Feedback regarding Faith Assembly and Dr. Hobart Freeman

Thoughts: Lord, what do you want me to do?	I felt there needed to have a level headed discussion on what happened because I have come across, and continue to get emails from hurting people, who like me, got legalistic in the walk and fell flat on their faces.   The postings have been broken into two pages for now as the file size is almost 5MB in size (for a text file that is huge).  You can skip to the 2006 and earlier postings here. Just a couple of rules: Anonymous postings will be ignored.  I reserve the right to edit wording and to be fair I will try to keep the postings as original as possible.  I want people to be encouraged and if need be vent, but with the goal of realizing we were not perfect and part of the healing is to realize somewhere we went off track.  Remember don't throw the baby out with the bath water. If you want to contact people, I will try to let them know you are asking for them (if they left me a contact email address) and they can reply if they wish.  I also don't publish full names, emails, or phone #'s for privacy reasons, hence first name and last letter, but let me know your full name when doing the feedback please.
Head over to http://www.overcomersonline.com/FUDforum2/ if you wish to debate or vent.  If anyone wants to get Carl Seitz's music on CD, contact Gene Cornell at rccci@netzero.com.  Suggest a donation of $25 paid to him in order to cover shipping costs and CD's. I think this best describes what happened with Faith Assembly: 1. There was an overemphasis on biblical doctrine of divine healing (everyone had to walk on water without learning how to swim first), 2. The anti-medical science message was taken too far (anything associated with it was evil, aspirins, even brushing teeth), 3.  An authoritarian leadership style in disobedience to 1Peter5:3 (Do not lord it over the God's inheritance), 4.  Believers took their eyes off Jesus and looked look to a man (we put Dr. Freeman on a pedestal), 5.  It was isolated from other churches and became proud and elitist (for context, something like forsake not the assembly of saints), 6.  Dr. Freeman became reclusive and not accountable to any five-fold ministers (or in the mouth of two or three witnesses). 7.  Peer pressure to conform and were afraid to disagree even when they had doubts (couldn't be honest with each other). Basically we missed the being peace loving, considerate, and full or mercy part of this verse: "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." - James 3:17 Read other topics by clicking here to visit my "Hey God" page.
Comments: Nov 2021 - I am not sure if you are still collecting stories, but I was a child when I attended Faith Assembly in the 1980s. Grade school age but I remember quite a bit and was very much engaged in the college level teachings of Dr Freeman and I even read some of his books. Yes, I had a high level of reading/comprehension. I can say I retained a great deal from listening to Theology and Eschatology 3x a week at church and then on my parent's "reel to reel" that was playing Dr Freeman on all the other days. I learned Old Testament foundations, what the Fear of the Lord meant, Holiness, and New Testament Church doctrines. Yes, I remember quite a bit and am actually grateful to this because this strong and solid foundation of the Word of God has been a life saver. When you know the written word of God, it is a protection from false doctrines. In this new age of greasy grace and live loose cause Jesus forgives, knowing the word of God, knowing how to hear the Holy Spirit for myself, has preserved me over the years. As a woman now in my 50's, I can look back and see the incredible blessing and benefit of being taught the word, even at college level, and what a gift I was given. As far as home life, that was difficult. My (adoptive) father became very legalistic and took some teachings further than was probably intended. He meant well and wanted to serve God faithfully. Not every family was heavy into the legalism and I believe that there were ones (like my dad) who had a predisposition to this. We wore skirts (not all at first) and a steady progression to a Pentecostal legalistic outward appearance. Our clothing was tightly controlled as well as any media in the home. We eventually threw out the TV then later was the Radio (my older sister was caught listening to rock music lol).  We abandoned the holidays and for good reason. They are pagan and that is irrefutably proven. Dr Freeman was teaching bonafide truth on this topic. Again, not all the families went down this road. They had TV, radio, and girls wore pants. As far as the medical aspect, Dr Freeman taught biblical truth and I do believe God 100% wants to heal 100% of the time. All the word of God supports this. However, I do not know why healing does not always occur and people do die. My older sister was a juvenile diabetic and I recall discussions about her insulin. But, my parents knew they did not have faith at that level and her insulin never stopped! I had 3 siblings safely born at home with the attendance of an experienced midwife while we were at FA. My mother already had 2 kids and knew her body worked so it was less risky. I want to add that I am a 22 yr practicing Registered Nurse and I can look back at the healing teachings and I have to say there is more truth and Dr Freeman was more correct than people knew. He was ahead of his time. Modern medicine is a joke. Yes, some good is done but A LOT of VERY VERY bad is done by modern medicine. Modern medicine is pharmakeia and has a bad foundation. I am speaking of medicine from the 1920s to the present day. Prior to this, medicine was Naturopathic and made by God. Health practitioners have been removed far from what God designed and it is destructive and deadly. The church had the right belief and intention but may have executed things incorrectly. Again, as a child I know there was quite a bit that went over my head. I do recall the presence of God in those church services. The worship was electric! The Holy Spirit was welcome and very present. Worship was from the heart and there was no one just giving lip service. The congregation wanted to be there and wanted God to show up. True love for the Lord! Passionate love for God was evident. This was a new time of holiness and righteousness being taught and people were hungry for the REAL word of God. In any move of God (I have learned) there are extremes that pop up. In the middle of the extremes is the STREAM where God is. FA moved to an extreme from that stream in the middle. I've seen this happen now in my adult life and can now understand better what happened with FA. About a year after Dr Freeman passed away, my family left the church and we eventually moved out of state. That first year we got a TV and a VCR. I caught up on all the sitcoms like Family Ties and we did put up a Christmas tree that next year. I wasn't thrilled about it since we did know the truth but my parents thought we'd just celebrate it as a non-Jesus thing. Whatever. I was then 15 yr at the time. We began wearing pants and going to movies. I can say we never left our desire for holiness but we found some balance. It took a minute to acclimate back to mainstream but we never fully went back to mainstream. The word of God teaching was always a part of us. Always will be. - Tiffany Mar 2020 - I found this page today and spent most of it going down the rabbit hole -- just wow -- the memories! I am a recovering Evangelical. I was raised in a family that were members of a FA satellite congregation in Coloma, Michigan (at one point it was Stevensville, Michigan in the basement of a bank with nearly 400 some-odd congregants). I'm old enough to have vague recollections of the Glory Barn from the few occasions my dad would take me with him and his friend to Wednesday night services. I don't have much that is positive to say about church. My experience with people within the Coloma body is not positive and I had a front row seat to witness the legalism, power games, backstabbing, and faux piety of many of the members. As a gay man who was coming to terms with his sexuality, it was a most toxic environment; one from which I still struggle on occasion. I distinctly recall a sermon (in Coloma) speaking of homosexuals, commented "do you know what they do with their mouths?" Nevertheless, as I struggle to remain positive, I will forever remember the music. I have yet to experience an experience as glorious and sublime as the worship services at FA led by Jerry Erwin. I vaguely remember the Glory Barn services but have more salient memories at the new building. Wednesdays were of course a school night for me, so it was a treat to be able to go and experience the music, even if it meant I was dragging the next day. FA was almost 2 hours from home so it was quite a late night. But even as a kid, the Wednesday night service was not a chore if it meant being part of that worship service. I vacillate on whether or not my exposure to FA and the Coloma body did more harm than good for me. However, the lifelong struggle to recover from such a toxic faith, in part, makes me who I am today. And I am becoming more and more content with the person I have become and am becoming. - Lyle R 2018 - things are quiet in here...trust in the Lord! April 2014 - Many people still blame Bro. Freeman for sayings such as "You have weak faith, unrepented sin in your life." The church I fellowshipped with fell apart, and yes, I heard them all! I still love the teaching I received under Freeman's ministry, it is Jesus who heals and delivers today! Bro. Freeman taught the word, it is our choice as to what we would do with it! God Bless! -David L March  2014 - I have been a Christian since a child in grade-school. I have always felt that if I did what God said, eventually things would go right for me. I now believe God is still with me in all things but I can not be naive as I once was. I was introduced to the Hobart Freeman teachings in Casper, Wyoming. It all sounded good but I always felt like I could never have enough faith. When my 4-yr. old fell on a screw which went into her arm, my husband, at work, told me to clean the wound and stick the fat back in and put a bandage over it. She now has a big ugly lump there as a reminder. My son fell backwards and cracked his head open. We put a butterfly bandage on it and prayed for him. He has an ugly scar also. When my hand crippled and pain was unbearable I didn't go to a doctor. My husband could tell me to trust God, but it wasn't his body that was in pain. Migraines were horrible but I had to say I was blessed and pretend to function. After many years we divorced. I felt like I had to be a perfect person in order for my husband to love me. I wasn't loved for me but for what I could do or if I could wear jean skirts on camping trips. God does not require jean skirts and I am relieved! Life is hard enough, without adding unrealistic expectations. - Marilyn F Feb 2014 - Hello to everyone, and thanks for the opportunity to share. I've never been to FA, but was deeply influenced by it's teachings from the time of my conversion in 1978 until the death of my only son in 1995 (home birth). After this I came down with a thud, but by the grace of God I landed on the foundation, which is Jesus Christ Himself. In my own case the continual emphasis and focus upon "MY" faith and overcoming, along with a lack of exposure to teaching about growing in grace and love, made me very introspective, and resulted in legalism and isolation. In the end it was just me and my family on our own. I don't blame anyone else for this, and still believe Hobart Freeman was a gifted teacher. Not surprisingly, the quality and depth of some of the teaching we heard has insulated us from many of the errors and wrong emphases rife within Christianity today. You can't throw the baby out with the bathwater! Personally, even though I began in the Spirit, I became too reliant on men and their "message", and on my own efforts, rather than on the Lord Himself and the gospel. Ultimately I learnt more about faith after my son's death than from any teaching I'd heard on the subject. The Lord also focused me back on my constant need of His all sufficient grace both during and after a daughter's illness with cancer and death in 1999. I've still so much to learn, but I praise God for His faithfulness, and for having the Holy Spirit as Teacher and Guide. - Mark N. Jan 2014 - Hi everyone! I've read through quite of few of the comments already.  Although I wasn't a part of FA in Indiana, I did go to the church in Vermont pastored by Chino Ross that followed Hobart's teachings directly. Later moved to Shelbyville Kentucky and went to Tom Hamilton's church. I see a lot of past FA assembly members, but is there anyone that lived in Vermont and went to Chino's church? I was just a small child.... I would love to chat about it if there was anyone. Things were/are confusing about it. - Alexandra L. Nov 2013 - Hello all. I just found a picture of the ole Glory Barn. I think it was taken in its heyday in 1978? Anyone interested? My family sold all their possessions, quit their jobs and moved from Florida to Indiana to follow this cult. My parents were eventually kicked out for having the wrong prophesy spoken out during a service. Fortunately I made it out alive! Not sure how to post pic on here... -Steve G. July 2013 - I would just like to say that those people who criticize Hobart Freeman past/present even still are really judging God's chosen vessel while he was on the earth. "So, please be careful!" If anyone has read Bruce Kinsey's book, "God Will Save Your Loved Ones", do you not remember that when Satan appeared to Bruce in the old farmhouse attic, he had asked Bruce to help him to "destroy" Hobart Freeman's ministry!? What does that tell you? If Hobart was so wrong, why would the enemy ask this of him??? And also, I have listened and read Hobart's tapes and books almost all of my life and I recall him saying to "GO TO A DOCTOR if you do not have the faith." I never felt that he condemned people for going, it was just their own issues or pride (because they didn't want to look bad to other's), and who cares what other's think, it's what God thinks that matters, and God knows ALL anyways and His opinion is the only one that you should seek! But I feel that for some reason people put Hobart too high on a pedestal, as if HE was God. VERY BIG MISTAKE PEOPLE!  And Hobart himself said that he wasn't perfect and not to look to him but to God for yourself, he was just a vessel... So, sorry this is so harsh but I feel this needs to be said. - Kelly May 2013  - I attended a Faith Church, an offspring of Hobart's church in Milwaukee Wisconsin. It was a upper store front and normally would hold 25 to 60 people. It was around 1976, 77, 78 or so.  This "church" was run by David Freeman, no relation to Hobart other than he was the daughter of one of Hobart's daughters. Although as I young Christian at the time I could tell it was not about strong honest teaching of God's word but they would concentrate on "gift's" and such. The one thing that made me leave, well there were two things really, first we were made aware that David Freeman, was having affairs with several attendees of the church in different communities, David also ended as a pilot for another "faith teacher" who has scammed many people...but the last straw was watching a young girl, maybe 10 or 11 hover about 4 inches off the floor and spin around quickly as the church was praying for her demons to be released.  