Warwick: A Journey to My Former Faith

Years after walking away from my beliefs as a Jehovah's Witness, an opportunity presents itself to visit my former religion's newly-opened headquarters at Warwick in upstate New York together with my wife and daughter. After joining forces with Peter, a former Bible Student, we put on our audio devices and yellow lanyards, and embark on a journey of discovery and introspection - complete with credit card machines, no-access signs, colorful wall displays, and re-written history.
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[@LloydEvans]

Thanks everyone for the awesome feedback! I've been working on this for months (on and off) so it's a relief to see it finally all together in once piece for you guys to enjoy. It was an emotional day for us, but hopefully the end product made it all worthwhile. I just want to thank all my Patreon backers for making it possible for me to dedicate the hours necessary to create videos at this level. I simply wouldn't be able to justify all that time away from Dijana and Jessica without their support. It will probably be harder for me to get into Warwick next time, but I'll certainly give it a go if the opportunity presents itself! Despite our understandable hurt and anger as ex-JWs, I think it's important to remember that there are people in these places deserving of sympathy and understanding. Getting the right balance between empathy and indignation can be challenging at times, but it is possible. I think there is a good chance of indoctrinated Witnesses responding favorably, with time, if they know we respect them as individuals even if we are repulsed by their beliefs. Ultimately, it was this respectful attitude that opened doors for myself, Dijana and Peter, and I am interested to see where this approach leads me in the future. We will see! :)

[@charltonblake9967]

Thank you so much! That was a fantastic inside look. Just up until last year my wife and I were planning a trip there but then reality happened so we never did.

[@shawngregory1312]

It has taken me a decade or more to see things without anger,( still get angry at times), but you are right. There are mostly good people in there, my family included. I was one, you were one, and we were sincere. IN fact, in all religions, well, not all, but many, there are many well intended people, thinking they are following and obeying God. If there is a chance to bring this nonsense of a religion to an end, it has to be in a way that doesn't shut the minds of the JWs off, before they can see what they are in. Some of us saw it, or were ripped out, but for them to lose their leadership, they have to lose their following. To do that, they have to wake up. Attacking them, mocking them, disrupting them with signs and flash mobs, wont do anything but make apostates look even more stupid and confirm the WT's view of dissenters. Good work Loyd

[@shawngregory1312]

BTW, this is VERY much like Scientology. I live in Tampa Fl, had a GF that was a Scientologist, and the slick, modern displays and tours for visitors is the same. Its all nonsense, regardless of the church, Im coming to believe. And, Im still considering myself a christian. But its all nonsense in these groups, to be sure

[@rhinofart89]

Great video! I notice there was an issue with rolling shutter in your drone footage. Like the scene was jiggling as if it were jello. There are a few remedies to that. You can use(attach) a ND filters to slow shutter speed. I did this on my go pro camera I use on my drone. But it has to be a nice bright sunny day as the filter has a tint to it. Also flying the drone slower helps. then you can speed up the video in post production. Unless of course your shooting a moving subject. Also if the attachment of the camera is almost directly to the drone(no gimble). Then investing in a good gimble will help a lot too. If you do have a gimble then there a number of aftermarket rubber bumpers you can replace your stock ones with that would help. Like myself, some of your viewers can’t donate money but we can donate knowledge. I hope you find my comment helpful and not overly critical.

[@jonsixtythree]

Thank you for all your hard work, this is a most impressive video.

[@snowboardernotb5233]

I can't help but cry. I lost my dad.. brother.. my family.. I haven't seen them in almost 2 years now.. but I'm thankful to you, and Kim and Mikey for helping me leave. I have my mom, my boyfriend, my own apartment and soon to go to college.. thank you

[@MadM4F14]

much blessings sister. ur not alone! all the best for ur future!

[@amanuelalem2355]

I find this sad as i also see in other religions, hiding all the bad stuff away and presenting portions as to create a new history. That's what the Catholics do if you show them some of their history, the eastern and oriental orthodox go the same, the muslims do the same. Saw that. And likewise jws did it rewriting history. My church history teacher was honest about the beautiful and ugly. The jw museum is not

That is why do not participate or Join no Religion they are all Man Made . and pertaining to Satan.😈👹

[@jwsrebel7987]

I am so sad reading your comment about losing your family, there are a lot of grieving people out from JWs now, but please be patient things are going to change soon i am sure.

[@ericburns4773]

❤️❤️

[@Jonathan_de_Winter]

Damn Lloyd, amazing editing skills. Felt like I was watching a made for TV documentary.

[@adu5335]

True that. It's like some pro tv documentary. Very well done

[@MartysShenanigans]

As a Jehovah’s Witness who is in the process of waking up, your videos mean lot to me! Keep up the good work. Also, you have a very beautiful family🙂

[@TheREALSimagination]

I believe it's good for a person to believe in something. I see it's been at least a year since this comment but I wish you good luck in finding another belief, whether it be science, the human being, another deity or any other concept on or above this planet.

[@mariafonseca5457]

how disgusting these family-destroying TJs are!!!😱🤭

[@RawGameplay0]

Hey man how you doing now? it's been 2 years

[@ellenorbjornsdottir1166]

@@mariafonseca5457 tj?

[@MartysShenanigans]

@@RawGameplay0 I know you asked this 6 months ago but when you asked it, I was completely out and still am🙂. I told my parents how I felt and they told me they felt the same way but they were afraid to voice it. Also 3 of my six siblings left as well.

[@Eliot451]

27:37 "I have long said, the better the university the greater the danger." That's chilling.

[@Jedi-cloud]

That’s what a lot of conservatives believe.

