Mailbox: W-Z – 1: Nov. 1998 – present

Tobias M. Wagner

To: Tobias M. Wagner
Tobias.PetraATgmx.net
Cape Town, South Africa (originally from Germany)
Tue, 9 Oct 2001

Dear Tobias,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thanks for the interesting details as to your background and spiritual experience.

• You have certainly proved that "He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favour from the Lord", Proverbs 18: 22.

• I'm glad that you have found MB a help in clarifying the teaching of the Scriptures on our Lord's Sonship, eternal life and the divine order of man and woman.

Having had some experience with the 'open' meetings, I can well understand you feeling uncomfortable with them.

• It is a mercy that God has put you in touch with some other young believers who share your exercises. We will certainly pray for you and for the Spirit's guidance.

• I have made some inquiry but at the moment have not been able to learn of any "mature godly believers … in the Cape Town area" to which I could refer you.
  • Even if such could be found your growing conviction as to our Lord's Sonship might not be shared, posing an immediate problem.

• Personal face to face contact is always the best but, that not being available, I will happily do whatever I can to encourage you by email.

• You may also find some help in working out your exercises on the following MB pages:
  • Guests: My Answer 2: Present Day Gathering: An inquiry as to the 'doctrinal basis'

  • Guests: My Answer 3: Finding a Suitable Fellowship: One Brother's Dilemma.

To: Tobias Wagner
From: Daniel and Kerstin Soukoreff
WesternNameplatesATbigfoot.com
Thu, 11 Oct 2001

Dear brother,
Gordon Rainbow asked me to drop you a line regarding your inquiries on his 'My Brethren' site.

I was glad to read of some of the ministry you found helpful. I too have found these ministries very instructive.

• About 13 years ago an older brother really encouraged me in getting into these ministries and what a treasure I found in them!

• I am 41 years old and my wife is 40. My wife is from Cologne and we live in Vancouver with our 5 children.

My father-in-law now for 23 years has been publishing a monthly in German called 'Neues und Altes' in which he has translated some of all of the authors you mention, plus many other scripturally sound authors.

• In addition he has translated many of the books of these same authors so now you can get some of CAC, JND, CHM and others in book form.

• I would recommend you write him a letter at the following address: [Obtainable from Daniel on request.]

Your brother and sister in Christ,

Daniel and Kerstin Soukoreff.

From: Tobias Wagner
Sat, 13 Oct 2001

Dear Gordon Rainbow,
Thank you very much for your prayers, encouragement, your prompt reply and all efforts. They are of help for me.

• We are a little flock, the Lord knows His own and He encourages them by different means.

• It amazes me that He used the Internet to put me into contact with His servants in Canada, California [Jeff Kuns] and Germany.

• I will come back to you in due time with a few questions regarding our Lord's Sonship.

I hope you will have a blessed meeting around the Lord's table tomorrow. May He be pleased and honoured.

With love in our Lord Jesus, Tobias Wagner.

From: Tobias Wagner
Tue, 23 Oct 2001

Dear Gordon Rainbow,
Please allow me a few questions regarding the Sonship of our Lord Jesus. I hope it will not take too much of your time.

The Father "sent His Son into the world", John 3: 17. Why does it not indicate that there was a Father-Son relationship before the Father sent Him into the world? Does it not imply that Christ was Son before He was sent forth (John 3: 17, Galatians 4: 4; 1 John 4: 9)?

• Would it be acceptable to respond and say that since Jesus Christ revealed Himself to us as Son, it is not surprising that He is referred to in Scripture as Son as He was sent forth?

• Let me explain that by an analogy: When I show someone the wedding-picture of my parents, I will tell him, that this is my father and my mother though they have not been father and mother then (when the picture was taken). Besides that the Scriptures above deal with the sending of Christ and not to the eternal relationship.

Another question: Arthur G. Brown writes in his letter at February 29, 1972:

• "… Hebrews 1: 2 is not past eternity but the beginning of the economy which commenced with creation and so is Colossians 2. These Scriptures show that our Lord acted mediatorially then and might justify attaching the relationship implied by that name to the mediatorial position He occupied at the beginning of the economy …"

• Is Arthur G. Brown saying that our Lord was the Son already at creation? If so, how would it be consistent with your statement? You write in Studies: Vital Truths: The Sonship of Christ "There is, however, absolutely no Scriptural basis for saying that He was the Son before the incarnation." How does Colossians 2 relate to this issue?

Many challenging issues are raised and cause one to study the Scriptures.

Your brother in Christ, Tobias Wagner.

To: Tobias Wagner
Sat, 27 Oct 2001

Dear Tobias,
Your positive interest in our Lord's Sonship – as indicated in your email of Sun, 7 Oct. 2001 – is refreshing.

The complete reply appears as Guests: My Stand 1: Sonship of Christ 4.

News of you and your wife, and your contacts, will always be welcome.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Tobias Wagner
Mon, 10 Dec 2001

Dear Gordon,
I must confess I did not write back to you as soon as I wished. Certain reasons kept me from mailing back.

• Besides sickness, traveling to Europe and some other urgent matters, I was waiting for some literature from KBT.

• I ordered a very helpful booklet by CAC on that important topic: Remarks on a pamphlet by A. J. Pollock, entitled 'The Eternal Son'.

The complete reply from Tobias has been added to Guests: My Stand 1: Sonship of Christ 4.

Be assured that your reply is of interest, use and value to me and certainly to others as well.

• Thank you once again for your efforts, I deeply appreciate your ministry.