It was a horrible and scary sight. I did not feel it was of the Lord. I watch and listen to WVCY Christian TV and radio in Milwaukee. - Mike T. May 2013 - I would like to hear Rocky F's story about Freeman being arrested! I know that steve hill just took down his current pg on fb bc he couldn't stand being found out about his past at FA! What a coward!! There is not a shred of redeeming value in anything i received at FA from the 10 yrs under Freeeman that i was there! Anyone who says there is, or that there is any truth to the cult faith mssg is an idiot! Period! Anyone who suffered their children dying at the hands of the murderous teachers from the authoritative pulpit knows how demonic the teaching was. We were all fools for swallowing that poison. I hope Freeman and any other minister from that teaching rots in hell. - Margo C Mar 2013 - I don't want to take any away from those who have been able to separate their faith in God from being a "Freemanite" as I was fond of saying.  I will be forever grateful for the teaching of Dr. Freeman, and his dedication to conform the teaching to the Word.  I also recognize my responsibility in bad choices I made. Do you remember a sermon entitled "Enduring In Faith Or Enduring In Pain?" I too let my teeth rot in my mouth. I did not have the faith for healing, and wasn't honest enough to go to the dentist so endured in pain, and so retained the approval, even admiration, of my friends. On the other hand, one Sunday I was having so much pain inside my cheek that I did not go to services in the morning. A jagged pieces of a broken tooth was tearing a hole in it. Sunday afternoon, God told me* that I should go to the service, that He had a word for me. After the sermon, Dr. Freeman had a word of knowledge saying that there was a man there with a hole in the inside of the left side of his mouth that He wanted to heal. I went up, Dr. Freeman laid hands on me and I was healed. Another time my mother called me and asked me to stand in proxy and have Dr. Freeman lay hands on me for her healing. She had pneumonia and was healed when Dr. Freeman prayed. So when do I pray for healing, when do I go to the doctor? When I have faith I pray. When I do not, I go to the doctor. Here is the key for me. If I do not have faith, yet pretend I am believing for healing, I think it is sin because it is not of faith. Like I say, this is for me. Thank you, Tom for your thoughts. I think finally, after 25 years, I can savor the wonderful things I was taught, holding on to them as a gift from God. I can disagree with some things without feeling guilty or feeling like I'm betraying Dr. Freeman. I thank God that I have the Theology and Ethics notes. I pray God for grace and strength to live what they teach. *When I say God told me, or the Lord spoke to me, I don't mean literally in an audible voice, I mean through his Word, first and foremost. But also, there is as if I have the memory of having just heard it. I can't describe it any better than that. -Al M. Feb 2013 - I was never at FA with Bro. Freeman, but I have listened to many of his tapes while attending a small House Church.  I too went through a valley, and still do from time to time. I don't understand why so many are angry with Bro. Freeman? Bro.Freeman was truly anointed by the Lord! However, he was an imperfect man like us, he made mistakes. While I admire Bro. Freeman, and worship with FA online today, Jesus is my Lord! No human! FA still preaches a powerful word! - David L. Jan 2013 - I just discovered this site tonight, and have read many of the posts with mixed emotions. Rita was told the wives should not balance check books. I cite this to show that a lot of legalism was member-generated.  I know for a fact that Sister Freeman kept their check book balanced, and wrote the checks. On the day that Brother Freeman died, Sister Freeman called me and asked me to ask a group of brothers to pray for Brother Freeman because his condition was critical (my wording). These brothers were building a house close to my home.  When I passed her request to these brothers, I was told that what a blessing it was that he, Brother Freeman, didn't need our prayers because he had divine health!  So he died without the prayers of these members of his church. And one more example.  Men thought cooking or working in the kitchen was stepping out of the husband's biblical role. Brother Freeman himself did some cooking occasionally. But the teaching did gradually get more legalistic, as the focus seemed to shift to doing or having anything that would keep one from not being an "Overcomer." - Al M. Oct 2012 - I feel hurt. I mourn. I need to express the intimate knowledge I have of what was first known as the Glory Barn, but I am not under any authority as this site implies, which quite reminds me of the personality cult which actually in fact cost scores of children and adults their lives. That statement no doubt will preclude this post. I played a key role in exposing the child deaths and in Freeman's arrest. Before I was a cult member, I was an officer in the Army, and when it became clear to me who the enemy was, I acted decisively and forcefully to stop the slaughter of innocents. The full story, the truth of it has never been told, nor could it be told where someone sets themselves up as an authority of what we may think. Isn't that what the cult did? I request that some one of us create a forum where general assumptions are not a condition of the site, for there is certainly a huge general assumption implied in the conditions of what one must say and how they must say it here. - Rocky F. July 2012 - I found this website by accident. I attended an FA associated church in S.E. Indiana with my parents and siblings. Tom Hamilton, Don Wake and David Freeman were some other "guest" ministers during the late 70's and early 80's. Faith was the ONLY teaching. If you went to the doctor, you REALLY didn't trust God. If you carried auto insurance (the LAW in IN), you didn't REALLY trust God. You shouldn't date; you should trust God for your spouse.  Don't worry about college....Jesus is coming back!!!  I went along faithfully until I began to see fractures in the foundation.  I cam remember our pastor commenting "Something is WRONG" when the reports of what was happening up at FA started appearing in the news and with the death of Dr. Freeman. Thank God my parents were more than a little skeptical about the teaching.  Oh, they believed that you SHOULD live by faith, but IF your faith wasn't strong enough, get your butt to a doctor!  Dad had cancelled his life insurance a few years before his death.  I think how much easier Mom's life would have been if she'd had $500,000 to live on verses the $50,000 the Dad's employer WOULDN'T cancel. Would my sister's life have been easier had she not been convinced that the reprobate she married was God's choice for her? I remember being told at 17 I wouldn't see 18 because Jesus was coming ANY DAY!!  This went on for years.  I came to this conclusion around 30.  Jesus IS coming back, but we have NO control as to when.  It may be in my lifetime (I turn 50 in Dec.), but then again it may be 100 yrs from now. Our job is to preach the Gospel to a lost and dying world.......not legalism. -Steve H. May 2012 - I can only say that it has been 27 years since we were there in the church.  We do miss hearing the real truth preached but bro. Freeman got off tract and Bruce tried to tell him but he did not listen and the church came apart very quickly as Jeff Barnett took many to Indianapolis, Steven Hill went to Charlotte,N.C. For me I have been living with the hurt of loosing my daughter these many years now and I still cry for her. I will say and this information came by way of a member who told us that in fact that the church DID NOT CARE ABOUT US OR THE COURT.  He knew all of thier business and he told us not to expect anyone to help out.  We knew that the church did not care ( all of the members except 2 families) would even speak to us we were past being a black plague and we were cut to the core as our brethren so called turned thier backs on us. To this day as in the 25th of May 2012, OUR 31 ANN. TODAY, all 4 of our children have either graduated college or will be. Our oldest is 30 and the youngest is 24. - David B. May 2012 - I've read the previous posts with a slight sadness. I never attended FA, but Hobart Freeman's teaching was a large part of my early Christian walk. I was saved in 1980 at a church that frequently had guest ministers from FA come to teach. Freeman tapes were passed around and many of our church members subscribed to them. I listened to many and read and owned most of Hobart Freeman's books The teaching that was brought forth at our church was the same as FA. After 30+ years, amazingly, our church is still together meeting in the same building, and having our same pastor. Together, as a body we have tried to come out of legalism. Honestly, we still have a long way to go in understanding grace. I identify with many of the sad stories of hurt and abuse that you have posted. Several things stand out. One is the aloofness and distance of the ministry. The person that wrote of their parents trying so hard to walk the walk, and yet the minister not even knowing their names--- so different from Jesus.  Also, the struggling to make ends meet, and watching some in the ministry so wealthy--- and that wealth held up as a sign of their faith. Being so afraid of being in doubt--- having been told that my "fear and doubt" was hindering my family member's healing.  Also, the truth that real Christ-like husband leadership was always passed over while the subject of submission was a worn rut. Phrases from the pulpit ring through my mind. "the door swings both ways", "I don't have to give you scripture and verse. If you don't think we're God's anointed ministry, why are you here?'' "How many ties do I need?  As many as I want--- I'm the head of the house".  Those all came from visiting ministers from FA. Reading your posts have stirred up a lot of feelings. I obviously still need to seek God for deliverance from the hurts that came though the wrong-hearted teaching's I listened to as a baby Christian. Someone on here mentioned a FaceBook page for children of FA. Could you please tell me the exact name of the page? I couldn't find it. Editor's note:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/7027068222 - but from being there some are not friendly towards those who appreciated FA, aka us older folk. March 2012 - I first wrote on this website in July 2006. I now write about something that took place in Feb 2011 when my eldest son (32) was diagnosed with malignant testicular cancer that had escaped and gone through his whole body. He was in a bad way. If it wasn’t for the basics that I had been taught about how to fight the fight of faith I doubt that I would have known how to STAND and how to FIGHT and see God answer my prayer to heal my son. Being taught what faith looked liked & how to continue in it helped me to deal with death with confidence in God. I have Dr Freeman's teaching to thank for this. My son has been cancer free now for 9 months. His recovery was nothing short of remarkable! Chemo treatments were cut in half and cancer markers dropped to zero extraordinarily quickly after the first day of treatment! Doctors couldn’t explain his quick recovery, his quick drop in cancer makers, or could they give a reason for why he was remarkably healthy for a man who had been so ill. We all knew why though - I and my daughter (25) had placed our hands on my son and asked Jesus to heal him and rebuked the cancer! My son had requested we pray for him after I had explained to him that when he was a little boy I used to lay hands on him and ask the Lord to heal him and if he would like me to do that for him now? His response was yes please! My son did undergo Chemotherapy after the prayer was offered but we all knew that it was Jesus who was going to heal him. He did have what he calls a very weird experience - whilst in bed early in the morning on day 2 after our prayer, God healed him by taking him out of his body and then put him back into his body. We can’t explain why God did it this way but he did. If I didn’t know how to fight for what I believed the bible teaches ie God heals today then I know the outcome of this battle with cancer would be very different. I thank God that I was taught what real faith in God looks like and that I was taught how to walk a walk of faith in God by Dr Freeman. When faced with cancer in a child God taught me many things but the main thing He taught me was that unbelief about God on any matter is an insult to His character! It can be seen as we read the Old Testament wilderness wonderings of the Israelites. Unbelief asks, can God? Faith says, God can! Praise Him! Faith stands for believing in: Father’s Ability Is To Help – Faith! Virginia in Australia Jan 2012 - looking for anyone who I might know or who knows me...and still holds to the message of faith Robert B. RBdesert1@aol.com Oct 2011 - I'm seeking fellowship and encouragement with/from anybody who had a positive experience at FA, and still holds to Bro. Freeman's message of faith!  It has been hard and bumpy for me, but I Praise God for His word!  [ I am up in the Cold Lake, Alberta area ] -David L. dvdlawrence6@gmail.com Sept 2011 - Well I went to Faith Assembly here in Danville Illinois when I was in my early twenties and to this day I still listen to Dr. Freeman's tapes. I have yet to find a church since then that so wholly opened my eyes and ears to the Word of God. Now I don't know what happened with the church but I do know that while there may have been "legalism" or "lack of grace" or even the appearance of a lack of love I honestly believe that Dr. Freeman's only intent was to make sure that we were not conforming to the world-trying to keep us "safe" from it. Unfortunately from what I've seen the teachings on being able to live IN the world and yet not be conformed to it were limited and that's why it appeared to have cult undertones. Overall Dr. Freeman was a gifted teacher and I look forward to meeting him in heaven one day. -Lorre V. Aug 2011 - I was saved and baptized in Jesus name (Acts2:38) in 2001, in Cold lake Alberta, under Brother Freeman's ministry. Our house church has since fallen apart .I became discouraged, and began investigating various "Christian" cults. The Lord in His mercy, is bringing back to my first love!  It is real battle with Satan. There has never been another man anywhere with Bro. Freeman's anointing! I still worship with FA online. Praise God for the true word! I hope to find others who may, like me need fellowship and encouragement. God Bless! -David L March 2011 - I was part of the church in Canada. After Bro Freemans death the church broke up and I went back to a more worldly christianity. I really didn't want to walk in the faith and holiness that was required.     After some time the Lord began to speak to me that I was saved and I would stay that way and end up in eternity with him but that I would miss the first fruits rapture. That bothered me on a very deep level. So somewhat unwillingly I came back to the faith message and began to sort my way through what I believed.     I believe that Bro. Freemans entire ministry (from Gods side) was for the purpose of laying the foundation for the preparing of the overcomers. I don't believe the actual work of preparing the overcomers has begun yet. So if you're interested grab hold somewhere its not too late.   - Mark L Feb 2011 - Everyone who truly lived the "Faith Message" (you need to leave email Margo, otherwise this is considered anonymous post) -Margo H. Jan 2011 - There is a site on OvercomersOnline for Music if anyone is interested.  Also, a site is posted on OO where you can hear and download music from FA and many musicians who shared at FA.  www.godislife.net/music This site is posted under Gillyann/music as well. -Gillyann B. Jan 2011 - re-post from Oct 2006 - I am a church-planter and minister. I visited the Glory Barn with an old friend of mine, Glenn Stech, in the early 70s as a ministry student at Huntington College. I now live in the area of the Old Glory Barn and am available for anyone who wants to talk and pray and be healed from all old wounds and bitterness. I believe the Lord wants to pour out HIS Glory in this area once again. -Russ W. Jan 2011 - Dear All: I posted a response a few years ago, and just found it tonite! (1/16/2011) I would like to add just a little bit to what I said before. After leaving the Lafayette Assembly and the Faith Assembly movement, I went into several years of soul-searching and searching of the Word to be sure of what I really believed and why I believed it. I knew that I had to be fully persuaded in my own mind (Rom.14:5) And I am grateful that I came out of those years sure of my salvation, my Baptism in the Holy Spirit, and my belief in the Bible as the Word of God. The Lord became very precious to me and very real to me because He proved Himself to me in a way that I hadn't known Him before. I learned to hear Him for myself, and to pay my spiritual dues to be in a place to be able to hear Him. God has wrought a very thorough deliverance and restoration in several areas of my life, called me to the ministry, and I now am blessed to serve as an Assistant Pastor and Teacher in a Pentecostal church. The Lord has blessed me with a wife who is also in the ministry, and He continues to bless us and use us together. To all of you reading this, I can only say: God is good, His Son is real, His Spirit is powerful, and His Word is true ! Walk with Him for yourself, and He'll steer you straight. And He'll help you rebuild your life and your walk with Him, if you ask Him to and do your part. I'm a living witness. -Michael McF. Jan 2011 - I was biblically saved in 2005,under Dr. Freeman's ministry, baptized in Jesus name(Act2:38).This was in a small house church, which fell apart, I was lost! I have been blessed to find Faith Assembly online, under Br. Joe Brennaman! I am seeking fellowship with someone who has had positive experience at FA. We can encourage each other! loripoohbearchick77@hotmail.com (his wife's email). - David J. Dec 2010 - I traveled the preaching circuit with Jim Mansfield and Jerry Reeder from FA. We would leave Leesburg, IN to preach in Mississauga, Ontario that Thursday night, leave there at about midnight to drive to Addison, VT for a Fri night meeting. We would leave there by 2 PM on Sat. to be in Endicott, NY for a meeting that began around 4 PM and lasted until midnight or after including worship, teaching, prayer, ministry and a meal with fellowship following. Endicott was my home body which required a 2.5 hour trip one way for us from Camden, NY. We attended every meeting for 5 years because the Lord was faithful with the weather issues. The ministry would leave Endicott around 2 AM to be in Kent, Ohio for a 11 AM Sunday meeting. Then leave by 2 or 3 PM and get to FA in time for the preaching. Jerry and Jim did this every two weeks, with some route changes, for 9 years without missing a meeting! On the off weekends Jerry went to Minneapolis for a meeting and Jim went to Rockford, IL. I flew or drove out to travel with them several times and once they picked me up in Alexandria Bay and we went for an early mourning boat ride as this was my home town. I kept my boat there. These men laid down their lives for the sheep and taught a faithful, consistent word. I would like to get in contact with Tom Z. please. He traveled the same circuit. - Leslie F. Dec 2010 - I never met brother Freeman, but attended fellowships in NY state that followed his ministry and one fellowship that an itinerant word minister from FA taught at. I attended several faith seminars in Indianapolis after his death and some meetings at FA itself. I and my family still live the biblical faith message he taught. I could fill many pages with testimony of Jesus' faithfulness to heal, provide and deliver as we trusted Him alone. It has been over 30 years and He has NEVER failed us. I would like to offer what the Lord showed me about brother Freeman. He did what Moses did by striking the rock. He misrepresented Jesus to the people. A minister cannot become angry with people who doubt, critical of the media, or develop a them vs. us attitude. We are all products of our opinions and background. When his opinions become accepted as truth a lot of peer pressure developed. Just like Moses, God dealt with brother Freeman. God is not pleased with vituperative criticism of him. Moses did not enter the promise land nor did brother Freeman enter into all that God intended. These things do not make him a false teacher. Many true men of God had issues, even those in the Bible. God also allowed his death to allow people the opportunity to follow what was really in their hearts. Many did just that. I have nearly all his tapes. I know of no one who teaches uncompromising, consistent Bible truth the way he did. Without faith it is impossible to please God. He had it and was anointed to teach Hebrews 11 faith to others. I thank Jesus for his ministry. - Leslie F. August 10 - I truly believe in the Faith message, I also believe there are different levels of Faith. I had fallen away for 20 years!  Two years ago I was lead back to the Lord!  God has been working in my life since returning to Him!  Jesus is greater in my life today then when I was in the faith message. Always will cherish the Word that was ministered in those days!  God says His word will not return unto him void! I believe Hobart Freeman was God's servant to share His Word! Sincerely, - William E K. March 10 - I live in Southern Indiana.  In the 1975 & 1976 Kenneth Hagen and Hobart Freeman teachings reached us.  I was always in church.  Then I was confronted with the faith message and speaking in tongues.  Healing all of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.  I rejoice for that time in my life.  It laid a foundation that can never be shaken. The faith message is one of the best teachings to come out of the 70's and 80's.  We all made mistakes but we learnt things the main line churches were not teaching. I have seen miracles I have received healings myself and my family.  I f anyone wants to know about htem I am sure there is a way you can contct me.  I would love to share. I am back in my the church where I grew up.  Not where I would have chosen to go but God sent me back.  I would not trade the 70's and 80's teaching of the faith walk.  I consider myself blessed because of it.  God bless you and yours. - Kay P. Feb 10 - Riding to school with Carl Seitz, in the Glory Barn days is but a small part of my faith background.  From these varying comments comes one common theme, the liberty to express what was taboo to express during the heyday of Faith Ministries. Hearing for myself, first hand, after Dr. Freeman died, in their attempts to explain why he died, what many of the so-called “teachers” propagated would have been rebuked by Dr. Freeman himself.  Those who have struggled to get their lives together since and those who have turned away from their relationship with God perhaps failed to recognize that Dr. Freeman was a man and not a god.   It is unfortunate that such a statement would have brought a strong rebuke within “faith circles” perhaps even today.  When looking back and reflecting, shouldn’t the bottom line be, Romans 8:35?  God will judge Dr. Freeman’s ministry, and in conjunction with it, it is unfortunate for those who have let it separate them from the love of God. To these go my prayers and my sympathy. -Pastor C [ Romans 8:35 - Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? (NIV)] Jan 10 - I was a member of Faith Assembly from 1976 to 1983. I did not "quit" the Assembly in 1983, just stopped attending the local services. I believe now God was moving me in a different direction, for the good.  I treasure every day I spent at the Glory Barn and Faith Assembly. I remember thinking as I would walk through the doors, "I was glad when they said let us go into the House of the Lord." Most of all, and I have spoken of this with others who attended, I praise God for the FOUNDATION I received in His Word during that time. There is no comparison today to that place. I remember driving through the night to get to North Webster and stand in line at 4:30 in the morning, just to get a 'good' (and warm) seat! (Otherwise, you might end up in the basement and in the winter it was very cold.) We were hungry for the Word and God was blessing. God sought a people whose hearts were perfect toward Him. It was an awesome time! One I will never forget. I did experience the good and the bad.  But folks, I have to say it was mostly ALL GOOD!!  Yes, there was some bad, but that is what you get when you put a bunch of people together.  We are not perfect. I too, like many of you, reverence the teachings of Dr. Freeman.  Not the man, but the Holy Spirit through a vessel.  He was a good man and definitely had a knowledge of the Word of God like none other. He studied to show himself approved unto God. I am forever thankful for the experience and know that today I stand stronger and am firm in my walk with Jesus because of those beginnings!! I believe we were scattered to the wind for the sole purpose of spreading the Word of God. I remember Dr. Freeman use to say, "You won't always have this word." Not to glorify himself, but to say, get it now, plant it in good soil, and in time, you will be sent out to be a sower as well.  Do you remember those words? Those are just some of the words that stick in my head today, some 34 years later. P.S. As I scanned through some of the stuff on this site, I noted that some were questioning whether any 'supernatural' or miracles ever occurred and questioning the 'anointing'. Wow, were you there? Really there?  I can't say I ever personally saw a leg grow out, cancer removed, or eyes restored to perfect 20/20 vision, but I did see the supernatural, if you want to word it that way, but I prefer to say 'The Hand of God' in my life everyday.  Just as I have seen the Hand of God moving in my behalf every day of my life since I gave my life to Him!!! - Rhona B Dec 09 - It's been a couple of years now since I have know about this site. I have pondered what to add in my own words what happened back in the days. Several additions to this site have come from Ontario Canada where Jerry E came every week to share Dr. F's message. I must point out that some of the best quality people in life I have met though Faith Assembly and the opposite is true as well. Sad Sara K (april 08), I read your "sadness" posting here I understand exactly what you mean in your statement. Our families had a lot in common, we struggled and we all were searching for a better life, spiritually and finacially. Important to point out our parents are still needing help and in my mind are just barely making it. Is there a God or heaven, can't say for sure. I have curtanly become a realist, only believing in stuff I can touch and feel. We all thought that you make things right with God, live a good and honest life he'll bless you or reward you, ya, we are still waiting for this to happen. To this day after everthing has settled I still hold value in all the teachings, the 10 commandments are the only rules I follow, simple. I remember thinking that things were kind of "off the wall", a cult, well I wouldn't go that far but loss of life in the church over idiology, come on what the heck was going on. To finally here Dr. F died of something treatable, well that was the icing on the cake, no way was I going to follow anything like this again. I felt like our family was lost and now found what a crock. We lost my sister, we never recovered finacially or even emotionally. We sort of white washed our true feelings, we all hoped of living a perfect life so we would end up in heaven to spend the rest of eturnity in peace. I hope so. To this day I have kept Bruce Kinsey's testomony (on tape) in my dresser, an awesome memory of the good times. I remember listening to Stan Hill's songs and breaking into tears. I also remember at the age of 15 going up to Dr F and asking for God to heal my birth defects (synpolydactyly). I told everyone at school I was going down to Faith Assembly and when I came back I would look different. I was crushed, felt stupid and nieve. Peace and love to all, I really enjoy reading everyones inputs. PS: I am peacful inside and i don't want people to read into this to much, no hurt feelings, no regrets just a little wiser these days. - Darin S Dec 09 - Hello, HF's message was a well needed one.  One that changed if not saved my life both physically and spiritually.  Bottom line is , how one interpreted this message based on where one was with their walk of Faith in Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. It was sad to see the Glory Barn go down.  Happy to see the new building go up.  Sad to see the new building sold. - Doug S. Dec 09 - I was part of the body in grand rapids, traveled a little to FA, and sometimes took part in trips to Burlington VT with Jim Mansfield and Jerry Reeder.  What a great town with some serious skiing being done on Sugarbush and Stowe with the friends I made there in the mid 80's.  Would like to hear from song leader Chic W and friend Cheri B and others to see what has happened to them.  With that my heart goes out to all who experienced vast negativity from the peer pressure and legalism that was produced from the teaching, seems that at the time it was part of the walk that we should overcome.  The GR body seems like it had 2 camps, super hyper spiritual totally nailed to the cross and some that remained committed to the word but retained some part of their original personality and didn't become cloned, to me these hyperons are the ones that caused most of the problems waiting for the rest of us to catch up. But as I look back if it wasn't for the teaching, a very strong word I would have been in serious trouble from striving to be a cool person in the worlds eyes, drug and alcohol addiction, and being reckless for that I am thankful. I believe we close to the end, but have a real hard time finding a pure strong word so that is my struggle, just looking for sincere truth, joy and anointing. Thanks - Tom Z Nov 09 - Sometimes The answers we seek is at our feet!  Was our faith in faith assembly or was our faith to him we seek  For my Lord and master Jesus said to me let it be according to YOUR faith so should it be So lets start anew and overcome these thing and get through Its up to you......love you saints. - Ron y Nov 09 - I am so humbled by the posts of absolute horror that took place in the name of Faith Assembly.  I was there but not present because I was busy trying to keep my own home in order, raise my own children, and contend with an unfaithful husband.  I owe an apology for being self-righteous.  My husband divorced me, we lost our home, our little daughter was killed by a drunk driver. Today I have balanced my life. I have joy and contentment.  It is possible to forgive those who have hurt us.  Seek God's mercy to heal the wounds.  