[@ryanbenson171]

I remember in the late 90s Watchtower said they wouldn't move from brooklyn as armageddon was "just around the corner"

[@kelebekgul6199]

Agree, my parents used to say this as well. I also remember watching the videocassette "Jehovah's Witnesses -the organisation bearing this name" in '93-'94 as a child, feeling like actually visiting the Watchtower headquarters. Then 10 years later I visited the Bethel branch in Bucharest, Romania - still under the spellbound of that videotape... Now, almost 20 years after the visit and almost 30 years after watching the tape, as well as 16 years after being disfellowshipped, I viewed Lloyd's film and felt just like he and Dijana described: pity for the honest and innocent millions of JW's who absolutely don't deserve to be lied and manipulated by a bunch of frauds and cheaters.

[@sleuthycompass6027]

To Lloyd: Thank you. My journey comes to an end tonight. I've faded for years yearning for exact facts and critical thinking of what is right and true. I've explored the better part of 40+ countries on my own for historical facts and the what we call the truth. I've just finished bin watching most of your channel and without a doubt after researching your statements. You've set me free. Though as a world traveller I've always been physically free, but now I'm mentally free too. The big take away is being armed with concrete facts to point to. One day I'll pay you a visit to personally thank you and your efforts for assisting me with the confidence I can fall back onto to keep going and seeing the world I enjoy so much. Its funny. Because I think too much my family doesn't engage with me much for years. Probably because I know too much but have kept my mouth shut. Maybe not for much longer. :) Again thank you. Your wealth of knowledge and collective knowledge from the people you know to articulate and put into a format for readers to absorb and study really makes a difference. The truth shall set you free. Cheers from West Canada - Compass

[@Pelicanlover117]

I wasn't going to comment, but now I feel I have to. That ending... I had to fight to hold back tears and now that I'm sitting here at the end of the video I'm mesmerized. This was incredibly well done, and I truly admire when people take their time to ensure the quality of their productions. The music at the end made me want to cry because I'm still in and heavily in a state of confusion about whether I want to stay or not... but some things just don't sit right with me at all about the faith. I'm afraid of losing half of my family that raised me ever since my mom passed when I was eleven. It boggles my mind that they'd disown me just for not conforming and rejecting the faith. It's not as though I am doing it for evil purposes or to spread lies. I could go on and on and it's quite troubling. Thank you Lloyd for this fantastic video and all of the videos you continue to provide. I know you've genuinely helped many to come to realization of many facets of the faith that are terribly unacceptable. It's horrible that I feel the need to hide this comment and my conversations with outsiders because I don't know what they'd do if they found out I was thinking of leaving. It's awful, and as I said I could continue on and on, but I won't because I don't want too large a wall of text to sit in your comments section. Again, thank you for standing up against the Watchtower and voicing yourself. You truly are helping many and we can't be more grateful to you and all of the others who speak out. I debated sending this or not but I decided to despite the anxieties of what might be said or if this is found out by my family but I'm taking the chance, because you did an outstanding job. Also one last question, what music track was that at the end that you used? I really like it - it's quite moving.

[@LloydEvans]

Outro music... kzbin.info/www/bejne/fou2eHZvhbt1oMU I'm so glad you found the video helpful! I don't envy being in your predicament. All I can say is I've been through it, and as impossible as things may seem now - there really is light at the end of the tunnel. The peace, happiness and fulfillment I feel now is beyond compare and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Keep focused on what's important to you, stay true to yourself, and I am confident you can get through this. Good luck!

[@Pelicanlover117]

I appreciate the reply, and a quick one at that. I'll keep what you've said in mind.Thank you for the kind wishes and thoughts. Please be well, and continue to impact people's lives for the better!

[@LloydEvans]

I'll do my very best. Thank you! :)

[@madveck]

That ending was it exactly. In the late 60s and early 70s I could make sense of the religion. Times of the end, a persecuted people that tried to stay clean, a seeming brotherhood. 6000 years of man's existence about up, the facts presented of 1914-1919 all fitting within 1 generation, etc. It eventually got to a point with me that for every piece of good salami there was a piece of pure baloney. When that realization hits you, you can never ever be happy staying in. Left, never DF'd because they only do that to easy targets. Ponder this; you can be a wheat among weeds.

[@rachelabee128]

@@LloydEvans that film doesnt exist. Did you remove it?

[@debibrown9328]

Amazing, I am impressed how calm you were...just driving past a hall makes my head hurt..being in the belly of the beast would have been horrible. So impressed with your film and how adorable your family is....

[@scottphilip5549]

Hello sister! How are you doing I hope you’re staying safe due to the pandemic over there?

[@debibrown9328]

@@scottphilip5549 hi, doing as well as possible, I live in Florida, hone of covid deniers...very scary, but I just stay home a lot..

[@scottphilip5549]

@@debibrown9328 Okay sister, I’m brother Philip from Austin Texas, Are you in the truth?

[@onesunnyday5699]

So true, it's like a movie where the protagonist has to return to a highly guarded fortress & risk his life.

[@thepaleemperor3445]

Thanks Lloyd, i really enjoyed that. Near the end there when you were sitting on the bench and relating how nice everyone is, it reminded me that we make these videos FOR these people. It's the Governing Body that i despise, not the members. At times i need to check myself because in a debate with JWs i can forget that they're being mislead and dont know what they're involved in.

[@magmajctaz1405]

I feel the same way. My wife was raised JW. She "left" for several years, which I won't get into. She returned a couple years ago, and we will argue about it from time to time. I have to remind myself she's a victim whose judgement is being clouded.