Yours, with love in the Lord Jesus, Tobias.

To: Tobias Wagner
Tue, 11 Dec 2001

Dear Tobias,
Thanks for your reply, and I hope you are now well.

You have proved with patient and unbiased inquiry that "when he is come, the Spirit of truth, he shall guide you into all the truth", John 16: 13.

• I'm glad you have CAC's valuable booklet. It was a great help to me as a young man, now over 50 years ago. It not only clearly presents the truth of the Lord's Person but does so in a most edifying manner.

I'm very interested in how you and your wife, and the other contacts you mentioned earlier, get on meeting together. You are in our household prayers and news from time to time will be most welcome.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Tobias Wagner
Sat, 12 Jan 2002

Dear Gordon,
Yes, we are now well. You wrote that you are "very interested in how you and your wife, and the other contacts you mentioned earlier, get on meeting together" and "news from time to time will be most welcome." Thanks for your sincere interest.

Presently we are in Germany, but at the end of January we will be back in South Africa.

• We have had a wonderful time with our friends in South Africa, since we know that they love the Lord and try to live according to His will revealed in the Scriptures.

• We are thankful that we have in general the same convictions. We are all from a different background – KLC, Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Charismatic –
  • but we agree now on the basic principles of the assembly and the person of the Lord Jesus.

• Though we live about an hour's drive apart from each other, we feel that we should meet on a regular basis.

We still hope and pray that there are some mature brethren in Cape Town, who might join us or whom we might join.

• We all moved to Cape Town in the past few years, so we hope there might be a small faithful fellowship of believers who earnestly desire to gather around the Lord's table in the way the early Christians did and who also desire to depart from iniquity.

So far we only meet for the breaking of bread but my desire is also to have some time of teaching and prayer.

• We are thankful that we have each other and desire together to "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ".

I regret that I have nobody here in Germany – except my wife – with whom I could share my views on the Lord's sonship.

• Most of my relatives and friends would find it too "theological" and would not even try to understand my convictions.

• Others have their own views and as soon as their view is challenged they would just break off the conversation.

As I visited some "churches" here in Germany I was shocked about the low state of the "church", that Christendom is fallen, corrupt, and often wicked.

• Many consider themselves as Christians but have no idea of salvation in Christ.

• Indeed, I was reminded of the letter to the angel of the assembly in Sardis: "thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead", Revelation 3: 1.

• There is spiritual deadness everywhere, in Germany, in South Africa and obviously everywhere else too.

• There are only a few others: "But thou hast a few names in Sardis which havenot defiled their garments, and they shall walk with me in white, because they are worthy".

You write "You are in our household prayers". Thank you very much, we deeply appreciate your prayers.

• Please pray for me as I am pondering on "Fellowship" and its impact on other subjects. Thanks for your helpful articles on that.

Otherwise we have exceedingly much reason to be thankful to the Lord. God-willing, Joshua our 17 month old son will have a brother or sister in late April. Petra, my wife is well so far and the Lord has kept her from any problems.

With much love in our Lord Jesus,

Your brother in Christ, Tobias Wagner.

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Alex Walker
(in response to my inquiry)

Dear Gordon,
You are indeed correct that I was Alex Walker, of Edinburgh, that you wrote to in 1972.

After our parting with the Renton Brethren in 1972 we continued with others who had left the Taylor 'camp' until 1974.

• Then another event took place around Croydon which caused us to cease affiliation with any private fellowship and walk together with other dear saints in Edinburgh but with happy relationships with others elsewhere.

We came out here – Auckland – for family reaons last year; and because of much confusion in the Brethren/church scene remember the Lord – sometimes with others – in our home.

• We attend – and participate freely – in reading meetings of those associated with the Kelly / Glanton / Lowe brethren in Auckland – but do not want to be part of their universal and disintegrating fellowship.

• We did meet someone from your part a couple of years ago by the name of Neil Short and I am sure that you know him. He told me that he was associated with Continental Brethren. He was once in fellowhip with the Taylor company in Glasgow and London.

• With whom do you meet now?

We have retained a flat in Edinburgh to which we hope to return at the beginning of June – coming back here, God willing, at the beginning of October.

I shall take a note of the information contained in your email and hopefully use it in due course.

Much love in our Lord, Alex Walker

To: Alex Walker
Tue, 13 Mar 2001

Dear Alex,
Thanks for replying. It is good to renew acquaintance after many years. Your personal information is appreciated as I have often thought of you.

• Do you intend to shuttle regularly between Auckland and Edinburgh? Perhaps you would let me know if your email address changes on that account.

Yes, we know Neil Short and at one time saw him quite often, although we have had no contact for some years.

As to ourselves, we have been meeting here with a few others in our home for many years. Sadly, we don't have formal links with others elsewhere but appreciate the many contacts with old and new friends through 'My Brethren'.

I'll look forward to you visiting MB as time permits. I'm sure you'll find our 'Mailbox' interesting.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Alex Walker
Fri, 16 Mar 2001

Dear Gordon,
Yes, at the moment we do intend to go back to the UK each year. I was on e-mail in Edinburgh, but at the moment I do not have a server there.

• When in Edinburgh we visit our relatives and brethren in Scotlamd and England and our son in France.

• Last year, when with him, we visited brethreni in Tarrassa, Spain, for 10 days or so, spanning two Lord's Days.

• We expect to return to the UK on 31st May coming back here in early October.

• We break bread in our house in Auckland – often our two selves – but sometimes have others with us as we have had over the past month. Sometimes we visit others in the same situation in NZ.