He was there with you going through everything you went through. You my contact me through the forum. -ilene N. Oct 09 - I wouldn't like to say I am a casualty of FA ...I believe to have risen above all the vile circumstances of my childhood.  My mother got saved in the early 70's and attended the glory barn. She met and married my father there. I never realized untile going to school that things were "different".  My father was a rapist and was convicted of attempted rape and served time after attacking a girl at Wawasee High School.  She got away thankfully but my mother was unable to leave him due to the churches rules.  He got "church discipline" and continued with his ways...eventually abusing me.  My mother was so wrapped up in their beliefs that she wasn't even going to report him to the authorities.  It was my aunt in the end who did.  He went to jail and my mother was left with 4 kids under 7.  Fast forward 3 years and she remarried a man who was physically abusive to herself and us.  She passed away from breast cancer in 91 after seeking medical treatment too late. I have very strong feelings about the teachings and things we were taught and the ridiculous things that ministers came out with and its taken me years and years to deal with the bitterness and unforgiveness I held for the church as a whole. God has given me grace in many areas of my life and I have survived cancer myself and had a baby who was "incompatible with life" as I was told before giving birth and he is a strapping young man who is well clever. I believe that all of the awful experiences at FA should make us aware and hopefully not fall into those traps again. -Michelle Y. Sept 09 - To Mark and Debbie. Please don't feel alienated. I went through the same thing. Whats amazing is how many defend FA to this day. Its a real bizarre thing. What Mark went through was tramautic, there is nothing sacred or good about it. There should be a book written about these experiences. I think I came out of it all with PSTD. People know there is something different about me. I had to find out the hard way. I still aint comfortable around people and I like jobs where I work alone. What was I supposed to do? Join the world and it all goes away? What a mess it was. What a mess my mother is in. Thanks for nothing FA. We must unite, those of us who went through all this. -Mark Aug 09 - I still thank God for the Word we received from HF, some things became legalistic but haven't we matured to see that? No one made us do it and if we did, it was just stupidity on our part.  I got over it and went on, so can you.  He was a man, if you made him more than that shame on you, men make mistakes. That said, not everything taught was wrong.  Throwing everything away is just going to result in a loss of rewards.  We will all answer for what we have done with our life, he also. I'm trying to hold on to the truth given, resist unscriptural opinions and pray for the Holy Spirits Wisdom to discern the difference. -Mike G. Aug 09 - i too went to FA. my family was really into this teaching.  my mother died from the the beleifs she had in God and these teachings. as a 7 year old child i fell into these teachings as well and beleived totally in God as well.  until that day that mother passed away.  i lost that faith in God at 15 and never went back to it all.  at mothers funral the preach in charge told me that she was just clay and to bury it.  this tore me up inside and ever one looked up to this man.  i to this day have no trust in people or churches.  i spent most of the time in the church as a child of being molested by someone my family thought of as a freind.  yet i was his victom.  he was very well know at FA.  i truely hate this person.  and to this day do not understand why if God loved me as they all said he did.  why then did God turn his back on me?  i was only 15 years old.  why take my mother away ?  these were the things that turned me away from God. and church thanks to FA - Mark N. Aug 09 - I am yet another casualty of FA. I attended a branch of FA in eastern Illinois and occasionally travelled to a meeting in Lafayette, IN and seminars in Indy. I started attending with my mother and my two brothers when I was in 3rd or 4th grade.  I remember having services at my grandma and grandpa's house in the beginning and then at various other homes over the years.  The FA teachings encompassed my entire childhood and teenage years.  My only solace was that my dad did not hold the same beliefs. I remember being pulled from class during holiday parties, nor was I allowed to participate in any holiday programs.  I was not supposed to (even though I did not always comply) listen to secular music, watch TV, movies, dance, date, wear pants, makeup, wear certain brands of clothing and shoes, belong to certain organizations (she pulled my youngest brother from little league baseball and me from dance class), and the list goes on and on and on.  She sucked the life out of our childhood. I quit attending the FA meetings when I was probably a sophomore or junior in high school and did not attend church again for approx. 23 years. My husband suggested many times over the years that we should go to church.  However, I was not going to be controlled like that ever again. A few years ago we started attending a local church and it has been a wonderful experience finding my way back to God.  (Of course, He never went anywhere. He was right there waiting on me).  My biggest regret is that my three older daughters have very little church background.  My son attends with us. As a result of my mother's involvement with FA, she never encouraged my to pursue an education even though I had tremendous academic potential.  At one point, she even suggested that I could drop out of school since there was no need for a worldly education.  Thankfully, I did graduate and at 42 years old I am still taking classes to complete my bachelor's degree.  She basically told me that the Lord would bring me a husband and we would live happily ever after.  Well, we all know that doesn't always happen in the real world.  I got married, had four children, but never pursued a career.  My husband has always thought that I should work, but my mom never programmed me that way.  All I saw were women having babies every other year and that was fine when I was younger.  Now, I am 42 years old wondering what I am going to do with myself now that my children are older. It is quite obvious that I still struggle with my FA background on a daily basis.  I have still not been totally healed and have probably not forgiven my mother completely either which I know I will have to do in order to be free.  I have learned in the last three years that our God is an awesome, merciful, and loving God who does not want to see any of his children perish and as His children we are to spread the hope that Jesus gave for all mankind. (This was totally against the FA teaching as we were not to even associate with anyone who did not share the same faith).  One day, by the grace of God, I will overcome the oppression that I endured. Thank you for allowing me to vent. -Debbie M. May 09 - As a young Christian, disillusioned with mainstream churches because of their support for the Viet Nam War, I naturally gravitated to informal guitar churches and Christian coffeehouses.  While attending a coffeehouse ministry in Fort Wayne Indiana, I met Mel Grieder who had just began a coffeehouse in his barn at North Webster, later known as the Glory Barn. Here I met Steve Hill who introduced me to Hobart Freeman in Claypool Indiana at his house church known as Faith Assembly. I became involved regularly at the Barn and later, when they merged with the house church, as they began meeting at the Barn. They renovated the second story of the Barn to make room for the overflowing crowds. Soon after the renovation I left the area for a year or so and backslided into an old drinking problem. Seeking help, I returned to the Barn since Mel had a program in place to help alcoholics. After about two weeks of hard physical work and no pay, I left seeking other solutions.  Through casual attendance in a Faith Assembly satellite church in another state, I started attending college level theology classes at the Barn. During this time, I heard of some people dying though few. After taking theology courses for a few months, Hobart began teaching on the Five Points of Calvinism. He was what they call a four-point Calvinist. While teaching on the one point he didn’t agree with, Limited Atonement, I knew something was amiss with his teaching. That night during the ride home, I told the others that Limited Atonement is a fork in the road leading to two different outcomes. If Limited Atonement is true, then everything they teach about faith is false. I and my pregnant wife immediately stopped attending, that and any other church that fell short on the doctrine of Limited Atonement. Shortly after that, the Faith Assembly deaths began increasing. I look back and shudder. With remnants of that teaching still clouding my thinking, we opted for a home delivery with a doctor for the Amish. Without the doctor, because of a breech birth and difficult delivery, she and the baby no doubt would be part of Glory Barn toll. -Dave O. May 09 - I have read quite many of these wonderful tributes to the late Bro. Freeman.   Yes he was a very decent man but I guess everyone forgets that he was the one who kicked Bruce out for telling him the truth and after his death this caused a big strife and division with the church.  I can truly say to all who were there in the early 80's as we were knows that the church did not show love to everyone only if you were important.  We went through hell from the news media hounding us and when in church we were shunned as lepers and even the 5 fold minister avoids us, so I say people take off the rose colored glasses and see the truth.  It was not picnic for us who struggled to make it daily and then give half to the minister who flaunted their wealth in our faces.  All of the teachings were stick dogma with no margins.  I must say that I still mourn the lost of my daughter who would have been 26 this year - David B. May 09 - First of all I want to say that we are now celebrating our 28th anniversary and that we were married in this church.  I can say that we have outlasted many who were in that church.  I can say without a doubt that there was no love in that church if you were not in the click.  When my wife and I were going through the mill with the court system we were shunned by many in the body, there were 2 families that were helpful to us and would talk to us in church. I truly do not have anything good to say about that church and am very happy that it closed that was the worst place of my life -David/Kathleen May 09 - I no longer take lightly the bruising and hurting of another individual in the spiritual realm through teaching. Teachers might not start out legalistic but if it ends up that way and it produces a legalistic flock of people who became too frightened to challenge things or question a man or teaching, then we must tell it like it is: that they fear what man might do to them should they separate or question. We are not talking about whether someone is saved or not but the fruit one’s teaching ministry is having in people’s lives. Many hurting people post on this site and it's understandable. I was once one of those hurting and I live in Australia and have never visited faith assembly but listened to teaching coming from there. I was too frightened to listen to anything else for fear of being deceived. I no longer feel that way but it has taken over 20 years to even want to step back into the Christian world and fellowship again with Christians. I pray that every life that comes to this site searching for answers has their bruised and broken heart mended by God. I know from experience this site is healing because I am one of those healed. I first came here about 3 years ago. God never worries if we question Him. John the Baptist questioned Jesus about whether He was the Messiah. Today people would say John was a doubter, an unbeliever but Jesus answered him and he didn’t scold him either for questioning if he was the Messiah. Teachers are meant to be judged by the fruit that their teaching produces in the lives of those who listen to them. We who listen to teachers are the fruit of their ministry. Jesus tells us to judge teacher’s fruit and our own fruit. I'm no longer afraid to judge teaching and the fruit it produces in people's lives. I encourage others to do the same. - Virginia C. May 09 - I too do not believe this was a cult.  I was very young when my parents went to faith assembly.  I don't remember very vividly but still, most of my best friends are ex-faith assembly members.  From what I hear from my grandma and mom and dad, it started off as an amazing movement of God.  Yes opinions eventually turned into their own law, which was wrong, but the people were neat people.  People came from all over the world...Germany, Australia, Canada and I'm sure more.  The bond that people formed is unparalleled.  The memories I do have of gatherings and get together were amazing. I am very good friends with Hobart's grand-daughters and love his daughters. I do not believe he was a monster of any sort and have heard many people say he was the most well studied preacher and speaker they have heard. This should show many people that everyone needs accountability!  People should ask questions if they feel something is a miss. I  know there are still many different types of people affected by this movement, in a good way and in a bad way.  But its a choice how you will walk.  Its a choice to lay the past down and allow God to heal you.  So I urge people who are still dealing with this to stand up and say enough is enough!!!  I choose to walk in Gods light and not in the darkness and oppression of the past! -Angela A. April 09 - Years ago I started attending a new church that seemed to have a sustained revival.  After 2-3 years the pastor started listening to Hobart Freeman.  A noticeable change took place.  The sermons became less about the Word of God and more of a rant against other Christian groups or churches.  A little over half of the congregation thought that HF was off-based but everyone was trying to be mature and not make an issue over it.  I heard that HF had a dress code with specific rules pertaining to style.  Since Jesus did not mandate his preferences in clothes for others to wear, I thought it was awfully presumptuous of HF to do so.  Then I heard that HF didn’t think that wives should balance the family checkbook.  My mother was a bookkeeper and kept the business books for my dad as well as the household.  My mother had a God-given ability to balance accounts quickly and efficiently.  It was a benefit to the family.  There is no prohibition against this in the Bible.  The only reason I could imagine that HF would not want a wife to help out in this capacity would be facilitate a controlling personality in a husband.  This is disturbing.  Finally, HF seemed to embrace a legalism akin to the legalism of the Pharisees that Jesus so adamantly condemned. A group from the church got fed up and left.  After this group left, we heard that HF had died.  The pastor seemed surprised.  I think that he thought that HF would be like the righteous men of faith in the Bible who were blessed with a long life. Then Pastor went back to preaching the Word as he had done before and things got better. When people disagreed with Jesus or just brought up ideas, Jesus was well able to debate/discuss the matter. He was not intimidated, nor did he shun and hide from peoples’ ideas/questions as HF did. I have noticed something about some fundamentalist leaders.  