[@bv9434]

Exactly. Couldn’t have said it better myself. I’m inactive, but my wife is not. She understands why I made my decisions, and I support her while answering any questions she may have along the way. These people are worth it. They are beautiful victims

[@jerelkenworthy3368]

Pale Impaler Try to find more joy in your life. The Witnesses have if as an individual choses not to be involved with spiritual people. Then stay away or be free to walk away nobody's forcing a person to be a witness.

[@steven19767]

Gotta get my popcorn out. Ive been waiting for this for a long time.

[@gelati24]

I grabbed my cheesesteak :D !

[@Rick_Alden]

You outdid yourself here, Lloyd. The fact that you were positively affected by the display of kindess and affection shows you are a good-hearted person who, however, will not give up their rationality to a body of men for them to govern. The happiness you saw at Warwick was more 'hope in action' than 'faith in action', which faith is supposed to 'make sure of all things' before going overboard for something. Normally, one would not desire to demolish the hope of others in which they draw their comfort. The problem is that their 'hope structure' is responsible for demolishing the happiness of others, which really would not have to be if their ruling body was more reasonable.

[@lb9427]

I had my snacks and a blanket ready! I can see how much work you put into this Lloyd, and it came out wonderfully. I remember visiting Bethel when I was a child. I remember touring the facilities, printing presses, stuff like that. Even Patterson. Was incredibly boring. Nothing like the museum type area they've created to showcase more of what they want you to see. It is really sad to see these kind people who have been misled and lied to. Truly. Great documentary. Thanks for all the hard work and time you put into it!

[@lb9427]

I liked the David Splane, king of Splaning the overlapping gen lol. Every time I watched that broadcast I heard that title in my head😂 "David Splane Splains the overlapping generation!"

[@roxybes]

I remember visiting the Brooklyn building when I was child (age 7) and it was the best feeling ever. It felt like a surreal place, so clean and professional, loving. I no longer attend meetings, have slowly faded.

[@kittylove2975]

...that segment regarding higher education depicting the red horned devil and Toni's July 2016 discourse condemning college and universities put a pit in my stomach... absolutely astonishing....this is an excellent documentary...thank you Lloyd Evans...

[@TheKandiman99]

This will be, to my knowledge, the first time I've ever commented on a KZbin video. You've done an excellent job here, Lloyd! Very calm, professional, and balanced view. It's a sad commentary on the organization that you had a fear of being recognized simply for having a different viewpoint, especially one that actually shows compassion for the well being of fellow humans. Keep up the great work!

[@jehovahshotwitch4776]

The Kandiman So surprised they let him through the front door! Couldn't they tell who he was? Their biggest worst exposure arch enemy? Good God, he's there to chop off their legs (sts) and successfully did just that. It was completely amazing. I couldn't help but think, "hmmm.... only small portion of headquarters open to visitors? Where's the dark, narrow tunnels? The "experimentation lab" 60' down in the ground? Where's the secret candle lit, incense burning, dark hooded robes around the altar with of course the demon possessed child's writings, (saw in another video) warlock, witches covan located in the facility? Its there. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4HNi3qBf8mibNE

[@rachelabee128]

@@jehovahshotwitch4776 The film is not existing :/

[@glorialeach7301]

Absolutely fabulous video 👍 I’m 73 at present and an X, but as a 6 year old child I have pictures of myself and my parents, sister, Aunt, and Grandmother (she becoming a Witness in 1926), waiting to enter the Brooklyn building. Most of my family died waiting for ‘The End’.

[@keithjones4808]

It’s been a while since I viewed anything JW related. What an awesome video John...extremely professional and balanced. I share your honest pity for these loving yet misguided persons. Amazing to see how early they discouraged education, that was new to me. Thanks very much to you and your wonderful family.

[@LloydEvans]

Thanks Keith. Lovely to hear from you. Hope you're well! :)

[@balbinkaswinka]

I loved this. I have never been involved with JW, however been raised within traditional Christianity in Poland. Agnostic now. I love your channel, spent at least 20 hours now watching everything sped up by 2 times as I also needed to take in as much within the time I have. I actually read JW literature as a hobby and this really broadens my understanding of the cult. Kudos to you for waking up. This must have been hard and I am proud of you

[@lukeeaton1109]

Excellent video. I'm an ex Mormon (35 years in the organisation) and I'm quite blown away by the parallels. Thanks for putting this together

[@michipeachiii]

Oh my god, the woman in the orange lanyard was in my congregation. What a small world lol.

[@ellenorbjornsdottir1166]

holy

[@bobfish7514]

Awesome! Your statement at the end is so poignant. Sums it right up. People stay because uncertainty and actual truth is too hard to swallow. It’s easier to believe a lie. I don’t blame them, though. Sometimes I’m envious. Keep up the good work, man!

[@terrestrialcelestial6516]

I'm a born and raised JW. I've been fading out & waking up for 12 years now but officially woke up about a month ago when I saw the Tony Morris liquor footage. I love your videos Lloyd! You always nail it right on the head-in the most respectful way. I've learned more about my religion on instagram and youtube than I ever did in 30 yrs 😨💥

[@scottphilip5549]

Hello sister! How are you doing I hope you’re staying safe due to the pandemic over there

[@Martinj1417]

Great job Lloyd! Since two of my uncles and my father served at world headquarters in the 60s and 70s. Bethel was never a mystery to me. My sister has been at world headquarters since 1998. If only they could wake up to the fact that they wasted their life! I knew so many bethelites personally over the years who were, alcoholics, wife abusers, drug users, and just evil people, Bethel just felt like a place to me, and not holy. I just wish I woke up at 19 not 38!