A matter arose in 1974 which ended our formal association within a group of brethren; but God has been gracious to us ever since.

• It has been our practice recently to attend readings with the K/L/G company – called the Reading Brethren in NZ [aka 'Reunited'] – and to help as much as we can.

• They do not mind us taking part freely even although we do not break bread with them.

• As a company they are in a very fragile situation and troubles spreading from USA and within their ranks are threatening them. But there are some godly brethren among them and it is good to encourage those we can.

I shall visit your web-site as I have the opportunity.

Attached is an extract form GVW which has been an encouragement ot us.

Love in our Lord, Alex.

If two or three desire …

In the present time things viewed morally and spiritually are like things after an earthquake; all is out of order and disjointed.

• We cannot now turn round and view the Church as it once was – a body of heavenly-minded men
  • keeping themselves unspotted from the world, manifesting the presence of Christ by their holy walk, shining as lights in the world’s thick darkness.

• We must each one feel his own individual weakness and failure.

The heart is very apt to take counsel of self, and droop under the circumstances around,

• but instead of being cast down, the question should come in, “What is the spring, what is the source, of the sustaining strength on which we lean?”
  • It is in Christ Himself and His power.

• If two or three desire now to meet in His name, and to walk unspotted in the midst of evil and failure, it is in the mighty power that never yet failed and never will, that they can do so.

• The church is loved and cherished by Him who is to present it to Himself. Nothing in earthen vessels can do this.

• Christ’s own living power alone can sustain, nourish, and at the end present it to Himself without spot or wrinkle.

• How precious to be able to turn from our weakness and failure, and see this power up there in the living Person of that One who is “the same yesterday, to-day, and for ever”,
  • to see Him sustaining and nourishing me because I am bone of His bones, and flesh of His flesh, risen with Him, one with Him.

G.V.W.

To: Alex Walker
Sat, 17 Mar 2001

Dear Alex,
Thanks for the further information and also for the encouraging extract from GVW. I'll be looking forward to hearing from from time to time.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Maree Walker-Murray

To: Fredericka E M Walker-Murray
walker-murrayATxtra.co.nz
Wellington, NZ
Subject: Dick Wyman's Guest Book, Feb. 21, 1999
Wed, 24 Feb 1999

Dear Maree,
Just learned from Cynthia White's email, the following entry to yours that, Fred and Eunice Everest are your parents. We had the pleasure of having them with us on several of their visits to Canada – once with Maisey – and enjoyed very happy times with them.

We didn't know Fred was with Christ – how happy for him! Please give our love to Eunice.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty Rainbow.

From: Fredericka E M Walker-Murray
Tue, 2 Mar 1999

Dear Gordon and Betty
Wonderful to hear from you. Thank you so much for your message. I was so interested to hear that you know my parents.

We still miss my father very much and think of him daily. My parents greatly enjoyed their trips away.

My mother keeps very well and I am flying down to her place for a few days tomorrow night. I will be very pleased to show her your email and she maybe can contact you too.

Love, Maree.

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Barbara Baker-Walklate

To: Barbara Baker-Walklate
keithwalklateATbtinternet.com
Tadmarton, Banbury, England
Sat, 14, Sep, 2002

Dear Barbara,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thanks for sharing some details of your background.

• Your message is now in the Guest Book and I trust it may result in some contacts.

• Please visit MB again and take advantage of the good ministry.

In our Lord, Gordon.

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Brad Walsh

To: Brad Walsh
bwalshATdeltabtg.com
Niceville, FL, USA
Tue, 22 Aug 2000

Dear Brad,
Welcome to MB. I'm glad you found the ministry of JBS of interest. Do come back and check out the other ministry.

• I'm sending zip files of FER's Letters and Hebrews separately. Let me know how you get on with them. Then, if you wish I will send the balance on hand.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Mickey Waskey

To: Mickey Waskey
CMWVACNSEWATaol.com
Unknown
Thu, 12 Aug 1999

You may be interested in visiting 'My Brethren'. I know the Waskey name – Bert, Oliver, Peter, Eric – from years ago.

Gordon.

From: Mickey Waskey
Sat, 14 Aug 1999

Dear Gordon,
I may visit your web at some time. My father was Dr. Bert. I remember your name but I don't remember you. Thanks for writing me.

Mickey Waskey.

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Svetlana Watkins

Dear Svetlana,
I've posted your inquiry re Elaine Pittock in the Guest Book. If you receive any replies would you please let me know. The name "Pittock" sound familiar but I can't place it.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

Lesley Watson [Lorraine Hedges]

To: Lesley Watson
jeffandlorraineATjeffhedges.com
Swindon, England
Mon, 24 May 2004

Dear Lesley,
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren' and for your question as to "the biblical position on the woman's headcovering … Is it necessary all the time, every time she prays, or only in public worship?"

• In 1 Corinthians 11: 1-16 Paul says that the woman is to be covered when "praying or prophesying" based on the fact that in creation "woman's head is the man".

• This instruction comes before reference to the collective gatherings, "in assembly", 11: 18, and "the whole assembly come together in one place", 14: 23.

• This indicates that whether "praying" – speaking to God – or "prophesying" – speaking of the things of God – the woman is to be covered in any sphere
  • where prayer and speaking of the things of God is proceeding, whether in private prayer, alone with her children or other women, in the family setting with her husband, or when gathered with other believers.

• Women are not permitted to speak in the assembly – 14: 34 – but would do so in teaching their children, or asking questions and sharing experiences in a family reading, all of which would be included in "prophesying" and so should be covered.