They are good at creating their own reality by expounding and expanding on certain scriptures all the while ignoring other scriptures that are inconvenient to their legalism or theology.  I think that preachers should read the gospels more and try to get a better understanding of Jesus. - Rita S. Mar 09 - I attended a body of FA down south. Those were some very bad times for me and it has taken many years to deal with this issue. I attended a Baptist church from time to time.  Today's sermon was about eternal life. I have a relative that is in bondage to this concept. What the preacher taught today was in contrast to what Dr. Freeman taught. Our preacher tells us that you don't have to do anything for eternal life, it is already given to you.  My relative is in bondage, fearing that if they do anything wrong, they will loose their chance for eternal life.  The bondage is extreme and has caused hardships for those around this person.  This bondage drove me away for Christianity for many years, probably a result of the powers of darkness at work.  You see, I'm sure my relative will receive their eternal life, but through their selfish bondage, they succeeded in driving away those who also could of been Christians. This is where Dr. Freeman failed many people. -Carl R. Mar 09 - Let me start by saying i started going to the glory barn in the 70's and my family continued to go approx. 15 yrs after . i find all of this fascinating and really havent given fa much thought to tell you the truth, however after doing a lot of thinking and praying i can tell you that i believe this was a cult!  i honestly dont believe that "good and bad" can transpire from something that God is supposedly a part of.  i think people are like i was just saying things that are safe like (there was good and bad, people took things out of context or to literally) when the truth is their afraid to say anything bad because their mind is still under the control of dr. freeman. instead of GOD who should be in control! God is a loving God and i never thought so under these teachings.  if you look at how Jesus lived his life (who we should be modeling)it is nothing like i remember anyone living at fa. -Alica M. Feb 09 - I got to this site about a year ago.  I can't believe after all these years that I am still feeling the aftermath of FA.  Left a perfectly good job and life in San Antonio to be a part of Faith Assembly in 1981.  Complete oppression! Except that we interpreted it as deep spirituality.  After having this blind faith, let's add up the blessings--2 horribly difficult births at home, having 3 other premature births--dead babies at home, one resulting in visit from the local sheriff, constant fear of the authorities from FA finding out we may have watched a video or donned a pair of shorts or pants.  Where was the blessing? I guess I missed it. Oh yeah, Jerry's worship, wow that was great--and how did he end up? Didn't they kick him out eventually. I think it was made quite clear when Hobart died from a treatable ailment.  An end to a miserable ministry, which I believe could have been great--but ended badly and with a fizzle. I really do feel sorry for the children raised in that strong arm disciplined environment, we used to pummel those babies who dared cry out or couldn't sit still for one of Freeman's 2 hour monologues. Today, I really struggle to believe anything.  If God isn't interested in answering a prayer to save a baby's life, then how could I possibly pray for anything else?  It just doesn't make sense.  I look at most of it now as just fairy tales and made up stories to entertain. -Margo M C. Feb 09 - Greetings, I look back on my very early years at about twelve.  I was always "seeking for God",  I started listening to Dr. Freemans tapes around that age with an cassette player stuck under my pillow not wanting my parents to catch me for I was already off on the deep end.  When I was able to drive I would attend the Body by Celina, Ohio.  I had some distant family involved in that group.  A lot of issues were going on which at that time I didn't understand.  My sophomore year I started to date a girl from Berne, Indiana.  She attended a group called Christ Assembly, which was even more on bondage issues which for some reason I was always attracted to rules.  Which some of the ministry was involved with Freeman when they first left the Amish. Long story kinda short, growing up in very non-Christian home I always felt a love for my well being in that Body.  I just can t say anything bad about Dr. Freeman for myself but I am glad for the tapes as a kid.  Welcome for conversations at  trenthole@gmail.com - Trent H. Feb 09 - I have been reading this post for 8 years and have finally decided to contribute my views.  I joined a satellite "body" of Faith Assembly in 1980, accepted all the teachings of Hobart Freeman and his underlings as the "Word of God" and ended up in an abusive marriage to a child molester with 15 children and no "scriptural" way out.  You cannot separate Hobart Freeman's message and his followers' behavior.  He used the Bible as leverage to manipulate many people into actions that were harmful and, at the very least, legalistic.  Children were beaten, deprived of medical care and education, all because their parents put his teachings into practice. At any time, he could have stopped it, but instead condemned to hell anyone who spoke against his teachings.  Don't take my word for it.  Listen to his tapes...it's all on there.  I left the group 9 years ago with the clothes on my back and 14 children under the age of 16.  My oldest child still wants nothing to do with me because of the way she was abused during her Faith Assembly childhood.  I have a personal relationship with Jesus now and want nothing to do with the unfruitful works of darkness that typified Faith Assembly.  I love my life now and want everyone to know that it is not by works but by faith that we are saved, and even that faith is a gift from God, not Hobart Freeman! -Martha M. Feb 09 -  Wow...the Glory Barn or as we all refer to it today, FA.  I remember small things from that place but the thing that stands out the most in my mind is the fact that we couldn't go to doctors and because of that "rule", my mother died in a very short time after getting breast cancer.   We all sat under the "teachings" or as I like to call them "the f'n ramblings" of a crazed mf that found a way to control people yet at the same time making them think that they wanted to be there. I really hope that Dr. Freeman is burning in hell right now and every time he gets tortured there it is by a memory of a child dying or of someone that they kicked out because they challenged what he was teaching.  It would give me great satisfaction to know that he is forever haunted by the anguish and pain that he caused to so many while thinking he was holier than everyone else. My only thoughts and hopes is that when he asks for a drop of water while burning, the dead children and people that followed him stand before him. Everyone "singing his praises" still today needs to wake up and realize what they are doing and snap out of it.  I am sitting here reading all this bs about how good he was but all you that write this stuff are still obviously stuck under some jedi mind trick that he placed on all of you and it still has effect to this day. - Gabriel M.  (editor's note - had to hack this down due to verbiage - while I understand his/her bitterness from loosing their mother, this isn't the place to ignore my requests at the top of the page.) Jan 09 - I don't really remember the barn but my parents say I went there as a little kid. My dad talks of the barn with great fondness.  He talks about getting there late and having to listen from you vehicle because it was to full inside.  My dad has a whole bunch of 8mm reels, or something like that, [of] Dr. Freeman’s teachings.  He wants to find someone who can convert them for him.  I've looked around but can't find anyone.  I don't really want to listen to them but I think it would be cool gift for my dad.  My dad loves Jesus today and has a tremendous story.  Crazy party kid touched by some preacher in a chicken coupe….his life changed instantly.  I don't remember a whole lot about FA.  The things I do remember I can remember and laugh about now.  Head coverings, skirts only, no TV, no Dr., no sports, no printed t-shirts, love feast with feet washing, and on and on.  They all make me laugh now in a good way.  I talk with a few people that attended FA and we can laugh about it. The bad memories I have are not really of the place or the teachings but that I grew up with this idea that I had to be perfect, an "overcomer" if you will.  I have since learned that I can't over come anything but thankfully Jesus over came for me.  I have stopped trying to impress people with my spirituality.  That includes Jesus.  I know Jesus loves me and I live every day trying to love him back.  The difference now is that I don't feel this need to be perfect or do something incredible or "miraculous" in order for Jesus to love me.  He just does.  Not because I am superhuman or I preach well or I read my bible every day (which I don't but wish I did) or prayed the right way.  I've learned, through many years of fighting of the lie that I wasn't good enough, that Jesus takes me just as I am. For those of you looking for lost friends and others there is a Face book group devoted to children of FA. You will have to sign up for a Facebook account and then look for the group.  It is what started me on this journey to find others that went through some of the same things I have.  My hope now is that I can help former FA people and regular non FA people realize how freeing Jesus is.  His very words in John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Jesus of Nazareth.  I have been given a glimpse of this, "life to the full" and I want more, but part of getting that life was shedding the lies that I came to believe because of FA teachings…..you must be perfect “an overcomer”. From what my dad has told me about Dr. Freeman he was a good man.  My dad feels like a lot of people blew his teachings and words out of proportion and that there was a one upman ship that permeated the church in the end.  Like I said before I don't remember Dr. Freeman and I think I was to young to be severely effected by FA. However, I do know one thing.  I have a great Father and a great Mother who raised us well, and they wouldn't be where they are today if it hadn't been for FA. Therefore, I wouldn't be who I am today. Yes I have had an uphill spiritual battle but that battle has only strengthened my trust and faith in my Savior. Thanks for letting me share. -Jamie Z. Jan 09 - I was attending a charismatic fellowship in Springfield, Ohio in the mid-70s. Every once in awhile, a young woman would attend. I understood she attended Glory Barn, but didn't know anything about the church or her, for that matter. What I DID know is this woman had the most loving, beautiful aura about her everytime she showed up. She reminded me of how Mary must have been -- and I wasn't the only one who thought that. She was so pure, innocent and so full of the Holy Spirit -- you could just tell there was something very, very special about her just by observing her. A few years later, I began attending Melodyland School of Theology in Anaheim, Calif. Then, out of the blue, I received a letter from this woman urging me to leave Melodyland and attend Hobart Freeman's school. I wasn't really that interested and didn't feel led, but she did start to send me all kinds of tapes from the Glory Barn. I listened to them and they helped build up my faith quite a bit. Then she wrote a letter and told me she was going to visit me in California. I was kind of excited about it because I never really sat down and talked with this woman because she seemed so far above me spiritually and now I would have a chance to do it. I had also shared the tapes with a fellow student at Melodyland and he wanted to meet her as well. She finally did show up, only to inform us that she had been expelled by the church because of some kind of controversy regarding "faith is a substance." I gave her a quick tour of Melodyland's campus and she seemed impressed, but then she left almost immediately. I guess she was a bit embarrassed, seeing that she had built up the church so much and then got expelled. Anyway, if Glory Barn produced wonderful people like her, it couldn't have been all bad. - Scott J. Jan 09 - RE: Steve Hill question.  I don't know if Steve's old music albums are available but his old books still are however.  Steve has a world wide ministry and has ministered with everyone from David Wilkerson to John Wimber to Mike Bickle to Dr. Michael Brown. Steve had to change his name to S.J. Hill because of Steve Hill, the evangelist from Pensacola outpouring. So it is no longer Steve Hill, he is now S.J. Hill. http://www.sjhill.com/ Steve's emphasis in ministry is now on the Father's love to us. Although he remains committed to trusting Father to heal him. He lives near Dr. Michael Browns Fire Church and Fire School where he has ministered for years, since it started at the Pensacola revival and then moved to Concord North Carolina. - Steve S.   Jan 09 - Tom, your open honesty is to be commended and your perception of the assembly is as I observed.  I came to know of Hobart Freeman and Faith Assembly in the early 80's.  We (a small gathering in the Pacific Northwest - Vancouver, Washington) followed the tape ministry and had associations with Faith Assembly. Unlike in Indiana, we are a pioneering people in the West and as such we had more time to walk in the practice of the teachings versus the social gatherings as was done quite often in Indiana. We all have our issues (likes and dislikes).  Brother Hobart did too, however, what he taught on the true principles were the true, refreshing, truths of that which the Almighty desired to restore in a generation seeing the culmination of prophesy.  Hobart was a door for those locked into institutionalism to get out.  You and I both chose to walk out through that door and we are the better for it.  I never cease to thank Our LORD for the gift He gave us in Hobart Freeman and the truths HE restored to those who would be HIS People. Much like Azuza Street, it was the congregation and its subsequent leaders that failed to keep the perspectives of GOD first everything and everyone else second.  "I would have mercy and not sacrifice, the LORD said.  For the past several decades, I have watched as people place undue expectation on the various offices of the Assembly (that CHRIST established).  I see a people running to hear, and clinging to the words that today's (claiming to be) "prophets" speak. - Robert O. Jan 09 - I attended the Glory Barn in the mid seventies and was a part of a satellite group up until around 1981 or thereabouts. I can’t say most of my memories are warm and fuzzy like some. Towards the end we were all frightened into staying for fear that we would lose our salvation. I still hang my head with wonder at all the needless legalism, suffering and deaths that occurred there. All by listening and fearing just one man, not God. It amazes me that there are websites around (not this one) that lionize this man. Most of these ‘overcomers’ are what I remember from my past experience. Full of their spiritual pride and of no value to the kingdom. Clouds without rain. I’ve lost track of all my acquaintances from Faith Assembly. I’ve heard and read rumors of what happened to some of them including the so-called Five Fold Ministers. So sad. Luke 6:43 "For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit." Thanks for letting me vent - Jeff K. Jan 09 - I remember the teachings of the "GLORY BARN" as a child, although I do believe in the speaking of tongues and that God can and will heal people.  