Letters From Those Impacted by Philadelphia Church of God (2026)

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PCG Is Looking at Their Own Dissolution Right in the Face:

January 1, 2026

I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for this website. I have been focusing on the PCG section of this site as it has unfortunately become so deeply rooted into my family’s life and with that, I can’t help but feel an air of despair considering what I know about them. However, my letter is not to be pessimistic sounding but, as something that expresses my hope. I say hope because this past year of 2025 has been quite a shake up of the PCG. I truly don’t see how much longer it’s going to hold. Some family members of mine are already being pushed to baptism very early after being invited to services. I shouldn’t say I’m surprised but, well, I am. I assume that it’s mostly out of desperation to get as many members possible. I feel the ministers counseling my family know this air of urgency. PCG believes that’s it’s so close to the end. They may be “right” but I believe that they are looking at their own dissolution right in the face. All I can ask to myself and the rest of us here (rhetorically) is, “How much longer will this ‘church’ continue to be?” My heart will feel heavy until then. –[name withheld]

Dance Instructors Flown in and Put Up:

January 1, 2026

When my daughter attended Armstrong College, the “church” indoctrination center, I drove out to visit her.

I stayed in a hotel in Edmond. Wayne Turgeon, a “headquarters minister and son-in-law to Gerald Flurry told me he would have offered for me to stay in his house but they had flown the dance instructor in and the instructor was staying at his house.

WOW. How much did it cost to fly a dance instructor in to Edmond, put them up and feed them for who knows how long while they gave private lessons to the little “prince” (SF), the grandson of King Flurry? And how many times was the instructor flown in for lessons?

How many MILLIONS of dollars have been WASTED on this? And like the author of the dance letter said [See December 30, 2025 letter: “PCG Announces Celtic Throne II (Psalter of Ireland)”], and I concur, I never saw or heard of them spending one dime on helping anyone in the community. –Former member of PCG

Response to Celtic Throne Saying They Are Preaching the Gospel:

January 2, 2026

Here’s my response to the letter for December 30, 2025 which was entitled, “PCG Said Celtic Throne Is How They Are Preaching the Gospel.”

Brad Macdonald’s message about the meaning of the Celtic Throne performance was a PCG church sermon, not available to the public. While internally they may tell the members what they believe the purpose to be, externally they are doing everything they can to disassociate Celtic Throne from the PCG church.

I stand by my thesis [What’s Behind Celtic Throne Production? posted on June 23, 2025] that the PCG is intentionally obfuscating the purpose of the performance series:

1) There is no mention of the PCG church in connection to the performance on the website
2) No mention on the playbill handed out
3) No mention in interviews — rather performers characterize it as a “family” performance
4) No mention DURING the performance, which I’ve attended

The PCG has every opportunity to tell the audience that it is their work, and yet they take great pains to secularize it, describing it as,

“…electrifying fusion of Irish dance, music, theater and cinema… and storytelling that is guaranteed to give audiences an unforgettable experience!”

This is deceitful, manipulative, and beyond the pale.

Pretty much everything opposed to what Jesus did when He came preaching the gospel.

Oh yeah, they make you pay for it.

There’s nothing godly or Christian about this. –Ivan (former PCG member)

Question About Current, Possibly Deceased, Member:

January 5, 2026

I was wondering how to find out if someone in the PCG has passed. Her name is Mary Lou Barron. She was married to Larry Merle Barron. She used to be in Fort Worth, but I think she moved to Ardmore, Oklahoma a couple of years ago. She is 73 and has cut off all family since 2010. She married a man in the PCG, but he passed over a decade ago. I search her from time to time on various people search services and recently she came up as “deceased” on one. I don’t know if it is accurate or if I should tell her family. –AMC

Responding to Email About Mary Lou Barron:

January 5, 2026

Regarding the person asking about the possible passing of Mary Lou Barron. The best way is to do an obituary search in the Fort Worth Star Telegram obituaries, since FW was her long-time hometown. I just did a search and found nothing in her name. Sometimes people do not want their death announced in a public obit though. If she was disconnected from her whole family, then that means the cult was in charge of her funeral and everything that went along with it, including whether to announce it in a public newspaper obit or not. Probably they would opt for ‘Not.’

A county records search can be done. So I would find out the county that Ardmore is in [Note: We found Carter county], and also do a search for Tarrant Co, TX. But if she died in Ardmore, OK, that would be the county where her death certificate would be filed. The local paper is The Daily Ardmoreite, but there was nothing under her name there. Again, I doubt the PCG “handlers” would bother to do an obit for her. They don’t care about such things, obviously.

I see now that Ardmore does have a local PCG congregation. I think Fort Worth has one too, but the man she married probably lived in or near Ardmore. It’s just across the Red River from north Texas. –M. D.

SF Hosting New Program on Jesus Christ.

January 10, 2026

Stephen Flurry is hosting a new program (on the Trumpet Daily) called “The Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ.”

The first program is entitled, “Exposing Myths about Jesus Christ.”

I have not seen it, but the title itself raises warning flags for me, considering the manipulative history of this organization. –Impacted by PCG

Reply: We couldn’t even listen to this as it is only the same fabrications and deceit that HWA taught. SF starts the video with HWA’s voice, which appears to be interjected throughout.

As was stated in ESN’s first critique of the Mystery of the Ages, “Herbert Armstrong substituted the true gospel of Jesus Christ with a false gospel.” The true gospel is explained in I Corinthians 15:1-4. There are numerous places on our site that explain the true gospel. An excellent offsite article that goes into many details about what is the true gospel is: “The glorious gospel of the blessed God.”

A Notable Shift in PCG’s Teaching Saying Elijah is Still Here:

January 11, 2026

I wanted to bring to your attention a notable shift in the Philadelphia Church of God’s teaching, centered on a new and increasingly emphasized framing: “Elijah is still here.”

Historically, PCG taught that Herbert W. Armstrong was the end-time Elijah. While that claim itself is not new, the way it is now being handled after Armstrong’s death represents a significant development.

In recent PCG publications—most clearly in the Jan-Feb 2026 Royal Vision [opens as PDF from ESN’s site]—PCG now teaches that although Armstrong died decades ago, the Elijah has not truly “ended” because Elijah’s work continues exclusively through PCG. The repeated assertion is that Elijah is still here, not in person, but in effect, authority, and operation.

This framing appears designed to resolve a long-standing tension:

If Armstrong was the Elijah, and if the Elijah was to precede Christ’s return, how can Armstrong’s death and the long delay since then be explained?

PCG’s answer is no longer that Elijah came and went, but that Elijah’s authority persists beyond death and is carried forward institutionally. In this model, Elijah becomes less a person and more an ongoing prophetic office or force that must be “continued,” “finished,” or “completed.”

Crucially, this continuation is said to exist only within PCG.

For members, this creates a powerful psychological bind. Elijah is no longer something to evaluate historically; he is something one must currently submit to. The past becomes secondary to present alignment.

Given the weight PCG places on Elijah as a decisive end-time figure, this “Elijah is still here” narrative represents more than a theological nuance. It functions as a mechanism to preserve authority, enforce loyalty, and reinterpret unanswered expectations

I’m sharing this observation in case it is helpful for understanding the current environment members are navigating and the pressure points they may be experiencing.

Kind regards, –Former PCG member [name withheld]

Map of U.S. Ministerial Regions:

(2nd email from person above)

January 11, 2026

I am also attaching a map of the United States Ministerial Regions. –Former PCG member [name withheld]

Note: This map was reduced in size for our site, but some of the words are not able to be read, especially in the box at bottom left. Here are the details we have copied:

Cal Culpepper: over the West;
John Macdonald: over the South Central;
Joseph Short: over the Southeast;
Brian Davis: over the Northeast.

Ministers who live in Edmond OK are as follows: Gerald Flurry, Stephen Flurry, Joel Hilliker, Andrew Locher, Wayne Turgeon, Fred Dattolo, Wik Heerma, Brad Macdonald, John Macdonald, Deryle Hope, Ryan Malone, Victor Vejil, Dwight Faulk, Mark Hyde, and Grant Turgeon. (Update 6-2026: Deryle Hope is Latin America Regional Director)

Latest Royal Vision Is Rampant Propaganda:

January 15, 2026

Responding to the January 11 letter, “A Notable Shift in PCG’s Teaching Saying Elijah is Still Here.” In briefly reviewing this Jan-Feb 2026 Royal Vision, I found it nothing short of revolting. The writers have knocked themselves out with this issue. On p. 16  they even have an artist’s rendition of Gerald Flurry, making him look almost exactly like Herbert Armstrong! (what else would we expect?) The entire issue is filled with lies, attempting to steer one into remaining nostalgic about HWA, and to persuade the reader into believing that PCG is indeed God’s “true Work” today. It is information and emotional control and how we must trust the “authority” writing the articles; in other words, rampant propaganda. –A. R.

Comment: For the startling truth about HWA, go to our section Herbert W. Armstrong and read about such things as: the origins of his religious roots; his prophetic date setting; proof he lied about the “lost” church century, how he used Mein Kampf as a guide in controlling people, the incest, and much more. Also visit Mike’s Enlightenment Page. [more info on PCG]

PCG Worshiping a Man:

January 16, 2026

Responding to the Jan-Feb 2026 Royal Vision, the content shows how red-hot the PCG are in worshiping a man [HWA]. Wait and see their worshipping of a man go next level when GRF dies. –Former PCG member

What GF Wrote in the Latest Royal Vision Is Not Really a Change:

January 17, 2026

This is not a change. They have been declaring that the Elijah work and his authority has been transferred and continued in the PCG through Flurry’s Elisha work from the beginning. They may have found a new way of stating it but ultimately it remains the same teaching. Every few years they cycle through their core teachings to try and remain relevant. They pound on these for a while trying to take the attention off the obviously failing “prophecies” of Gerry [GF]. –T. C.

History That PCG Would Like to Sweep Under the Rug:

January 21, 2026

I have tried to write a unique letter showing that today the PCG is doing the very things it criticized the WCG leadership for doing 25 years ago. –Former PCG member READ his article – opens on ESN’s site: History That PCG Would Like to Sweep Under the Rug

People That Choose to Stay in Slavery:

January 23, 2026

I used to email someone who would ask me about some of the teaching and decisions in PCG and what I thought about them. But I found with most they want to air their feelings about being wronged but feel if only the “right person” was in there things would be all right, and they would be found exonerated.

That seems to be the main undertone I get from most. I guess they haven’t had enough of the hypocrisy, as of yet. All we can do is stand back and wait until they see it. When the “church” (cult) makes you cut off of family and friends, it is such a pull to go back as you have burnt your bridges with everyone on the outside and there’s no one to be with any more.