• Paul does not say that a woman should be covered at all times any more than a man should be uncovered at all times.

• For further comments see Doctrine: Man and Woman.

• If anything is not clear don't hesitate to contact us again. In any case we hope you do return and explore the much good ministry on MB.

To complete our guest records please let us know your city and, if you are free, we would be quite interested to know your background.

In the Lord, Gordon.

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Charles Webster

To: Charles Webster
c.z.websterATdundee.ac.uk
Dundee, Scotland
Wed, 11 Feb 2004

Dear Charles,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thanks for your kind remarks. I hope you will return and explore the ministry on MB.

Regarding Mr. C. W. Wycherley, author of Letters on Baptism, as mentioned in Biography: J. Collie-Smith, the late CWW, of Auckland and formerly of Christchurch, was 'in fellowship' with the brethren featured on MB.

• He is the grandafter of Helen (Mrs. David) Church of Auckland and his letters on Baptism were written around 1910.

I'm copying this to Esli Forrest of Auckland who is in touch with Mr.and Mrs. Church in the hope that he/they can furnish some further details on CWW for you and for MB.

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Charles Webster
Fri, 13 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
Greetings in Christ Jesus, our Redeemer.

Thank you so much for your prompt and helpful reply.

• As a result, I have had an e-mail message from Esli Forrest which has a lot of interesting biographical details on Mr. Wycherley. I am very indebted to both Esli and yourself.

For your information, I am presbyterian by persuasion. That said, I enjoy the fellowship of the Lord's people everywhere, especially Brethren.

Regards, Charlie.

To: Charkes Webster
Fri, 13 Feb 2004

Dear Charles,
I'm glad Esli was able to give you information on CWW.

• I had expected Esli would copy me but he hasn't. I don't want to trouble him as he doesn't keep well, so would you mind sharing the information with me for posting on MB? Thanks.

You may be "presbyterian by persuasion" but as one of His brethren I'm very glad to meet you and hope to hear from you from time to time.

• I'm sure we have a great many other things in common besides our views on baptism :-)

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Charles Webster
Mon, 16 Feb 2004

Hello Gordon,
It is already on its way to you.

Amen!!!!!!! Yes indeed. I look forward to future correspondence with you, dear brother.

Yours because we are His, Charlie.

PS: Do you know any of the Dundee brethren?

To: Charkes Webster
Tue, 17 Feb 2004

Dear Charlie,
Thanks for the CWW information.

No, I don't know any 'brethren' in Dundee – except you!

Always glad to hear from you,

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Charkes Webster
Tue, 17 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
That's really gracious of you.

Ditto.

In Christ, Charlie.

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Dorothy Weeks

Napoleon Noel vol. 1, "The History of the Brethren" p. 247 at the bottom says:

"Collected Writings of J.N.D. vol 1 contains his lengthy replies to such prominent men as Mr. Auguste Rochat and Mr. François Olivier of Vaud, is full of what he so early taught in Switzerland concerning the Church of God on earth, of which Christ is the Head in heaven."

1. Does he mean Letters of JND. If Collected Writings, which one-practical, evangelical, etc?
2. In reading Letters of JND I'd like to know the initials or who he is writing to. From your site one of you looked at the original letters? and you know the names?
3. I'd like to know how Auguste Rochat and François Olivier differed from JND. I visited Switzerland and was told that JND caused much problems in Switzerland.

To: Dorothy Weeks
Sun, 9 Apr 2006

Dear Dorothy,
Thanks for another round of good questions.

First, we agree, JND's books have a very confusing and unfortunate numbering system. Volume 1 of the Collected Writings is also known as Ecclesiastical Volume 1. This is the one Noel would be referring to.

Second, there is a list of JND's correspondents available from STEM Publishing.

As to your third question, it would hardly be possible to say how these men differed from JND, neither of us has made a study of their views. But it should be possible to discern the differences if any from what JND wrote. As for JND being the cause of problems in Switzerland, I do not know the answer. I suppose the answer would largely depend on to whom the question was asked!

We look forward to hearing form you again.

Yours in the Lord Jesus, Jeff.

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John Weightman

To: John Weightman
johnATjohnweightman.charitydays.co.uk
Berwick upon Tweed, England
Sat, 29 Sep 2001

Dear John,
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren'. I'm glad you found MB easy to navigate. No matter how good the content of a site may be, it may well be ignored if there is difficulty in navigation. I hope your first visit will not be your last.

You say, "Two things very much intrigue me about the content of your site and I would be very grateful if you were able to enlighten me".

• Your comments are of special interest because they allow me – and those of similar background – to see how others view us, and afford an opportunity to attempt to clarify some points.

The complete reply is posted on Guests: My Answer 3: How Others See Us.

This has become rather longer that I would have liked but I hope it will help MB and its contents to be more intelligible to you, especially in any further exploration. Your comments will be welcome.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

From: John Weightman
Fri, 26 Nov 2004

You might care to publish the following:

Mon, 4 Oct 2004
My father, Mr. James – Jimmy – Weightman formerly of Newcastle upon Tyne but latterly Portsmouth, passed away this morning.

• My mother, Doreen, died 2 years ago.

I had the joy of regaining a measure of contact over the last 18 months or so and was privileged to be at his side through most of the last 72 hours.

• Whilst heavily sedated he responded from time to time, recognizing my family and myself and smiling.

• At one point I thanked him for being a 'good dad.'

• Despite his extreme weakness he put his arm around me and hugged me.