I believe that God has a plan for us and everything we ask has to fit into his will and his plan.  I remember not celebrating Christmas, Easter, or Halloween.  I also remember not having a television or a radio, since I might listen to music that was unbecoming to God.  I wonder there was a man called Steven Hill who had a Christian album out which I loved as a child. Does anyone know how to get that album again? - Paul S. Nov 08 - In the late 70's we used to hold very small home church meetings under the teachings of Michael Green who was affiliated with FA. I lived in Waverly, OH, at that time, and he was from Findlay, OH.   As we grew, so did the space for our meetings.   We learned the "message of faith" and as we grew "deeper in the faith", the message of legalism, i.e., no tv, no doctors, no public schools, no insurance, no glasses/contacts, no holidays, no physicals at your job, even if it cost you your job...bluntly, the ways of the world are not the Christian way.  Every denominational was ridiculed and detested.  We, FA, were the 144,000 overcomers. I was saved years prior and still am saved today, praise God. Never saw before or since God's "sword" turned into a club! Sorry for all those who lost loved ones and were pressured by their "brothers and sisters" to do those things required to become an "overcomer". May our God have mercy on us all!!! - KJ E. Nov 08- I have come into contact with the faith message in the spring of 1982 in Altenkirchen/Germany and I was impressed by the serious teaching of scripture. I have been visiting FA in 1983+1986. My eyesight was bad but I was told that using my glasses was a sign of doubt. So I drove my car for 1 1/years without them. I just can thank the Lord that nothing serious happened. Our group viewed going to the doctors as serious offense even when one broke an arm and got a cast. By this we drove away several people even to the point of leaving Jesus Christ. My first conflict came during my visit at FA when HEF preached in a sermon "No balm in Gilead?" that God would do what the prophet prayed despite that he said:"No, I will not hear you!" After the sermon I went into the study and obviously took HEF by surprise when I confronted him with that. I left the room satisfied because he did not seem to object. At the beginning of the next sermon, I was gone by then, he made a remark about me and told just the opposite. While his teaching about holiness and deeper life certainly were valuable, he was clearly off course in faith at the cost of love and grace. He took things like healing and made a blessing into a burden that every member has to achieve. The fruit of faith without love could be seen in the assembly but were not corrected. His view on a solid education, especially in the medical field, grew strange fruit. He himself however thought nothing wrong about achieving a doctor of theology and working as a professor. Some people were even tempted to abort their education or shred their professional degrees. Only as things became public in the aftermath I realized that HEF had his black spots too. Besides the orthopedic shoe he seemed to use a big letter edition of the bible to avoid wearing glasses. When I see the record of his last sermon,  despite his saying that knowledge may puff up, the bible proved to be correctly and that pride came before the fall.  The statement "If you want to go, go, for there are already two waiting for your seat" certainly shows pride and I do not want to know how many left the faith altogether after leaving because HEF said "Don't bother going to another church after leaving here. You will fail." In the end the gospel wasn't taught in its entirety and it was not so clean either. It was the fear of man that was a big snare too many and prevented an early correction. - Michael Szs. Nov 08 - Dear Past Faith Assembly members, I have been reading your comments with great interest, though i myself, did not attend FA. I went to Miracle Valley Bible College, under A A Allen.  Much the same scenario, as A A Allen died, leaving many wonder what was up.  i happened here, because i was reading a book written by Dr. Freeman, on "Did Jesus die Spiritually," that i had gotten many years ago.  It is an excellent work. I have grown up in a similar environment, the no long hair, jewelry, in fact we had no tv! never danced, went to movies ect ect and ect. However, i had a hard time, from time to time, yet, i rejoice that God has taken me the way He has! And i have seriously been thinking about getting rid of my tv again! there is nothing on it, hardly, worth watching. at any rate, i just thought i would put my 2-cents in, even though i was not a direct part of FA, i was aware of it, and read and listened to much of what was said and done there, experiencing much of what you did, in another place! yes, yours was not just an isolated case. this type of environment is found rather commonly around America. one thing i would like to share, and i appreciate your reading my 2-cents worth, and that is this, when one teaches the Bible, the Word of God, it is always brought forth in a form that is LEGAL. consequently, many tend to legalize it! in their life, making it a form of duty or obligation! we tend to 'try' and live better, or struggle to be a better person, after all the Bible tells us to Love, and have Joy, peace, yet, when we hear the preachers preach it, we realize how short we have come, and so we once again promise, swear, recommit, reconsecrate, ect our selves to accomplishing what has been preached. This is where it becomes Legal! for if we were able to do these things, then Christ need not come and die for us! but we cannot do it-them, we need Him, and Him alone! For He will Live that life in us, for us, and through us. Well i will not preach, i just know how you all feel, from the ones who still love the DR. to the ones who do not. know this, you are not alone, and whether it be Dr. Freeman, my father, or A A Allen, these men of faith did their best, never having a evil heart or mind, to hurt or lead some one away from God, but to Him. Misguided? maybe, over exhuberant? probably, like one of you said, we are all human. i wonder were i fail, or you fail, what will someone say about us? when we are gone, how can there ever be a true rebuttal? or discussion on what was really the motive. the whole answer is Christ. May i make a recommendation? get a hold of, or look for some of the latest teaching by Bro. Jim Swaggart. He has been there, as the preacher! and is now, i believe letting us know from that side, what the real problem is, and as many of you have already stated, LEGALISM, ( or works, by mans flesh) after all it is our nature to tend this way, no one has to push us, or force us in this direction, it is our flesh! (pride) it tends this way and loves it, and when it fails, as it will, the devil then comes and lays a guilt trip on us! thats it, i love you all, i know, i know. but!!! it will be ok! for this is part of the growth process, and you are growing! for you see these things now, whereas you never noticed them before! Christian love-- -J. S. Nov 08 - 1975 was our first encounter with the "faith movement", raised Methodist, born again in a Baptist revival in 1973.   My wife and I had a real passion to know God and the Word of God, and how to live it everyday.  I must say that we learned the Word of God listening to Hobart, probably the best biblical teacher I have been influenced by for these 35 years. I can go on about how we were introduced and how my wife and I sat in Mel Grieder's apartment at the "Glory Barn" and listened to Hobart espouse the Word of God (good times).  Listening to the first set of tapes by Hobart (Absolutes of Discipleship) and wondering how to implement those principles into our lives and our three children' lives. Without our parents disowning us. These were probably the most influential times in our lives, it set a path and a belief system that we have walked in for many years. Now to the point of what I have discerned, about what happened. There were hundreds of people who joined the Word of Faith movement and had a passion to walk in the Faith of God. The problem that my wife and I experienced was the lack of "Spiritual Fathers" to sit down with and spend time with, so we could learn how to implement, into our lives, these tremendous spiritual principles, we were being exposed to. My wife and I, like a lot of people, belonged to a "Faith Assembly" and were pastored by a man of Faith, the only problem was the man of Faith was only a couple of week ahead of us in maturity and wisdom. I know this is not the case of some people, but there were a lot who fell into this scenario.  Most wanted to be teachers not fathers or mothers. Don't discredit the message of faith because of the time and dispensation that God used to expose us, to the way to His heart.  Faith needed to be taught and implemented into His people.  Thank God for the Copeland's, the Hagen's, the Osborn's, the Freemans and others that God used to get us the word of Faith.  Remember: listen to the messenger, prove the message, but worship and follow the one who sent the message-God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. It is good to know that there are people out there that have learned and gone on to do great deeds in the name of God, that had there start in the Word of Faith. Praise God! -Rick G. Oct 08 - I am reading about Faith Assembly and many things are flashing through my mind.  I was in the 7th grade when my family started attending the Glory Barn.  My parents were having marital problems and this church seemed to bring them together.  I loved my family and thought my dad was the closest thing to God (and still do).  My mom became pregnant and I was excited...we left the Lutheran Church, stopped celebrating Christmas, wore mostly dresses, stopped any medical help, cancelled any insurance (that would be relying on man).  At the time I recall making many wonderful friends: Joe, Natalie, Karla & Kayle, Debbie, Anita, Greg, Todd, and so many others I can't remember. I loved going to church and feeling the depth of commitment to others and God. It felt right. I so wanted to live the perfect life.  We had great youth gatherings: roller skating, sledding, camping, sleepovers, skiing.  Until things slowly changed (or I changed).  I used to hate it when they said the world was evil.  I loved my grandparents so and could not imagine God thinking that.  Then my parents continued to have children - a total of 8. Five were born at home.  I would become so scared every time fearing death for my mom.  During my high school years I am not sure if others made fun of me.  I kept to myself, babysat, and went to church.  I was never asked to the Prom, asked for a date, or did anything the church thought as worldly.  I started to question many things.  I remember when Hobart Freeman later in his teachings said that it was worldly to go to CEDAR POINT!  That was it!  I had done everything told of me but I was not giving up CEDAR POINT! I started to slowly rebel. I also remember my family getting scabies. Secretly I found medication and put it on all of us and washed everything in the house when my parents were gone. This might be the first time I have told any one this. There is so much more I could write about. I often want to write a book. The unfortunate side of my story was when my youngest brother Joel died at two weeks old from something that need antibiotics.  My father was taken away from the family and put in jail.  Headlines told of my family and I still wanted to protect them even though I was in my final year at Ball State University.  I do not feel angry over all of this.  I regret that I have difficulty attending church and that many of my other siblings have suffered from this.  But I know this is my life and it has made me who I am today and I do like myself today! -Julie W. Oct 08 - I was once a member of Faith Assembly and have both fond memories and some unhappy ones in regard to my time there.  I miss the people and I have often wondered what happened to them.  The worship and music were beautiful and for a time there seemed to be a real anointing of the Holy Spirit.  Many people were healed and miracles happened and prayers were answered.  When Dr. Freeman died "trusting God for his healing", it had a devastating effect on the congregation.  There was a "power struggle" between the remaining pastors and the church split down the middle.  One group began meeting in private homes again, which is how they were in the early years when they had the tent meetings.  The rest of the members continued to meet at the building.  The teaching became "legalistic" and members were divided against each other.  There were even reports that people were "being watched". People became suspicious of each other.   left because I realized something was terribly wrong and I knew that this was not my idea of what Christianity should be. I see by the photo that the building has been sold. I assume that means that the church is meeting elsewhere or is no longer in operation as a group.  I left in l989 when I divorced and moved back to my hometown of Appleton, WI. I am looking for some of the people I used to know - some were my best friends and I miss them. I am trying to find Scott and Debby Trojan. The last known address would be in North Webster, IN. - Patsy G. Oct 08 - My name is Mal Miller.  I came across this site while looking for material by Dr. Freeman.  I was saved through Dr. Freeman's ministry here in Australia through house meetings where his message and ministry were upheld. I must say that I will never forget the house meetings I first went to and the overwhelming presence of God that was there through the angelic praise and worship and the messages that were real food for hungry souls.  My walk has since then taken on many dimensions I guess you could say, but in spite of everything God has remained faithful to His word and kept me by His Almighty power.   In hindsight, I honestly believe that those early meetings were like banquets of God's blessings in word and song.  The young, middle aged and elderly were all present and there was humility, sincerity and a awesome hunger for God's presence, which I have yet to see or experience since. God in His all encompassing knowledge and love works in ways and uses whom He wishes to fulfill His purposes and I believe Dr. (brother) Freeman was an instrument in his hands at that moment in time. Yours Sincerely, Mal M. Oct 08 - Thanks for putting this site together, Tom. My own involvement with FA was relatively brief and peripheral - but it influenced me profoundly as a teenager. My family and I started listening to Dr. Freeman's tapes in the late 70's at our home church in Southampton, England.   The teaching was much more detailed and anointed than anything else we'd heard up to that point, so we and a group of friends stayed together in a house lent to us by the Fussles in Jul 82 - Mar 83 in order to attend FA. The stay disrupted my formal education, but I've never regretted that - because God gave me a heart eager to learn, and a good theological and spiritual grounding there.  Does this mean what we heard and saw and did was perfect? Far from it. I, too, have had to come to terms with the zealous but deadly legalism I sometimes saw, and eventually learnt and accepted there.  