you leave the church you lose everybody and everyone you've ever known because going to church is all you do." Sue's grandmother blames the church for tearing the family apart and said she would have left sooner but was too scared she would lose her grandchildren. She also pleaded for her son and daughter-in-law to reunite with their daughter. "I'll never understand how a parent can do this to their child, all because someone tells them it is what they should do," she said. But for Sue, life has only just begun. She is taking ballet lessons and studying nursing. She only wishes she could share her new life with her parents. |
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：20/06/2010 11:50 AMCopy HTML Church is tearing us apart claim: Members lose faith in centreby SARAH BIESKE, 6 April 2004, p.7THE GEELONG Revival Centre has come under attack from former members who claim it is tearing families and marriages apart. The former members have joined together to speak out against the born-again Christian church which forbids its members to form close relationships with non-members, including their own families. Several ex-members of the centre have contacted the Advertiser since it was revealed three weeks ago a woman, Zivka Igic, was under pressure from the church's Pastor Noel Hollins to disown her family because they were no longer members. Her son-in-law, David Erwin, a former ministry worker with the church, said he was told about two years ago he was no longer welcome at the centre after questioning Mr Hollins about many rules and regulations. The doctrines, posted on a noticeboard at the back of the church, forbid members from visiting ex-members and taking part in discussions on principles contrary to Assembly teachings. The doctrines also tell members to report any disturbing points to the Pastor. Mr Erwin said he questioned many doctrines, but was not given any answers. He also said after he left the centre, his wife Helena was given an ultimatum to leave her husband or leave the church. She stopped attending the centre's meetings last year. Mr Hollins, who founded the centre in 1972 after breaking away from Revival Centres Australia, has repeatedly declined to comment about the concerns. But Ansje Avietti, who was a member of the church for 25 years, said Mrs Igic's heartache was all too familiar. Mrs Avietti said she would have lost her grandson if she had stayed with the church. She left the centre five years ago. "I only have one daughter that speaks to me because I left the church and I just want all of this to stop," Mrs Avietti said. "Because one of my sons was put out of the church I was told (by the church) I would not be allowed to attend the church because I was seeing my grandson." Mrs Avietti said her husband Bruno was told by Mr Hollins she could only return to the church if she cut ties with her son and grandson. John Pierri has his own story after leaving the church of his own accord in 2001. Mr Pierri said, like Mr Erwin, he began questioning the centre's teachings. Mr Pierri said leaving the centre had thrown him into a world he had become unfamiliar with. "One of the first things that got me thinking was their non-acceptance of other Christians who believe the exact same salvation message," he said. "When I eventually got the courage to leave I found myself lost. What did I like? What didn't I like? I was so much into the group and what it wanted that I really didn't think for myself." The same went for Tony Lucas, who said he was also told to obey Mr Hollins' ministry "unconditionally" before leaving the church almost two years ago. "I'm not out to undermine the church in any way or anyone who goes there but I do want to warn people who are naive to the controlling nature of the organisation because there's no avenue to question any of their decisions," Mr Lucas said. Another former member, who did not want to be named, left the centre after 40 years. The man said he had witnessed a number of changes within the church over the past 10 years. The final straw for him came just under a year ago. "When I was told I was not allowed to take my Aboriginal neighbours to the church any more, I decided to leave myself," he said. He said he was now happily involved with another church. Adrian van Leen, director of religious monitoring group Concerned Christians Growth Ministry, said he had dealt with many revival centre members over the years who had concerns about what the groups were preaching. "People are beginning to speak out and have been deeply concerned so it is one of the groups we try to monitor fairly regularly." Church Guidelines THE following guidelines are practical applications for the teaching of scriptures to the church. It is necessary for the trouble-free running, and continued joy of the Assembly in general, that these principles be adhered to. ALL newcomers must be introduced to Pastor. This includes those who may have received the Holy Spirit elsewhere; NO visiting of new members, or accepting of invitations to visit new members, without first checking with Pastor; NO private meeting for prayer, or for getting around the Word to be arranged, or held, without first checking with Pastor; NO literature, including Full Gospel literature, (other than literature available at the Assembly book stall) to be brought into the Assembly, or passed between members, without first checking with Pastor; NO interest in, or membership of, other churches; DOCTRINES contrary to Assembly teachings not to be discussed between members. Such teachings to be discussed with Pastor if desired. Bring Bible. DOCTRINES from other assemblies not to be debated or criticised by Assembly members. NEVER criticise one Assembly member to another. REPORT anything definitely out of order, that is, any strange doctrine, behaviour, or situation within the Assembly. GIFT of tongues -- not more than once every four weeks. Pause between each operation of the spiritual gifts. NO loud praise while someone is speaking with Tongues, Interpreting or Prophesying; A PERSON disciplined, but not stood down from the fellowship, not to be comforted concerning his fault, or listened to by others. To be accepted as a brother, but not for private discussion about the fault; BOYS under 18 years of age not to pair off with girls; NO young boy or girl to be encouraged in a romantic affair until at least nine months saved; IF a young couple going together break off their friendship, they must not embark on a new venture of this nature for at least three months. YOUNG people who desire to pair off must notify the Pastor. |
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：20/06/2010 12:22 PMCopy HTML I Was in the Geelong Revival Centres in Indiaby
Amit Trivedi My name is Amit Trivedi; I would like to write my testimony down here. I feel it necessary to do so because there are many in the groups of the Geelong Revival Centres (GRC) who were not aware of why my wife and I decided to leave the group. Furthermore, some pastors have systematically avoided answering to others about our leaving the assembly. We know of one pastor mentioning to an assembly member that 'oh, they were not of us, so they left us'. These kinds of answers are being given to the members just to keep them in the dark. I will try to attempt to write my testimony here as short as possible. In 1989 I went to Launceston, Australia as a foreign student from India. I was born and brought up as a typical Indian Hindu. While at Launceston I had a terrible cultural shock and was very lonely, my English was also very poor. In this state (within a couple of weeks) I was witnessed to by an assembly member and soon I joined the group. I got baptized and did stammer after a long time. I did not have any dramatic tongue experience. The Launceston Pastor confirmed that I have received the Holy Spirit. My two years in Launceston was very good. I enjoyed the fellowship, singing and all the nice people in the assembly. I was not a lonely foreign student anymore. I must admit here that my time at Launceston was one of the most memorable and I hold it to be the same even on today. People over there were kind and gentle. Even today I have a great respect for them all. The pastor of Launceston assembly also was not a lawful hard taskmaster. I had a serious financial problem over there and the assembly members looked after me in all that they could. I am thankful to them all and I owe them a lot of respect. In 1991, when I finished my education, I had to leave Australia. At this time, I had a job offer from Singapore. The Launceston Pastor said to me that the Lord would only have you to either stay in Launceston