• We were able to pray with him alone and it was quite evident that he became content that his own concerns about us were satisfied: he seemed to recognize that, with everything else stripped away, we were together children of the same Heavenly Father and claimed the same Saviour.
  • My wife and I are at peace that reconciliation has been full. I sang to him 'Safe in the Arms of Jesus' to which the response was a gentle squeeze of the hand.

Despite all that has passed I was treated by everyone else with kindness and courtesy and even respect for where I am today.

• There were no pressured demands but rather considerable interested enquiry about a variety of topics both to do with my own belief and my work with young offenders.

• My opinion was sought on a whole raft of matters so I hope I was able to witness how it was possible to try to put Jesus Christ at the center of one's life and yet live in the world where we have so much to do in the way of Christianity in action. I am very grateful.

He was a good father and his kindness and sweetness, yet strength, were what was so evident at the end.

• He had suffered much in his earlier life as a prisoner of war for 5 years but his spirit was indomitable. I will miss him.

John Weightman

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David Wells

To: David Wells
davidwellsATglenacres66.freeserve.co.uk
Hawkhurst, Kent, England
Mon, 8 Apr 2002

Dear David,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I trust you will come again. There is a good selection of ministry, much out of print.

• The ministry of Mr. G. R. Cowell is particularly valuable. We hope in the Lord to be able to present most, if not all, of it in the coming months.

It is cheering to learn that you are proving the faithfulness of the Lord in these difficult days.

• We too seek to hold to "God's great thoughts concerning Christ and His own body" as they have been opened up by the Spirit.

Are you related to the late Mr. H. P. Wells of Leamington? I hope to present some of his ministry in the future and am looking for any personal details, dates, places, family, etc.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Max Weremchuk is on a separate page. Access from menu.

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Ron Westfield

Dear Ron,
I saw your name in Dick Wyman's list, and it brought back some old memories.

You may recall coming to Toronto in the early 1960's. You and Margaret were to stay with Hugo and Olive Hodgkinson but they were unable to meet you at the airport and asked Betty and me to do so for them.

• It was our first airport meeting and we were quite concerned whether we would be able to make contact.

• However, as the passengers were coming out we looked across and saw you and, though we did not know each other, we both immediately recognized each other as brethren – a happy experience we have never forgotten.

• We would be glad to hear from you at any time.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty

From: Ron Westfield
Tue, 17 Dec 2002

Dear Gordon and Betty,
Thank you so much for your email. Tim, our son, put us on the list recently as we do not have a computer.

We well remember your meeting us at the airport on our first visit to Toronto. I recall S.McC. was with you and gave Jack Heggie a pasting, as was his habit.

• Yes, we stayed with Hugo for that week-end. Later we stayed with Ron Morrow and then with Jack Peebles and have happy memories of our visits. I often wonder what has happened to them and their families.

We came out in August 1970 after the Aberdeen fiasco. We had decided to leave after the meetings in Preston the week previously when it became clear J.T.Jr. was no longer serving the Lord.

• For 18 months we continued fellowship with those who also shared our judgement but finally left when there was a refusal to put right the any serious mistakes we had made during the previous few years.

• We have much Christian fellowship but have not joined any other church or group.

Our warmest Christian love to you both and to any you have links with who many remember us.

Ron and Margaret Westfield

To: Ron Westfield
Wed, 18 Dec 2002

Dear Ron,
Thanks for your reply It is good to renew links after so many years.

Here's the little I can't tell you regarding those you mentioned.

• Hodgkinson's stayed 'in'. We have heard vague reports of two tragic deaths of their children and that Olive is with Christ. As far as we know Hugo is still in the body.

• Ron and Gwen Morrow were put out, or left, in the early 1970's and remained alone until joining the 'Renton's', where their son is connected, in the past few years.

• Jack and Gloria Peebles are still in. I believe three of their children left and are in other connections.

• Jack and Ruth Heggie were put out around 1965 and met with some who had left about the same time. They have both been with Christ for many years.

I recall hearing of your short stay with 'Aberdeen'. We left in February 1971 over different issues but shortly, and ill-advisedly, joined with those who had left in July 1970.

• We were not free to go with ether side in the Edinburgh division.

• After a few years in the wilderness – and some disappointing experiences thinking all was over – we began breaking bread alone at home and continue in God's mercy with a few others till this day.

• Our commitment, among other matters, is to the Lord's Supper and the service of God.

If you are able to get on the internet at any time there is a little more information in the 'Personal' group on the 'My Brethren' web site.

• You might find several other items of interest. We are working on presenting all of GRC's ministry and have over half completed.

Andrew Robertson, formerly of New York, and I chat most weeks and he and Lois were interested to hear of Margaret and you again.

We'll be glad to hear form you at any time.

Betty joins in love in Christ to you and Margaret.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Ron Westfield
Sat, 21 Dec 2002

Dear Gordon and Betty,
Thanks for your quick reply to my enquiries, and to learn of your experiences corresponding largely to our own.

• The failure to repair damage was the main reason we parted with the 'Aberdeen' fellowship shortly before the Edinburgh division.

• The axe was not "laid to the root of the trees", only a superficial pruning.

We were interested to hear of Andrew and Lois once again. They were kind to us in N.Y. I expect they saw what was developing being at close quarters.

• The rest of us had to wait for its final exposure which we then witnessed first hand.

• I recall my last address in JTJr's company in which I warned that we were about to see the loss of the 'recovery' not realising how imminent it was.

• He showed his anger but only exposed his departure from the truth. We knew then that the "glory had departed" and the ship had been wrecked and split to pieces.