May God forgive me - and may you, dear reader, if you were ever on the receiving end of it from me. For his part, Dr. Freeman evidently assumed and practiced grace at times, but I don't think he taught it nearly enough.  How different might things have been if we'd sat under "Grace through Faith Ministries"? I therefore found, and find, his teachings well structured and coherent - but sometimes mechanistic and too selective in its use of Scripture. This can easily give rise, for instance, to the idea that positive thinking and confession should be used to self-censor one's view of reality, rather than prayerfully engaging with it as the Lord leads. I also had, and have, the impression that Dr. Freeman wasn't spiritually accountable to other people in the church.  If so, I think his exalted but dangerously isolated position sat uncomfortably with the Servant-Leadership model of Jesus, and I'm sure his ministry and character eventually suffered as a result.  Did anyone take issue with Dr. Freeman after he shouted "If you leave Faith Assembly, then you're not saved!" (Gleanings from Galatians)? Someone should have.   If someone did, does anyone know how Dr. Freeman responded? The remark was certainly left on the tape. Overall, I have many happy and treasured memories of my involvement with FA and its UK and European satellites, but I cannot forget that my spiritual education was offered to me at the price of much legalism, spiritual pride, and immense personal suffering on the part of many others.  I salute the presence of the walking wounded, and the memory of those who sometimes died so painfully and needlessly.  May the Lord have mercy on us all for our sins, and continue to help us build on that which was (and is) good, noble, pure, true, and praiseworthy. Amen. - Christopher B. Sept 08 - I was shocked to read all the stories. I laughed and cried as I had memories of 20 years ago. I am a FA kid.  We started at the Glory Barn when I was maybe 3 yrs old (1973)and I left home (ran away) when I was 17(1987).I remember sitting in the basement of the barn in my snowmobile suit and my feet being numb with cold.  We were told that we couldn't meet in the barn anymore because the owner kicked us out.  I remember hearing he died because God punished him and God burnt the barn down.  That scared the Hell right out of me!  Church was in my life as far back as I can remember. Can anyone relate to this? I got saved and baptized at Bruce Kinsey's meeting when I was about 5 years old and I loved his preaching.  All my friends were FA kids and my future husband had to be a FA kid.  I knew Randy Snyder was too old and I didn't stand a chance with anyone I liked so I was doomed.  I was a FA baby holder & babysitter. I would sit in the nursery and wait for the moms to finish nursing so I could hold their babies.  Some of you are now probably 20 yrs old (I don't know your names anymore) We lived in Elkhart so we were not in the "church politics" or "preppy gang" we didn't even know when the church was cancelled and we would drive through blinding snow and attend church with the die hard saints who rebuked the weather and pleaded the blood all the way. I don't know when things changed but this is my theory...those who were a little older like my sister Lynn's age followed the rules with no problem.  But we were rebellious and we questioned what we saw like the phony testimonies (like the ones when Jerry had to turn off the microphone) and we wanted to experience the real world so in order to control us the rules they preached got stricter.  Lets admit it FA kids we were passing notes and dating, holding hands even kissing before marriage. We went to "back to the future" and "Top Gun" between Sunday services, listened to Amy Grant rock music and wore jeans and skipped church by playing sick and staying home or sneaking past "the guards" out into the dark parking lot.  Even the preachers kids were close to my age and they were acting just as bad if not worse. You kids that were younger than us I'm sorry that we brought down the wrath on you. As we got 17 to 18 years old we left, ran and never looked back. I am 37 and this is the first time I have ever looked back.  I think we teenagers are the reason it fell apart. Once HEF passed away we really started to positively think for ourselves.  We were the survivors because we ran but our parents and those young couples with babies were the ones who took the hit.  They made rules even they couldn't live with but they didn't dare take them back.  Of all things I became a nurse! I did learn in nursing that your mind is very powerful and with practice you can block pain and emotions...sound familiar? After 15 years of practice in church I have control of my mind that other nurses marvel about.  I have found that people will walk all over me if they know how naive I am.  I realized I am afraid of church and we avoid things we fear. I made every excuse why I don't need a church.  Sunday my 16 yr old son begged me to go to a church he felt I would approve of - yeah that's kinda sad I taught him about God but I never took him to church and he only knew I was really picky.  I really loved to be back in Gods presence - you FA kids know what I mean because you all were there at one time.  For the first time I broke down and told my son about FA - he was shocked being a teenager he jumped on the internet and looked it up.  We were both amazed how the story I told him was almost exactly in the same words right here.  We FA kids are survivors and I truly think there are more like me out there.  We are the only ones who can help each other because nobody but us knows what it was like. I don't know you Tom but thanx for giving us a voice... - Judy S. Aug 08 - I began ordering tapes from faith ministries in late 1977 while stationed in Germany with the Air Force.  I Spent a lot of the money I earned as a serviceman on bibles, resource books with the bulk of it going to faith ministries for the acquisition of Dr. Freemans tapes.  While listening to faith message that Dr freeman taught, my roommate, a Mormon, was converted to Jesus and became an even stronger Christian in word and deed than I have ever seen . Between him and I, we secured about every tape we could get. Most all of the teaching was right on the money, however there was a check in my spirit. Something always bothered me and as time went on I pulled back from the more legalistic faith message.  I felt much guilt when the miracles did not happen I always felt that if I could just be more, do more, etc.  If the prayer didn't come I looked to see what I did wrong. I Know God answers all prayer that is done in faith. I know NOW that God's answer isn't always as we expect or want or (demand). I have seen miracles, sight restored, a heart attack completely erased, seizures stop to never re-occur, demons cast out, once during an accident I cried out to Jesus to Help me. the car came to a rest without damage or injury to any car or persons. (physical laws were defied).  On the other hand, I have prayed for the salvation of souls, the dead to be raised, and various healings to occur that have never happened. I have never been a perfect man and don't profess to be, Have never truly accomplished every "step of faith" to make things happen (as if we could) But Jesus has given me a mustard seed from time to time and God has delivered.  Although I did not personally know Dr Freeman, his teachings along with Gods Holy Spirit as a guide had more good teaching than bad.  The message of faith is valid Faith works God is Glorified All our works are as filthy rags to God -Spencer S. Aug 08 - Hi All! I attended F/A in the 70's and was blessed with some wonderful friends, most of whom I've lost touch with over the years. But, I would like to somehow get in touch with them again, I'm just not sure how? One dear sister was Maureen C., her married name at that time, we would love to hear from her! :) Tom, thank you for this site. I've sat here tonight with my eyes tearing up to read about much loved people from my past so many years ago. Thank you again, Gary Snider (What a surprise to see the old church...I lived near it while it was being built.:) July 08 - I stumbled on this site while researching Dr. Freeman, while preparing to write my own story. I "sat under" Dr. Freeman's teaching for about eight years, from 1976 to 1984. I still have to overcome anger when I think about that period of my life. Freeman's teaching became abusive. Consider that he knew that lives were being lost because misguided followers were denying themselves and their families the medical care they needed, but his ego was too big to acknowledge any error in his teaching.  I think God allowed Dr. Freeman to die in the manner he did; the "end-times prophet" succumbing to a condition that could be easily treatable. His followers (myself included) amplified his arrogance and spiritual pride. I believe we became a cult. I have to live with the fact that I stood by and said nothing while my brothers and sisters in Christ let their children suffer and die of treatable illnesses. - John W. July 08 - Within weeks of my becoming a Christian, a Christian co-worker of mine who was concerned I was getting caught up in the "faith movement", gave me a book that was supposed to debunk the "faith message". The book presented several "faith teachers", (Hobart Freeman being one mentioned), complete with quotes from books that they had written. The funny thing is that before I was halfway through the book, I was siding with the "faith teachers". Before I had been a Christian for a month, my wife and I had seen the healing Power of God manifest in a small Bible study in our apartment, and had experienced revelation knowledge that put us in place to minister to a lady who was in distress. God bless those who will be open to receive all that God would have you to receive to do His works and bring Him glory. If you feel led to do work for God, do it. If things don't turn out the way you thought they would, keep on keeping on. Remember, Jesus could do no miracles in His hometown? Did that stop Him from keeping on? Not hardly. - Bradley D. May 08 - I don't know all that happen at Faith Assembly.  What I do know is that I first heard the faith message by a brother that came on the mission field from Faith Assembly. I am so glad for the Word that I learned from him and Dr. Freeman. Today I believe that the Word of God is true and does Work. Not the legalism but the Word is true. God heals. Belize, Central America - Pastor Victor H May 08 - Greetings Brethren at Large - I have a special request.  The other night our pastor closed the meeting in prayer and mentioned being in the hollow of God's hand.  Immediately a very old song refrain came to my heart - "I'm in the hollow of your hands...I'm in the hollow of your hands." I knew it was something that went way, way back.  I thought of Jerry Ervin and Steve Hill and meetings at the Indianapolis Adam's Mark Hotel in Decembers.  I've sung this song to several in my own assembly, at least what I can remember of it.  A couple of said it sounds familiar, but they don't know it. Does anyone remember this one well enough to fill in the missing blanks? Above me is the shadow of your wings, Around me is the hedge of your protection. Beneath me are your everlasting arms, Your truth is my shield and buckler. In your word I will trust with all my heart... ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _____, I'm in the hollow of your hands, I'm in the hollow of your hands. -Karen P. To Karen P - The missing words are " FOR YOUR BLOOD PREVAILS ON MY BEHALF" - Thanks -Chuck D May 08- To ami B= I knew your of your mom & dad back in the day. I'm a little younger than they are I was a mid teen when they got married. I remember their wedding :) Have your parents ever sang the song they wrote about marriage to you? It still cracks me up-Hold it hold it hold it-I looooove you:) Tell them: An old fan says hi, I was at the concert in Indiana when you all were recognized by ray and it did my heart so good to hear your mom & dad are still together and you all are ok. - Anita Apr 08 - When I think of Faith Assembly, I feel great sadness.  - Sadness for my parents, who were so young and enthusiastic and overjoyed to be part of what they thought was a great movement.  Sadness for my mother, who had to wrestle with untreated depression for so many dark, lonely years.  Sadness for their heartfelt beliefs that began to crumble when the unthinkable happened, when Brother Freeman, as I always heard him called, died.  Sadness for the youth my siblings and I never experienced, as we were taught so young to redeem the time because the days were evil.  Sadness for all the family that we never knew and all the friendships my parents nipped in the bud, because we could not associate with even very godly people who did not follow the teachings of Faith Assembly.  Sadness for the years of feeling like an immigrant in my own country, of not understanding the cultural references or the casual manner young people use to address their elders or that wearing a bathing suit does not guarantee eternal damnation. Sadness for all the times we barely had food in the house but my father would still scrape together a few dollars for the locked wooden box at the back of the church, even if it meant he did not eat or had to forego his beloved coffee. My mother told me recently that, in all those years of counting deprivation all joy, they spoke with Brother Freeman one time.  One time, in all those years.  They devoted themselves to this man and the message he preached and the God he served.  They sat under his teachings, Sunday after Sunday, Wednesday after Wednesday, and borrowed stacks of his tapes in between services.  They left family and friends and education and careers and all behind for the sake of the gospel he preached, and he likely did not even know their names. That is, perhaps, saddest of all. -Sara K. Apr 08 - Hello, I am German and sat under the teaching of Dr. Freeman, Jerry Ervin, Bruce Kinsey and so on.  I was in one of the few German groups near Frankfurt 1982-1986. I also visited FA once. My wife stayed in the Füssle Family for half a year 1982. Because of the FA teaching I stopped studying theology at a secular German university, which still was/is a good decision for me. I think, we got a very good teaching for a long time.  I am still positively influenced of the "true word".  Sometimes I think that my heart was closer to Jesus at that time. Thanks Jesus that I never hat problems to get free of the "legalistic" attitude.  What happened to Bruce, Jerry and the others. Are the Füssles still living in this area ?  If you would like, please give me a response. - Martin (Black-Forest Germany). (Editor's note: I remember meeting a fine young German engineer back in '82/83 who came to visit me up at Grand Centre and Cold Lake, Alberta.  Dang, I can't remember his name - Jorgen?) Apr 08 - I also remember, eight live children, one more dead at birth.  Yes, I gained, but it cost so, so much and cost all I thouch also.  It feels so much to think back over all these old times God is still blessing me today, and I have "compromised".  We paid so much just to fill a seat or even a 'pulpit' in a house church or in Acton or Zion Lake.  And all I touch paid but I hope they were paid something also.  The pressure that the ministry allowed was really [like] "a demon behind every tree", but, much of the work was Godly.  