Gay Ex-Jehovah's Witnesses

Welcome

2006-01-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

Attention: Now adding more profiles! I stopped for awhile because it was so much work to upload each picture and add each profile. So I'm modifying things a little. Instead of having profiles and pictures on this blog, all you need to do is have a myspace/friendster/whatever internet profile of your own, and I will link it here by city and by country. So much less work for me! Start sending in those links!

This site (started in January 2006) is for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning people who were raised Jehovah's Witnesses. While other sites already exist, such as the Common Bond sites, this is primarily a "profiles" site, with contact information to other gay ex-Jehovah's Witnesses. This follows the principle that it is always easier to live through a trialsome experience when you know there are others in the same boat as yourself.

The other goal of this site is to show that there are a variety of feelings and experiences in the organization, upon which other factors such as immediate family, friends, and congregational influences play a large role. That is why I put on the form/questionaire (that you can fill out to add your profile) whether or not your experience was positive, negative, or neutral. Through my own experience as well as what I've heard from others, many Jehovah's Witnesses and former Witnesses avoid websites because of the negative aura that those sites present (ie using words like "cult" "mind-control" etc), which is insulting to those who have had good experiences as a Witness. This is not to discredit many of the gay ex-Jehovah's Witnesses who have had negative experiences, but it seems that there is an under-representation of those whose experience was a good one. And it must be further noted that various sub-categories exist which I will examine in greater detail, such as the person whose experience was positive, but who no longer believes the Witness doctrine, or conversely, the person whose experience was bad, but who still believes the Witnesses to be the truth. To be fair, I should probably let you know that I am agnostic, so that anything I write or any persuasion I try to make is subjective to my world view.

Future goals! Future goals for the site will include links to counseling, HIV information, and drug abuse information, as well as a guide to how you can start building a happy healthy life for yourself. First, I have to figure that one out for myself. (Yes, ask the marriage counseler who has been divorced 5 times... or you can come to me about getting your act together. I am the quintessential character played by Julia Roberts, the gay male version of Runaway Bride.)

Who are you?

Now first of all, I have to admit that I love categories. I like filing, I like alphabetical order, I like cross referencing. I like statistics and percentages. And because I was raised from infancy in the pioneer work, I have this need to organize groups and to try and help people and even now, away from the organization for 9 years, I feel the ever so slight need to turn in my time at the end of the month. So I hope the following catagorization doesn't seem to dehumanize anyone. It really isn't intended to do so. There are four different categories into which you may fall, with various shades of grey and shall I emphasize that point when I say shades of grey?

The first category is that you are still a Jehovah's Witness and believe that it is the truth. If this is you, you certainly aren't alone. The goal of this site is not to change your mind about that, however, it must be noted that it is much easier to accept your homosexuality if you do not believe that the Jehovah's Witnesses have the truth. Obviously. Why do you think that there are so many gay agnostics? That being said, it must further be noted that it will be problematic to base your decision about the truthfulness of doctrine on how easy your life will be as a result. At least it would be problematic if your goal is accuracy.

If you do decide that you want to do external research on Christianity and the Witnesses, I will list some suggested reading material at the end of this post. If you have no inclination to do so, my advice would be to do the following: Confide in friends! The worst thing is to keep your feelings to yourself. At first, you may feel more at ease making friends in the gay community who aren't former Witnesses, or, there are some listed here who haven't been officially disfellowshiped - if you feel bound by certain rules of association.

If you decide to maintain your standing as a Witness, you can recieve assistance from the local elders (who will likely tell you to avoid this website) and there are even internet sites for current Jehovah's Witnesses who wish to stay with the organization and recieve support from others of similar perspective (the elders would probably advise against these sites as well). Leaving the organization is no guarantee of happiness, depending on your mindset. I would probably be criticized by many for saying this, but if you really believe it is the truth, you can have a happy life by immersing yourself in it and enjoying the spiritual paradise it offers. Remember though that if you decide to maintain your standing as a Witness and change your mind later in years, you have given up some of your best years that you will never be able to get back, and build a healthy happy life on the outside.

The second category are current Jehovah's Witnesses who are still active in some way but don't believe that it is the truth. You may be hesitant to leave because of your close ties to friends and family and fear of being disfellowshiped. Some have decided to walk away quietly, even to move away from their hometown, simply become inactive, and thereby to avoid the disfellowshiping process. Keep in mind that posting your picture here might be risky if it is used against you in a judicial committee. Plus, there is the stress involved in leading a double life. There is a theory afloat that after 3 years of inactivity, you won't be disfellowshiped even if your sexuality is discovered (the idea being that you no longer associate yourself with the Witnesses and thereby do not need to be disfellowshiped).

The third category is that you are no longer a Jehovah's Witness but you think it is the truth. Therefore, you may be living with guilt or low self esteem. I would again recommend doing research that will either confirm or deny what you believe to be the truth. Personally, I don't think it is healthy to live a lifestyle that you feel is morally wrong. Either your beliefs or lifestyle should be resolved so that the two are compatable. Inner conflict can lead to headache, a negative outlook, and indigestion. Perhaps even erectile disfunction. It's true. (Can there be no end to my cleverness?)