or go back to India. I never wanted to go to India as by now, I had experienced the ease of living in a developed country, and again in India, I would hardly find a sensible job. Finally, the Launceston Pastor agreed to let me go to Singapore. I went to Singapore and was welcomed by the Singapore Assembly, when I went to my employer they said they have to get some final approval for my job visa etc. So if I like, I can visit India and come back after two weeks. So I went to India to see my parents. While still in India, I received a message from Singapore employer that they could not get a visa for me so I have to wait. My home in India was long way away from the nearest assembly i.e. Bombay Assembly. So the Launceston Pastor kept on sending me audiotapes. After about 3-4 months I was told to go to Goa Assembly (i.e. 24 hours journey by Public Transport). In Goa, there was an Australian man as a Pastor/minister living there. I was asked to stay with him for a few weeks and have fellowship. This was the time when I got shocked by seeing the lawful, authoritarian Pastor. He was very different than the Launceston Pastor. This Pastor was full of worldly desires unlike the Launceston Pastor. And then came Pastor Noel Hollins from Geelong and he tried to persuade me to take up any job in Goa and stay there because the Lord would be able to use me in Goa. I was very well qualified so there were no suitable jobs for me in the laid back Goa. By this time I decided not to live in India but to migrate back to Australia. I finally got a heavily underpaid job at Bombay and I was allowed to move to Bombay. Bombay is a very hard city to live. My earnings was not even enough to feed me, I had to take help from my parents. There were instances when I had not enough to feed myself, and I used to fall/faint in the train due to lack of energy. Nevertheless, I carried on considering that my migration will be through in 1993. So it was just a matter of time. By this time the Australian Pastor/Minister of Goa had moved to Bombay as a Pastor of Bombay Assembly. I had gone through a terrible time in Bombay, on which I can almost write a complete book of my grievances. But to cut the story short, in 1993 finally my application for Migration to Australia got through, so I thought that my trials are now over. But this is the time I was to hear the worst news of my life. When the Bombay Pastor knew that I am going back to Australia he was furious and put me out of fellowship, he gave me a reason that I did the application behind his back. And that Pastor Hollins does not want me to go back to Australia and he further said that Pastor Hollins says - Amit's (my) calling is in India and if Amit (I) disobeys and still returns to Australia then Amit (I) will not be taken in the fellowship of the Lord in Australia. This was unbearable to me; I cried to the Lord and was almost suicidal for a fortnight (I was put out of the fellowship for a fortnight). I was again lonely and rejected no one from the assembly spoke to me. Although, I had no answers, I could not understand what was my crime, I did nothing wrong that deserved this. The reason given to me was that, I applied for migration behind the Pastor's back; this was not enough for putting me out of fellowship. Furthermore, I could not understand why is it that Pastor Hollins has to tell me what is my calling instead of the Lord. I on my part never, ever, ever, EVER felt that I am called for saving the Indians; neither did I have ever had any desire to be a minister. It was totally forced on to me. I saw hypocrisy in Pastor Hollins because he is the same man who preaches that "One volunteer is better than 10 pressed men", and here he was pressing his will on me. I was scared, I thought if I did not obey the Pastors then I will go to hell, so even though this was forced on me I decided to give up going to Australia and stayed back in India. I thought that there is no escape, time went by and I witnessed some terrible atrocities in the Assembly committed by the Bombay Pastor, such as bashing people up for not obeying him plus many other things that I don't want to write here. However, some of these things are written down by an Assembly member in the form of a letter which was given to Pastor Hollins and Bombay Pastor (copy of this letter is being given to this web site). Nothing ever came out of it. The Bombay Pastor always reminded us that he left his all in Australia to serve us. But nothing was further from the truth; he lived in Bombay in a posh area where film stars used to live. His monthly expenses were double than any one in the assembly was even earning, leave aside spending. And all this luxury without even earning a penny. Sooner or later these expenses started becoming heavy for Pastor Hollins and he asked Bombay Pastor to look for a job. For years Bombay Pastor never found a job but continued living in expensive ways. Then in May 1999, Pastor Hollins came to Bombay and asked me to take over the Bombay Ministry because Bombay Pastor is getting expensive to keep. In reply I said my work as well as living in Bombay is so demanding that if I were to take over the ministry, I will have to give up my job. In reply Pastor Hollins said, "Anyone who will take up this ministry will have to work and also look after the ministry". Further he said that Bombay Pastor is still looking for a job (It was now 10 years that the Bombay Pastor was without work), and the Bombay Pastor confirmed that he is still looking for a job. Anyway I said no to this proposal to Pastor Hollins (I never wanted to be a Minister). It was at this time I realized that Pastor Hollins is playing games with me. Consider what he did to me in 1993 - He forced me and when I did not even have enough money to feed myself; he said (1993) 'the Lord is able to provide my needs'. But now in 1999 the same Pastor Hollins' Lord is not able to provide for Bombay Pastor's expenses. So I could see Pastor Hollins' ministry as a ministry of convenience. I said these things to Bombay Pastor asking him why Pastor Hollins has now changed colours. In reply he kept quiet and did not answer. I still continued with half-heartedness. Again after six months (Nov/Dec 1999) Pastor Hollins came back to India and asked me again if I have changed my mind regarding taking up the Bombay ministry and I said 'No' I am not interested. But that was not enough, he kept on phone calling Bombay Pastor and asking him if I have changed my mind. I thought he was pushing me into it. The reason was very clear Pastor Hollins wanted a minister in Bombay, who would be light on his pocket and Bombay Pastor being an Australian was expensive. After that I saw some member of the assembly were being terribly treated, the treatment was no way human, leave aside Christian. Out of many, I write a couple of instances that I remember very well. ---- Incident No. 1 - Bombay being poor and crowded place, we used to get poor homeless people coming to the assembly every now and then. When a poor member would have nowhere to go Bombay Pastor used to ask us (other members) to put the poor member up in our homes. But he never took them into his home, although the assembly gave his house rent. One fine day, he asked me to give accommodation to one young homeless man, deliberately I denied, and so did others. So by hook or crook Bombay Pastor had to keep him at his home. Although he had three bedroom large flat he asked the poor brother to sleep in the toilet outside his flat. Yes I mean toilet outside his flat measuring not more than 7 feet x 4 feet. And the toilet was meant to be used by the flat servants. This had a serious impact on many of the assembly members. Incident No. 2 - In one meeting a member was sitting next to pastor's son (aged 13-15). This member noticed that Pastor's son used to get to the next scripture before even pastor would speak out the next scripture. Upon asking pastor's son said that he wrote down all this scripture from the concordance on behalf of the pastor, before the meeting, because the pastor did not have time to prepare the thought. This was really shocking, because the pastor was a full time pastor and was not working anywhere. He was doing nothing at home but watching TV and he did not find time to prepare a thought. Talk about spiritual feeding. Incident No. 3 - Before our marriage this Bombay Pastor called my wife (my girlfriend then) in a closed room and asked her that 'did she have sex with any one before'. Although I being the one who was going to marry her, never dared to ask such personal questions to her, but this pastor thinks it to be his business to ask people personal questions. Anyway things such as this went on in the assembly. I started to feel that the assembly is short of love and lacks fruits of the spirit. Time went by, and then in Feb 2001, I had to go through an operation which gave me time to rest for a month in bed. While on bed I read my old diaries. By reading all the incidences I realized that Pastor Hollins is systematically manipulating his will on me and actually I was rather than following God was following a man. So I decided to leave the assembly. My wife was still going. But this was more troubling than ever. {After leaving I saw a scripture in I Corinthians 16 v 12 which reads "Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity." which clearly says the Apostle has no right to push brothers to a place where they don't want to go. But it is absolutely clear to me, with my experience, that Noel Hollins is more concerned to see his will on the brothers than the Lord's.