[@ceciliamitchell4269]

What does Bethel and d catholic monastery have in common

[@topnotch2312]

Some of the things I found out what these young bethelites were into made me realized the spirituality was just a facade for some to just get into Bethel

[@lolololololololololololololol.]

And you are one of those evil?

[@seeingpatterns7234]

Thank you Cedars! We have been waiting for this video. It was amazing! I loved that Deanna was included too. The closing statement was spot on. Thank you.

[@HJockers66]

you nailed dear Loyd, you have truly uped the game to real short film making as a creator, rather than KZbin vlogger . Love the footage and audio, amazing to think when the jdubs will watch this especially GB and bethelites .....guess you might not be permitted on the premises anytime again soon haha. I might also add: what a peaceful objective documentary of sorts presenting main facts and findings, pointing out the WT spin of their presented history. very nice. Big contrast to the lastest activist activity early Nov. in front of the main gate. Since then I would assume any access by non jws is much more carefully vetted. Keep up the good work. tks again

[@brandamber]

Great job, Lloyd. I enjoyed this immensely. I just can't believe that nobody recognized you!

[@bowles0791]

I've thoroughly enjoyed watching this! As much as I do miss the trips and the sense of a community it's a good feeling knowing that I can see past the lies. Thankyou for the hard work and effort you put in, and to your wife for the obvious support she gives you :)

[@scottphilip5549]

Hello sister! How are you doing I hope you’re staying safe due to the pandemic over there

[@Itsme-jv4cd]

Great job,Lloyd! I even had a few chuckles along the way. Now I don't have to make a trip there. Ha, ha,ha.

[@SteveWilliams1]

Great video Lloyd. Thank you for your time and effort. You've saved me £2k going myself, so I've booked to go to Vegas in April instead! I have been DF'ed for nearly 3 years now. I bumped into an elder just yesterday who went through the UBP questions with my 9 year old son a couple of months ago. I had to interfere and threaten legal action against, not the organisation, but the INDIVIDUALS who went through the questions for child grooming and coercion of a minor. They backed off at that point and did not announce it. When I saw him yesterday, I thanked him for the decision not to proceed. His response to me left me with the same emotion as when I watched this.....pity. Not anger, but pity. They are tricked, as I was for 34 years and that probably is not their fault. Thanks again.

[@Eliot451]

29:16 It's interesting that they have that slide on display. How do black JWs react to that?

[@tanyadepoalo9085]

The headquarter Looks like a treasure trove of half truths, lies and deceit. All packaged in a beautiful building on a beautiful piece of land. Great job on this docu.

[@andreadiamond7115]

I’m shocked that after giving your name and told to wait that you got in. Interesting. Glad you got the final yearbook.

[@MelissaBrownapt215]

He has 2

[@okhuibutala1640]

governing body 8 men are not intelligent or inspired 😫

[@onesunnyday5699]

I know, I was holding my breath 😬

[@johnhoy7572]

This is your best work in ages. Very impressive

[@pentirah5282]

Absolutely riveting! I really enjoyed watching- and your commentary. I was born in 1931 - a date I believe significant in the Jehovah's Witnesses formation. Over the years i have spent much time discussing with them on doorsteps (they are still trying to recruit me!) I have been aware of the subtle changes in their rules over the years and , as a visiting music teacher, I have been allowed into their homes. I imagine, under normal circumstances this would not have been acceptable. I found them most pleasant and honest, but |I never was tempted to throw in my lot with them! Thank you for the videos, and for all the insider information..

[@rachelabee128]

Amazing you could be my grand-mom's brother. You can use computer and internet .You have own account give comments ... my little sister (40's) never had idea how to use it. We can't even communicate through internet. I admire ppl like you to have willing to learn. It's amazing for me.

[@pentirah5282]

@@rachelabee128 Thank you Rachael. I got into computers when I bought my first pc/word processor back in the mid 1980s. It was an old Amstrad 8256. I wonder how many people around can remember that one? It had a green screen! Blessings.

[@rachelabee128]

@@pentirah5282 very early compare to my background. In that time in Poland it wasn't. I got my own computer in 1999 and laptop Armada in 2003 first time in my life then I had internet at home. Anyway even my aunts has to learn use smartphones. But you know it is very random that ppl over 70th in my country know how to use tablet, pc or smartphones if they didn't work in office before.

[@bellesilvermanandhoboareth5382]

I was watching an old Jehovah witness movie and half way through I was informed I was actually watching, "Children of the corn". Merry Christmas!!

[@rosastephens8966]

lol

[@jvdoe9714]

Hello, I made this account just to comment. I was D’ed 10 years ago 2009 & and it took my this long to seek outside information on what JW is truly about. I have watched quite a bit of your videos in the last month.. what I really wanted to say is that back in 2006 when I was 16 years old (prior to being baptized) we had two bethelitis come to our congregation & A my family was thrilled when the oldest of the two showed interest in me (he was 29 at the time; 13 years my senior ). He would come to our house for Bethelit feedings, to “call upon us” at our home after field service on Sundays, took me out for lunch once and one time even met me out at my school “by chance”. I thought it was weird and inappropriate, especially because of his age and the fact that he seem to be cheating the process of JW courtship. My family thought it would be great if I married him,forget college and went off to bethel right away. Years later. I’m D’ed for reasons unrelated to the bethelite. I forgot all about him (even his name) until I watched this video and seen his face again after all these years... standing proud as ever... 55:57

[@terraroberts6865]

You have such a beautiful family! I really enjoyed this. I've watched your videos for awhile now and I just wanted to make the comment that I really admire how respectful and peaceful you always are towards your former religion's members. It's been a few years now since I've been out, and my anger can feel so raw sometimes. And when I see videos of those ex jehovah's witnesses who run with their anger and do extreme things, such as yelling at current Witnesses to get their attention, or things of that nature, it makes me so sad! I can understand it, because I have anger and bitterness in me too, but it's also not the way to reach or help the current members. Instead it plays right into the Watchtower's hands of saying all ex witnesses are evil and what not. So anyways, not to ramble too long here, but I just really appreciate how calm and respectful you are. And I love at the end how your wife says you just want to hug them. I so agree with that sentiment. They are for the most part very sincere, kind, loving people who are being lied to and misled. Your videos have definitely reached me and helped me, and I hope they only continue to do that for so many others who are waking up and have yet to wake up.