The fourth category, is that you are no longer a Jehovah's Witness and you do not think that it is the truth (many have become agnostic). For people who have their profiles on this site, this is by far the category into which most of us fall. Many in this category have moved on and set up new lives and have dealt with the trauma of being disfellowshiped. If not, my advice is to try and understand the motivations and convictions of your Witness friends and relatives. Understand that they also might be dealing with a lot of pain and sincerely believe that your decisions will lead to your ultimate destruction and that you are sinning against God. Some families and friends will eventually decide to let you back into their lives, and some will not. The scenarios are varied. I have a friend who used to be a bethelite and after 6 or 7 years, his Witness parents visited him and his boyfriend for a few days. If you have very active family, this is probably unlikely.

Whatever is the case in your life, I can assure you that with effort and support from friends, you can be happy and successful. Whatever decision you make, find friends to support you.

Why add your profile?

Even if you aren't dealing with issues of being disfellowshiped, and want to leave this part of your life behind, by placing a profile here you are helping others who are just now leaving the Witnesses because they will see that not only are they part of a much larger group, but that they can be happy and rebuild their lives and find new friends.

Finally, I ask that you please respect other people's beliefs, whether they still identify themselves as Jehovah's Witnesses or something different.

Suggested Reading Material:

Although hesitant to do so because he is an ex-Witness and I try to avoid any overtly apostate suggestions, I would recommend a book available at many libraries, called "Crisis of Conscience" by Raymond Franz, who was a missionary, and on the Governing Body for 12 years. While it is subjective to his experience, I felt it was fair and balanced, if not a little bit self-justifying. It wasn't the type of diatribe recounting "30 Years a Watchtower Slave". I think the reason you should read it is that Raymond Franz did much of the research that went into laying the groundwork for the "Aid to Bible Understanding" book, upon which "Insight on the Scriptures" is based. He also has a unique perspective that no one else has on the motivations for organizational and doctrinal development. Although I have to warn you that reading it will probably make you doubt the divine source or backing of the society. It is however, well researched and documented, and written with a lot of feeling. (Also, it seems that his favorite Governing Body co-member was Dan Sydlik, and for his passion, sense of humor, and humanity, I too prefered Sydlik over the rest.) Having said all that...

If you prefer not to read anything by a former Witness (well, if you're reading this blog it's too late for that), but would still like to research Christianity's origins and development, check out secular sources such as the PBS website: From Jesus to the Christ or other similar sites. Do research on the development of the Bible and the first few centuries of Christiaity in Encyclopedia articles and compare your results with the book "The Bible - God's Word or Man's?" and other apologetic material. There are some arguments for secularism on the site: infidels.org, and in particular, the section on theistic arguments and debate.

If you decide that you need a spiritual experience and prefer Christianity, there are also alternative views on homosexuality that you may wish to explore, including many churches that accept homosexuals. I have met several gay former Witnesses who have supportive congregations of various denominations.

New Profiles

2006-01-07T11:30:00.000-08:00

Here are the most recent profiles added. Refresh your page if you've been here recently. (Note: Some browsers, like Firefox, won't take you to the correct place for the profile you select. This can be resolved by clicking refresh after you click on the link below.)

May 5, 2006: Raul, Santiago, Chili
May 5, 2006: Jess, Copenhagen, Denmark (pic)
April 30, 2006: Jo, Chippenham, Wiltshire, UK
April 12, 2006: Christophe, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (pic)
April 4, 2006: Bob, Seattle, WA, USA (pic)
April 4, 2006: Phillip, New York, NY, USA
April 4, 2006: Alan, Armadale, Edinburgh, Scotland (pic)
March 6, 2006: Vernon, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa (pic)
March 6, 2006: Antony, Wellington, New Zealand
February 13, 2006: Frank, Fremont, CA, USA (pic)
February 11, 2006: Jon, Tyler, TX, USA
February 9, 2006: Jim, Sinking Spring, PA, USA (pic)
February 9, 2006: Jonathan, Seattle, WA, USA (pic)
February 7, 2006: Anthony, Rochester, NY, USA
February 7, 2006: Pierre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
February 7, 2006: Dave, Atlanta, GA, USA (pic)
February 7, 2006: Iwan, Cardiff, Wales, UK (pic)
February 7, 2006: Christopher, Portland, OR, USA (pic)
February 7, 2006: Nate, Edmonds, WA, USA
February 7, 2006: Daniel, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
February 7, 2006: Mark, Arlington, VA, USA
February 7, 2006: Max, Sydney, NSW, Australia (pic)
February 6, 2006: Brett, Leicester, Leicestershire, UK (pic)
February 5, 2006: Eric, San Diego, CA, USA
February 2, 2006: Marleen, San Antonio, TX, USA (pic)
February 2, 2006: Ryan, Los Angeles, CA, USA (pic)
February 1, 2006: Doug, Seattle, WA, USA (pic)
January 29, 2006: Jasper, Amsterdam, Holland, Netherlands (pic)
January 24, 2006: John, Houston, TX, USA
January 24, 2006: David, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
January 24, 2006: Jason, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
January 24, 2006: Sherry, Seattle, WA, USA (pic)
January 23, 2006: Michael, Seattle, WA, USA (pic)

Comments

2006-01-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Comments? Leave them here!