Unfortunately, they only question the ministry or the group they’re in, but never the doctrine–or only parts of it. It’s hard to give that up. I’ve given it up completely because I took the time to research every aspect of it and realized how much they lied, covered up and distorted the truth! It’s sad to see people still in slavery but they choose to stay there. –Ex-PCG member [name withheld]

PCG Ministers Call Members “Field Mice”:

January 24, 2026

Some time back when I was still in the Philadelphia Church of God. I attended a family event at the PCG compound in Edmond OK.

I went into the men’s room and while there I noticed an older man cleaning the room. I told him he was doing a great job because it was so clean. We talked a bit. It seems he was a member of the PCG HQ congregation and he was glad to see so many non HQ members at the event.

He told me that HQ staff and ministers called members from outside HQ “field mice” and that it was the job of the “field mice” to “pay and pray.” He didn’t like that sentiment and thought the term derogatory. He told me that he was thankful for us because without us “field mice” he would not have a job.

I think if you ask any member of the PCG outside of HQ they will tell you that they are thought of as “field mice” and they can see the difference in how they are treated by HQ staff and ministers. –Former member of PCG [name withheld]

Told They Weren’t HQ Material and Didn’t Fit the Image of the PCG:

January 27, 2026

During the F.O.T. in Tucson I met a lady from Washington state. She told me she wanted to move near HQ in Edmond OK. Her job was willing to let her transfer and when she talked to her local minister about the move, he said it would be alright with him if she could get permission for the move from the HQ minister who was Wayne Turgeon.

When she asked Turgeon for permission for the move, he told her that she “did not meet the image the church was trying to project.” She was a very heavy lady and she thought it was because of her weight. What else could it have been?

Then the other day I was talking to a former member that had been put out of the PCG some years ago. She had attended the Cinci-Dayton congregation and also wanted to move to Edmond. She was a school teacher and thought she might be considered as a teacher for the PCG’s school. The minister she had to talk to Cal Culpepper.

Culpepper told her that she “was not headquarters material” and he would not approve the move. This was told to her over the phone while she was driving and she had it on speaker where 2 other members heard it.

Seems like PCG is all about projecting an image. To who? The local community? The audience at Armstrong Auditorium events? –Former member of PCG

Shocked by Letter About Wanting to Transfer to HQs and Told No:

February 1, 2026

I thought I could not be shocked anymore by P.C.G. until I read about the woman [refer to previous letter] who wanted to transfer to the headquarters area and P.C.G. said no. So what would happen if she did not mention anything to her local minister and moved to the headquarters area? Would she be disfellowshipped? I was in the W.C.G for 36 years and rarely counseled with a minister. –B. [name withheld]

Culpepper Says the Minister Is the Head of Single Ladies:

February 11, 2026

I helped a lady move from MI to OH. She first had to get permission from Cal Culpepper. He told her that single ladies should consider him to be their husband. The husband is the head of the wife, but the minister is the head of single ladies. –Former member of PCG

What Was Told Single Ladies In PCG:

February 12, 2026

I’m responding to the February 11 post about single ladies in PCG. I was also told that and it is a bald-faced lie!!

Ministers in PCG control by any means they can and spy on those suspect of going against their regime. PCG has never been anything but a group of power-minded control freaks. Thousands have been used (without their knowledge) to support their regime. Death and destruction follows wherever they go. They shall truly reap what they have sown! –name withheld

Beware if You Are Considering Joining or Rejoining the PCG!

February 16, 2026

One does not realize how evil a cult such as the PCG can be until, upon escaping, one comprehends  the heartbreaking horror of and shame of lost time, opportunities, and relationships. After years of being an unfeeling zombie, putting one foot in front of the other, keeping up to rituals and demands; one comes to and finds feeling and love; but also the loss of loved ones who have died and we were not there. We feel the shame of ostracizing those who did not go along with the doctrine of “the work” and a “new throne” etc., etc. One reaches old age, always having spent our time and money for “the work” and thinking a place of safety was imminent.

Thankfully, for the Spirit of Christ, God’s intervention, direction and provision (a true place of safety).

I do not feel resentment, or bitterness just thankful for knowing a personal Saviour that perhaps I might not have known without suffering the abuse. I am anguished, though, at the thought of others’ suffering. Those still in a narrow box of bondage.

So, please beware! those of you who are considering joining or rejoining the PCG. Do your research and pray for true direction and understanding before you put yourself under the regime of a man. –Impacted by PCG [name withheld]

PCG Pushing Early Marriages:

March 3, 2026

It seems that the PCG not only pushes that new people or young people get baptized early on, but that there also are a lot of very young people that are getting married. They are often AC graduates in their early twenties. Maybe that’s also a way to get growth in their numbers? –[name withheld]

Jeroboam Destroys GRF’s King of the South:

March 23, 2026

Do you think any PCG members have called Gerald Flurry directly to ask him why his “end-time Jeroboam” completely destroyed his King of the South? And while they’re on the phone with him, ask him how his King of the South (Iran) is supposed to push against the King of the North, like Daniel 11:40 says. Like where in the Bible does God say an end-time Jeroboam will completely destroy the King of the South? Does anyone else feel like the results of President Trump being the 47th president of the United States will totally nullify Gerald Flurry’s version of prophecy?

It blows my mind to think about how entire families hung their hats on Gerald Flurry being their spiritual leader and seeing the condition remnants of those same families are in today. –J. T.

Comment: Maybe while they’re at it, members should also ask GF about how he said President Trump was going to throw PCG members out of the United States and into the Cave of Adullam. [Read letter: Flurry Predicted Trump Will Kick PCG Members Out of the United States]

Response to March 23 Post:

March 23, 2026

This is in response to J.T. in  their March 23rd post.

Amen and Hallelujah! You are so correct in your understanding of all of GF’s  predictions and assumptions!!

Nothing to add other than: “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord,” (II Corinthians 6:17) –Disfellowshipped member of PCG [name withheld]

Andrew Locher Died:

March 29, 2026:

Heard that PCG minister Andrew Locher died last night. No other details. –name withheld

Comment for more info on Locher read: “Shameless Sermonette by Andrew Locher Exploits Members Financially” (April 17, 2020 letter to ESN); “Heard Andrew Locher Lying to Campers” (January 6, 2022 letter to ESN) and “Andrew Locher Is Definitely Not a Good Person!” (August 14, 2024 letter to ESN) which shows how “nice” Andrew Locher really was. (Note: These are only a sampling of negative letters on our site about Andrew Locher.)

More Info on the Death of Andrew Locher:

April 12, 2026

My understanding is that Andrew Locher was 58 Years old when he died; his wife was 52 years old when she died.

Yet again, another prominent death in the PCG, the list is long.

What are all these premature deaths doing to the faith of the members? Where are the examples of major intervention from God with regards to healing?

I hope the membership deeply considers these things. –[name withheld]

Note: Andrew Locher also had diabetes and it is mentioned in the April 3, 2022 letter. 

My Memories of Andy Locher:

April 12, 2026

I’d like to share an anecdote that personalizes Andy Locher on the one hand, and also serves to mark the shift in the PCG from being in the early years a pleasant, pro-brethren, familial atmosphere “church,” to a tyrannical cult system “governed” by a self-proclaimed Prophet, who was really, of course, an autocrat. And that is putting it mildly. …. –By M. Daniel (former member of PCG)

NOTE: The above lengthy letter has been posted as an article. Read it here: My Memories of Andrew Locher.

SF Creating a Quagmire of Confusion on His Key of David Program:

April 19, 2026

Since Stephen Flurry has taken over the Key of David, he is constantly inserting clips, predominantly from Herbert Armstrong and his signature doctrines.

I find this somewhat contradictory because the PCG has gone to great lengths to kick out members for not agreeing with Gerald Flurry’s new understanding on several major doctrines and instead sticking with Herbert Armstrongs teachings.

This creates an quagmire of confusion for both members and listeners of the program. So much so that when ministers have been quizzed on it, they can’t actually give and answer. –[name withheld]

GF Needing More Money:

April 20, 2026

GF sent out a co worker letter in early March. He said the PCG has had to borrow money and asked for members to really consider their spring holy day offerings. They would need 1 million dollars for the archeology dig and there was maintenance needed on the buildings, etc. He hoped the Celtic Throne performances could pay its own way this year. The Israel dance tour has since been cancelled due to the Iran war, but there will be more performances in the USA. Members have been asked to help advertise it. A week before Passover (on March 23) a fast was called for to pray about income and for the prompt selling of Edstone Estate.

Fred Dattolo is the new CFO [chief financial officer]. He is reported to have said the spring offerings were up 20-48% in some cases. (I do not know how they figure this). –[name withheld]

GF Looking Well and Energetic:

April 20, 2026

GF is reported to be looking well and energetic. Last week he spent time counseling ministers and reviewing corporations, finances and law. He gave two sermons during the holy days and the brethren are now asked to stand whenever he goes on or off the stage in regard to “the throne.” [Celtic Throne]. –I. T.

Feast Sites for 2026:

April 20, 2026

Following are the PCG feast sites worldwide with approximately 3700 attendees. Feast goers are encouraged to attend assigned sites.

Edmond, OK  – 800
Litchfield Park, Arizona  – 500
Phoenix, Arizona (newest feast site)
Greenville,  South Carolina  – 600
Cranberry, Pennsylvania.  – 500
Clark, Philippines  – 350
Tweeds Head, Australia. – 350
Netherlands. – 300
Panama City, Panama  – 300
Kelowna, Western Canada – estimated 150+
(Kelowna not open for transfer.)

–[name withheld]

Regarding Feast Numbers:

April 21, 2026

Regarding the Feast numbers above, the members have been encouraged to register even if not attending. Also, the count includes children. Numbers can be twisted for sure. –[name withheld]

Lamentations of Jeremiah Oratorio / SF Giving Personal Appearance Campaigns:

April 25, 2026

The PCG choir and orchestra members are having what they call the “Lamentations of Jeremiah oratorio” (composer and conductor is Ryan Malone) and have had 4 rehearsals this week in what they are calling “coalescing for a brand new work.” What should be concerning is how the performance is said to be “two and a half intense hours–physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.” Again, this sounds very exhausting for those who will be performing but nothing new given PCG’s rigorous “Philadelphia standards.” PCG is asking for prayers for the “health and stamina of everyone involved.” This Lamentations oratorio will premiere Sunday April 26, at 2:00 p.m. in the Armstrong Auditorium and there will be a free livestream. Members attending in person can reserve free tickets with the discount appearing at checkout.