[@scottphilip5549]

Hello sister! How are you doing I hope you’re staying safe due to the pandemic over there?

[@user-rd6vf7xk1x]

Watching this for the second time, Peter is such a fine wealth of information and history, loving his anecdotes. Thanks for putting this together.

[@nomadicstanimal3396]

You both must have amazing charisma to even get on property with beards, that's like a dead give away. Perhaps there was some divine intervention to allow the light to disinfect. So impressed with your shows and insights. I'm out as well, and have had one hell of a rough year. I got the call that Cliff's dad said he'd give him, and spent the greater part of this year being my mother's hospice caregiver as she fought a losing battle with cancer after 2 decades of estrangement and embargo on any personal interest. I was just glad to have the time to spend with her. Anyway man, I watched that JW special with Leah Remini the other day and was blown away by how much care they honored it with. Love what you are doing!

[@onesunnyday5699]

42:00 found a large trivet with the purple triangle that I picked up on a visit to the gift shop 20 yrs ago. Into the trash it goes.

[@MrCouchIncident]

Lloyd, thank you for doing this. This was exceptionally well done.

[@saraabraham5486]

You have a pretty Wife; a beautiful family!

[@veroniquebellamy4741]

You missed an opportunity to call the building "the persecution complex complex". :)

[@deadthrills7302]

This was great. Thank you to you, Dijana and Peter for giving us a tour of this place. Very interesting & well made; I was geeking out too lol.

[@ThePainterr]

An extremely professional video...well done Lloyd! You definitely have a future in narration and documentaries.Lovely seeing your family involved too. Thanks for posting.

[@Kwantifye]

I was so intrigued - very well done! Would've loved to have seen Tony Morris pass you by - maybe even recognize your voice (haha!). BTW - you have a lovely family. Keep up the great work.

[@Elroi3310]

As a jehovah witness, I hate it that the organization is so proud at itself. It makes brothers and sisters fear the big O , and obey the big O , they practice faith in the big O, something that only belong to Jehovah. This channel explains what I have felt for years. Thnx. Loyd. This info helps me to get out under the yoke of people. It's strength my relation ship with Jehovah , ironic enough.

[@kelebekgul6199]

Thank you so much Lloyd, I subscribed a few days ago, so I discovered this film quite late... I also remember watching the videocassette "Jehovah's Witnesses -the organisation bearing this name" in '93-'94 as a child, feeling like actually visiting the Watchtower headquarters. Then 10 years later I visited the Bethel branch in Bucharest, Romania - still under the spellbound of that videotape... Now, almost 20 years after the visit and almost 30 years after watching the tape, as well as 16 years after being disfellowshipped, I viewed this, I hardly refrained from crying and I felt just like you and Dijana described: pity for the honest and innocent millions of JW's who absolutely don't deserve to be lied and manipulated by a bunch of frauds and cheaters... You (and your girls whom I just adore 🥰) have all my love and support for what you do 🙏

[@greg27zz]

Thank you Lloyd A wonderful, fascinating video with a brilliant conclusion.

[@tinyguy9398]

46:40 A boss move if there ever was one, lol! Wonder if anyone in the room recognized the plug 😅

[@onesunnyday5699]

😅😂🤣👍

[@KaliqueClawthorne]

28:06 This video is long ago, but .... at this point I had a thought stuck in my head Like - A really good religion shouldn't fear higher education, right? Because when you have a good religion, that would mean the believers would be strong enough to survive ''this'' and having even stronger believes.

[@SynFull6988]

This is without a doubt the best video I’ve ever seen. I was in tears at the end. Thank you Lloyd!

[@ntr10me]

I am embarrassed to admit how easily I am convinced by a slick display and the window dressing all around it. You know the increasingly popular admonition to be open-minded but not gullible, well, I can honestly say that I am immediately duped by everything from the manufactured martyrdom / persecution complex that many religiously minded people extol to the pronouncements by Fox news about a variety of things that run counter to common sense. By that same token, no matter how glossy the presentation or how high the production value, I'm never convinced of flat-earth-related assertions. (Maybe there is some hope for me yet) But I can imagine myself walking into Warwick and being immediately convinced of the veracity of JW claims whether they be 'scientific' in nature or of the persecutory nature. I can imagine people desperate for answers reaching out into the arms of slick organizations like this one thinking they've found legitimate solace. Thanks for the video, Lloyd. For me personally it shines a light on how easily critical thinking can be forsaken by how tempting the blue pill is.