} Bombay Pastor started harassing her (my wife). After every meeting he used to call her aside and trouble her. One day he said to my wife (in front of a Pastor from Goa assembly) that 'your husband thinks that your daughter will not get raped in Australia'. My daughter was four years old at that time and Bombay Pastor himself was now packing his bag to go to Australia. Think of this same Pastor, has also a daughter who was 10 years old then. Anyway, after taking a lot of abuse from him, my wife caught him in an absolute lie so she decided to leave the assembly also. While I am writing this testimony, we are packing our bags to move to Australia. We know that now, we have no friends there but I do not under estimate my friendship with the Lord. "If God be for us who can be against us." Certainly, I look at my twelve years with Noel Hollins Group as the years where I knew a little about Jesus and a lot about self-willed man's ideas. Interestingly, as it stands today, Bombay assembly has an Indian man (Goa assembly pastor moved to Bombay) as a Pastor who still does not work or earn a penny, but manages to live in luxury (note the bold letter words of Noel above). While the previous Bombay Pastor (an Australian) packed his bags a year or so back and has returned to Australia as the Pastor of Canberra Assembly. Actually, this Australian Pastor did not return to Australia but ran away, he only informed the assembly of his flight to Australia about 3 hours before his departure. Why should he run away if he had nothing to fear? Well, I cannot say for sure that I will go to Heaven or Hell. But one thing I can say with full confidence is that my chances of going to Heaven are more today then they ever were because my confidence today is more on God than man. Feb 2003 |
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：23/06/2010 1:09 PMCopy HTML (From the archives) Below is anedited version of the letter i sent to the Geelong Advertiser, i have taken sections out to to protect the innocent. I will not be posting or responding to anything further in this topic, you are free to post as you feel. I am only putting this edited version of the letter in here, in the hope that if the media do act upon this, it may spur others on to recount their story to the media if the occasion should arise. I do this with a little trepidation not knowing what the fallout will be, but unless we take a stand nothing will change. I know the Geelong Advertiser has done a story on the Geelong Revival Centre and the ways in which they have treated people, I would just like to give you this link to a forum relating to the actions of some involved and associated with the Geelong Revival Centre, and in particular Noel Hollins of the Geelong Revival Centre and Tony Addison of the Adelaide Abundant Life Centre. I spent a lot of years in the Geelong Revival Centre and from an early stage I saw how those "out of favour" were treated by the (supposed) Pastor, Noel Hollins. But through the fear instilled in me of "Going to Hell" if I ever left, I was trapped until finally I could not live with the hypocrisy of my life within the Geelong Revival Centre and the Partiality of Noel Hollins. Let me say at the outset, that some of the postings to this forum do seem to be just disgruntled ex members looking to score a few cheap points, but there are very genuine stories of people's sufferings at the hands of Noel Hollin's ministry. One posting relates to a young person hounded out of the Geelong Revival Centre by religious zealots.This person went on to commit suicide, and wrote a note, from which Noel Hollins quoted at the following Wednesday night meeting, he went on to say and I quote (from the posting on the forum) "Isn't it a shame what happens to people when they leave the Lord"I was sitting there listening to this as many other (now ex members) were also. There are people in Adelaide who have suffered just as much at the hands of Tony Addison also, hence my mentioning of him in here also. These "Assemblies" are affiliated I can vouch for that I was saddened when the Geelong Advertiser "lost interest" in the dealings of Noel Hollins and the Geelong Revival Centre as I feel it is only a matter of time before 1/ Someone takes matters into their own hands with regard to Noel Hollins. Or 2/ There are more people driven to desperate measures by the extreme ways of Noel Hollins and his fellow Pastors in affiliated assemblies. Many years ago "A Current Affair" did a story on a Church assembly in Newcastle in NSW. Led by a man by the name of Michael or Mike Bryden, the story alluded to a woman who was allegedly given advise by Mike Bryden to cease medication and to "Trust in the Lord" for her healing. She died of her condition and her family accused Mike Bryden for her demise. This assembly in Newcastle is affiliated with the Geelong Revival Centre and Noel Hollins, so the link is very clear.And if you are doubting my words, just send someone to a Sunday night meeting (the hall is at the northern end of Thompson's Rd just before Cox Rd) I am sure with the pressure being brought to bear on these people in recent times (quite rightly in my mind from some who have posted, others I am not so sure about) that any "New Person" coming into the hall now will be grilled quite thoroughly as to there intentions for coming (not quite the Christian all embracing creed we read of in the Bible) I can attest towords such as "Trust in the Lord" or "Look to God for your healing" as we were all told from the platform (pulpit) not to trust in the "arm of man" but to trust in God for our needs, whether spiritual or physical (healing) needs. I am only too well aware of what Noel Hollins is capable of doing to those (innocent third parties) related to ex members who have stood up and tried to get answers to questions.I believe the best you got out of Noel Hollins for all your efforts was "No Comment"Please, please, please take the time to look at the topics posted, again some is just sour grapes but some are stories of genuine tragedy caused to others for no other reason than to keep up the appearance of normality, and for Noel Hollins to hold onto his grip of power over the "poor souls" that still attend.Noel Hollins is aware of this forum and has gone to great lengths to warn the assembly off (from the platform) reading anything posted to it, calling the site worse than pornography. He is most definitely in damage control and this in my opinion makes him a very dangerous individual as he will not let go of the power he has forced on so many, for so many years.Good people have tried hard to bring Noel Hollins and the Geelong Revival Centre to account for their actions with little or no success.This is why I am writing to you, as a media outlet with vast resources and hopefully the civic responsibility to bring this manto account for the trauma he has caused to so many over so many years.I am not sure of when this took place but not that long ago ALL the assets of the Geelong Revival Centre (approximate value of $12,000,000 maybe more) were taken from a trust set up and put solely into the name of Noel Hollins. Whether this is still the case I am not 100% sure, if it is not, it is only because of pressure brought to bear upon Noel Hollins from interested parties.One suggestion if I may, you could post a topic yourself on this forum with the heading "Geelong Advertiser would like to hear from anyone with a story to tell" I am sure you would get a lot more coming forward now to substantiate some of the things I have talked about in this letter.I believe this forum speaks volumes and attests to the terrible practises inflicted on people, who rightly or wrongly just want to "Follow the Lord".