Add Your Profile

2006-01-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

Copy and paste the form below and email it to me with your picture(s) (not required if you're camera shy) at michaeleric76@gmail.com.

I hate to exclude anyone, so feel free to post your profile even if you are straight and you want to show your support. Thanks!!

--------- Copy and Paste Form Below ---------

Required Information:

Country:
State/Province:
City:
Name: (last name not required)
Age: (you can put "rather not say")
Sexuality:
Beliefs/Religion:

My experience as a JW was/is:

a) positive
b) negative
c) neutral

And I:

a) do believe that
b) do not believe that
c) am not sure if

...it is the truth

Interests: What do you like to do? skiing, cooking, needlepoint, fun with stickers...

E-mail address:
E-mail preferences:

a) Email as much as you like!
b) Email but please keep them brief

Comments: A little about yourself goes here. Please don't write your whole story (a few paragraphs here at most), but feel free to link to your story if you have one offsite, or email your story to me seperately and I will post it here seperate from your profile with a link. It's easy to sign up for a free blog by visiting blogger.

Optional Information:

Do you have a Website? Blog? Online photo album? Friendster profile? Myspace profile? HotOrNot profile? Gay.com profile? Instant messenger address? Audio link? Video link? (If you want to link to audio or video files, an excellent free service is putfile.com where you get up to 25 megabytes free). Did I miss anything?

---------------- End of Form ----------------

Browse by Location

2006-01-05T15:22:00.000-08:00

Refresh your page if you've been here recently. In cities with more than one profile, a number will indicate the amount of profiles in that city. In alphabetical order by country, state/province, city, and first name.

Australia
NSW, Sydney
   Max
Victoria, Melbourne
   Jason

Canada
Quebec, Montreal
   Pierre
Ontario, Ottawa
   Christophe

Chili
Santiago
   Raúl

Denmark
Copenhagen
   Jess

The Netherlands
Noord-Holland
   Amsterdam

New Zealand
   Wellington

Scotland
Edinburgh
   Armadale

South Africa
Gauteng
   Johannesburg

United Kingdom
Leicestershire
   Leicester
Wales
   Cardiff
Wiltshire
   Chippenham

USA
California
   Beverly Hills
   Fremont
   Los Angeles
   San Diego
   Walnut Creek
Georgia
   Atlanta
New York
   New York City
   Rochester
Oregon
   Portland
Pennsylvania
   Sinking Spring
Texas
   Houston
   San Antonio
   Tyler
Virginia
   Arlington
Washington
   Edmonds
   Seattle (5)

Highlights

2006-01-04T23:59:00.000-08:00

Anything exciting happening in your life that you wish to share, or any talents, etc that we might mention? Send your ideas to me and I might post them here!

Posted April 14th, 2006:

Ryan Allen Carrillo just got nominated for an award for the Gay Games VII taking place in Chicago on July 15-22, 2006! Look for his name under "Sports Legends" at the following link: Click here for article.

Also check out the amazing Halloween costumes that Bob and his partner Rocky have designed, and that have won numerous Seattle area contests.

USA, Washington, Seattle

2005-12-31T23:59:00.000-08:00

Alphabetized by first name.

USA, Washington, Seattle

Bob, right, with his partner Rocky

Date Posted: April 4, 2006
Name: Bob
Age: 49
Sexuality: HELLO?!?! GAY
Beliefs/Religion: Done with religion
My experience as a JW was negative
And I am not sure if it's the truth or not

Interests: Singing, Piano, Costuming, Knitting, Dancing, Always looking for new things to enjoy. Sci-fi, romance, and thriller movie fan.

E-Mail: rsalis@aol.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: Raised in the truth. Dad was big time elder and Mom was full-time pioneer. Thought 1975 was going to take care of the problem, but alas, I'm still here. Baptized at 15 (wanted to be w/ my friends) and DF'd at 17. Reinstated at 21, DF'd at 23. Reinstated at 31, DF'd at 36. Hey, I tried, okay? Got married for 2 years (at 21 yrs old) thinking that would fix things. It didn't. Got engaged twice after that. All fell apart. Came to the conclusion I was undeniably and uncontrollably GAY!!! So I moved to SF to be with "my kind." Moved to Washington when I hit bottom. Family still strong in the organization. Older brother is and Elder. They only talk to me when they HAVE to which, is a WHOLE lot better than it used to be. Let's talk! I'm still a bit confused. Oh, and HIV+.

Site Administrator notes: Below are some of their amazing Halloween Costumes that have won multiple awards in Seattle contests. I had to show these off for them:

Daisy & Taco Bell

______________________________

USA, Washington, Seattle

Doug, left, with boyfriend Chris

Date Posted: February 1, 2006
Name: Doug Bradshaw
Age: 34
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Ex-JW
My experience as a JW was: Positive
And I: do believe that most of it is the truth

Interests: How about tivo, food, friends & movies

E-Mail: igodoh@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!
Blog: igodoh.blogspot.com

Comments: Visit my blog!