[@lolaispure4296]

Soo true

[@dellythezar8047]

Glamoruos image of WTBS head quarter can hypnotize some people, they purposely showing symbol of RELIGIOYS SUCCES ( by cheating people money of course ) what they taught to be humble its NOT APLLIED to themselves, the real POSTLE OF CHRIST live like true BEGGARS compare to all this WTBS false prophets appereance, ITS SMELL VERY MUCH WORLDLY MATERIALISM, on their building and how its design , look like 5 star hotel ball room, or modern shopping center, matter of fact this is influental in to many peoples mind and heart, Just imagine if they just build up simple wooden house for it, things would be different ,,,, This JW org hypocricy is at the highest level, they taught everything opposite with what they practice, is this head quarter look like something to do with JESUS ? Not even a bit, Jesus and His apostle not even have a small bamboo huts, all this FALSE RELIGIONS CORRUPTING JESUS NAME for MAKING MONEY BY MANIPULATING, CHEATING , LYING , DECEPTING,AND SUCKING PEOPLE LIFE ,,. use poor people for their propagandas , use their members to be persecuted for their propagandas, use the world missery for their BENEFIT, they are just bunch of THIEFT who KIDNAPING PEOPLE FAMILY for SLAVERY/ FREE LABOUR, they USE THE BIBLE TO MAKE THEM LOOK RESPECTABLE AND DECENT,, and trustworthy, they plays so deeply,,,, fear not GOD

[@rachelabee128]

46:43 amazing brave and awesome

[@ayrtonmoore8488]

Brilliant brilliant video! Very unbiased depiction of the HQ but clearly shows the viewer that with a little digging the unsavoury aspects of the JW organisation are not far underneath the surface. Keep up the good work Lloyd and Djanna.

[@ellymabbutt4518]

Around the beginning of the year, I calculated the amount of money they sold their properties for in New York over the last few years, and it came to the 2 billion dollar mark.

[@angelamaryquitecontrary4609]

Bloody hell.

[@BenchPresaPower]

I’m in absolute awe of all of your amazing videos, it is without question helping me with the struggle I’m facing right now.

[@LloydEvans]

I'm so glad to hear that. Stay strong! And remember, you're not alone. :)

[@bretpowers1215]

Amazing how much the organization covers up! Such as the chart of the ages, that didn’t include the pyramid due to the occult accusation that have been made over the years. Anything in the past that is embarrassing to them they have quietly began to try and erase from history. You ex Bible Student friend probably didn’t realize how embarrassing the pyramid being included into the chart of the ages is to the current watchtower regime since the majority of Bible Students still accept the pyramid idea in connection to the 1914 gentile ends teaching and supposed measurements of the pyramid.

[@cameronreekie6519]

It just struck me that perhaps Russell’s hatred of education was less about critical thinking, and more a chip on his shoulder. I didn’t realize he had zero education, and Maria was the brains. Imagine how that felt in society back then, especially to a misogynistic, narcissistic man? A woman having education, anyone having an education would be too much for him to bear. Maybe that’s also why he discarded her, when he’d found new supply in his younger side piece , and maybe why the organization is sexist, not helped much by Rutherford admittedly! I’ve no doubt nowadays the suspicion on education,and critical thinking is solely to control, but, am wondering was he like L Ron Hubbard, founded a cult to sort his own mental health out due to a personality disorder?

[@goodgirlkay]

Cameron Reekie Nah...it is a very useful manipulation tactic, used by many high control groups. But it isn't necessary. Mormon/LDS church encourages its members to attain the highest educational achievements and they still have immense control over those people. The Mormon tactic of having people pray to "find out for themselves if the church is true" is one of the greatest control mechanisms I have come across while studying these groups. It is a combination of CONFIRMATION BIAS and SELF HYPNOSIS.

[@cameronreekie6519]

kay jay yeah I’ve always wondered why Mormons are encouraged with education, whereas witnesses are not. That’s what lead me to wondering as L Ron Hubbard hated psychiatry due to his mental issues, could russell have hated education for that reason, or merely as an extension of proving they were so different to ‘false religion’. I’d love a time machine, to eavesdrop on the real russell and rutherford!!

[@goodgirlkay]

Cameron Reekie It is just different BUSINESS MODELS. Wal-Mart on the low end and Harrod's on the high end, have 2 totally different business models, yet both are profitable. The Watchtower society decided that they would exploit their members by using them as a free work force. In order for this to happen they must discourage them from taking up time with other pursuits like education or high end careers. On the other hand, the Mormons exploit their members by expecting them to hand over 10% of their annual income. It only makes sense that the LDS church would encourage these people to get a good education to maximize their earning power.

[@cameronreekie6519]

kay jay I love the thought of telling my parents you’re in the wall mart of cults, lol thank you for that little gem!🤣🤣

[@cameronreekie6519]

Al Lugo I’m not sure I saw all of Jackson on the stand. It raised my blood pressure and angered me just looking at his imperious, arrogant attitude. I wanted to slap him. What did that statement about classes mean exactly, what was it he was referring too in particular? Sorry to be a pain

[@jimb4766]

Amazing video Loyd! The music and all the commentary from you and Peter was quite valuable too. I think as witnesses most of us are not critically minded enough to really examine all the things presented to us. It was a real pleasure to listen to you guys as you went through the displays and pointed out inconsistencies and other things of note. I really like how you quoted and showed from their own publications, it was really good. I just can't tell you how much I enjoyed this video, keep up the good work!

[@Cococonutt]

Chilling comments about the Origin of the Negro.. ugh

[@goodgirlkay]

Pickeledcoconut Mormons had the same beliefs. They would not allow black men to be given what they call "the priesthood" until 1978. In Mormonism "the priesthood" is given to every male member at the age of 12. So basically all Mormon men have it. But black men could not get it. This meant that they could never go to the holy Mormon temples and do the necessary mumbo jumbo to go to Mormon heaven (the Celestial Kingdom) and they could never be leaders in the Mormon church.