Another piece of news is how PCG (no different than other high demand groups) will always make use of “free labor” from their students (even members) for any work they want done. Therefore, it is no surprise to hear that the Custodial Department staff members when looking into ways to “save on costs, trimming back unnecessary expenses and experimenting with homemade cleaning products” had the students shampoo carpets around campus and clean the interior and exterior of the Armstrong Auditorium lobby windows over their spring break. So much for the students to have any free or relaxing time off!

Lastly, it doesn’t sound like Gerald Flurry is all that “energetic” since Stephen Flurry is planning on giving Personal Appearance Campaigns this summer that coincide with the Celtic Throne II–Psalter of Ireland tour. The campaigns are being planned “on a shorter timetable than usual.” –[name withheld]

Will Be a Very Expensive Trip for Members Who Travel to Kelowna:

April 26, 2026

One has to wonder how members from the east coast of Canada will be able to afford to go to Kelowna [Feast site] way across the country. East coast Canada has always been a small group with not much in terms of tithes as most have seasonal work for the most part, or they are seniors on fixed incomes. And with no feast, it seems, in New England, it will be a very expensive trip for those who are still members in that neck of the woods. The main airlines in Canada are already reducing flights due to costs related to jet fuels. The members will likely have to drive and that is a 5 day trip if you stop to sleep every night. –Canada

Eastern Canada Feast Location:

April 27, 2026

Eastern Canada is assigned to eastern USA. –[name withheld]

PCG Exaggerates Numbers / Their Ship About to Sink:

April 28, 2026

Those feast numbers are highly exaggerated [see April 20 letter] to make the PCG look bigger than what it really is to their members. They do that with funds too. Lie. Many congregations have had to combine over the years because of people leaving–teens, people disenfranchised, disfellowshipped, deaths.There are only a few US sites for the feast. There is no work in Latin America anymore. Edstone is still for sale. (They will never get what they are asking for it.) There is no work there either, thus having the feast in the Netherlands for the minuscule amount of members there, or for those who can afford to travel, I’m assuming. I would personally guess that if there were about 2000-2500 members left, including children and teens, it would be a really good guess. I also don’t understand why they won’t sell their plane and tighten their budgets as an example, but call for a fast (God would NEVER answer that fast) and beg, gaslight and harangue the members for money to pursue that frivolous dig. How would they dig there if a war is going on? How does a Celtic culture that permeates that PCG cult have to do with Jerusalem? Weren’t they the first tribes to go into paganism? Maybe it’s just about the money; they don’t want to sell the plane with its huge expenses…That’s probably why they borrowed money. What work are they doing with that plane, other than flying around like they are royalty? Celtic Throne? Psalter? No one is watching except the dutiful members who are programmed, because the rest of the world is not watching, and they don’t care. Sad that the members are being put to work like chattel and are exploited like that. The PCG is like the Titanic: it was huge, no one could bring it down! Not even God will sink PCG because Flurry “has a message to give to Christ when He returns” at the cost of members. Well, it’s about to hit the iceberg and go down with its elites on lifeboats, while the others are sadly left to drown. God is not mocked. And we are seeing this unfold. –S. S.

Comment: Some very interesting letters to read: “Gerald Flurry Gallivanting to the Middle East in His Expensive Jet Plane“ (March 15, 2022); “PCG Not Thriving or Growing Financially” (January 13, 2023).

PCG’s Institutional Cognitive Dissonance:

May 2, 2026:

I wrote an article about PCG’s institutional cognitive dissonance. … –Former PCG member NOTE by ESN: Read this person’s article: “PCG’s Institutional Cognitive Dissonance Fully on Display” (also linked on What’s New). Note: Links at bottom of article were updated on 5-3-26.

GF Experiencing Low Energy:

May 3, 2026

The true state of GF’s health may be a long time coming since HQs is doing a good job keeping it under wraps. It was recently printed by PCG in their paper that while GF says he has been “feeling pretty good” he still was unable to attend the HWAC senior dinner recently (the first time ever) “due to low energy” and SF filled in for him on short notice. My thoughts are that while GF may look “well and energetic” in touched-up or older photos, the truth may be something entirely different. –A. R.

Things That Aren’t Going Well for the PCG:

May 4, 2026

Sometimes, I wonder how often the PCG checks this site. I wonder if they’re worried that we’re seeing what’s happening.

Andrew Locher was a pretty big deal in the “church.” [See March 29 letter above about Locher’s death.] He was one of the most well-known members of the PCG who held a high position within the Flurry-made hierarchy.

The Edstone sale is not going well. Who wants to buy all of that considering the economic liability?

The feast sites seem to nearly shrink as they try to have their congregation numbers the same.

And yet, I’m supposed to believe that in the End Times, the PCG (as I was told by a few church-going family members) would have an influx of people that would come in and “finish” the Work.

I don’t know what the hell kind of work would be finished unless it’s spiritually Botoxing their organization that has grown old with its members who are more likely to see their own mortality come to a close rather than ever see the supposed “Place of Safety” in Petra. [GF has sometimes said the POS is Adullam]

How close are they reading these things we all type up?

Are they panicking?

To be truthful, I hope they are. I hope they are scared that we are getting louder and louder about the obvious.

When Gerald Flurry goes, that is not going to go well with members. Maybe some will stay with Stephen. But he’ll never be his father. Ever.

He’ll rule nothing but rubble. –M. I.

PCG Is Shrinking:

May 13, 2026

It’s interesting to see the upcoming FOT sites. Totaling 3700 worldwide. What makes it funny is the numbers are indicative of meeting capacity; in NO way do they show actual attendance. And as stated, the numbers include children/babies and non-member spouses. They definitely have under 2000 actual baptized members. It’s gratifying to watch them shrink! –T. C.

PCG Numbers:

May 15, 2026

Just to back up the latest post regarding the current membership numbers, Stephen Flurry just mentioned in his latest Trumpet Daily that the PCG only has about 500 men between the ages of 25–55 years old supporting the work.

Those FOT site numbers are capacity, not attendance numbers; the real number for this year’s Feast is around 3000. –[name withheld]

Such a Stretch on the PCG Numbers:

May 15, 2026

Regarding the previous letter about 500 men baptized. It is surprising that SF would actually admit that number. But 3000 is even a stretch for FOT attendance.

So I just listened to it the Trumpet Daily, aired: May 14, 2026, “America’s Disappearing Men” and he (SF)  does say that at about 41:25 into the show. It sounded like someone in a sermon used that statistic as he said “As we heard the other day.”

So knowing them I’d say 500 is even a stretch because they are liars! –[name withheld]

PCG Updating and Completing Certain “Free” Books:

May 16, 2026:

Someone let me know that PCG’s booklet “Who is That Prophet?” has been updated. This is no surprise since GF has such a massive ego. [See: Biblical Titles Gerald Flurry Has Appropriated for Himself]

Plus, Autobiography of Herbert W. Armstrong will be “completed by “staff” in the next few weeks. I assume members will be receiving their own personal 72-chapter hardback version of this fabricated book. (The original Autobiography was later published as two hard-back volumes and was also filled with fabrications.)

The bait and switch to all this is the words on the Trumpet website where they state this book is “free with no follow up or no obligation” and “the costs have already been paid.” What is left unsaid is PCG members (and certain susceptible readers) have already been paying for the book with their tithes and offerings.

This whole scenario is without question sickening. –[name withheld]

Comment: Read very interesting article: Herbert Armstrong Ministry – 1930-1986 by Richard Nichols (Documentation of HWA’s history of lying. Also lists at end many of his false prophecies.) Note: This is not an endorsement of everything Richard Nichols taught. Nichols died at the age of 58 in 2006.

Catholics and the PCG Are Perfect Bedfellows:

May 22, 2026

Though the “Churches of God” (incorporated), including the PCG, have spent a great deal of energy lambasting the Catholic church, they actually have more in common with the Catholic church than other denominations of Christianity.

The PCG in particular embraces this principle philosophy of the Catholic church:

Gerald Flurry and Catholics believe in the authority of the fleshly man at the head of the church over the authority of God-inspired scripture.

The proof is in the pudding. Flurry has made up an endless list of titles and offices for himself based upon pure ego and conjecture, along with issuing dozens of specific and failed prophecies he claimed were in the Bible (just like the WCG before him).

“But it’s new revelation!” diehard supporters in the PCG will counter.

And here they paint themselves into a corner:

The current teachings of the PCG diametrically oppose the teachings they claim were revealed to WCG founder, and their spiritual predecessor, Herbert Armstrong.

God is not the author of confusion! (1 Corinthians 14:33) –Former member of PCG

NOTE: Read this article on our site which gives several more points showing this is true:  Comparisons Between PCG and the Roman Catholic Church

Thank You Sincerely for the Work You Have Done:

May 25, 2026

I am a former member of the PCG. I was a member for more than twenty years. I am writing to you from the Philippines

I want to thank you sincerely for the work you have done over the years in preserving these testimonies. Your website has been an invaluable source of documented truth. The accounts have confirmed what I witnessed personally during my own years inside the organization.

I want you to know that your work reached someone on the other side of the world who needed it. I have a husband still inside PCG and children who are being taken to services. I am not alone in this, and your website helped me understand that.

Thank you for everything you have done. In Christ, –Former PCG member, Philippines

PCG Hurting for Money:

May 27, 2026

Looks like PCG is really hurting for money. I just received some great news from someone who recently left. This is what was in PCG’s latest May 22, 2026 Friday Philadelphian:

To cut costs, he [GF] also decided to immediately eliminate the Philadelphia Trumpet waiting room program, which accounted for three quarters of the circulation. “Eliminating these printing and mailing costs, for what was essentially an advertising campaign, will save over a million dollars a year,” said Trumpet managing editor Joel Hilliker. “I am excited about this cost savings for one,” said executive editor Stephen Flurry, “but I’m also excited about using some of these ‘advertising’ dollars to promote other Work programs.”

Yeah, I’m sure Hilliker and SF are going to act enthused about this decison so as not to cause members to question why. But PCG obviously knows the “waiting room program” [placing the magazine in doctor’s, dental offices, etc.] wasn’t bringing in people so why continue paying for it. –[name withheld]

PCG’s Waiting Room Program:

May 27, 2026

Regarding the previous letter, PCG used to have members call around and sign local businesses up to receive the Trumpet magazine for their waiting room. I bet they got a lot of cancellations after they got people signed up, once they realized what it was. I think a lot of them probably went strait in the trash too. –T. C.

Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology Sold:

May 28, 2026

I was more than surprised to see in the May 22, 2026 Friday Philadelphian under “Jerusalem” that the Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology (AIBA) was sold and to be vacated by August.

“Staff received notification that the sale of the institute building on David Marcus 1 was finalized: The building will be vacated by the end of August, with the help of the summer excavation volunteers.”