______________________________

USA, Washington, Seattle

Date Posted: February 9, 2006
Name: Jonathan Dupuy
Age: 21
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Earth-based spirituality/Christian.
My experience as a JW was: Positive
And I: believe that many parts of it are true but NOT The Truth

Interests: camping, hiking, reading, spending time with loved ones, art, spirituality, environmentalism, history and many other things.

E-Mail: curdleturtle@gmail.com, Email as much as you like!
MySpace: www.myspace.com/curdleturtle

Comments: I believe that the best way to honor the Creator is by honoring and respecting all of his Creation and that includes the Mother Earth and all of Her inhabitants. The actually teaching of Jesus was about love, non-judgement and acceptance.

I grew up in Seattle and stop going to the Kingdom Hall when I was 16. My mother was a full-time pioneer. I came out a few years ago. Please feel free to contact me via if you want to know more about me or need someone to talk to.

______________________________

USA, Washington, Seattle

Date Posted: January 23, 2006
Name: Michael Ferguson
Age: 30
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Agnostic
My experience as a JW was: Positive, with some teenage angst
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: photography, traveling, blogging, NPR, This American Life, Car Talk, Absolutely Fabulous, Ellen, David Sedaris, Augusten Burroughs, Desperate Housewives, New York City, musicals, Rufus Wainwright, Weezer, Magnetic Fields, ELO, "Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66". And eating rice crispy treats.

E-Mail: michaeleric76@gmail.com, but please keep them brief
Blog: michaelmeadows.blogspot.com

Comments: I was home-schooled and regular pioneered for 8 years, starting when I was 10. This should account for any peculiarities of social dysfunction you'll notice in me. I was baptized at age 9, disfellowshiped at 22.

I have fond memories of the organization but do not believe that it is the truth. I am also agnostic, and thinking of becoming a Unitarian Universalist. I am attracted to more subdued philisophical intelligent guys who like to discuss religion and debate the origins of the universe, and which of the 4 Sex in the City stars they identify with.

My advice is outlined in the home page of this blog. Follow it and let me know how that goes. I recommend singing out loud in the shower, moisturizing, flossing, and wearing sunscreen.

______________________________

USA, Washington, Seattle

Date Posted: January 24, 2006
Name: Sherry
Age: 49
Sexuality: Lesbian
Beliefs/Religion: Happy Pagan
My experience as a JW was: Neutral
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: hiking, camping, cooking, gardening, my dogs

E-Mail: gretchen956@yahoo.com, email as much as you like

Comments: I was a third generation JW, born and raised in a tiny rural community in Montana (well I guess rural community is redundant for Montana, LOL) anyway I tried my very hardest to be straight like I was supposed to. Turned my back on all that tomboy nonsense and strived to be cured through prayer etc. Well you all know how well that worked out! Still, never one to give up easily, I didn't finally decide to be true to myself until I was 42 years old. I had left the organization 6 years prior to that. As to the witnesses, I didn't DA myself and I didn't get DF'd. I just left. I don't recognize them as having any authority over me and I don't recognize their little kangaroo court or their little elders dressed up in bad suits playing god. So, now I'm a happy, well adjusted lesbian with a partner and the prerequisite two dogs.

The only thing I would add is that my spiritual beliefs are deep and very personal. I will never try to convert you from your way of belief and I ask that you respect mine. Thanks

Australia, Victoria, Melbourne

2005-12-30T23:59:00.000-08:00

Australia, Victoria, Melbourne

Date Posted: January 24, 2006
Name: Jason
Age: 29
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Agnostic
My experience as a JW was: Mostly Positive
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Travel, Photography, Cricket, Tennis, Adventure Sports, TV -ER, Music - alternative, Drinking alcohol

E-Mail: talbs_77@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like but not too much...
MSN IM: talbs_77@hotmail.com

Comments: Raised as a dub, been out of it now for past 3 years and happy. Family still involved and dont know my whole 'storey'! Lived in Australia all my life but been to Europe, about to move overseas to Canada via the US. Would be cool to have a beer or two with anyone anywhere I might be coming on my travels. (West coast US - LA, San Fran, Seattle also Canada - Vancouver, Halifax). What else constitutes a comment? Ahh... Good Aussie fella with a good heart and a top personality, that should do it!

USA, California, Beverly Hills

2005-12-29T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, California, Beverly Hills

Date Posted: January 24, 2006
Name: David Solomon
Age: 45
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Jewish
My experience as a JW was: Negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Skiing, Reading, Tennis

E-Mail: Msmilano2you@yahoo.com, Email as much as you like

Comments: My experience as a young JW was painful and isolating, ten years of hell. It's left a big emotional scare on how i feel about mankind.

USA, Texas, Houston

2005-12-28T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Texas, Houston

Date Posted: January 24, 2006
Name: John Herrera
Age: 35
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Existentialist
My experience as a JW was: Started positive, ended negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Soccer, traveling

E-Mail: jonwil@sbcglobal.net, Email as much as you like
Livejournal: devnair1

Comments: Came into the "truth'" at 12 and left at 25 after serving where the need was great and a regular pioneer. Also served in Bethel and as a MS.