[@MM-dv9hp]

To add to your point, kay jay. It wasn't until recently (within the past 7 years or so) that JW's decided it might be a good idea to include an African-American on their Governing Body panel. I actually had an AA elder point that out to me as he handed me a track that introduced the 8 men...I remember that crazy doctrine about the Curse of Ham being discussed among my mother and other AA witnesses. As a child, I thought it was disturbing and degrading. I now realize the doctrine (perpetuated by religious fundamentalists) is nothing more than a rationalization for the injustices experienced by people of African descent throughout the world, but especially in the so-called christian country of America.

[@marilynkennedy8236]

I have come across this insidious belief in Pentecostal circles too. I was in that church for 14 years and I was shocked to hear that from a Bible study group in someone's home. I must admit I never heard it preached in church but it proved that it was a belief that was given some credence by so-called Christians!

[@geminitwix]

THANK U LLOYD! MY MOM WOULD OFTEN HAVE ME DOUBTING MYSELF AT TIMES....YOUR VIDEOS CONTINUE TO REINFORCE THE DECISION I MADE 25 YRS AGO. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK SIR!

[@bubblestar2314]

Lloyd, thanks for this highly entertaining and interesting video. Many of us will never get the opportunity to see the new headquarters at Warwick. Esp. for many of us who live on the West coast of the USA. Very impressive for people who do not know what the true history is of the WT Org. I'm very sure that the Governing Body KNOWS the true history (they have a library of all of the old books and history of what they taught when. There is no excuse for their lies and cover-up to make the WT Org look very rosy and pure, which is wasn't. The WT Org history has left a wake of false dates, doctrines, ruined lives. I greatly appreciate the work that you and others spent in providing this information. You have a lovely family. Good work and I'm looking forward to your next video which exposes this corrupt pseudo Organization which claims to be Christian, but destroys lives and breaks up families. They have love among themselves only. Matthew 5:46-48

[@T120RT]

Professionally done and of the highest caliber. The accompanying music is perfectly integrated as well.

[@paulcantrell7900]

Excellent video, enjoyed it very much, however am very worried about what will happen when Tony sees it!

[@jonathanmosebach2921]

He'll need to have a dram of Scotch, and put some yoga pants on

[@cwoodswalker4646]

*Standing up and clapping* - Bravo, very well done. I absolutely love the entire video - the summary at the end is amazing!

[@cheerfulerik]

I'm addicted to your great videos! And I've never been a Witness or known one! Really interesting. Thanks.

[@goodgirlkay]

cheerfulerik I have never been a Witness either and I appreciate his meticulous work.

[@cheerfulerik]

Yes kayjay, John proves that if you're a sincere person with a kind heart and you prepare interesting topics and material people will enjoy it and benefit from it. It encourages me to want to make my own channel for something someday! Thanks John!

[@sourcedrop7624]

Super good documentary! I appreciate your hard work putting this together.

[@deanakalova3063]

Oh, the memories come flooding back. Growing up, our annual family vacation was going to bethel in NY. Been there many times.

[@laceya85]

This was amazing! Thank you so so much for making this documentary. It is very informational. I hope you do more documentaries in the future.

[@scottphilip5549]

Hello sister! How are you doing I hope you’re staying safe due to the pandemic over there

[@jeannehoman4552]

Well done. Loved it. Thanks for sharing. I found the video educational.

[@scottphilip5549]

Hello sister! How are you doing I hope you’re staying safe due to the pandemic over there?

[@ashmoneyrecords6996]

This doc is really quite awesome. love the editing and how you shot it and the format you chose is really effective. Thank you for this Lloyd, family and friends - I can't really explain why I found it so tense and conflicting when you were filming in the Holy of Holy's (mark 3?) - but this was thrilling and succinct filmmaking. Thanks again. x

[@bplus2932]

did i just see crosses in that 1915 movie?!

[@professorx1739]

Lol 😂 yup you did, you did see a putty cat!

[@rachelabee128]

Oohhh that's a point .. i have missed.Thought it is film based on "church" history. Some things are so natural for me because I was longer Catholic than JW.

[@AllieBee00]

This needs more views! Loved this and you guys put in amazing work!

[@codyb8238]

Absolutely incredible work. So well produced.

[@chemifomijiwa8773]

Honestly finding out these sad truths today makes me want to puke. I feel like crying ,to say I'm disappointed is an understatement. Been a part of this mess for over ten years but for some reason I just felt like quitting last year,kept feeling bad about it for a while but it got to a point where I got numb. I thought something was terribly wrong with me but watching this video today gives me so much relief. Damn the regret I feel is so overwhelming.

[@beekind14]

Hope you're doing ok these days.

[@chemifomijiwa8773]

@@beekind14 thanks a lot. I'm good. Hope you are as well.

[@beachmom2001]

I've been looking forward to this! Just decorated my Christmas Tree. The second time since my indoctrination began in 1993. Now I'm going to watch this! Thank you!

[@wtfnitinfoten6068]

Thanks a lot for putting this together Lloyd. Well done! World class documentary indeed. I am really glad me and my family are out of this religion but feels sad for those who are still in it and thinking everything is true. They are continually lied to and shortchange.

[@Betsyhudgens]

I love watching your videos. I’ve been out for 25 years, was recently in a horrific skiing accident and needed to be transfused and had a meltdown of a bunch of repressed junk…. But I live to ski another season and watch more content. Keep at it….. I’ve heard your haters rants and candidly, their behavior reminds me of why I left. Keep at it!

