Letter to a Body of Elders (close association of two individuals-conduct unbecoming to a Christian) (1970-05-20)
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New York, N.Y. Congregation
A Unit
S P
Bethel, Brooklyn, N.Y. May 20, 1970
Watchtower Society Service Department 117 Adams Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201
Dear Brothers:
On May 13 and 19, 1970, the Congregation Committee of the A Unit, New York, N.Y. Congregation and P the circuit servant, met with A W and P to make an investigation into the talk that revolves around the close association of these two individuals and which has had some effect upon others in the A Unit. Our main concern was what effect it may have on the free flow of the holy spirit in the congregation.
It was unanimous on the part of the committee and the circuit servant, who was present in an advisory capacity, that both A and P be placed on an announced probation because of admittance of several occurrences of acts and events which these two parties had no right to engage in or do. Such acts or events were confidential talk of marriage between them, kissing and embracing, staying overnight in P summer house chaperoned only by A senile mother, who he said does not know who he is, socializing to the point of causing talk as having the appearance of evil. Even after efforts of both parties to try to get evidence and hiring a detective to get evidence of unfaithfulness on the part of A wife failed in 1963, he then permitted P to move in 1964 into one of the apartments of the house he owns and lives in with his mother. This move caused more talk and concern even on the part of the congregation committee members and circuit servants such that letters were written to the Society over this period of time and counsel was given to A to ask P to move and take up residence elsewhere, but nothing has been done during the past six years in this regard. When questioned about sexual im morality, they both said there was none committed. Because of lack of evidence or admittance of wrong conduct, until recently no action had been taken. Now because of notoriety and the long standing of the case, the committee decided an announced probation was necessary so all would know action was taken by the committee to correct anything that had the appearance of evil.
They were told that an announcement would be made that both parties were on probation for "conduct unbecoming to a Christian" and that this was for their good, protection and safety, and also to build up respect for those who have the responsibility of shepherding the Congregation of God. After this P C said she was going to try to move and relocate some place else, probably upper state New York.
We prayed to Jehovah to give us wisdom, discernment and the ability to handle this case aright for all concerned. If the Society has any further question, please feel free to write or call us.
Your brother,