• W. G. Taylor said this would happen if ever his brother Jim took over, and that in the late 1930's!

Like many others, we own our part in supporting things that we now see to have been unscriptural.

• I was not surprised that JHS [Symington] followed the tradition but was very surprised that JSH [Hales] did. He should have known better.

• Australia was distant from the 'epicentre' but should have felt the tremors nevertheless.

• However, the work of God wil be completed in spite of our failures – the neglect of the gospel being perhaps the most serious.

Andrew may be interested to hear that David and Barbara Clapham have recently gone to live in Cyprus. We keep in touch.

If you have any news of Dave Gracey and family in Seattle we would be glad to hear, also the Kilroe's of Calgary. Did Tom Smith, Detroit, stay in?

• Am I right in thinking that Max Coulter left at the same time as Ben and Florence [Taylor] and the others in NY? We lost touch during 1970.

Christian greetings to you both and to all your Christian friends.

Ron and Margaret Westfield.

To: Ron Westfield
Thu, 02 Jan 2003

Dear Ron and Margaret,
All your comments are very much appreciated and help to explain various happenings.

I don't have any recent news of David Gracey or the Kilroe's, but as far as known Tom Smith did stay 'in'.

• According to Andrew, Max and Marie Coulter, both still living, did leave at that time. Max is 93 years old and just retired from work in the last year or so! They are connected with an 'open' meeting.

If you are able to get on the internet, you will find letters of Andrew and myself on History: Decline and Departure which outline our individual exercises at the time. Of course, all our thoughts have matured in 30 years or so.

We are only a few here but all are interested in news of brethren like yourselves and we seek to maintain love towards all the saints.

• You are in our prayers along with all "the sojourners of the dispersion".

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

To: Ron Westfield
Fri, 24 Oct 2003

Dear Ron,
I'm turning to you for possible biographical info – dates, etc – on some brethren who were in your general area:

• Hubert Calvey of Southport, we have his 'Confrontation of JTJr',

• James Rainford of Colwyn Bay, we have his 1960's letter of withdrawal.

Andrew Robertson and I have been going over earlier days and we felt you might be able to help. Any info would be welcome. We hope it will not be a burden to you.

You may already know but Robert Fear went to be with Christ on Lord's Day past. He was in his 87th year.

I trust you and Margaret are well and prospering in your soul. Betty and I are feeling the aging process, but trust in Him. The few here are being sustained but not without exercise.

I don't know what access you may have to the web but there are some recent interesting items on MB.

Affectionately on our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Ron Westfield
Fri, 31 Oct 2003

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for your enquiry regarding Hubert Calvey and James Rainford.

• I knew them both very well – and their thoughts!

• H.C. was originally from Wallesey and J.R. was from Wigan and moved to Colwyn Bay on retirement from the Coal Board.

• Both were respected in this area when I was in my 20's. I lost touch with both of them between 1955-65.

Robert Fear I knew in 1944/45 when we were both in Crewe doing our 'war service' [non combatant]. Until I saw the notice of his death in the paper recently I had no knowledge of his whereabouts since he moved to Scotland.

Sorry I cannot be of more assistance to you.

We send you both and all your Christian friends our sincere love in the Lord. Our memories of Toronto never fade!.

Ron and Margaret.

To: Ron Westfield
Fri, 32 Oct 2003

Dear Ron,

Thanks for your reply and information Let's keep in touch.

Love in the Lord Jesus to you and Margaret from Betty and myself. Gordon.

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Cecil Weston

To: Cecil Weston
watcherdrew44ATaol.com
Capitol Heights, Maryland, USA
Tue, 21 Aug 2001

Dear Cecil,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I sympathize with you in your experience with 'open' meetings and your desire to find "a fellowship suitable to Himself".

The whole of this letter is in My Answer 3: Finding a Suitable Fellowship: One Brother's Dilemma.

I'll be interested to hear how your exercises work out.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

From: Cecil Weston
Sat, 02 Mar 2002

Dear Bro. Rainbow, Greeting.
This site is providential.

• I wrote previously. See My Answer 3: Finding a Suitable Fellowship: One Brother's Dilemma.

• I did find one of those "Closed" meetings in downtown D.C. in The Hotel Lombardi on "I" St. 2000 block.

• Bro. Percy Struthers – see Mailbox – and myself visited for over six weeks and the brethren there never extended their "golden scepter" to either of us, even after lengthy discourse over that period of time, during which there was fair amount of discovery.

• We are spiritually regenerated, not sectarian, against clericalism which has leavened most assemblies in the "great house" and acknowledge the need to be "outside the camp".

• Thus we felt led of our Lord Jesus to meet on Lord's day in an "outside the camp" setting which we have been doing for some months now. I bake the unleavened bread fresh each Sunday morning – one loaf – will send receipe to any of my brethren.
  • Note: MB does not support the use of unleavend bread, but the present workload does not allow time for a detailed explanation.   GAR

• We meet in my home in Capitol Heights MD.

To: Cecil Weston
Thu, 07 Mar 2002

Dear Cecil,
Thanks for letting me know about your contact with Percy Struthers and that you are now meeting together. The cold reception by others is perhaps not unexpected.

• May the Lord bless you both in your commitment to the Lord Jesus and lead you on in the truth. There is a wealth of good ministry on MB which should be of service in this regard.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Cecil Weston
Wed, 20 Oct 2004

Received an unexpected but very welcome call from Cecil. We both enjoyed a long brotherly chat as to his past and present situation and exercises, as well as his interest in the contents of MB. GAR

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Leeanne White

To: Leeanne White
leeanneATpiedmont.net
Greenville, SC, USA
Tue, 22 Jul 2003

Dear Leeane,
I don't have any definiete information on the 'Believers Hymns Book'. We use 'Hymns and Spiritual Songs for the Little Flock'.