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：02/07/2010 11:40 AMCopy HTML GRC's COLLATERAL DAMAGE
Throughout the years, many people whose lives have been ill affected by GRC Pty Ltd have sent their messages. As expected, several emails were also sent by GRC activists with malicious intent. However, a few emails came from people unknown to myself, who also never became members of the GRC and the affiliated assemblies. There lives were made a living 'hell' by the 'Only True Church'. They too are victims of the GRC and Spiritual Abuse.In recent weeks I decided to seek permission from a person who emailed their story, to request posting it on this forum. I felt it would be of interest to both GRC ex-members and current members to read. Mr. Hollins is oblivious to how much damage he inflicts upon people and when told, he is justified in his own mind by upholding the 'Only True Church' doctrine, and by claiming that this (arrogance) is God's love to offer the victim eternal salvation. While I was a member of the GRC, I occasionally would think about how obnoxious we must appear to the worldin ourwitness and testimony. For me, it never felt right. Other members would often stand up in church meetings and testify how they supposedly witnessed to a person and would say things like; 'I told him if he doesn't come to a meeting and get baptised, he will go to hell'. Many 'classic' statements like this are heard in every meeting. The whole recruiting system is established upon striking fear into the hearts and minds of unwary people.When you think about how many people have been through the GRC revolving door, and all those unknown stories which will never be heard, you can't help but feel helpless to repair all the damage that has been done by 'Only True Church' doctrine of Mr. Hollins. The following letter is from one such person who was threatened to comply with the 'ideal lifestyle' of Mr. Hollins. This person is now thankful for not joining the GRC. It is a testimonyall GRC members should hear. This person was given the 'hard sell' but now feels more saved for not joining the GRC. I am sure Mr. Hollins will blame me for this and refuse to acknowledge what HE has done. All personal details have been disguised and some information removed, for reasons of privacy at the author's request. Hello. My name isxxxxx xxxxx and thankfully I never became a member of the GRC but my mother did. I firstly would like to say thank you for the forums - I am so drawn to them, and the more I read, the more I thank myself for not ever joining! My mum has left the GRC since xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx - thank you so much. This is my story. My mum and us kids moved to a rental house in xxxxx xxxxx. Our new next door neighbor (xxxxx xxxxx) knocked on our door and introduced herself. She looked sort of pretty from a distance (for her age that is) but when I saw her close up for the first time, I didn't see her face, I saw some sort of quick flash, like an evil, skeletal face with no skin - just for a brief half second. Maybe it was her aura - I don't know, it's hard to explain. But it gave me an uncomfortable sensation that I will never forget.In early xxxx, I noticed mum was being friendly with our new next door neighbor, and decided to go camping with her. I found this odd as my mum is not very sociable - and shy, she never makes friends. I was working so I didn't really know what went on at home, but my brother (xxxxx xxxx) went around telling everybody that mum was in a bathtub and she was pushed under and baptised. I approached her about it and she told me she was saved and that we need to get saved, urgently. I was appalled, as she made me go to Sunday school all through my childhood (uniting church) and I hated it so much. Church was so boring and it was mainly old smelly people. I made it clear that because of my childhood, I would never step foot in any church again. She then proceeded to tell me I'm going to hell and stopped talking to me. I know my siblings were forced to go to meetings, but never got saved. I lost my job eventually (being the recession) and she told me that if I get saved I will get a job - nobody is unemployed at the assembly. Then she labeled me as a bad example to my siblings because I was not saved and unemployed. This was not the mother I knew and loved. We were quite close before this.I lost a lot of sleep in the following months as the thought of going to hell consumed me. The guilt trip was working. All I ever thought about was dying. Maybe I had to get baptised, just as an insurance. I decided to go to a meeting in xxxx. Mum's face completely changed, and she loved me again. Most of the meeting was what I expected from a church - shitty hymns, overhead projectors, long boring sermons. I finally met the man that mum always talked about and worshipped - pastor Hollins. When I saw him standing up there, I saw it again - that flash I saw with xxxxx xxxxx. It was like he was a dead man. I felt cold and uneasy - total opposite of mum's experience of feeling warm and spirit-filled.I met some of mum's new "friends" and it was like they were a part of Amway, they were so false. They were so nice to me, but why? They didn't know me. The whole experience for me was fake and evil.It wasn't uncommon in those days for mum to come home crying after a meeting because a talk with pastor went bad, or he yelled at her or people were staring at her or talking about her. Surprise surprise. She often said people didn't want to socialise with her because she wasn't married and on a pension. Apparently there is lots of pressure to be married.In the beginning, mum told me words can't describe how wonderful she feels now that she's saved and how her life is magically going to be transformed into some sort of peace haven now. And I was going to be in a dark place and my life was going to be so shit because I wasn't saved. My mum has been so depressed in the xx years she was in the GRC and she has recently started counseling sessions (outside of the church) with a therapist and has been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. She says it is because of her marriage breakdown xx years ago, and denies that the assembly has done this, but didn't they promise her a wonderful life? Or maybe it's because she's not walking fully with the lord because her children aren't saved. She has copped a lot of discrimination over this as well.And as for my crappy life - well I made myself happy. I do believe in God and the bible. I have prayed since I was a small child (usually silently in my head). I am a good honest loving person and always have been. I did get a good job not long after the first one ended, I have a wonderful husband (whom I dated FIVE years before marrying - could you imagine?), bought a nice house, have 2 beautiful children, and I am completely happy within myself, with only the occasional thought about dying and going to hell. But thank you David, I have now deleted that thought, and now know I did the right thing and I was SMART - feels good.Sorry about all this dribble - I had to get it out. I just can't believe how lucky I now feel - I came pretty close to having my life ruined too. xxxxx xxxxx. |
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Uncoolman
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#14
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：02/07/2010 12:18 PMCopy HTML when i went to the croydon whatever they were called for the first time, on a "visit" to my then boyfriend, i felt like i was walking through a jelly door (its really hard to describe the feeling) and i had to push really really hard to get through.i lost my breath and felt a chill at the same time. I thought i was imagining it, but i never forgot it and have mentioned it on occasion to some. after that comment about skeletal faces, i am confirmed it was the evil prescence i had to break through. i was from warrnambool.
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Uncoolman
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#15
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：02/07/2010 12:39 PMCopy HTML I remember one sunday in adelaide we were setting up the tables for tea time addison was standing in the middle of the hall looking at me, I saw something so scary and evil looking back at me,words couldnt describe it.
I was talking to Mott Mott about this and he said he always felt a fear about Hollins and he said it was that the Spirit was grieved to be in Hollins prescence.I always felt that same fear with addison,Sandra Sims once said to me that man is scary. |
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Uncoolman
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#16
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：13/07/2010 5:44 PMCopy HTML I was not a member of the Geelong assembly, but the bible salvation assembly in Tasmania which is part of the same group.
The people there now shun me and cross the road to avoid me and my family which were once apart of the church. The only thing we did was question the rules and regulations of the Pastor and not attend several meetings, i had a boyfriend in the church who actually got cancer at the young age of 22, he didnt attend the several meetings i spoke about, due to the fact he was so ill, and i stayed with him, better than going to the meeting and getting bombarded with questions of where he was. We were suspected of fornication and god knows what else WITH NO PROOF, just dude to the fact we both didn't go to a few meetings! When we had always been very good with keeping the churches guidelines and making sure we didn't do anything stupid. It made me sick the church i grew up in had turned their backs on me with no real reason or proof. When we did go back to a meeting we were asked to leave by one of the churches elders, and we could come back on the condition we broke up and stayed away from each other. For good. I spent most of my life in that church, being told what i can and cant wear, i couldn't hang out with school friends or anyone outside the church and everything we did had to be runned by the pastor, to be honest he was not as bad a pastor hollins, he allowed medications and did seem to care when we went to him with problems. But its all the same group right, i feel so free being able to make my own choices and not have everyone down my neck, i couldn't even dye my hair or drink energy drinks without everyone having a go at me. Everyone would spy on one another and dob each other in for doing things wrong, even if it was innocent but just looked bad, you would be straight in pastors office next meeting to discuss it! There are alot of nice people in this church but i think they are too scared to leave and just want to believe its the truth, god exists in us all and we wont go to hell if we dont follow these assemblies, god still listens to me eventhough i was kicked out of this church, i am still human and they treat me like a monster. I did meet Pastor Hollins at a summer camp a few times, that man scared the hell out of me! Glad to be away!! |
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Glad-to be out
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#17
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：14/07/2010 12:13 AMCopy HTML I have just finished reading Amit Trivedi's testimony again and also Guest who signed off as 'Glad to be away'.