Brad Macdonald said that God “will choose another building in Jerusalem for us.”

GF “approved plans” yesterday for Chris Eames (whose visa expires in a few months) to move to Edmond in September following the excavation.

I did a search and found the property had been a long term lease to the AI. Then today found an article in The Times of Israel about property deals. Don’t know if there is any connection but the institute was very supportive of the City of David development. The Institute is in the Talbijeh district. –[name withheld]

Comment: In the 1-6-2022 letter Andrew Locher said they [PCG] had “two archaeologists” in the PCG. It says he was referring to Chris Eames and Brent Naagtagal which was a lie because they are not even close to being archaeologists.

Germany Ain’t No Beast:

May 29, 2026

The Trumpet and Stephen Flurry’s five day a week program, along with the KoD, I’m sure, are still beating the drum that “Germany is readying for the attack on the US, Britain, Canada,” etc. They show stats of increased military spending to help prove that “HWA was right!” In the May issue of the Trumpet there is a short article entitled, “The Bundeswehr is Coming After Me.” It’s actually a Commentary by a German PCG member who is “living abroad” from Germany. Most likely he is in Edmond working at the cult HQ.

As I read the article, I could see that the title is obviously what in Internetspeak is called “click bait.” A hyperbolic statement to get you to read on. He’s talking about Germany’s new “Military Service Modernization Act,” which requires all men from 17 to 45 to obtain permission from the Armed Forces if they wish to stay abroad for more than three months.

If I were a German in that age group I would not like this policy, to be frank. But of course, the PCG German commentator is trying to link this with Germany’s plans to attack the “Israelitish nations of the US, UK, Canada, etc.” In actuality, this has far more to do with Germany’s concern regarding Russia. The German government saw what happened with Ukraine when many tens of thousands of young and middle-aged men fled abroad to escape being pressed into fighting. They also saw that many Ukrainian fighting-aged men who were out of the country didn’t return to fight. Since Germany already has a demographic decline problem, this is greatly concerning to them. There is no way that today’s Germany can field a fighting force that could ever challenge the US and all of its allies.

A poll done less than a year ago asked young German me if they are willing to join the military to fight for their country. Around two thirds said, “no.” Yeah, some “mighty military beast power” huh? What a joke. Germany couldn’t beat Lithuania in a war right now. –Former PCG member

Another List of Failed Prophecies:

May 30, 2026

In relation to the May 28 letter about the Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology being forced out of Jerusalem. This is another example of failed prophecy, because for years and years the PCG has taught that they fulfilled a prophecy of Eliakim being a father to the house of Judah, and a “third College” in Jerusalem was going to be the way to do that. In addition another prophecy was that they were going to find the bones of King David and show it to the world. There were also several other prophetic statements about the establishment of a news bureau and museum to be established in Jerusalem.

Well, it looks like we have another list of failed prophecies. I just can’t help but wonder what the remaining members must be thinking while all these major parts of their work (what were exciting developments at the time) are rapidly being shut down: Edstone for sale, Jerusalem closing, no Trumpet magazine in waiting rooms, etc. When will they wake up and see God is not blessing them? –Former PCG member (name withheld)

PCG’s Bad Economy News Accelerating:

May 30, 2026

It seems the cost-cutting measures for the PCG are continuing. The cancellation of the waiting room program is yet another sign that the revenue is detracting.

It’s generally understood by long-term members of the PCG and those with deep WWCG History that the waiting room program is “One” of the more authentic ways for God to reach people and more aligned with sound practices.

As previously mentioned on this site recently, the PCG now considers the “Celtic Throne” production as “The Work,” so much so that SF has organized his upcoming public appearance campaign around the Celtic Throne schedule this year.

The PCG took a financial hammering recently with their overseas Celtic Throne tour, somewhere between 500k to 1 million, and unfortunately, no lessons have been learnt by the top brass.

So, just in the last few months, we have the Edstone property practically empty and for sale, the waiting room program cancelled and now the PCG is being pushed out of Jerusalem. I assume they will enjoy the temporary saving of rent in Jerusalem with a sigh of relief.

The bad economy news is not only continuing, it looks like it’s accelerating, this is being reinforced in October when the Feast attendance numbers get leaked, and it’s well under 3000 globally. –[name withheld]

PCG Cuts a Lot Out of HWA’s Booklet:

Note: On 6-2-26 the author of this letter wanted it to be edited as following:

June 1, 2026

I wanted to let you know what I learned from getting the current Missing Dimension in Sex booklet from the PCG (first published in 1964 under the name God Speaks Out on “The New Morality”): It only has half the pages of the early 1980s edition of the book from the WCG. They cut a lot, and I do mean a lot, out of it. So much for the “end time Elijah’s” words being unalterable by the group that named a college after him. -–M. Daniel

GF Has Come to Believe He Is Above HWA:

June 2, 2026

This is in response to the latest post about going against the end time “Elijah.”

The main mistake that GRF has made is that he has come to believe he is above HWA. This has been evident through the 20 + titles he has given himself, and a belief that he has been given a “Double” portion of the Spirit–when he and the ministry heavily taught and promoted the “Elisha” role and title. It was at that point that the belief was he had outgrown or overtaken HWA’s understanding.

This is at odds with the PCG’s original mission statement that it will uphold all of HWA’s Teachings and therefore vehemently claimed to be the only legitimate organization that came out of the WCG, as it held on to every teaching. A common catchphrase in the PCG was: “Never let one drop of HWA’s teachings fall to the ground.”

They have been able to deceive most members by putting HWA’s name over almost every building, every program, and endless promotion of HWA, whilst teaching something entirely different. Most members aren’t aware of this and haven’t studied the “church” [WCG] history from 1926-1986 [In 1926 was when HWA said he started his “intensive study of the Bible”; he died in 1986]. –[name withheld]

PCG Receives Special Donation to Rent New Office in Jerusalem:

June 2, 2026

I was just told that GF recently approved renting a new office facility in Jerusalem because of how their present building has been sold and they must be out of there by end of August. But, lo and behold, within a half hour, Fred Dattolo (chief financial officer) told Brad Macdonald that they had received a “special donation” for the work in Jerusalem that will “mostly cover the associated costs for the next year.” How convenient. Where did this “special donation” come from? My source didn’t know if it was truly a donation from some rich member, or someone left it in their will, or if it was “extra money” GF had. –[name withheld]

Comment: Read article: “Transfer All Your Assets to Gerald Flurry After You Die” and letter: “PCG Has Several Ways to Build Up its Financial Reserves.”

Happy to See This Website Is Still Going Strong:

June 3, 2026

I’m very grateful to be alive and to read that there are ex-members of the WCG & PCG still speaking out and writing about their traumatic experiences of being in a cult that has had control of the majority of American’s religious beliefs.

About a decade or more ago I commented on this site that British Israelism has created more death and destruction in the USA than any presidential administration has ever done.

And here we are in 2026 and many people I knew and know are dying in these cults without knowing true love.

A little background of me is I was born into the WCG in the early seventies and both my late parents were associated with HWA since the fifties. My family and I left and went to the PCG when GF started it and I left in 1997 and never went back. My late mother’s funeral four years ago I didn’t attend due to her being in the PCG and my younger sister having her own memorial service and running ads in the local newspapers that called the PCG a doomsday cult ran by sociopaths. Honestly, she was right and wrong. (Her upbringing in the WCG didn’t help her emotional stability.)

It didn’t help mine either. I didn’t attend my late older sister memorial service either, she attended the PCG and died of cancer and currently my eldest sister is dying of the same disease. And you guessed it, she still attends the PCG.

As a retired federal investigator with a TSC background, I discovered so much evil on these two cult and its members that it would make the Epstein files read like a nursery rhyme.

I hope that all former member of all the offshoots of the WCG read this and realized that all is not lost and they can walk away and knowledge is power in healing through Gods love. –[name withheld]

Latest KOD by Stephen Flurry:

June 5, 2026

Stephen Flurry has gotten himself caught in another quagmire again on the latest KOD [Key of David].

He stated that the 5th era of Gods Church rejected HWA’s teachings. What Stephen Flurry leaves out is the main reason for the split between HWA and the Sardis Church during the early to mid 1930’s. It culminated in the rejection of his United States and Britain in Prophecy manuscript. Years later, the WCG spoke extensively about this period during the early 1930s, there was a “Behind the Work” in the early 80s that spoke about the transition from the Sardis Era to the Philadelphia era and the narrative was that it really started to become clear that the mantle had moved from the Sardis Era to the WCG because of the rejection of the United States and Britain in Prophecy teaching.

It was also thoroughly taught in the Worldwide Church of God under HWA that they were the 6th Era Church as mentioned in Revelation 3, which clearly states they have the Key of David, again, the WCG would link the USBIP understanding with this scripture in Revelation 3.

The PCG has always claimed to carry the mantle of HWA but, as we can see, there’s a glaring omission here.

The Sardis Era rejected the USBIP Manuscript and through the late 30s and 40s all but disappeared into insignificance. Andrew Dugger essentially admitted this in their true history of the true church book.

HWA separated himself from the Sardis Era and the WCG ended up by all measurable statistics, a global behemoth through the USBIP teaching. (That book reached more households than any other book and the WCG regularly claimed that it was the core teaching that built the WCG to its global status.

The PCG in 2017 ended up throwing the USBIP out the window with their New Stone and Throne teaching and by all measurable statistics, is in major financial trouble and has a collapsing membership ever since.

The glaring omission, by their own teachings and history across the Sardis, WCG and PCG is that one must deduce that the USBIP teaching has played a key role in effecting the success or failure. Just based on this, two organizations have collapsed. The WCG became a behemoth and, as they teach, Revelation 2 & 3 states only 1 x Era has the Key of David, it doesn’t end well for the Sardis and Laodicean Eras. –[name withheld]

Comment: Also see the article: “Herbert W. Armstrong’s Religious Roots.”

Decline in First Tithe Continues:

June 7, 2026

Fred Dattolo (Chief Financial Officer) recently stated in the June 5 Friday Philadelphian: “Meanwhile, the decline in first tithe continues. Consequently, total income for the year is barely keeping up with last year, while some expenses are rising.”

Then Dattolo added: “So, your generous holy day offerings have been appreciated!” (I.e., members are to “take up the slack.”)

I’ve noticed lately that HQs is talking more and more about “the Work,” telling members to pray for every last thing PCG is doing, or planning on doing. This serves the purpose of keeping members’ minds and prayers continually focused on “the Work.” –[name withheld]

How Much Longer Can PCG Last?

June 9, 2026

Ex-members have speculated as to how much longer the PCG can last.