• However I did a search on 'Google' and there are several references, but they seem to be in the UK.

• If there is a 'Gospel Hall' in your locality I'm sure some one there could help you as that book, I understand, is in general use in the Gospel Halls.

I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help.

In the Lord, Gordon.

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Linda Whiteley

To: Linda Whiteley
Lwhitel2ATaol.com
Manchester, Lancashire, England
Fri, 29 Jun 2001

Dear Linda,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I'm glad you found MB and will gladly do what I can to help you.

• I'm especially happy to hear from you and your experience coming to the Lord Jesus. May He continue to bless you.

For general information on the brethren I suggest that you browse MB.

• I'm sending out some inquiries today as to any brethren near you in Manchester. Replies may take a week or so but I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Let me know if I can do anything further.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Linda Whiteley
Wed, 04 Jul 2001

Dear Linda,
I have learned that another MB guest, Reg Flowerdew, of Camberley, Surrey, has some contacts among brethren in Manchester with whom he can put you in touch.

• As they may not be on the net he may need your telephone no., or perhaps can give you one to call. Reg will likely contact you shortly by email.

• I trust that any contacts may be a blessing to you, and look forward to hearing the outcome.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Patti Whitney

To: Patti Whitney
pgwhitneyATcfaith.com
Portland, Oregon, USA
Fri, 14 Jul 2000

Dear Patti,
Thanks for visiting MB and sharing your concerns, and for your encouragement.

It's good that you have not given up hope for your family's deliverance. When things seem impossible we all need to remember that with God all things are possible.

• Never having been on the west coast, we're not familiar with Portland or your family. We did meet the Brandsen's and the Snair's many years ago.

It is sad and humbling that young people can grow up among brethren without knowing the Lord. But He had you in mind and secured you for Himself.

• We have a little friend Rachel, 6 years old. Lately when asked if she trusted the Lord, she answered "I want to".

• This morning we had her, and her older brother Jeremy, for a visit. Rachel brightly volunteered, "Now I trust the Lord". What a joyful answer to prayers from before her birth.

May the Lord bless you further. In Him, Gordon.

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Chas. E. Wigg

To: Chas. E. Wigg
cewiggATiprimus.com.au
Australia
Thu, 20 Nov 2003

Dear Charles,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. As you left in 1959 you may be interested in the ministry of Mr. G. R. Cowell – now nearly complete on MB – and others of that time.

Yes, it's quite possible we would "differ" on some of JT's teachings.

• In my own experience, after we withdrew in 1971, I went through a period of trying to account for all that had happened from 1959-1970. This led me to attempt to fix the blame on the ministry of JT and others.

• After some years I was delivered from this delusion realizing I had to identify the seeds of departure and weakness in myself and others.

• Now, apart from a few minor details, I am convicted of the truth and continuing value of that ministry. This led to the exercise to establish 'My Brethren'.

At the same time I have learned increasingly to value all my brethren, of whatever persuasion, and seek to establish and maintain positive brotherly relations.

• Contacts with brethren like yourself are encouraging and stimulating.

I deduce that you live in Australia, and would appreciate knowing your locality to complete your Guest Book record.

Also, I wonder whether you are related to John Wigg of Somerset, Tasmania, who visited MB in April 2002.

Please feel free to share with us your exercises in 1959 and subsequently and as to your present connections and service.

• Any documents you may have of the 1959 era which would be suitable for MB's History group would be welcome contributions.

I look forward to hearing from you again and trust you will visit MB from time to time.

• Besides the wealth of ministry there is a good deal of interesting correspondence in the Guest Book and Mailbox.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Chas. E. Wigg,
Thu, 20 Nov 2003

Dear brother Gordon,
Thanks for your prompt reply to my email. Yes, John Wigg is my eldest son.

• It is a joy to us that he has gone on with the Lord. A few of his childish remarks at the time of the great crisis when we left the X's were a great help and comfort to us.

• Our second son is a very godly and reliable fellow also and both have an excellent testimony from those without.

• After we left in 1959 we adopted 4 aboriginal children. We love them but some have been a rather mixed blessing.

Yes, we live in Tasmania, and our mailing address is … Yolla, Tasmania, Australia, 7325.

Yes, we attended 3 day meetings with G. R. Cowell at Devonport.

• Later in 1992, I was able to visit England and stayed with bro. Harrold Doughty – now in glory –
  • and attended G. R. Cowell's former meeting at Hornchurch.

• I had a lot of correspondence at the time of the crisis with bro. Charles Nunnerley. I called on him when in London, but he was getting fairly deeply into Alzheimer's and was not able to recognize me.

• We also knew a brother from Reading, Mr. A. E. Barnes.

I laboured much at that time to try to get people delivered from that evil system.

• You may have heard of my eldest brother David. He was and is prominent amongst the ex's. He is still with them, and has nothing to do with us, as you would understand.

I do a lot of writing these days, and much that I write gets into an email ministry carried on by an Indian brother who works in Muscat.

• I also have a Home page on the Internet, and the address is C. E. Wigg.

• Others have also posted things that I have written on their web pages.

I will close, with love in Christ.

Your brother in Him, Chas.E.Wigg.