Having been out of the Geelong branch of the GRC PTY LTD for some 13 years now, after being a member for 16 years, it never ceases to amaze me the feeling of dread and sadness that engulfs me when I read about Hollins and his various clones. There is no warmth, joy or compassion flowing from the ministry to the 'saints'. Rather than trying to shepherd them, they bully, coerce, deceive, discriminate against, spiritually abuse and manipulate them into submission. Now that the dust has settled after the flurry of activity in the media and on this Forum with regard to 'Australia's Got Talent' I can't help but feel sad, that while some of the 'saints' have come to the realisation that the GRC PTY LTD can't lay claim to being a caring Christian place of worship, others have gained strength and have become more deeply entrenched in the ways of the place. Even more tragically there are people staying in the GRC PTY LTD just for the 'fellowship', they have said that "Hollin's is wrong, we know that, we don't listen to what is being said, we just go to the meetings for the company." How sad!! What a waste of your life - being bound to a place with doctrines, rules and teachings that you don't believe in, being preached to and ruled over by men that you have no respect for. Life is precious and it is very short. The older one becomes the greater the realisation is of that very simple fact. You owe it to yourself and your children to leave, to experience all that a life well lived can offer. To find a place of worship that won't destroy you, but will treat you with the compassion and gentleness that every follower of the LORD deserves. You are not following the Lord in the GRC PTY LTD, you are following one man, Noel Herbert Hollins, who has made men in HIS image to go forth and spread his vile message throughout Australia and the World. If you stay in the GRC PTY LTD without the conviction of your heart, how terrible for you!!! If you are afraid to leave, because of the way you have been conditioned, indoctrinated and manipulated, how terrible for you!!! If you remain, because you have no knowledge of the wider world and its ways because you have been isolated within the GRC PTY LTD for so long, how terrible for you!!! If you stay because you are frightened that you will lose all those people who are near and dear to you, how terrible for you!!! There is a life outside the GRC PTY LTD and more importantly, there is peace and GRACE. I remain as always, Glad-to be out
"Faith is not about everything turning out OK; Faith is about being OK no matter how things turn out."
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Uncoolman
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#18
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：14/07/2010 1:21 AMCopy HTML Glad, There is no warmth, joy or compassion flowing from the ministry to the 'saints'. Rather than trying to shepherd them, they bully, coerce, deceive, discriminate against, spiritually abuse and manipulate them into submission. Even more tragically there are people staying in the GRC PTY LTD just for the 'fellowship', they have said that "Hollin's is wrong, we know that, we don't listen to what is being said, we just go to the meetings for the company." I wasted nine years of my life in a revival centre because I loved my friends and I did not want to lose them. When I did get kicked out, only two people out of hundred stood up for me and helped to nurse me through the breakdown I had that came close to claiming my life. One sided revival relationships are not real friendships. They are a reward for conformity and obedience which very quickly disappears the minute the door hits you on the butt on your way out. Even 16 years after the fact, I still cannot get my head around the fact that human beings can treat other people that way because some dick with no idea tells them to. Where is their personal internal accountability to the god they claim to love and serve? Life is precious and it is very short. The older one becomes the greater the realisation is of that very simple fact. I agree. I am almost fifty and have had years of my life ruined by Christian idiots, both revival and the other kind. I intend for whatever time I have left to be better than what has gone before. To find a place of worship that won't destroy you, but will treat you with the compassion and gentleness that every follower of the LORD deserves. In my almost forty years as a Christian I have met maybe twenty Christians who are other centred instead of self centred. I have seen very little evidence of the christmindedness that we are supposed to take on. What I have seen are a lot of self serving egos and typical human nature stuff. Very disappointing. So either people are a LOT worse than I think they are, or my standards are way too high. I am pleased for you that you have found grace and peace outside the GRC. |
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BJs_Girl
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#19
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：16/07/2010 4:36 AMCopy HTML Reply to Guest Hi Guest,I was not a member of the Geelong assembly, but the bible salvation assembly in Tasmania which is part of the same group. The people there now shun me and cross the road to avoid me and my family which were once apart of the church. The only thing we did was question the rules and regulations of the Pastor and not attend several meetings, i had a boyfriend in the church who actually got cancer at the young age of 22, he didnt attend the several meetings i spoke about, due to the fact he was so ill, and i stayed with him, better than going to the meeting and getting bombarded with questions of where he was. We were suspected of fornication and god knows what else WITH NO PROOF, just dude to the fact we both didn't go to a few meetings! When we had always been very good with keeping the churches guidelines and making sure we didn't do anything stupid. It made me sick the church i grew up in had turned their backs on me with no real reason or proof. When we did go back to a meeting we were asked to leave by one of the churches elders, and we could come back on the condition we broke up and stayed away from each other. For good.
I spent most of my life in that church, being told what i can and cant wear, i couldn't hang out with school friends or anyone outside the church and everything we did had to be runned by the pastor, to be honest he was not as bad a pastor hollins, he allowed medications and did seem to care when we went to him with problems. But its all the same group right, i feel so free being able to make my own choices and not have everyone down my neck, i couldn't even dye my hair or drink energy drinks without everyone having a go at me. Everyone would spy on one another and dob each other in for doing things wrong, even if it was innocent but just looked bad, you would be straight in pastors office next meeting to discuss it! There are alot of nice people in this church but i think they are too scared to leave and just want to believe its the truth, god exists in us all and we wont go to hell if we dont follow these assemblies, god still listens to me eventhough i was kicked out of this church, i am still human and they treat me like a monster.
I did meet Pastor Hollins at a summer camp a few times, that man scared the hell out of me! Glad to be away!! I was from Hobart assembly, sounds like you were from Launceston - I think we knew each other quite well. Feel free to Private Message me. |
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Brett_w
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：16/07/2010 11:22 PMCopy HTML To Guest from Tasmania
Les Shurmer has a reputation as one of the 'better' GRC pastors but he sounds just as controlling as the rest. Interesting to finally hear from someone from Launceston. (SW) |
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Glad-to be out
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：27/07/2010 3:12 AMCopy HTML I posted this as a 'guest' but it was wiped in the last glitch to hit AIMOO.
I had it saved on my computer. A friend has just asked 'how on earth did you get involved in something like that, and why did you stay?? I thought this post explains exactly how and why. Glad
With regard to 'voluntarily' joining a group such as the GRC PTY LTD.
Most people are looking for something in life, usually a 'meaning' for life itself, a relationship with God, comfort in difficult times, a support network of people with like minds and often, a solution to seemingly unsolvable problems.
These places offer all of the above and more, because everything is seen in 'black and white', they are adamant that they ARE the solution to all that you are seeking.
It IS a very convincing argument.
When you go along to your first meeting, the pastor has always been informed that you will be there and also informed about your background.
The talk is therefore tailored to suit YOUR needs. The feeling that you have finally found a place that can answer all your questions is overwhelming.
You go to the front for prayer or you agree to be baptised 'by full immersion' -- and then the 'love bombing' begins.
You are nurtured by people from the Assembly, you pray and read the Bible, the King James Bible, the only version of the Bible allowed in the GRC PTY LTD.
The interpretation of this Bible is left to the pastor. It is a translated version of the Bible that leaves itself wide open to misinterpretation because of the very language that it is written in. English yes, but very, very olde English. Unless you sit with a Greek Concordance to study each and every passage, the pastor can have you believing things that are actually scripturally incorrect.
Then you are subtly led from your normal view of reality, to a place a few degrees off centre.
All the information that comes into your mind is filtered through this 'new reality' and so it is very easy to believe all the doctrines and dogma set before you by the GRC PTY LTD.
You are first fed 'milk' (for your mind) because you are a babe in Christ. Later, when you are more indoctrinated into the ways of the GRC PTY LTD, you are fed 'meat' (for your mind).
This is done over a period of time and all the while, your perception of 'normal' has moved even further away from 'reality'.
It is during this period that the various rules and regulations begin to be introduced to you. AND now they don't seem so crazy after-all.
You WANT to do the 'right thing by the Lord'. NOW doing the 'right thing by the Lord' is following the dictates of the GRC PTY LTD, which in essence is the dictates of one man, Noel Hollins.