My reasons for why the decline:

1. Gerald Flurry’s prophetic credibility continues to erode
2. Decline in membership accelerates
3. Younger members do not replace departing older members
4. Tithing income falls significantly year after year
5. Struggles to maintain a large campus, college auditorium, media
operations, maintenance staff, housing, and international activities
6. Layoffs and cut backs in many areas
7. Possession of a private jet, which consumes massive amounts of money

The key question becomes whether expenses can be reduced as fast as income declines. Maintaining such a campus requires a substantial and continuing revenue stream which has been drying up faster than Lake Mead.

Most organizations do not immediately collapse. Instead they typically:

1. Reduce staff
2. Consolidate departments
3. Cut media spending
4. Sell assets or property
5. Scale back building maintenance
6. Eventually operate with a much smaller headquarters footprint

Even a 25%+ annual decline would put intense pressure on maintaining large facilities and media operations unless significant reserves existed. As the income is highly dependent on a shrinking core membership, the decline will become visible much more quickly. I expect the Edmond campus to shrink before it disappears entirely. –Former PCG member

Did HWA Plagiarize the USBIP Booklet?

June 10, 2026

A few years ago I reread a WWCG booklet again and I decided to check deeper on the subject. Well, I found a book on Judah’s scepter and Joseph’s birthright. This book was written by J. H. Allen born in the 1850’s approximately and he wrote this book in 1902. Now I’m not saying if HWA was inspired to write USBIP or not, but I do know he was not the first one to write on the subject. Did he plagiarize this too? –M.

Comment: Read this article on our site which will go into detail about this booklet: Herbert W. Armstrong’s Religious Roots.

I Wanted Out of the PCG So Fast:

June 11, 2026

I saw the latest letter posted talking about the US&BP possibly being plagiarized. I’m not sure if you have this website link posted but it does an excellent job covering the plagiarism topic. I can’t recommend this website enough. I remember coming across it and after having read it a few times I wanted out of the PCG so fast. –A. (former member of PCG)

Comment: Yes, we have linked to that website for several years in the PCG articles section. It has a lot of info on GF.

Anyone Know the PCG’s Financial Metrics?

June 15, 2026

With an existing annual budget (albeit, planned vs. actual income and spending amounts vary year-over-year), headquarters operations can still execute on their project plans to produce results and achieve goals and objectives throughout the year. But they can’t continue to operate when spending and income is unbalanced WITHOUT borrowing money and going [further] into debt. How much debt does the PCG carry annually? How much debt has accrued since they started their HQ campus on Bryant Road in 2000ish? Does anyone know the current value of their assets, equity, and debt? Curious if and how much they are borrowing in order to continue operations as their next-gen membership numbers plummet. As Renee Becktold used to sing to us, “It Won’t Be Long Now.” –J. T.

Reply: no one is going to know the answers to your questions unless they worked at HQs, exited, and are then willing to give out inside financial info. PCG has funds we may know nothing about. It is known, however, that they receive money from members who die and leave money to them from their estates and wills. Read the article: “Transfer All Your Assets to Gerald Flurry After You Die.”

PCG Devouring Widows Houses:

June 18, 2026

I noticed that PCG’s latest [June 18] article, “The State of Your Estate,” is once again focusing on what happens to a member’s assets after death. After reading it, I couldn’t help but feel concerned about the message being promoted.

While the article talks about estate planning, it seems to be steering members—especially older members—toward considering the church as a beneficiary in their wills. If someone genuinely wants to support a cause, that’s their personal choice. But when a religious organization repeatedly raises the subject and presents it as part of supporting “God’s Work,” it can have a strong influence on members who trust the leadership without question.

What concerns me is that many elderly members have children, grandchildren, and other relatives who would naturally inherit those assets. Instead of encouraging members to prioritize their families, these articles seem to normalize the idea of leaving part of their estate to the organization.

It also brings to mind Christ’s warning about religious leaders who “devour widows’ houses.” I’m not saying everyone will be persuaded by these messages, but I do think it’s important to recognize how this kind of teaching can subtly shape people’s decisions, especially those who are older and more vulnerable to spiritual pressure.

Just something I thought was worth sharing and discussing. –E.

Increasing Focus on Members’ Finances:

(2nd email from person above)

June 19, 2026:

There’s actually another article [June 17] by the same author [David A. Vejil]: “Investing the Right Way.”

At first glance it’s about investing, but once you read it, it seems to circle back to the same theme, where members should be putting their money and resources. Just like the estate-planning article, the message seems to imply that the best investment is supporting the “Work” of PCG.

When you put these articles together, it starts to look like there’s an increasing focus on members’ finances, investments, assets, and estates. Instead of teaching people how to provide for their families and secure their future, the emphasis keeps coming back to giving more to the organization.

Personally, I find it concerning. The more people wake up and start asking questions, the more it seems like these financial messages are being pushed. The article about estates wasn’t enough; now they’re talking about investments too. To me, it feels like another attempt to influence members on what they should do with their money, all the while framing it as a spiritual responsibility. Proof that they are getting more desperate for money. –E.

Comment: We were told that David Vejil is Victor Vejil’s brother (Victor Vejil was the principle of Imperial Academy as of 2024), and they are brothers to Olivia, who is the wife of Calvin Culpepper, Jr. The younger Culpepper was just transferred to WA to work with and help his aging father minister over that region. 

Jim Cocomise Goes Back Into PCG:

June 19, 2026

I don’t know if you have heard anything about this, but Jim Cocomise is back attending the PCG and is with his wife and most of his family living in Florida. I guess he decided it wasn’t worth losing literally everything. –[name withheld]

Comment: To read more about Jim Cocomise, see the letter: “What a Relief to Be Out” which will cover Jim Cocomise. “I just about lost my marriage to these crooks. Jim Cocomise … tried to turn me against my husband.” That letter, plus other places on our site, will show exactly what kind of minister Jim Cocomise was. [NOTE: This link before was going to the wrong letters page. It has now been corrected.]

PCG Is Diminishing:

June 20, 2026

Members are hopefully waking up.

Doesn’t the Bible write about a man leaving his inheritance to his children? The New Testament Church in Christ is spiritual and humble, not physically rich and increased with goods.

The dance entourage and its costs, the airplane and its maintenance, headquarters, Jerusalem digs and Edstone are not God’s work, but the grandiose fantasy of an aged delusional psychopathic megalomaniac.

Money to sustain his lifestyle and to create a wealthy legacy for his own children at the expense of deceived tithe payers through gaslighting. Diabolical! Christ isn’t in the picture. HWA is the god.

The Vejil brothers are twins. I’ve always wondered why they were in the upper echelon and had privileges above lay members. David Vejil is an arrogant know-it-all and condescending.

Makes sense with Culpepper the harpy being Flurry’s strong arm and enforcer. Flurry leased a nice RV for that demon to travel in and terrorize congregations years ago. They all have a lot to lose, and they are losing. They are financially and spiritually broke and in debt. The writing’s on the wall, there’s absolutely no way for them to spin it. –[name withheld]

Comment: Be sure and read: Is the Philadelphia Church of God Now the Laodicean Church?

GF Going Full Throttle Ahead?

June 20, 2026:

An acquaintance of mine was able to get a snap shot of the June 19 Friday Philadelphia. It was written to make members think that GF is going “full throttle ahead.”

Here are a few quotes gleaned from it: [all emphasis and bolding ours]

“Pastor General Gerald Flurry said he has been feeling more energetic than he has for some time. …. On Wednesday, he approved pursuing a lease of a more favorable office option in Jerusalem than the one that staff members were inquiring about several weeks ago.” 

“Staff are also working on an advertising campaign for the July 2026 Trumpet issue, about America’s 250th year anniversary. ‘We’d like to get this to as many people as possible,’ said managing editor Joel Hilliker. ‘This is the story of The United States and Britain in Prophecy, and a call to repentance, which every American needs to hear and that nobody is going to hear outside the PCG.’” –[name withheld]

Stealing Property From Members’ Families:

June 21, 2026

I was part of this money-stealing operation for many years. One man in our congregation died and left his house to the PCG. I was one of the members that was to go to the house to remove anything of value. We were even told to take the TV and sell it. (This was before flat-screen TVs.) One member purchased the TV from the PCG. After the belongings were collected and sold, the house was sold. The man’s family tried to fight it but got nothing.

The man in charge of stealing property from members’ families back then was Tim Thompson [a very high profile minister who later died of throat cancer]. –Former PCG member

Comment: There is much info on our site about Tim Thompson and how he “spearheaded the movement to get people to leave their estates to the PCG.” The following three letters go into detail about Tim Thompson:

1. Estates Being Left to PCG

2. Flurry’s Hold on His Elderly Followers is Greater Than I Ever Expected

3. Death of Tim Thompson (tells how Thompson “helped many members write their wills so that their families could not inherit what was left to the church”)

The Sinning-Characters They Become – Part 1:

June 23, 2026

I think it’s important to remember the sinning-characters PCG members are forced to turn into (and become over time), in order to actually stay in the PCG.

In 2026, with so much time that has passed, and so much physical evidence that’s proved GRF’s identity and doctrine to be make-believe fiction, from a member’s perspective it’s a real struggle for them to actually stay in the group and to not leave it.

Think about the type of sinning-character you would have to become, in order to fight to stay inside the PCG. You would have to become a liar. Deceived. Dishonest. A hypocrite. For many of us, on principle alone, that’s not OK.

You can literally feel lies, deception, deceit, and dishonesty. Especially when you have to express it. You know when you’re becoming that sinning-character. When doctrinal teachings become so complex (and outrageous), that proving God’s truth in it goes beyond our cognitive abilities, becoming a liar, deceived, dishonest, and a hypocrite is wrong.

It’s quite clear and obvious that, an environment requiring us to become a sinning-character, is the wrong environment to be in. Even though we might get to a point of mental exhaustion where we aren’t capable of proving right from wrong doctrine anymore, we still know an environment that turns us into a sinning-character is the wrong environment. That much we can feel. –N. G.

The Sinning-Characters They Become – Part 2:

June 24, 2026

I have several family members who are still in the PCG. That fact alone blows my mind every single day. But ironically, none of them inside the PCG are intertwined and connected to each other’s lives. They all live in completely separate geographical locations. Hundreds (and in one case, thousands) of miles apart from each other.

Their own marriages and families have fallen apart over the last 20 years. No longer working marriage and family examples they once thought they were. None of them actually see each other’s daily living habits and can confirm (with assurance) each other’s daily practices. They have no real assurance or conviction. They’re filled with doubt and guesswork. Each “claiming” to believe GRFs doctrine and spiritual leadership is theirs to each other, but at home, disbelieving his identity-claims, and believing his doctrine is complete rubbish.