The Netherlands, Noord-Holland, Amsterdam

2005-12-27T12:59:00.000-08:00

The Netherlands, Noord-Holland, Amsterdam

Date Posted: January 29, 2006
Name: Jasper Martens
Age: 27
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: ?
My experience as a JW was: neutral
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Swimming, fitness, snowboarding, travel outside europe, short trips within europe, designing

E-Mail: info@jaspermartens.com, email as much as you like

Comments: Yes, Jehovah Witnesses are also present in the Netherlands but then as “Jehovah’s Getuigen”. I discovered on my 18th birthday that I was gay and I discovered during my student time in Eindhoven and Amsterdam that live was more than the truth. Ten years later I couldn’t by more happier.

I live in West from the center of Amsterdam and enjoying the live in our main capital (for your American guys it’s a very small town…). We’re having a website in the Netherlands for ex JW gays: http://groups.msn.com/JehovahsGetuigenHomoseksualiteit/

I do believe that there is something more than nothing. I do not believe that the organization was right because it’s being run by human beings.

New Zealand, Wellington

2005-12-26T23:59:00.000-08:00

New Zealand, Wellington

Date Posted: March 7, 2006
Name: Antony
Age: 30
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: None
My experience as a JW was: positive
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: I love the night life, I like to boogie.. I also like art and anything designer-ly, cheesy pop, sappy ballads, hiking, traveling,chocolate and shopping

E-Mail: antzbrown@hotmail.com, Email but please keep them brief

Comments: Raised a witness. Knew I was gay since my teens. Kept it hidden, tried to ignore it, but as the years went by it got more and more difficult. Realised that I could not keep on living a lie, living the life that my family expected me to live. It was extremely difficult, but I came out to my family and disassociated myself from the Witnesses. That was a year and a half ago now. Since then I have found friends who have supported me and make me laugh and feel ... gay! I am now at university studying Art and design. Please feel free to email me, be good to hear from you guys.

USA, California, Los Angeles

2005-12-25T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, California, Los Angeles

Date Posted: February 1, 2006
Name: Ryan Allen Carrillo
Age: ?
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: None
My experience as a JW was negative and I do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: I am a pretty chill guy. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my friends. I enjoy going to the beach, hiking, dining at nice restaurants, getting drunk... the usual...

E-Mail: Ryanallen11@aol.com, Email as much as you like!
Article on outsports.com: Click here.
Drowned Madonna Interview: Click here.
Myspace: www.myspace.com/ryancarrillo
Hot or Not: Click here
Gay Games VII Article: Click here

Comments: My JW experience is pretty well documented. I don't really have a relationship with any of my family. It doesn't bother me at all. I am in a great place in my life now. It took me a while to get here. There is hope to feel normal again.

USA, Texas, San Antonio

2005-12-24T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Texas, San Antonio

Date Posted: February 2, 2006
Name: Marleen
Age: Rather not say
Sexuality: Lesbian
Beliefs/Religion: Spiritual beliefs independent of religion
My experience as a JW was: neutral
And I: certainly do NOT believe that it is the truth

Interests: Learning, reading, music, movies…

E-Mail: marleen1@satx.rr.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: I left the JW lifestyle in my late twenties. Am now a full-time student majoring in psychology and minoring in spanish. I am embracing life joyously and fully now, with a wonderful partner. We have two amazing dogs that we love limitlessly. I have met some fascinating people in the few years since “coming to life”. I read just the other day another member post this line: “Millions now dying will never live!” I completely agree! Still have siblings, and parents that are happy to remain members of the WTBTS. I don’t bother them, they don’t bother me (at least not for a while now). Amongst some of the interesting people that I have come across I have made a few great friends which I am thoroughly grateful for!

USA, California, San Diego

2005-12-23T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, California, San Diego

Date Posted: February 5, 2006
Name: Eric
Age: Prefer not to say
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Agnostic
My experience as a JW was: negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Hiking, going to the beach, biking, shopping, reading, going to
movies and plays

E-Mail: eric0057@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: I was raised as a JW. It was very difficult to leave the religion, it was a very frightening and confusing time. But am now glad I left. I can finally be myself and I really feel like I am living my life for the first time. It was like being reborn. I now live with my partner of 3 years & happy for the first time in my life.

United Kingdom, Leicestershire, Leicester

2005-12-22T23:59:00.000-08:00

United Kingdom, Leicestershire, Leicester

Date Posted: February 6, 2006
Name: Brett Young
Age: 32
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Atheist
My experience as a JW was: negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Travel, Music, Gardening, Rugby

E-Mail: mgddisco2000@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: I am an extremely happy settled Gay ex Jehovah’s Witness. I have lived with my partner, Matthew, for five years now. It’s our anniversary on the 24th February. I’m a bank manager and Matt’s a Doctor. We have 2 dogs and five tortoises… don’t ask… and two goldfish. I was born in Zimbabwe (Africa) and did my high schooling in South Africa where I then also served at Bethel. I moved to the United Kingdom in 1995 and have never looked back.