If you had gone to a meeting and they had dumped all this stuff on you at the very first meeting, you would have laughed out loud and told them not to be so ridiculous.
BUT, you have been very cleverly and very subtly led away from 'normal'.
You have been expertly indoctrinated into a belief system that a few months ago you would have thought was WRONG.
Now THIS IS YOUR REALITY.
NOW there is no such thing as 'free will' or 'choice'.
You have become a full member, believing all the things preached to you by the pastor and the GRC PTY LTD.
The group you belong to, is NOT the same as the one that was presented to you at your very first meeting.
You have been manipulated and are now controlled by an expert in 'spiritual abuse'.
The tragic thing is.......IT CAN (and does) HAPPEN TO ANYONE. "Faith is not about everything turning out OK; Faith is about being OK no matter how things turn out."
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Uncoolman
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：27/07/2010 5:29 AMCopy HTML Well stated Glad, well stated ...
it all sounds very much like people in the GRC are caught in the matrix of unrealistic reality which is so far away from the truth of real life .....  WHICH PILL NEO??? |
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Epios
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#23
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：28/07/2010 1:11 AMCopy HTML Reply to Glad-to be out. Hey Glad, I'm so glad you reposted this excellent article. My reply to it was wiped as well but I think it important enough to also repost so here goes, as I remember it. Glad, Your article on the subtle progression into the belief system of GRC has a familiar ring to it ...........and I was not a GRCer but a member of RCI/RF. |
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Epios
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：28/07/2010 1:30 AMCopy HTML
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littlewhitemouse
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：28/07/2010 4:08 AMCopy HTML Reply to youngies_no_more Well stated Glad, well stated ... it all sounds very much like people in the GRC are caught in the matrix of unrealistic reality which is so far away from the truth of real life ..... WHICH PILL NEO??? You are a slave You take the blue pill and the story ends. You wake in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red pill and you stay in Wonderland and I show you how deep the rabbit-hole goes Remember -- all I am offering is the truth, nothing more. The red pill can be bitter and hard to swallow but it's worth it. welcome not preachy preachy please
I love cats
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Glad-to be out
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：28/07/2010 5:37 AMCopy HTML Reply to Epios Reply to Glad-to be out. Hey Glad, I'm so glad you reposted this excellent article. My reply to it was wiped as well but I think it important enough to also repost so here goes, as I remember it. Glad, Your article on the subtle progression into the belief system of GRC has a familiar ring to it ...........and I was not a GRCer but a member of RCI/RF. Epi, feel free to copy anything that I post on this Forum. No matter which cult/sect we belonged to, we are all working towards the same outcome, people who are able to take charge of their own destinies. Also to be forewarned is to be forearmed. I wish that someone had warned me about the GRC Pty Ltd all those years ago. The wonderful thing about the times we now live in, is the fact that information is just a click of the mouse away. The GRC Pty Ltd has been exposed in the media over the past few months accurately, as a destructive, mind controlling, spiritually abusive, religious sect/cult. Hopefully the population of Geelong and surrounding areas will take that information to heart and retain it for many years to come. Knowledge IS power, so Epi good luck. Share it with as many as you can. Cheers, Glad
"Faith is not about everything turning out OK; Faith is about being OK no matter how things turn out."
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Uncoolman
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#27
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：06/12/2010 2:35 AMCopy HTML Well I was brought up in the GRC and have been out for 28 years... It effected all my family relationships and took me at least 15 years to release myself of shame and guilt.... it is good to hear that I am not alone.... and that I am not imagining the effects that it has had on me all my life...
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Uncoolman
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#28
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：09/02/2011 4:42 PMCopy HTML Hey All, A lot of you people may know me as I too spent the first 20 years of my life in GRC Geelong.
First I dont normally read these forums or usually enter into any debates surrounding the GRC out of respect for my Sister , Mum and Dad whom still go!. Someone asked me today did I ever go to the GRC and it surprised me because I am now 38 years old so if you do the sums then you'll soon realize that its been 18 years. YES, That grand period of time where it was near impossible to leave in peace. The Early 90's OK, The reason I decided to enter this conversation is not for more people to see but for the people who have already made comments, In many ways I do agree and yes this place was a very controlling one. BUT I am dissapointed at some of the comments coming out of your mouths so to speak. You have all been there and as for those who havent and still think they have the right to comment shut the F@CK up and what gives you the right to comment. Now to those who have been there, C'mon give it a rest, Get over it, Life goes on as you all mentioned. You all seem to forget that a lot of Friend and more Importantly Family still go there and just like you make the decision to go because its theres to make. Further more if you have the time to make these endless comments then at least have the Balls to say your name or is it still the way the old story goes, You Throw enough Shit it starts to Stick ! You all prefer to hide behind your Computer Screens and Play the Good Guy, haha! Im sorry to say that in the real world as you all should know is called starting Shit and people like yourselves go by the name of Shit Starters. Got nothing better to do that to look at others and comment. Try looking at yourselves and I bet only a few of you have moved on, The rest are still spewing there lives away looking for sympathy. WELL YOU GET NONE FROM ME Regards Jaymon Glenn Mears and Proud of it!! |
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Uncoolman
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#29
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：09/02/2011 9:25 PMCopy HTML I personally dont think its up to you to get on here and tell people what they should or shouldnt be doing. if people need to get on here and vent well good for them, because they have no re-course from Noel or the GRC. Its not like they can get up on the platform in Norlane and defend themselves. Even in a court of law you get to do that. So if this is the only place they can vent, then vent away I say. As for you if you dont like it and have got on with your life then you obviously dont have the time to read this then perhaps you should stay away and stop judging those who have been treated with contempt by Noel or anyone else in the GRC.
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Glad-to be out
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：10/02/2011 1:05 AMCopy HTML Reply to guest No 28
As happens with a lot of people who were born into the GRC Pty Ltd you fail to see the evil that has surrounded you and yours for years because you have not experienced 'normalcy' in your formative years and so there is nothing to 'measure' the control and manipulation AND spiritual abuse that the folk are subjected to within the GRC Pty Ltd because to you, this is your NORMAL. I don't think that I can recall more than a couple of people who have posted on here seeking sympathy. Most try to empower themselves through knowledge. They try to understand the workings of a manipulative belief system and how it has affected them and those around them. They try to understand why NHH would raise men up in HIS image to continue the cycle of spiritual abuse and the preaching of a doctrine that is far removed from the teachings of the Bible. (as NHH once said--they don't follow the Bible, but 'more a pattern of the Bible') Maybe you SHOULD read some of the Forum (step outside the GRC site read 'Please Consider' and the 'Speaking in Tongues' pages to begin with).....you are entitled to your opinion as is everyone else on this Forum entitled to theirs, but the use of vulgar language detracts mightily from anything that you wish to say. I don't think anyone who has left the GRC Pty Ltd forgets Family and Friends who are still tied to the group willingly or in a lot of cases unwillingly, due to the burden placed on them by the inter-marriage doctrine of the GRC Pty Ltd. The machinations NHH has used in the building of his Empire will continue to confound many in the coming years. "Faith is not about everything turning out OK; Faith is about being OK no matter how things turn out."
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Uncoolman
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：10/02/2011 9:34 AMCopy HTML My name is Jay, Feel free to use it, hahah! |
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Biblianut
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：10/02/2011 8:45 PMCopy HTML Yes I agree there are a few strange " GUIDE LINES" However if people take the time to investigate further you will soon find out that things have changed, Things have Modernized some what…………… Hi Jay, Ralph
I believe in Christianity as I believe the sun has risen; not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. C.S.Lewis.