Instead of doing the right thing, and developing true righteous character in the process, and leaving the group to follow, self-apply, and self-practice God Himself in their lives (so that God can fix their conditions and correct their beliefs and behavior), they sink into the abyss outside Ursula’s cave, trapped as poor unfortunate souls.

That’s how I see my own family members in the PCG group. Conned by the man and spirit they “claim” to be their spiritual leader to each other, who they sacrificed their own character’s development and growth for, fearing their sins are next to be cast-away from the group. The same casting-away they’ve personally done to so many others over the decades.

And now, after 30 years of casting sinners out of their group, they can see how casting out sinners leaves no members left to cast. So to be “safe,” and remain in the group unaffected, they stay disconnected and distant from each other, eyeing each other as suspects, reciting in the mirror, “No sins to see here.” –N. G.

Comment: Fear plays a big part in being able to leave exploitive, abusive and deceptive groups. Read article which explains this: Why it’s Hard to Leave Philadelphia Church of God (by former PCG member).

GF Goes From Weak to Strong:

July 18, 2026

Doesn’t seem to be anything much different going on lately in PCG except to let members know that GF went from weak to strong–and even that is more of the same. Here is what was printed in the July 17 Friday Philadelphian: “While this past week he [GF] was generally in a weakened state, God supplied him with an energy level on Thursday afternoon [that he] ‘had not had for several weeks.’”

One of these days, I am sure we will be hearing news about his demise. –[name withheld]

What Will Happen to “King Flurry”?

July 21, 2026

What happens now to the “king” [Read: King Flurry?] who is supposed to rule them in the place of safety and hand the throne over to Jesus Christ Himself–if he dies before the Great Tribulation happens?

I wouldn’t be surprised, though I’d still be amazed, if the membership simply believes whatever explanation Flurry’s son offers next. I’m sure the ministry is already quietly preparing for that moment. –Former PCG member

GF Full of Confusion and Contradictions:

July 26, 2026

According to Wik Heerma, GF has been pushing himself to finish his latest book, “The Father’s Love for His Prodigal Sons” (planned to be distributed at the Feast of Tabernacles). “Prodigal sons” has always referred to the “Laodiceans.”

I’m sure this book will be instilling fear since Heerma says it “will be great preparation for God’s people, preparing them for the terrible time ahead.” (bolding mine)

I thought members were supposed to flee to the Place of Safety ahead of this “terrible time ahead”? And wasn’t GF supposed to go before President Trump and get the members thrown out of the country first? [Read January 11, 2020 letter: “Flurry Predicted Trump Will Kick PCG Members Out of the United States“)

According to GF’s “No Contact sermon” given in 2005, he told members that the Laodiceans were “evil and twisted,” “sons of the Devil,” “liars,” etc., and members were to avoid them. Now he’s writing about “God’s love for them.” (Revelation 3:19?) Is he simply wanting some of these “Laodiceans” to come back to PCG to increase the declining membership and bring in more money? There will always be confusion and contradiction with everything GF says.

GF has said he receives “new revelation” at every Feast of Tabernacles. I wonder if this new book will be part of it? –[name withheld]

A Coming Church Administration & Generation of Reconciliation?

July 30, 2026

I don’t try to make sense of Gerald Flurry’s writings anymore. Particularly, about topics of doctrine. Because it’s just ridiculous at this point. I know it. You know it. They know it. But I can tell you this much is certain. As the entire PCG group (both members and ministers alike) prepare for GRF’s death and Stephen’s “incoming” church administrators (like Trump’s firings, new appointments, and “new” departments), I think the foundational policy framework is being laid to accept previously kicked-out sinners [Laodiceans] back into the group. A healing movement for Stephen’s legacy and generation. I think many see Stephen, a future “church” administration under him, and the future of the name PHILADELPHIA, as an opportunity to right the wrong that was done to an ENTIRE GENERATION (37 years) of PCG families by his father, in order to try and improve a broken operating system for Philadelphia character production at their group’s headquarters in Edmond. It’s gonna be ugly for the foreseeable future, but I think Stephen is going to give reconciliation a chance to grow.

From experience, I think God gives His eldest sons more appreciation for our fathers after their death, than He gives to us for them during their living years. We see their real character. We see their mistakes. “Dad’s Results” have a way of falling on our shoulders to make sense of, and deal with, for the next family generation. I think Stephen will want “church” history books to write his PCG administration as the One That Tried to Reconcile God to His people. Which is something only God can do through Jesus Christ’s shed blood. But if you think about being in Stephen’s shoes now (the eldest son), if GF was your Dad, seeing what your father’s results have done the past 37 years, what would you want your “church” administration to be for God going forward? I know what instruction I would administer. –J. J.

Reply: We will have to wait and see how many changes will be made. Don’t forget the leaders have been abusive, deceptive cult leaders, following heavily in HWA’s shoes–who also was an abusive, deceptive cult leader, destroying thousands of lives. We all know what happened after HWA died and the “changes” [history revision] WCG deceptively began instigating over a period of time. [See: Worldwide Church of God Expose` (GCI). Also read:  SF’s initial thought after reading “Malachi’s Message” was that his dad was crazy, yet he remained in PCG. And read: “Did Herbert W. Armstrong Abuse His Flock?“

God Is the One Who Forgives and Reconciles–Not PCG:

August 1, 2026

SF may possibly be on a “New Approach” after GF dies, but those that have been removed from this cult, or have walked away will never forget or forgive. Members removed have moved on.

That book [GF new book; see July 26 letter above] will be a spiritual manipulation tool that will only serve to secure physical financial support for his family. SF and the top tier have greatly benefited financially from his GF’s doings.They are all culpable.

They know the PCG membership is shrinking to levels that they have never experienced and they are panicking. Not to feed God’s flock but to feed themselves. Not to love the brethren as Christ does, but to love themselves and for the prosperity that personally serves them.

God loves us all–whether we are saints or sinners. Christ died for all of humanity. Salvation isn’t and NEVER will be contingent on the PCG, it is contingent on our relationship, or lack thereof with God.

It will be an interesting watch as it appears that GF’s end of days approach. No matter how they cleverly spin it, he is in very poor condition, like their organization. No amount of lying lovebombing or book will bring anyone back. –G. G.

Comment: Read: “Is it possible to forgive the abusers?”

Destructive Cutting Off Policy:

August 3, 2026

In considering the prospect that the cutting off policy might be relaxed or removed I can’t help feeling quite angry. … damaged many, many individuals and families irreparably, including my own family. … –Philippa Labao, Former PCG member [NOTE: Read this person’s excellent testimony: Destructive Cutting Off Policy of PCG]

Evil Manipulative Ministry (Reply to Philippa):

August 4, 2026

Philippa, thank you for writing this. [read testimony] What you’ve lost–your parents, your brothers, three years of your own children’s lives–is heartbreaking to read.

I hope you’ve been able to look into the legal side of this too. You have every right to your children, and this organization has no right to take what’s yours. Whatever ground can be fought for through the courts, I hope you’re fighting for it.

We’re dealing with an evil, manipulative ministry in PCG, using “righteousness” as a mask for control. God sees it, even when no court or human authority will touch it. We don’t know when justice will be served–only He knows the timing–but I pray it’s soon, for you and for your boys.

Hang in there. –Former PCG member

Perfect Little Families “On Paper” Decimated:

August 4, 2026:

I sat in the PCG for decades. I watched so many people play perfect little families when times were good.

I saw family after family stuck in the ministry’s groupthink, men not educating themselves and building careers, families not attempting to build wealth, hostile wives.

I used to think this isn’t real, at some point the rubber will hit the road. Fast forward to 2026.

Major doctrinal changes away from what HWA actually taught and very tough economic times in the West and, well, as I predicted… perfect families “on paper” decimated. One after another.

Much respect to Philippa standing up for God. There are actually only a handful of women I know that have shown themselves “Faithful” that I’ve heard about. –[name withheld]

Twelve Months Since GRF’s Last Live KOD:

August 7, 2026

August 28th will be 12 months since GRF’s last live Key of David program, and much has happened since then; e.g., the death of Andrew Locher and many more long-term members leaving the organisation.

Many of these long-term-members have been publicly accused of returning to the “6th Era” teachings of HWA.

Over the last 12 months, 90% of the themes of Stephen Flurry’s Key of David have been about HWA, which is a huge contradiction to the public accusations coming from the ministry towards those that have left. It’s as if Stephen Flurry has skipped out 37 years of his Dads teachings–70-80 books–almost entirely brushed over. Why would that be the strategy from Stephen?

It’s as if they are already preparing for life after GRF. What will the next 12 months produce? I suspect more premature deaths, more members departing and more financial pressure. Edstone will probably be liquidated for around 4 million pounds to free up some much needed cash. –[name withheld]

So Thankful to Be Out of PCG:

August 9, 2026

I am so thankful to be out of PCG! I pray more people will find the different sections on your site, especially the Grace and Law. It has been a real eye opener to discover the difference between the law of Israel and the spiritual Church of Christ. –Former PCG member

Message to Philippa:

August 10, 2026

Philippa, my heart utterly breaks for you. The experience you are going through with the estrangement from your children and the rest of your family must be an absolute nightmare–an unfair punishment beyond which most humans would be expected to endure. ….

I’m sure we both were raised with similar beliefs–both having been infected with the mind virus that is Armstrong ideology practically since birth. We dutifully attended bible studies, holy days, youth groups and camps, picnics, fund-raisers and church [PCG] services every Saturday week after week, for years and years and years, a life of sacrifice upon sacrifice, eschewing a “normal” lifestyle (no birthdays, no Xmas, no Easter, adherence to ridiculous dietary exclusions, no going out on a Friday night, etc., etc., etc.) all to be counted as the first fruits and avoid being thrown into the Lake of Fire.

It was about 30 years ago now that I made the terrifying (indoctrination and deception will do that to you) and “selfish” decision to leave the PCG. After 20+ years of emotional and intellectual abuse delivered on a weekly basis and being PROFOUNDLY miserable as a result, I concluded that “there must be more to life than this.”

After my departure, my life immediately started getting better, I was more relaxed, less controlled by guilt, more ambitious, I had better job prospects, I was happier and ironically, more forgiving and tolerant. ….

Again, Philippa, my heart breaks for you. It goes without saying that this no-contact policy the PCG has is utterly evil and it destroys lives. It is my sincerest and deepest wish that the PCG’s demise is soon and swift, that the veil is lifted from the eyes of all who have been blinded by its evil doctrines and that their minds can be detangled from its elitist dogmas and start recognising love when they see it, to see life for how truly precious it can be and embrace a life without that level of control. Fight the good fight! I hope reconciliation with your family is in your immediate future and more fulfilling days ahead.