Australia, NSW, Sydney

2005-12-21T23:59:00.000-08:00

Australia, NSW, Sydney

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Max
Age: 21
Sexuality: Bisexual
Beliefs/Religion: Jehovah's Witness
My experience as a JW was: Positive
And I: do believe that it is the truth

Interests: I like arthouse movies, going to the gym,hanging out with mates, love reading biographys, and lazy weekends watching DVD's and eating pizza

E-Mail: cafe_latteau@yahoo.com.au, Email as much as you like! (P.S don't bag me out for my email i know it sounds gay but when i was 14 it sounded really cool and since evryone only has this one it just seems pointless to change it now)
MSN IM: cafe_latteau@hotmail.com

Comments: Hi i'm pretty easy going i talk to everyone, i'm always there for my friends and family when they need me, i beleive everything i was taught in the truth but don't beleive in living a double life i was baptised at 16 and disfellowshipped at 19. Feel free to email me any time and ask me anything you want, Cheers Max

USA, Virginia, Arlington

2005-12-20T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Virginia, Arlington

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Mark
Age: --
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Still deciding...
My experience as a JW was: --
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: flea markets, yard sales, vocal jazz, a capella singing, ethnic food, entertaining, blogging, independent films, Tales of the City

E-Mail: singjaz@aol.com, Email as much as you like!
AIM: SingJaz
Blog: talesofthesissy.blogspot.com

Comments: Feel free to read my blog to learn about me.

USA, California, Walnut Creek

2005-12-19T23:59:00.001-08:00

USA, California, Walnut Creek

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Daniel
Age: 25
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: In question
My experience as a JW was: positive
And I: am not sure if it is the truth!!!

Interests: --

E-Mail: dandman032726@yahoo.com, Email as much as you like!
MySpace: www.myspace.com/higher_standards

Comments: --

USA, Washington, Edmonds

2005-12-18T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Washington, Edmonds

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Nate
Age: 32
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: mainly Taoist, with a dash of pagan & mystic; non ritualistic, more about awareness and intention.
My experience as a JW was: negative-how I felt about myself, and neutral-in most other aspects
And I: do not believe that it is the truth.

Interests: outdoor activities-camping (primitive/survival), hiking, 4X4, photography, camp cooking, skiing, rock collecting, collecting medicinal plants, gardening, exploring back country roads and trails. Farmers' markets, people watching, walking on trails, massage (giving and receiving), Spa treatments (giving and receiving), aromatherapy and organic chemistry, cooking, fine dining, Chess!, ceramics-firing and glazing, animals, aquariums, poltry, family, reading-(spiritual, philisophical, scientific, professional, astrology), I'Ching, meditation, Tai Chi, healing & nurturing. Tattoos

E-Mail: dark_uncle28@yahoo.com, Email as much as you like! (Put "ex JW's" in the subject box, for SPAM filter purposes, I'm in school and do not have alot of computer time daily.)

Comments: To know my interests is to begin to know me. I like all types of guys, it just depends on the individual, for friends or ??? I'm usually very reserved, even shy.

USA, Oregon, Portland

2005-12-17T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Oregon, Portland

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Christopher
Age: 22
Sexuality: Bisexual with a gay preference
Beliefs/Religion: Atheist, Scientist
My experience as a JW was: negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth.

Interests: Computer and video games, Cars and auto mechanics, basketball, biking, and outdoors

E-Mail: dblosmith@yahoo.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: Hello. I'm Chris. I just moved to Portland, Oregon from Houston, Texas for work. I wish I had a site like this while I was forced to attend. I'm a fun loving single guy open to making new friends in this weird rainy city. :) Feel free to email me.

United Kingdom, Wales, Cardiff

2005-12-16T23:59:00.000-08:00

United Kingdom, Wales, Cardiff

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Iwan
Age: 23
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Atheist
My experience as a JW was: neutral
And I: am not sure if it is the truth

Interests: I like meeting new people in my life, love traveling around the world, cars are my passion. Also like swimming, running, gym, sauna.

E-Mail: stanley_iwanow@yahoo.co.uk, Email as much as you like!

Comments: I was born in Poland, and I'm originally from Poland. My all family almost are Jehovah's Witnesses but I decided to leave my religion. Reason was that I find out that I'm gay. I'm happy to accepted my hard decision. I'm not living in Poland anymore, I couldn't..

USA, Georgia, Atlanta

2005-12-15T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Georgia, Atlanta

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Dave Huff
Age: 56
Sexuality: gay
Beliefs/Religion: I believe in God and am Spiritual but am not practicing
My experience as a JW was: neutral
And I: do believe that it is the truth.

Interests: I am an advid sweepstakes enterer. Love Sci-Fi. Love travel and meeting new people, especially ex-JW's.

E-Mail: dhuff2@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: Was gay as a teenager, got babtized at 14 thinking that would 'CURE' me. Got married at 19 thinking that would 'CURE'. Well two boys and 35 years later, I got divorced, left the truth and am much happier.

Canada, Quebec, Montreal

2005-12-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

Canada, Quebec, Montreal

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Pierre Alvarez
Age: 51
Sexuality: gay
Beliefs/Religion: none
My experience as a JW was: negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: working out, museums, traveling, and others

E-Mail: alvarezp@videotron.ca, Email as much as you like!
Work E-Mail: palvarez@macm.org

Comments: --

USA, New York, Rochester

2005-12-13T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, New York, Rochester

Date Posted: February 7, 2006
Name: Anthony Sloan
Age: 46
Sexuality: gay
Beliefs/Religion: ex-JW
My experience as a JW was: positive
And I: do believe that it is the truth.