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Uncoolman
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：13/02/2011 5:03 PMCopy HTML Reply to piano_accordian What amazes me the most is that people who were MY best friends and practically family wont even talk to me now that im out of fellowship... its so sad. What i want to know is where has the love gone that they once felt for me? and how can it just go from love and talking EVERY day to being cold and not friendly at all?Surely the Lord wouldn't want this. What are they so afraid of? surely they dont believe that just by talking to me they will be damned to hell!! I cant believe it. When i was still attending meetings i always said hello to "backsliders" and ppl who were "out of fellowship" and they were friendly back. Its not really a big deal. Its not like all of a sudden these ppl have horns coming out of their head and carry a pitched fork around!This organisation is based on fear, not love. When NHH put me out of fellowship he told me that i was going to be very lonely - he said it to me about 4 times. What is the point of telling me that now? i cant change my mind and NOT be put out! He told me that if i wanted to i could call him in 3 months - he gave no indication of how long id put out for and i wasnt encouraged to seek the lord at all. i was put out at camp and saw several ppl on the track - their reaction to see me was a happy one - til i told them i was out - then they quickly turned cold and hurried away.Im still the same person - i havent really changed - except now i feel free and im much happier - i can see the assembly for what it is. I had questioned several of the GUIDELINES and was never really given answers that satisfied me.Im not out to cause ppl in the assembly grief - but honestly- when you see us "backsliders" or "out of fellowshippers" just say hello - we arent going to attack you... most of us dont want a conversation or to tell you our "story" - but really its not hard to be friendly - i promise that you wont go to hell for it - after all - Jesus talked to all the sinners and i think he made it to heaven! Its really not a good testimony for you to be rude to us - why on earth would i want to go back there when you wont even say hello to me in the street!?You are no better than me - and i bet a lot of assembly go-ers have demons in their closet - i know of someone who takes communion when she is an adulterer!! Other people who drink, have oral sex, take recreational drugs. And the rest of you sit there and have "fellowship" with them. Just because you attend the meetings and outings doesnt mean you are any more saved than I am.Im not bitter against the assembly at all... But the life on the outside is good.Id be happy to hear from anyone who wants to comment on this. wow I didn't realise there where other poeple going through this i was in one of their churches and my experiences was basically the same....it got to the point that the talking behind others backs, hypocracy, lies drove me to not even be abel to face another meeting afterwards i had a severe case of depression because i felt condemed, i always loved the lord and followed him with my whole heart but they were all just so legalisic and fake and made going there a nightmare and all there clicky groups where horrible unless u were someone and had status and money u were treated badly! it taken me nearly four years to start to heal i still find it hard i was in that church since infancy! its all confusing to me and i still dont have answers? |
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Uncoolman
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#34
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：13/02/2011 5:24 PMCopy HTML I've gone through years and still am going through torment that that place has put me through is there anyone i can email i neeeeeeeed someone to talk to please?
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Uncoolman
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#35
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：13/02/2011 10:33 PMCopy HTML Reply to Guest I've gone through years and still am going through torment that that place has put me through is there anyone i can email i neeeeeeeed someone to talk to please? Send me a PM if you like----through the Forum----will try to help. Cheers, Glad |
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Uncoolman
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#36
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：14/02/2011 4:56 AMCopy HTML To Jay - Different people have had different GRC experiences, some have horror stories while others (like yourself) a much more mellow experience, I'm probably more inbetween. I guess it depends on your upbringing, and how extreeme the GUIDELINES were imposed on you. It is good to hear your side and that not everone has had horrible experiences. I remember you, I think we left the GRC around the same time.
To post#34 - feel free to semd me a PM, and keep talking on the forum, talking about our experiences helps the healing and being able to move on to a normal GRC free life. |
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motmot
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#37
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：15/02/2011 4:15 AMCopy HTML Reply to Guest I've gone through years and still am going through torment that that place has put me through is there anyone i can email i neeeeeeeed someone to talk to please? I too would like to help you if that is what you wish. Just private message me and and we shall go from there. ai am in the Geelong area if that suits you, maybe we can have a chat over a coffee or simply just phone.At present I am over seas till the 25th Feb. but I maybe required back by the end of this week - the 18th Feb. " Those are my principles and if you don"t like them, I do have others"
Come-On !
always tell the truth
motmot
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Uncoolman
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#38
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：15/02/2011 4:16 PMCopy HTML BIBLIANUT - THEIR GOSPEL MESSAGE .........I guess I cant answer that question of yours but really I was really refering to there Gospel Message as such, I was simply refering to there Ways in General , Every Gathering around has there own Gospel Message, Im not a person or in the position where I can answer that as I dont follow any Message. Good Question! ;) |
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prezy
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#39
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：15/02/2011 9:08 PMCopy HTML Reply to Guest I've gone through years and still am going through torment that that place has put me through is there anyone i can email i neeeeeeeed someone to talk to please? Im also available, pm and I will give you my contact details. ¡uıɐƃɐ ʎɐqǝ ɯoɹɟ pɹɐoqʎǝʞ ɐ ƃuıʎnq ɹǝʌǝu
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Uncoolman
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#40
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：17/05/2011 7:20 AMCopy HTML
I
noticed a difference between young people who grew up in the grc and
those who joined later. It also applied to older people but that was
not my group at the time.
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outforever
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#41
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：17/05/2011 6:37 PMCopy HTML Hello, it's my first time visiting this forum and it's quite depressing to hear what was/is going on in the church.
I'm from Singapore, was born into the church, and left the church about 6 years back when i was 14. I don't know if it was because i was too young to comprehend matters or to see things clearly, but it seemed to me that the branch in Singapore isn't as extreme as their counterparts. Even till now, i still think of pastor Tony Koh as a really nice man, as much as i disagree with many of the doctrines and teachings that the church had. He always encouraged participation from everyone, and there was no shouting at new members or shaming of members in public. Everything was quite hush hush as people who did "wrong" just left quietly, although there was a few times he addressed issues in public when the involved parties were not there. There was no also incident of leaving children in caravans, and as far as i knew, he actually discouraged parents who neglect their kids too much. Also, there wasn't much stories of families breaking apart as unlike in Geelong, when a family member "backslid", the family could still be in contact with the person. I know this as my father left the church when i was about 12 due to his desire for my family to migrate to Australia. This went on for a couple of years till my mum didn't like how the church was forcing her to choose between my dad and the church and left the church with us. But it wasn't the pastor or anyone who forced her to leave the church or to leave my father. Contrary to that, he even encouraged us to go to the GRC at Perth if my father forced us to go over. And just like that, i lost all my childhood "friends", although one of them still keeps in contact with me (unknown to the church, of course). As Singapore is so small, i often bump into people from the church and just receiving the cold shoulder. I still have dreams and nightmares regarding my time spent in the church as i was bullied by many of my peers, although i wouldn't blame the church for it was the adults were unaware and it was more like the kids bullying me cause i was different, as it might happen anywhere else. It was only after i grew up and i was talking with my friends that i realised how cultish the assembly is. Females having to wear dresses every week, males having to wear proper shirts and pants, asking the pastor permission to go out with someone of the opposite sex, and even having a baby. And the whole speaking in tongues thing, i had to fake it as almost all my peers were "baptised" and i was one of the few of my age who has yet to "speak in tongues". I have never been to the Geelong Assembly although i've been to the Newcastle, Camberra and Sydney ones and to my young child's eyes, it all seemed perfectly normal and not as extreme as the ones i saw in the clips posted in this forum. Guess i was too young back then. Anyone who was from the Singapore assembly? |
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Uncoolman
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#42
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：17/08/2011 9:13 AMCopy HTML I am sorry outforever for being part of you pain. I did a bit of the planting in Singapore many years ago.