Sincerely, –[name withheld

Prayers for Philippa:

August 14, 2026

There are no words to really say what should be said!! What has been done under the guise of godliness, is so ungodly and Anti-Christ, in all those who have had families torn apart. It’s difficult to accept anything but fervently praying for intervention for her and her children!! My heart goes out to her also!! –[name withheld]

Comment: From correspondence we’ve received, PCG has spiritually, emotionally and financially) abused countless others over the years. (See our section: Testimonies by Those Impacted by Philadelphia Church of God)

PCG’s Call Center Digitizing Old Sermons:

August 15, 2026

The Call Center department (opened on July 12) has been busy digitizing old sermons on CDs and cassettes–“making them easier to use for Key of David programs, sermons and lectures”–and they also are going to begin training about 20 new students for the WATS program.

The not so new news is that PCG continues to use their students for any work they want done and to make it sound like fun. The recent Friday Philadelphian said, “Around 40 people came to Edstone Hall for a “work party and barbecue. Jobs included wood splitting, weeding, painting and cleaning. Over the past couple of work parties, a few thousand dollars’ worth of wood was split, which will be sold for a fundraiser in the winter.”  –[name withheld]

GF Will Be Promoting His New Book:

August 15, 2026

The August 14 Friday Philadelphian said GF’s new book [see July 26 letter above] is now finished and the title (stated in the FP as The Father’s Love) will be advertised in the September Philadelphia Trumpet. Joel Hilliker says the introduction to the book, “A Father’s Anguish, a Father’s Joy,” will be GF’s “lead-off article.” Hilliker says:

“Because we are not doing waiting room copies anymore, we decided to be more direct in reaching out to subscribers who may be former Church members. We really want to promote this book, which is aimed at encouraging them toward repentance.”

So it’s not only going to be distributed to members at the FOT, but they are also going to try and reach subscribers who “may be former church members” (Laodiceans) to manipulate them into coming back to PCG. They must really be desperate for money. –[name withheld]

Once Evil, Always Evil: Response to PCG’s “Father’s Love”:

August 16, 2026:

The audacity of Gerald Flurry and his PCG ministers is staggering. They have the gall to preach “repent” and slap the label “Laodicean” on everyone who walked away–while they themselves are the biggest violators of God’s Ten Commandments and the two greatest commandments Christ gave. [Matthew 22:36-40]

This isn’t correction. It’s projection. And it’s the sound of a desperate organization watching its own narrative collapse in real time.

And now they’re selling a book about “the Father’s love”–about a father who runs to welcome home a wayward son. But where is that same grace when it’s PCG members who leave? [refer to August 15 letter above, “GF Will Be Promoting His New Book]

If anyone in this story needs to examine their own self-deception, it’s the leadership handing out judgment while refusing to look in the mirror.

You don’t get to preach about a Father who “cherishes” and “forgives” while treating the people who left as outsiders to be shunned. That’s not the Father’s love. That’s institutional control wearing scripture as a costume.

Because that’s exactly what this is–Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), sweet-talking you while it slowly devours your life.

It’s like an abusive husband: kind at first, until you’re begging to come back, and once you do, the old ways return–except worse.

Once evil, always evil. And where are the fruits of repentance (Matthew 3:8)?

There aren’t any. Not once has there been a genuine “I’m sorry” for the lies, for the way the brethren have been mistreated.

This isn’t leadership. This is a devil in disguise. –Former PCG member

Gaslighting & Spiritually Abusing Former Members:

August 17, 2026

The NERVE of the PCG to gaslight and continue to spiritually abuse its former members under the guise of a book [see July 26 letter above about this book] that will be given out at their feast–in which NONE of its former members they have abused will be there-is sickening!

The PCG has no personal accountability for what they’ve done to the Truth of God and His lambs. They definitely aren’t going to allow their present members to contact former family and friends. Those present members also stand accountable for the heresies and spiritual teachings whether they are aware of it or not.

How about the wickedness of Cal Culpepper and other ministers? How about members not knowing about how ex-members were removed or why members left. Does that make sense? How can they be judged as Laodicean?

If present members knew the reasons, the truth of being cast out, would they still stay? It’s all a ruse for money because they are failing as a corporation, not God’s Shepherds for His church. They do NOT care for anyone except themselves and the money they can generate. They will continue to spin narratives, exaggerate, lie, and steal your money. They will continue to separate you from your beloved family and friends as they always have and call it love. It is not God’s Love!

They are indifferent to you as an individual trying to build a relationship with Christ. It is an institution. It is about FEAR and CONTROL for power, money, and preeminence. It is a CULT! Cult of personality [and a Bible-based cult]. It’s like an image of Christ hugging a person, but it’s Satan with a knife in his hand, waiting to stab the person the back! If you are still in the PCG, trust God and do not fear! Please wake up! Do not let cognitive dissonance destroy you.

This is not God’s Church! The fall of this organization and the death of GF will bring about sure accountability that God has for them in the bitter cup he will soon deliver to the PCG. –[name withheld]

Call Center Activities with CDs:

August 18, 2026

It’s interesting what Joel Hilliker says!! [See August 15 letter above “GF Will Be Promoting His New Book”] Because he’s been the writer of GF’s “everything” for years!

Very likely, the [call center] activity includes editing the content of lies to reword the original content!

The word “flurry” means spurts of confusion. Absolutely appropriate!

Likely he and Wik Heerma have put the spin on this book and the activities of the call center to please the Flurrys. Interesting!

Hopefully those abused will not be fooled! –[name withheld]

SF to Face His Greatest Test?

August 22, 2026

Stephen Flurry has made it his core objective to not end up in a situation like the 70s between Garner Ted and Herbert Armstrong. He is acutely aware of this history and it has been drummed into him from his father over the course of his life.

This has also now become SF’s greatest test at the close of the 7th Church Era. [Read ESN article: Is the Philadelphia Church of God Now the Laodicean Church?] Stephen Flurry produced a few Trumpet Daily’s in early 2014, discussing the Throne of David. Stephen quotes scripture after scripture about the unbreakable promise of David’s Throne. He even says it’s so simple to understand that even an unconverted person with a little bit of crucial thinking and study could prove this.

The problem with following a man “unconditionally” on any teaching, without scriptural proof, puts an individual in a very dangerous mindset

What Stephen has spend his whole life trying to avoid, has now become his greatest test–whether he will turn back to God and reject the new stone of throne teaching, or maintain his current position to please his father. Stephen should know that God always tests our greatest flaw. –[name withheld]

None of GF’s New Book Is Love:

August 24, 2026

The Father’s Love is not what its title claims. It is Gerald Flurry and PCG’s Council of Elders’ false teachings, dressed in the language of comfort while doing the opposite: controlling and exploiting brethren.

That is what this leadership is. They claim titles no one but themselves ever confirmed; i.e., Flurry as “God’s modern-day apostle,” Armstrong as “the end-time Elijah”–never tested against Scripture the way Acts 17:11 commands: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

Like the Pharisees Christ condemned, this leadership never cared for God’s people. They cared for their own authority. “Ye shall know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). Christ’s woes fell on leaders like this–not on the people they misled–because they “shut up the kingdom of heaven against men” (Matthew 23:13).

Behind the “father’s love” language, the book says leaving the PCG means losing your salvation. It commands members to shame anyone who leaves. It uses nuclear war and “catastrophic curses” as fear tactics before a single doctrine is taught. It redefines loving God as loving the organization’s leadership. It tells members not to trust their own reasoning–only the ministry’s. It turns financial sacrifice into a measure of devotion. And it brands every other group “Laodicean,” claiming this one [PCG] alone is faithful.

None of it is love. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear” (1 John 4:18). Real love does not require fear, secrecy, money, and shame to keep you close. This does. That is how you know whose [church] it really is. –Former PCG member

Father’s Love but Non-Contact (Total Hypocrisy):

August 26, 2026

Most will be painfully aware that the “Father’s Love” irony is not lost on the PCG.

In the wake of claiming to, “reach the Laodiceans” (whatever that means) and seeming to maneuver to contact ex-members, one cannot forget or let slide the fact that many church [PCG] ‘ministers’ (even at the highest levels) always maintained contact with their family after they left or were kicked out of the PCG. It is an absolute fact that this has occurred from the beginning and continues to this very day in the PCG.

But in total hypocrisy, lay-members are commanded to cut off family who leave. Spousal and parent-child relationships are ripped apart. Seeds of division are sown in the minds of those that stay loyal to the PCG. Fellowshipping with family who are kicked out was overtly threatened with excommunicado.

Recent letters have described terrible distress from PCG non-contact orders while the same tyrants issuing those orders are doing that very thing. One rule for thee, another rule for me. –B. A.

GF’s 1992 Trumpet Article Contradicts His New Book:

August 29, 2026

Hello, I’m a former PCG member and have screen shots of GF’s 1992 Trumpet article where he says members have an obligation to leave a church that God isn’t leading anymore. I think it’s highly ironic considering his new book he has written. This completely contradicts his new book, and more people in PCG need to see how they’ve become the proverbial frog in the pot of boiling water. I am sending images from that article in the January 1992 issue entitled, “You Can’t Leave God’s Church.” Former PCG member

NOTE from ESN: The next day we received the following email after we asked a former WCG/PCG member to review a 2nd lengthy email by the person above (not posted), along with reading the 1992 Trumpet article:

GF Is a Hypocrite:

August 30, 2026

I think he [person above] is simply bringing up the point that GF is a hypocrite. In 1992 it was ok for “Gods people” to read other people’s literature when that literature was Malachi’s Message and he was trying to pull members from the WCG because WCG leadership had gone “astray.” GF no longer teaches this because he is trying to keep members from leaving. By highlighting an article that shows this hypocrisy that current PCG members have never heard or seen it might open the way for them to question GF and his members to scrutinize PCG and WCG teachings. In 1992 it was ok to scrutinize WCG teachings. Fast forward to 2026 and it is a mortal sin to scrutinize “Gods leaders.” –Former WCG/PCG member [Go here to read the 1992 Trumpet Personal article by GF]

“A Pale Blue Dot” Picture:

September 1, 2026

Hello.

Thank you for your website. It’s always interesting to visit.

I just wanted to share something that helps me when I feel like my burden is too heavy for God, or my sin is too big.

I searched on the Internet for the image “a pale blue dot,” which is a photograph of Earth taken by the Voyager I spacecraft in 1991.

It gives a glimpse of the vastness of the universe God created and the power of His hand.

The Earth is so tiny, and you can immediately see that the weight of our burden is no problem in His hands. Human history seems like a quick flash compared to eternity.

It also shows the miracle of Jesus coming to this tiny grain of sand to redeem us.