Interests: cooking,sports,hiking, singing, opera

E-Mail: naturzboy@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: I was married for 18 yrs. I was raised in the truth since i was 13 baptized at 14 but always wondered about boys. got married anyway to fix myself but didnt work, I have a 16yr old son who doesnt know about me at all, I still believe its the truth, just always had a problem controlling myself, trying to decide if I can go back.

USA, Pennsylvania, Sinking Spring

2005-12-12T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Pennsylvania, Sinking Spring

Date Posted: February 9, 2006
Name: Jim Moon
Age: 49
Sexuality: gay
Beliefs/Religion: metaphysics
My experience as a JW was: negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth.

Interests: writing science fiction (I had my first novel published last year!), travel, shopping, my websites

E-Mail: jimxjw@yahoo.com, Email but please keep them brief
Website: http://www.rationallunacy.com

Comments: You can read my JW story at: www.gayxjw.org/jimstory.html

USA, Texas, Tyler

2005-12-11T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, Texas, Tyler

Date Posted: February 11, 2006
Name: Jon M.
Age: 46
Sexuality: Big Ol' Homo
Beliefs/Religion: Generally Agnostic, with a smidgen of Christian
My experience as a JW was: positive
And I: am not sure that it is the truth

Interests: Surfing, Swimming, Water skiing, Downhill Skiing (Snowboarders MUST DIE!) Backpacking, Overthrowing intolerant governments on a worldwide scale.

E-Mail: jpm75701@cox.net, Email as much as you'd like...they're free. For now.
Gay.com: tylerdudes
Outsports.com: jofebufu

Comments: I never was DF'd or DA'd or anything - I just walked away one day, and never went back. Now I'm just trying to do what I can to get through life the best as I can, and I'll take what comes whatever that may be. I have a partner of many years (11) and we have the whole picket fence/SUV/dogs kind of life that can best be described as "quiet" these days. Meaning we don't hold wild sex parties and hang from the chandeliers (anymore)...if you're in the area, please feel free to contact us - we're nice guys and always willing to make new friends.

I don't have a website, because I couldn't imagine why anyone would be interested in anything that I have to say - I tried keeping a Blog for awhile, but it was boring ME and I stopped. I have a profile on Gay.com (Look for Tylerdudes) and a page on Outsports as Jofebufu. You now know everything there is to know about me - I hope that you're still awake. (That's not AWAKE!, just the word...)

USA, California, Fremont

2005-12-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, California, Fremont

Date Posted: February 13, 2006
Name: Frank
Age: 35
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: None
My experience as a JW was: negative
And I: do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: Coffee and coffehouses, cooking, dining, tennis, hiking, socializing, shopping, jazz, traveling, sightseeing, movies, comedy

E-Mail: frankyjo@comcast.net, Email as much as you like!

Comments: I was disfellowshipped in 1992 and was brought up in the organization starting at about 4 or 5 when my mother started to study. I have known about my sexuality since I was a young child and finally decided to come completely out at 21 years of age, which of course resulted in my disfellowshipping. Would love to correspond with others and exchange experiences and make friends. Drop me a line and say hi. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area.

South Africa, Gauteng, Johannesburg

2005-12-09T23:59:00.000-08:00

South Africa, Gauteng, Johannesburg

Date Posted: March 6, 2006
Name: Vernon Korff
Age: 35
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Indeterminate/Searching at the moment
My experience as a JW was: positive
And I: am not sure if it is the truth

Interests: I love traveling, reading (especially Science Fiction and Science Fantasy), camping (both the hiking type and the cruising type!! J) and generally just hanging out with friends. I have a hectic job (one of four directors of an auditing company) and so like to chill when not having to work.

E-Mail: vernon.korff@lprsa.co.za, Email as much as you like!
Gay.com: Click here

Comments: I grew up as a Witness and was a 3rd generation member before leaving. I was a Bethelite for 6 years and an elder for 10. I had a very sheltered upbringing and so when I finally started exploring the gay scene a little, I found out that it was not as “bad” as I had been led to believe. I met an incredible guy (we have been together for 5 years now) and started exploring as to who and what I really was. What was so incredible was that he wanted to know me for who I really was, and not for what I could do for him in the organization, who I could introduce him to etc. My background meant nothing to him in that he didn’t expect anything other than for me to be myself.

This was incredibly liberating and for the first time ever, I actually started to find out who I was and what I wanted. Of course, I had some major decisions to make and so after 6 months, decided that I needed to leave the organization. My family obviously did not accept my change of lifestyle and that has been the hardest part, but my partner’s family “adopted” me as it were and recently, my own sister has re-initiated contact with me.

I have gone from being a withdrawn, nerdish guy to being totally comfortable with myself and feeling totally liberated. I am also far “cuter” than before – lol – and modesty is my middle name! Feel free to drop me a line and let’s get acquainted.