[@southernbawselady7092]

Best documentary hands down!! 💯💯...This should win you a Peabody Award🏆🏆 for your awesome delivery and presentation!! Please keep up the great work!!..You are helping so many people like myself to gain freedom and independence from a man made, high control religious Organization!! Much love to you and your family!! ❤

[@T101cyberdynesystems]

I think what I took away from the film, the juxtaposition of the smiling happy faces of the everyday JW's, the side they present to outsiders, to layers of control, hypocrisy and bad history, and current misinformation. I think if it were truly a nice as it appears, it would be a wonderful thing to still be a part of. Shame we have to grow up and eventually face the reality, but I liken it to Dorothy pulling back the curtain on the wizard, once you know you can't go back. It's all very sad really that the reality is no where near the propaganda. I felt you guys were respectful in the visit and it was interesting to see inside, particularly the history, which I found fascinating. Thanks for sharing this visit.

[@markegerpetersen8731]

Floyd next time you're in the States you should visit Temple Square at Salt Lake City I wonder if the witnesses went there and actually checked out how the Mormons do interactive displays throughout your video it's almost as if you're at a Mormon Visitor Center. Glad you were able to get in and I hope that you enjoyed the experience thanks for the video.

[@joea1433]

There are a lot of similarities between Cults like the slavish wearing of ties and suits for the men as in J.W.s, Mormons and the Scientologists.

[@ceciliamitchell4269]

@@joea1433 I live in d carribean, I don't understand tne jacket and tie story at temperature soaring over 35-36 degrees and some even compound it with a blazer.

[@thomashunter7040]

Thanks for the tour. And thanks for expressing the positiveness of the experience such as how nice the facilities are and how nice and friendly the people were to you. I am rather amazed they don’t have your name and photo with security. If I was the Jehovah’s Witness in charge of security I would not let you in quite frankly. I am rather astounded with your activism against the organization they are so dense regarding protecting the facility from your critical view. At any rate, I am not nor have I ever been a Jehovah’s Witness. I am a conservative, evangelical Christian who has an interest in the cults. Actually I had an interest in the cults even before I became a Christian. I found your video very informative.

[@shenders2671]

As someone who was never in but studied for some time, I can vouch that this is the Jehovah's Witnesses I saw. As an outsider, I was never made to feel like one so I'm glad you were able to see this side. It doesn't take away the hurt that the organisation has caused but it does reinforce the fact that these are human beings with the best of intentions. It's what I see with the Witnesses I knew, and whilst I know I won't be sitting down and enjoying a good old catch up with them anytime soon, it does allow me to understand why they do what they do.

[@kimberlykile2343]

Thank you Thank you!! Im 3rd generation, born in, disflwshpd 2×, currently member in good standing. Sooo shocked you were allowed in, as you are certainly on the watchlist. Thank you for all you do to help us deal with the enormous guilt and shame I still deal with in the form of anxiety and depression.

[@Hawxx9194]

This complex has to be one of the most glorious monuments to lies and deceit I have ever seen. Well done Lloyd.

[@jmmarshall5492]

Excellent video! Thank you so much. Enjoyed the interaction between you and your family and your friend Peter. I pray our Father blesses you for the message you bring to all of us.

[@susanoakwood13]

Excellent job, Lloyd! I wish I could show it to my JW family members....

[@player1lean]

Susan Oakwood ikr

[@joshyam4026]

Wow, Warwick is a kind of historical museum, beautifully ornamented with replicas and facsimiles from Christendom and Jewish archaeologists as well as their own publications, of which the contents are hard to accesss, in view of convincing the outsiders to believe WT religion is an establishment.

[@lucyanne2119]

"The piper's calling you to join him"🎶 Is this you?👽

[@morganrice9754]

Hello Lucy, how are you doing ?

[@nycbuzz22]

The more I watch these videos, the happier I am I don't have to be around these people anymore.

[@pietvisser7740]

Thanks so much ..... very educational... waited a long time for this

[@erikallder8199]

Wow. Just, wow. I'm impressed Lloyd....amazing job! I especially liked the music, the powerful (and completely accurate) ending, and of course the shameless plug for the John Cedars Channel right in the middle of the lion's den. 🤣 I remember touring the Canadian Branch when I was little and then the Brooklyn Branch when I was a little older (before 9/11). I was raised with the goal of serving at Bethel (instead of college, of course), and a couple of people that I grew up with actually did end up serving at Brooklyn. It's an interesting thought experiment to imagine how I would feel taking a tour of Warwick (or even setting foot inside a Kingdom Hall) now that I've been out for so long. Since I probably never will, the next best thing is this video, so thank you for sharing your experience!

[@ddwilliams23]

Man, your presentation is second to none!!! Great video!!!!

[@kittylove2975]

...just curious, were there any contribution boxes or a suggested donation for the tour...

[@MM-dv9hp]

Visa Debit/Credit card machines now days.

[@NeonCadet]

>count dooku voice >I’ve been looking forward to this.

[@williamsawyer9894]

I'm concerned about the water cooler in the dining area. Is the water shipped in to the facilities or is taken from their ground and hence probably contaminated? Anyway, we will not find any Waters of Everlasting Life here.

[@charleslomanto]

Great job on this production. Mr. Evans, You. Are. Amazing.

[@kelliwilliams2028]

Did they have anything up on their walls about the organizations history on all the child sexual molestation cases they've lost? What about a list of their faithful men, women and children who have upheld their beliefs in the blood doctrine and sacrificed their lives? There should be a wall specifically for these 2 groups. Both are major parts of their history.

[@djbof]

Wow, all I can say is Thank You so much for making & posting this video. As a Pre 1975 pioneer always like to keep up with what is going on in the organization. It is sad after all these years we still care about what is going on even tho we know the " Truth" was never the Truth. Thanks so much really enjoyed your video because I was wondering what happened after they moved.