Keep up the good work. Have a good day. –Mario, Former PCG member (real name used with permission)

The PCG Is Illiterate in How to Use Modern Media:

September 1, 2026

In regard to recent letters announcing cuts to the “waiting room” literature program…

The PCG is illiterate in how to use modern media (maybe a blessing in disguise).

It speaks volumes that they would rather use an antiquated approach that mimics that of the WCG under Armstrong (purely for the optics of “doing the Work”), than to adopt modern media.

They are more concerned about looking like their predecessor (like having a private jet) than they are actually reaching people with the gospel of Christ. For new readers: they have never given away even ONE Bible — a fact they can’t even refute.

The relics of print media, waiting room programs, and radio are nostalgic, but laughably ineffective and inefficient with the invention of the Internet. It’s not my purpose to give them any pointers here, but it is my purpose to point out that they only spend money on things that make them look good and convince them they are doing any kind of work.

In reality, they are “rich and increased with goods” but morally and religiously bankrupt. –Former PCG member

SF Has Had His Agenda From the Very Beginning:

September 2, 2026

A word about the Flurry family, and anything of changes. How will those families affected by the “no contact” rule, the devastation of lives old and young by the PCG, respond to “prodigal son” or any attempt made by those in power at that organization to reconcile ANYTHING? It will be volatile!!!

Stephen may have written something back there about the Malachi booklet, but stand assured that if one trusts the written or spoken of him, one would be on quicksand! He has had his agenda behind the scenes from the very beginning!! ‘The spin he contrives in any given event he encounters is at most unpredictable!

As for the booklets written, they all have the same words about the same subjects and differ only BY THE SPIN APPLIED for affect!!

Thank you for sharing the replies you have! –[name withheld]

HWA and GF Were So Far Off Base:

September 2, 2026

Dear ESN,

Thank you for posting the articles from readers regarding this latest book from the PCG.

I read your article Is the Philadelphia Church of God Now the Laodicean Church? and it’s a good record of who said what, but when compared to the fruits of what the (later time of the) WCG and PCG have done, their fruits truly show they were/are fully Laodicean.

HWA & GRF are not prophets or apostles, just students of the Bible. When they proved truth directly from the Bible, they were mostly correct, but when they speculated with and without the Bible they were/are so far off base, that’s their fruits.

I give no weight to their speculation, as God says, we know them, and everyone by their fruits.

Best regards, –T. R. B.

Comment: We don’t use the word “Laodicean” since PCG was never “God’s true church.” These groups are considered Bible-based cults or high demand groups that deceive and exploit people. 

Thanks To You We Left the False Gospel:

(Translated from Spanish)

September 2, 2026

Hello, just a quick note to thank you for the good you have done for both my brother and me. We had been reading the publications for about forty years. And thanks to you, we have left the false gospel for the wonderful gospel of grace—and, of course, left that cult that cares only about money. –G.

Micah 2:13 and a New King?

September 2, 2026

As far as I know, there are no booklets referencing another king after Gerald Flurry. In his New Throne booklet he referenced Micah 2:13, as himself being their king, following Christ.

Micah 2:13 makes it quite clear: “The Breaker [the Messiah] will go up before them. They will break through, pass in through the gate and go out through it, and their King will pass on before them, the Lord at their head.” (AMPC)

Also, at the time the book was published (The New Throne), there was much confusion among the ministry. Many left. A few died.

They are really pushing that this is the end, and citing the world’s unrest and talk of war, and how the PCG will be put out by Jeroboam II [President Trump] and go to the Place of Safety.

GF is 91 now [born April 12, 1935] and could hang on, but when he dies they will probably try to make it seem around January 16 or some such date they can spin a story from from. –Former PCG member

PCG Fruits Have Been Acting Out the Role of the Prodigal Son for Many Years:

[Note by ESN: Please realize we do not consider the PCG, or any of the offshoots, “Laodicean” but instead deceptive Bible-based cults. This letter talks about the fruits of PCG. It is a long letter but we decided to post it here.]

September 2, 2026

It never ceases to clarify the mind, our Messiah’s warning to all His spiritually awake people of His parable of the tree and its fruit (Matthew 7:15-20).

He warns us all of the fruits of the false, spurious prophets and religious imposters (that includes all the false ministers and the false members), who come dressed as harmless sheep but inside are rapacious (given to seizing for plunder or the satisfaction of greed) wolves. Twice in this parable our Messiah warns, “by their fruits you shall know them.”

The PCG’s physical facade appears as harmless as sheep (websites, books and booklets, the ministry etc.) but when you are part of their flock, their fruit of plundering begins–physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally–and never stops until you leave.

The PCG has said for years that they are the “Philadelphia Church of God in the Laodicean era,” but the fruits of the matter show they are PINO’s (Philadelphians in name only). I personally believe the “Laodicean era” began long before HWA died, somewhere around the late 1960’s early 1970’s, therefore when GRF “took the lamp” from the WCG, he took a fully-fledged Laodicean lamp, nothing Philadelphian there.

What irked me for years is that they called all the other offshoot groups Laodicean, calling them and the people who left the PCG the most vial names and descriptions, while putting themselves and their members into this untouchable, squeaky-clean position. The true fruits are, that for all this time, they have been actually describing in depth their own Laodicean selves (from false prophet, false ministry down to the lowest false member)–the rapacious wolves.

By their action of buying HWA books and booklets from the WCG they solidified themselves as the leading “Laodicean church” in this era above the many other splinter groups. Then they followed up with a library of their own, mostly ghostwritten by the leading ministers under the “almost” pseudonym “Gerald Flurry.”

Which brings us to the latest “offering”: “The Father’s Love.”

I note that one of the “actual authors” Joel Hilliker, was personally advertising it on X the other day. He says it’s based on the parable of the prodigal son from the Father’s point of view. But if you will read this, remember to do so through the parable of the tree and its fruit.

I would like to conclude by postulating this, by their fruits, the PCG “Laodiceans” have been acting out the role of the prodigal son for many years, they have spiritually for a long time now left the Father and have been mixing the truth of God [the true gospel?] with all their own shams, untruths and false doctrines while appearing like sheep and acting like rapacious wolves.

This parable has 22 verses; the PCG are currently only 3 verses into it (Luke 15:13) and they have a long way to go. Much of this plays out in the Great Tribulation.

Because they are spiritually poor, blind and naked, they will understandably completely dismiss this postulation. They cannot be taught or be shown the Father’s truth at this time now, not even by the Father directly.

I pray for them all, that once they reach the pain of Luke 15:14 that they will begin to receive the fruit of spiritual sight. –T. R. B. (Former PCG member

Update on Edstone Property For Sale:

September 3, 2026

I wanted to write an update on the PCG’s Edstone property. It was listed last year on August 7th for 6 million pounds and remains unchanged today. Independent property market platforms currently algorithmically value the Edstone Hall structure closer to £4.38 million based on general regional trends. The PCG continues to make mortgage payments and upkeep; all the while their income is rapidly declining. –T. C.

More About Update on Edstone Property:

September 4, 2026:

It was originally reported that Edstone property was paid off; that is what the membership was made to believe. However, according to the tax report filed to the UK government, Statement of Financial Position, filed December 31st, 2024 (all public record, can be viewed online), they have a current liability of £3,125,274.00. They took out a mortgage on the property. This was done to “pay off” the jet. They then announced that the jet was also paid off! So, they are still making payments on the Edstone property, despite what the members were made to believe. –T. C.

Changes SF Has Been Instigating on the Key of David:

September 5, 2026

The final phase of transitioning Stephen Flurry to the face of the Key of David has begun. He has now changed the language in the opening comments to remove GRF’s name and has also added a photo banner of himself and his father above the KOD link.

Stephen Flurry has also posted an old KOD from his father, discussing their New Stone and Throne teaching on his latest Trumpet Daily program. Stephen is obviously doubling down on his father’s teachings about the New Stone and Throne doctrine. In that old KOD program Gerald Flurry mentioned he has received over 50 visions. Stephen Flurry has dedicated almost all of his KOD airtime to clips of HWA, and no doubt their plan will be to skip over the 50+ visions from GRF’s ministry once he dies. –[name withheld]

Where GF Will Travel to During the Feast:

September 15, 2026

GF’s plans are to spend the first part of the FOT in Edmond and the last half in South Carolina. As usual, HQs is asking the members to “keep praying for his strength.” It’s anybody’s guess at this point, how many years he has left. –[name withheld]

It’s Like PCG Is Erasing Gerald Flurry:

September 16, 2026

With the PCG having “that prophet” and the “king of Israel” [Read letter: King Flurry?] all these years, all they can come up with at the end of King Gerry’s reign is HWA WAS RIGHT?

“King Gerry” must feel like a fool. Every “new understanding” every “prophecy,” every “revelation from God” has been for nothing. It’s like they are erasing him and his work.

The current membership of the Philadelphia Church of God is estimated [since 2025] to be around 2,300 people worldwide, with roughly 1,400 in the United States. –[name withheld]

Minister Told Me That Criticizing Him Was Criticizing God:

September 28, 2028

A few years after my wife died I started dating again. I met a lady in another congregation and we started seeing each other. After we had dated a few times the lady told me that the minister’s wife started telling her about my deceased wife. She said the minister’s wife recommended that she date another single man in the “church.” This lady said she felt very uncomfortable about the conversations and decided to tell me. I confronted the minister, a man from my home congregation that I had known for years. I told him I thought it was inappropriate for his wife to be telling the lady I was dating about my dead wife. He became very offended. He said that his wife was part of his ministry, that if I criticized her, I was criticizing him and if I criticized him I was criticizing God.

It wasn’t long after that that I was put out of the “church” with no chance to counsel. I was told I was no longer a member of the PCG and never to contact them again. –Former PCG member

[UPDATE on Weather Situation: Check your area for Breaking Headlines.]

Letters from those Impacted by WCG & Offshoots (2026)  New Excellent letter for 10-8-26: “Disciplinarian Hell at Imperial School in Bricket Wood”

ARTICLES FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR:
Why We Thought We Had Such a Wonderful Time at the Feast

Why I’m Glad I Don’t Have to “Keep the Feast”

What’s New  (Includes recent testimonies; we also post links to factual offsite articles/videos that tie in with current events, end-time deceptions, apostasy & false churches/teachers.)

Mike’s Enlightenment Page (PCG & GF info; includes testimonies; includes “Why It’s Hard to Leave Philadelphia Church of God“)

Where is the True Church?

The HighWire “Live shows covering many cultural issues, health, flu shots, vax info, etc. Exposing the lies and cover-up by the mainstream media. Shows are evidence-based, peer-reviewed, science with actual scientific data and critical investigative research. Episodes can be downloaded separately. If you have buffering problems, watch The Highwire on Rumble.

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