Scotland, Edinburgh, Armadale

2005-12-08T23:59:00.000-08:00

Scotland, Edinburgh, Armadale

Date Posted: April 4, 2006
Name: Alan Fisher
Age: 31
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Agnostic
My experience as a JW was: neutral
And I do not believe that it is the truth

Interests: I was in John Lewis today on Oxford street in London (my boss sent me out to find a specific type of ribbon in the haberdashery) and I saw a tapestry thing which made me remember I've always wanted to try my hand at it. They had starter packs but as I only had the company credit card with me I didn't dare buy it!

E-Mail: alanfisher1975@googlemail.com, Email as much as you like! I welcome it.
Blogger: alanfisher1975.blogspot.com

Comments: A little about myself? Okay... I was 15 years old when I first became aware of JW's. They knocked on the front door when my parents were out for the day and I let the two ladies come in. They seemed really nice but I didn't have a CLUE why they were there or what they were talking about. It was extremely strange to me, but being a polite boy I made them tea. I remember being fascinated by them because middle aged women don't normally make a point of speaking to spotty little teenagers.

My parents came home and went through the stratosphere to find them sitting in the living room drinking from my mum's wedding China.... lol..... the two nice ladies were almost physically thrown out of the house and I went daft with my parents for embarrassing me like that!

Also, my aunt is very big in the JW world in Scotland. She tried to convert me but I don't believe in god (God?) so she had no chance.

Still, I enjoyed your blog so I just wanted to make a wee contribution to it from Scotland. Well done and good luck! x.

USA, New York, New York

2005-12-07T23:59:00.000-08:00

USA, New York, New York

Date Posted: April 4, 2006
Name: Phillip (Brooklyn Heights)
Age: Old enough for everything
Sexuality: gay
Beliefs/Religion: spiritual
My experience as a JW was: all experiences have some positive.. but there was WAY too much mind-control.
And I DO NOT BELIEVE that it is the truth.

Interests:

E-Mail: pbperez@gmail.com
Blog: Minus the Halo

Comments: For the rest.. visit my blog!

Canada, Ontario, Ottawa

2005-12-06T23:59:00.000-08:00

Canada, Ontario, Ottawa

Date Posted: April 12, 2006
Name: Christophe
Age: 32
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Agnostic
My experience as a JW was neutral and I do not believe that it is the truth
Interests: working out, museums, traveling, and others

E-Mail: kritof74@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!
MSNIM: kritof74@hotmail.com

Comments: I am born in Grenoble a town from the french alpes where i spent the first 26 years of my life. My mother educated me in the JW faith, but it was not my thing. Although i was trying hard to stay in the church, i finally ended up by quiting officially the religion asking to be radiated in march 2000. At the same time i finished school so i started working in paris for 9 months and from there i left for canada (Ottawa) where i live since 5years (and love it!)

United Kingdom, Wiltshire, Chippenham

2005-12-05T23:59:00.000-08:00

United Kingdom, Wiltshire, Chippenham

Date Posted: April 30, 2006
Name: Jo
Age: 26
Sexuality: Lesbian
Beliefs/Religion: Ex-JW (but wasn't baptized)
My experience as a JW was negative and I am not sure if it is the truth

Interests: Making new friends,chilling,having time with my gf +kids,shopping,all sorts of music,watching movies.Anything!

E-Mail: tweety.jo79@gmail.com , Email but please keep them brief.

Comments: I am awaiting a post to be put up here that will tell more about me. I am looking for friendship only. My nickname is RAINBOW on A Common Bond message board. I would rather not include pic of me but I am on www.freedating.co.uk looking for friendship with a pic.

Denmark, Copenhagen

2005-12-04T23:59:00.000-08:00

Denmark, Copenhagen

Date Posted: May 5, 2006
Name: Jess Have Oleson
Age: 27
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: Agnostic/spiritual
My experience as a JW was neutral when I was in the organization - now I am more negative about the organization as a whole and the huge impact it has on the minds of its individuals - and I do certainly not believe that it is the "Truth"...Everyone should be ´humble´ enough to acknowledge that the world is far too complex to be described by a single "true" belief system
Interests: Listening to classical music, Playing the piano, Singing, Science, Swimming, Cooking, Reading, Discussing silly/important subjects, Hiking

E-Mail: jess_olesen@yahoo.dk, but please keep them brief (and gradually increase their length if we become friends)

Comments: ...think I am a nice guy once you get under my skin - although it might be a difficult task ;-). Will be pleased to meet some of you guys for a coffee if you decide to spend your holidays here in wonderful Copenhagen.

Chili, Santiago

2005-12-03T23:59:00.000-08:00

Santiago, Chili
Date Posted: May 5, 2006
Name: Raúl Martínez
Age: 27
Sexuality: Gay
Beliefs/Religion: God, Jesus. I consider my self as neutral Christian. I respect another beliefs and religions. My experience as a JW was positive and I am not sure if it is the truth
Interests: I like to talk, to read. I like to go biking. I like to dance. I like to do some social activities. I like spiritual subjects in general.

E-Mail: rudulfio@hotmail.com, Email as much as you like!

Comments: Hello, I am Raul, from Chile, South America. I was JW. Now, I am happy, going forward, doing many things. I am a nice man, I work as teacher. I like to work for society in subjects as HIV prevention, and I participate some little Christian gay groups in Santiago.