To: Chas. E. Wigg,
Fri, 21 Nov 2003

Dear Charles,
Thank you for your full reply and the articles you included, which I look forward to reading, and for your web site which I will certainly visit.

The information as to your sons and also your earlier contacts with GRC, CLN, AEB and HJD is all very interesting and stirs memories.

• I regret that I had no personal contact with most of those brothers who resisted the first tide of evil in 1959.

• However, in the early 1970's I had some correspondence with Philip Haddad who kindly furnished most of Mr. Cowell's distinctive and excellent ministry which is on MB. I also had some brief telephone chats with PH on two occasions when he was visiting here in Toronto.

There are some notes of GRC's ministry in Sydney and Melbourne in 1959 in Memorials 10, but nothing has come to light as to the Devonport meetings you mention. Are there any notes available?

Mr. Nunnerley's valuable and balanced paper 'Recent Developments' heads the articles on MB's History: Decline and Departure (1953-70).

Mr. Doughty's good account of an extended trip is on MB in Memorabilia: The Ears of the Assembly: Asia 1957.

Mr. Barnes' hymn "We need Thee Lord ..." – now 503 in our local 1993 supplement – has a peculiar charm and is often used.

• It was particularly interesting to learn his locality was Reading. We often know such worthy names but so little about the person.

In the 1960's we had many visits from and with brethren from Australia but I can't recall hearing your brother David's name.

• The unconscionable breaking of close family links, and long time friendships, is a continuing sorrow for many, of which we have a little experience.

It is good that you find an outlet in writing – which to a certain extent I share – when as

• "In the days of Shamgar the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, The roads were unused, and the travellers on highways went by crooked paths", Judges 5: 6.

If you have anything further to share as to your experiences in the troubled times of 1959 – when many of us were asleep or deceived – it would be very welcome.

• And, of course, I would be glad to hear from you generally at any time.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Chas. E. Wigg,
Sat, 22 Nov 2003

Dear brother Gordon,
Loving greetings in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ! Thanks for your reply which I found quite interesting.

The upheavals of 1959-1960 are just a nightmare, which I would rather forget. I just thank God for His great mercy in delivering me from such an evil system.

• When we left it was said by a brother – whom I love still – that I was the "most wicked man in Burnie". But a little later instructions came from N.Y. to get us all back.

• This brother came to my house with two others to plead with me to return, but I told him what had been reported to me, and suggested "Surely you would not want the most wicked man in Burnie, in your meeting?" He replied, "If I have said this, then I was completely wrong. I now regard you as a beloved brother".

• However I did not return and I am told that they withdrew from me again, so I was returned to my previous status as the most wicked man again. Yet the sad thing was I had never changed in any way.

• I remember quoting to them the words of Joseph, "You indeed meant it for evil, but God meant it for good".

I was interested to learn that you live in Toronto, I was there in 1994, as well as in Edmonton, Windsor, London, Burlington, and other places.

• Do you know Douglas Green? I spoke at his rescue mission in Edmonton when there in 1994.

Are you interested in poetry? I have written a bock of poems, and called it "Apples of Gold in Pictures of Silver". I have it on HD and can send you a copy if you wish.

I must close, with love in Christ,
Your brother in Him, Chas. E. Wigg.

To: Chas. E. Wigg,
Thu, 27 Nov 2003

Dear Charles,
I'm glad to hear from you again and feel with you in what you went through in 1959 – a "nightmare" indeed which has continued for some all these years.

No, I didn't know Douglas Green personally but recall seeing letters referring to him.

Yes, I am interested in poetry. You will see some on MB, especially by my good friend Charles Deayton, with Christ for many years, who once lived in Australia.

I've read through your paper on 'Separation' twice. While there's much that I agree with, as you may expect,

• there are also a number of points which differ from my understanding, both from a historic and a doctrinal viewpoint.

• I had thought of commenting but with the demands of MB cannot afford the time.

• After 1970 I went through much exercise personally as to separation and for some time tried to accommodate myself to open and independent views – predictably unsuccessfully!

• Thankfully I was delivered from that line of things. That doesn't mean that I look down on others of different views for I have learned to respect and love my brethren in spite of various differences, and I trust they can feel the same towards me.

Thanks again for writing and I trust we may be able to keep in touch.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Chas. E. Wigg,
Fri, 28, Nov 2003

Dear brother Gordon,
Thanks for your email. I sometimes feel sorry for those that remained in the 'position', while others were tortured and cast out as evil.

• I sometimes think of Mr. A. G. Brown whose mind was broken by those that he loved so much. His brother W. M. Brown stayed with us, and baptised our second son as a baby.

I will not pursue the debate re separation, I had no desire to brainwash you or any one with what I have learned through bitter experience.

• I have not visited your web site yet, as like you I am very busy.

I will attach the book of poems, most of which are rather long. You may do whatever you like with them.

I will close, with love in Christ,

Your brother in Him, Chas. E. Wigg.

To: Chas. E. Wigg,
Mon, 1 Dec 2003

Dear Charles,
Thanks for your poems and for permission to use them. Some may appear on MB in time to come.

You mention Mr. Arthur G. Brown. I had some correspondence with him in the 1970's and there are two items by him in Doctrine: The Sonship of Christ..

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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John Wigg

To: John Wigg
jcwiggATtasmail.com
Somerset, Tasmania, Australia
Wed, 01 May 2002

Dear John,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thanks for sharing some of your family details. I hope you will return and check the excellent ministry of former years with which your family would have been familiar. We would be interested to hear from you again.

In the Lord, Gordon.

Your guest entries and messages will show that the continuation of My Brethren is important to you.

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