But Singapore was not my worse GRC mistake I did worse. I'm sorry. I did not know that Noel now control when or if you have a baby. I knew he has pushed the members under his thumb harder each year but to the point of what I have heard and read it's just beyond belief. I guess it's been bit by bit each year so people get use to it. And drip by drip. And he is always justifying it by saying it's for the best of the church. I have some photos (if I can find them) of members from Singapore that you might want to have a look at. This is from before they were in the cult. There are also some other photos of people who you might want to have a look at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/7767570@N02/ You have to think of those who were your friends as being lost. And one by one they might leave. And as you are still very young you will most likely see many of them leave. So don't think bad of the followers and only some what bad of the leaders. As they are blind. Keep in contact with as many as you can and want to. Don't try to get them out or argue cult or not cult,right or wrong, god or no god,etc just be friendly towards them. And remember you were them at one time. Even if you were born into it. But get on with life and put it behind you as much as needed and you can. Life is both longer and shorter than you think. If you need help find it if you find it share if if yo share it you have done more than most. |
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outforever
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#43
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：23/09/2011 4:25 PMCopy HTML [Q]Reply to Guest I am sorry outforever for being part of you pain. I did a bit of the planting in Singapore many years ago.
But Singapore was not my worse GRC mistake I did worse. I'm sorry. I did not know that Noel now control when or if you have a baby. I knew he has pushed the members under his thumb harder each year but to the point of what I have heard and read it's just beyond belief. I guess it's been bit by bit each year so people get use to it. And drip by drip. And he is always justifying it by saying it's for the best of the church. I have some photos (if I can find them) of members from Singapore that you might want to have a look at. This is from before they were in the cult. There are also some other photos of people who you might want to have a look at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/7767570@N02/ You have to think of those who were your friends as being lost. And one by one they might leave. And as you are still very young you will most likely see many of them leave. So don't think bad of the followers and only some what bad of the leaders. As they are blind. Keep in contact with as many as you can and want to. Don't try to get them out or argue cult or not cult,right or wrong, god or no god,etc just be friendly towards them. And remember you were them at one time. Even if you were born into it. But get on with life and put it behind you as much as needed and you can. Life is both longer and shorter than you think. If you need help find it if you find it share if if yo share it you have done more than most. [/Q] There's a possibility that you may know my parents since you were in Singapore. Yeah, it is getting easier day after day. It's just that Singapore is so small and everyone travels by public transport which increases chances of bumping into them. Just yesterday, i saw this woman with her daughter and the woman kept pointing at me, not even being discreet. It was only after a while that i realised who they were as the daughter was only about 12 when i left and she looks totally different know. I really hate such encounters. There was once when i had to sit on an entire bus trip with a family from the church. They kept staring at me which was awkward. And it's actually very easy to find out information of my childhood friends in Singapore cause it's small and i go to school with people who used to go to school with them. Funny enough, most of the comments were just of them being really quiet and socially awkward. There's just one thing i don't understand. Why did the pastor stop my family from migrating overseas even though time and again, my father insisted that we will still go to the branch over there? And to be honest, i actually don't regret my time in the church unlike many people in this forum as it forms my childhood memories, both good and bad. It'll be really nice to see the photos you have. I have loads of them actually, only that i have them in print and i don't have a scanner. Just curious, where do you consider to be your worst GRC mistake? |
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Uncoolman
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#44
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：11/10/2011 8:48 AMCopy HTML All power tends to become concentrated over time in the hands of the few.
And his ego is unmatched |
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Didaktikon
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#45
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：11/10/2011 8:52 AMCopy HTML Canuck,
My ego is unmatched? Quite possibly, but it's certainly overshadowed and eclipsed by your profound ignorance ;) And, as Skyhook used to croon, "Ego is not a dirty word ..." Still, I really must thank you for being you. One would be hardpressed finding a better example to categorically demonstrate the effects resulting from Revivalism's vacuous claims. After all, who could possibly doubt your display of "the Truth with Proof"? :) Twit. Ian email: didaktikon@gmail.com
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Uncoolman
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#46
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：12/10/2011 7:30 AMCopy HTML Reply to Didaktikon I am so glad that God hates pride,boasting,and the self righteous.Canuck, My ego is unmatched? Quite possibly, but it's certainly overshadowed and eclipsed by your profound ignorance ;) And, as Skyhook used to croon, "Ego is not a dirty word ..." Still, I really must thank you for being you. One would be hardpressed finding a better example to categorically demonstrate the effects resulting from Revivalism's vacuous claims. After all, who could possibly doubt your display of "the Truth with Proof"? :) Twit. Ian |
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Didaktikon
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#47
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：12/10/2011 8:22 AMCopy HTML Guest, I am so glad that God hates pride,boasting,and the self righteous. Of course, which probably explains why he has such little time for Revivalism ;) Ian
email: didaktikon@gmail.com
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Uncoolman
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#48
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：14/10/2011 8:01 AMCopy HTML Reply to Didaktikon Guest, I am so glad that God hates pride,boasting,and the self righteous. Of course, which probably explains why he has such little time for Revivalism ;) Ian
And its great that God doesnt respect persons,we all have to answer to God for what we do. |
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Didaktikon
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#49
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：14/10/2011 10:19 AMCopy HTML Guest,
Given your latest effort, I can only presume that you struggle with understanding the written word in context. My spirituality is inspired and guided by Scripture and not popular culture, which is why I rail against misguided opinions spanning generic Revivalism to our 'Canadian' friend's trite nonsense. So, to which sect of Revivalism do you personally subscribe?
Ian email: didaktikon@gmail.com
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Uncoolman
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#50
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Re：Tales from the Geelong Revival Centre Date Posted：15/10/2011 5:43 AMCopy HTML Sorry to post again, but i could not see my topic so i went staight to the top of the list.... Some one once told me the best form of revenge is too live a good life, (that was on seinfield) even if the life you had, has been taken and trodden on by religious fanatics. I was very hurt by the GRC, by hollins and his henchmen and my family. One thing i will say... my integrity is sound and the only lies i have heard, have come from hollins and his cronnies. When he dies and he will, as we all will, someone will step up and fill the void, as long as there are vulnerable people there will be predators. So what do we do?? I am still in contact with people who attend, but my days of hammering people who attend to see the "folly of their way" are over. I hear the stories they relate (even the word says there is nothing new under the sun) are no different from when i was apart of this. The bible (which i now see as a work of fiction) says "they shall been known by their deeds" and hollins and the grc are definately known by those deeds, as i said to the government when fighting for my kids "Today Tonight, A Current Affair, they are not coming through my door with cameras asking questions of me" but they have done that to hollins and the grc. Thankfully i have my kids back even if they still go to sunday school and spend half their time with their mother (who is a fanatic) by my kids will grow up and see this place for what it is (if i have anything to do with it) I am sure there will be detractors to what i say, people who say YOU left GOD when you left the grc..... What arrogance that is, i remember nice people in the assembly who wasted away of cancer in that place while hollins sat on the sidelines sprouting something about a "spiritual lack" on their part to see the victory, while he was supposedly running to the usa to treat his parkinsons. Anyway to conclude. I am so much better off today than i was living a lie in the grc, so after costing me a marriage, full access to my children and a lot of heartache. Still i stand, and will continue to do so with integrity. Name withheld for the sake of my kids. |