The hose analogy just did not follow through, it was tainted, human, so, so grave. - KEITH T. Mar 08 - I was teenager when my mother started attending FA. My experiences at FA had a very negative impact on my life for along time and then spilled over into my children's lives. When my children came along FA was a part of my past that I had tucked away but it stilled spilled over in how I raised them...not in church. The years have went by, my children are now almost grown and most of the healing has taken place by remembering that Hobart Freeman and Bruce Kinsey were human just like me, no better or worse, just human. I remember that and forgive. - Kathy L. Feb 08 - I have read through many of the comments on your site.  My Father is a Pastor in Syracuse, New York.  The media is just now becoming involved. It is amazing how similar the story is.  All the harm, the pain, the suffering. It seems to me that there are simple safe guards that, when identified, can protect good people from harm I've experienced, I've read about. Consider the common sense of making sure that any organization you attend will encourage you to ask questions, and will be glad and enthusiastic about answering you. Also consider that you should be encouraged to think and make decisions for yourself. Too often a good thing can go bad when people try to control situations into a direction THEY think is necessary. Also consider that people thinking differently then you, though they may be wrong, also deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. Don't isolate yourselves to be involved only with those believing as you. Other good people can be encouraged by your beliefs only when you are there to be seen, and when they see some good in it. I have also learned that within many communities are good Churches willing to reach out to those feeling harmed. Support is out there. -Daniel Jan 08  There was some great music back then. Cal Roach and Audie Gates. Carl Seitz. Jerry Ervin. Steve Kinsey. Good music and worship. -Swanson Jan 08 - I was a member of Faith Assembly for 14 years 1970-1984.  I just recently moved back into the area. Is there anything documented about the divorces that occurred among FA members?  I know that I am one, I just met another gal whose husband divorced her. Can I begin a blog on the topic?  Thank you for the recent posts. There are those who STILL will not speak to me because I left FA! I have since moved on and listen to teachings through the internet. I think that divorce is very wide spread and will probably be the same percentage?? Thank you, - Ilene N. (editor's note:  well that is a good question and I wouldn't say it is the same percentage, but happened never-the-less.  Depending if you are the 'innocent' party affects how things work out I guess. I'll put it here for everyone to see and maybe head over to the Overcomers Forum to discuss this in more depth.) Jan 08 - I am almost, yes I am in tears as I write this note, knowing that I am touching the friends I knew so many years ago.   Ami B I remember your dad, Gary & Ray B singing "lets all go down to ma Black's Jesus Center" "Pictures & Crosses" Captain, Councilor, Rock & Shield". Glory Barn Mothers singing those sweet harmonious Scripture songs, Carl S. "the sweet Psalmist of Faith Assembly" another song (not ours) Precious Memories, how they linger... I believe for all the suffering we've gone thru, the Music makes it come out almost even. Countless times led into God's presence with Jerry & his 12-string guitar "Like a Mountain Stream in the Springtime, YOU (Jesus) over-flood my soul" Here I am Lord, in the name of Jesus, fill me with your Spirit to glorify your Name, your Holy Name, YOU ARE LORD, YOU ARE LORD, YOU ARE LORD! HALLELUJAH! Monday night men's prayer meeting: Parking -lot Charlie, Roy M., Dave & Mike B., Cal R. many good memories. 1 Cor.13,Mid! & just in case you're wondering, I still love Jesus, my Lord & soon coming King! - Audie G. Dec 07 - Shela, I remember you and Bob and your family. Please feel free to contact me. This goes for any friends from Faith Assembly who wish to contact me. betty_ok_lpn@yahoo.com - Betty J. Dec 07- I'v e been reading for the last few hours, taking a trip back in time to the Glory Barn and the "new building". My wife of six months and I moved to Chapman Lake, outside of Warsaw, IN, from Ashland OH in September of 1975, to attend Faith Assembly. Our son was born there in December of 1976, and our oldest daughter in August of 1978. Actually, they were born in Goshen General Hospital, because, despite the teaching, we wanted at least some medical supervision for the births. We attended every time the doors were open, and I remember the lines for Sunday morning. I remember the teachings Dr. Freeman did which basically gave us a Seminary education for the price of the books, and our time. I still have many of the books I bought. My brother also moved there, arriving a year before I did. He recorded sermons, and edited the tapes before they were duplicated and sent out. He eventually even taught a few times, and taught some home meetings. It was his (and my) independent thinking which eventually got him kicked out publicly, and when I went to talk to Bruce Kinsey, I asked for the tape of that service. He said I could not have a copy, but he could tell me what was said. Bruce said that in order to continue to attend Faith assembly, I must believe that Faith Assembly was THE end-time body with THE end-time message of faith, and that Dr. Freeman was THE man of God with THE true end-time message, and that anyone who did not accept these statements 100% could not be a member, and could not attend. Somewhat shocked, I smiled and thanked him for his time, walked out to my car, drove down the street a block or two, and let out a whoop of relief that I had been set free from such bondage. I wonder what happened to the people I knew then, like John and Debbi Whetstone, Sherwood and Mary Jo Roach, Cal Roach, Andy Roach, and Audie Gates. I had some good memories, though, and I remember the worship services. As some have said, I have never been to a church since that has worship services like Faith Assembly. I even played sometimes in the band at the new building right before I left, and the power that came forth was amazing. I mentioned audio Gates because I did a recording with Audie, Cal Roach, and some others whose names escape me at the moment, and I remember we played out live one time, at the old M&M restaurant in North Webster. I was in the area last year, and stopped at the new M7M, and drove around the area, up Backwater Lake road, past the Glory Barn site. I tried to find the house we lived in in North Webster after we moved there, but couldn't. The house we lived in in Milford is still there though. After we left, we moved back to Ohio, and a year later, contacted the media in South Bend, IN, to come forward with our story about our time at Faith Assembly. WSBT TV ran a series, and my wife and I appeared in a portion of it, talking about what we had seen and experienced. Toward the end of our stay, it had become so oppressive, legalistic, and I remember the "guards" in the parking lot, who acted more like Gestapo than parking lot attendants. I knew that they sometimes prevented people from entering, after they had been kicked out, or spoken against from the pulpit. There were "prophecies" which exalted Dr. Freeman, and no one spoke up and said "this is wrong", because they would have been shouted down, and run out of the church building. I remember Stan Hill (Steve's father) and his wonderful preaching. I remember Steve Hill, Dave Freeman, and June Freeman. June was always so sweet to my wife and I. I have a mixture of memories, some bad, some good. I still find that I did learn some positive things from Faith Assembly and Dr. Freeman. It's too bad that it went off and devolved into a cult.  I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers Jim and Liz S., or Bill and Patty S. - Jim S. Oct 07 - I am from the UK. A friend let me hear some of his tapes from the Glory Barn. I found them a real encouragement to my walk with God. His teaching on God and the truth has had an affect on me to my benefit over about 10+ years when I started my walk. I am saddened to hear of the other side of the teaching and the affect on other people. The church I now attend is following Jesus and does cover the full range of teaching and they do stress balance. I am interested in hearing more from other Christians who follow the faith message. I have read Bevington and many people and my heart is blessed to hear what God is doing. It is good to encourage other people to find the truth and live a blessed life now. It would be good to hear from you. - Lionel. Oct 07 - I was a teen in Bruce Kinsey's church, Steve Hills meetings, Gary Wilson's, a few of Dr. Freeman's, and others. I was caught up in legalism and have found a church that helped me find balance and healing.  I do not throw the baby out with the bathwater.  I grew up in the best faith message you could ever be under and was delivered from anything that wasn't God later.  All of these men have my respect as leaders and we all came through and learned from the past. I give my best blessings to Bruce and hope he knows we love him and his family. I will keep him in my prayers at this time. - Sophia A. Oct 07 - I was shocked to hear about Bruce Kinsey while on a service call yesterday and wanted to see if any one has Bruce Kinsey email site address.   Send it to me if you have it.  We herd about faith assembly and drove 4 hr each night some one came up from the states to teach [Jerry Eccles] was the one who was committed I don't know if I could do it my self. At the end of the church as I think back my wife and I came into knowledge as the bible said we should know spiritual warfare.  What a rush in singing and listing to preaching in them there days.  I was totally at the bottom of my life losing my business and home full of demons!  I am convinced a saved person can have them as Paul did in after 20 years into his ministry Rom 7:11 to 25. My first day to the meetings on the way home I turned to friend and said we are going to hell in a hand basket if we don't get the hang of this walk.  We are from Chatham Ont. and went to Kitchener once a week what a ball - eight of us had believing God for money we [were poor] it always came. We made up our minds we were going all the way with God no matter what.  Our side wins I us this at work and know God will ways show me when I don't know what to do.  Today call me free of condemnation and enjoy our walk.  We do not have a problem with [flesh and blood] our brothers] it's the devil that is our adversary GOD BLESS - Tom S. Oct 07 - I was a part of the Lafayette meeting under Bruce Kinsey, and also attended FA a few times. I also knew that we were responsible for rightly dividing the word on our own. Bruce use to stress this aspect often. I can remember more than once, a well meaning person would indicate that I was not following Dr. Freeman's teachings, but I would only respond with the Word of God. Yes people were forced into "believing" for something, usually healing, but we were taught from the beginning that it is OUR FAITH that matters.  If a person is not up to the fight, then let them get the word into them until it IS FAITH. To this day, that has been what our family has lived by, and we have seen the Lord faithful in so many ways we cannot count them all. I owe all that I am in Christ to the teachings of Dr. Freeman and Bruce Kinsey.  We saw through the legalism, even though we were caught up in some of it for a while, and have some regrets for how we came across early in our Christian walk.  I would not pass on the teachings and the experiences and the close friendships we developed while at the Lafayette meeting.  Those people are still very precious to me. As in many churches, all to many people follow a man and not the word.  These are the people who, in my opinion were hurt the worst. I do not blame the ministry or Dr. Freeman for the suffering of those that have had families divided, lost their lives or lives of loved ones. Ultimately, they made the choices to do as they did. God will hold us accountable for what we believe and how we lived our lives. He will also hold those teachers accountable for their doctrine and teachings. - Bryan B. Sept 07 - “Never, never, never give up” - Sir Winston Churchill. On a very cold winter evening in the late 1970’s, I attended FA on my way to Vancouver BC, Canada. I first heard the ‘faith message’ on tape in Germany.  Hobart Freeman spoke that night and I remember being impressed by his authority. I also found some of the most loving and committed Christians I had ever met. As a Christian wanting to go deeper with the Lord, I moved from Europe to the States to ‘sit under the faith message’. Dr. Freeman’s undoubted academic credentials went unrivaled and I never questioned the incredible depth he could draw from God’s word. The problem came when he began painting himself into a theological corner.  He never met with other Hebrew linguists to exchange O.T. insights and stopped all contact with former colleagues.  His uncompromising interpretation of a ‘literal faith’ together with his isolation, forced him to go it alone.  Faith, plus no doctors, no Christmas, no other books, no other ministries, no wine, no Adidas, no TV, no sports, meant principles produced rules: rules produced bondage: bondage produced legalism. I sometimes wonder whether Dr Freeman ever realized that by cutting himself off from the world, he was removed from the very people Christ calls us to reach.   As far as I recall, Bruce Kinsey tried to reason with his father in law, sadly to no avail. Paradoxically, Dr Freeman’s teaching was not all wrong.  Christian discipleship means to follow, obey, love and trust the Lord Jesus with a whole heart. That has stayed with me to this day and I learned it at Faith Assembly. After he died there were a variety of reasons given as to why God had taken him. When one speaker implied that Dr Freeman had given up his life for us, I left.  Several ministers went out into regular jobs and now no longer teach. Others have since reinvented themselves in ministry, never seriously addressing the devastation that they left behind.  The tragedies enabled the secular and religious media to write countless articles vilifying Faith Assembly and everything we stood for. But the question remains, “How will heaven write us up?” - Lois C. Sep 07 - I've been reading this message board for several years and the varying opinions are amazing to me.  My mother, Mary, started going to "the Barn" in 1975.  My dad, Joe, soon followed and before long our whole lives revolved around the "faith message", Dr. Freeman, and driving an hour and a half to church every Sunday morning and night, Wednesdays and Fridays. I grew up believing that if you didn't go to Faith Assembly or at least listen to Brother Freeman's tapes then you couldn't be a true overcomer.  I remember looking around my third grade class with an overwhelming feeling of sadness because I was the only one going to heaven. terrible.  Over the years I had the opportunity to visit other meetings in Florida, Kentucky, Ohio, and Australia. I met some really great people. I also met some pretty mean people. I met people who treated me like a celebrity because I sat under Brother Freeman, and in Faith Assembly I was confronted by several well meaning adults who were convinced I wasn't saved for various reasons. I often felt confused about the meaning of it all.  Ultimately, I knew that one day I would have to make a choice between my family if they stayed in F.A. and having a 'normal' life.  I am so pleased to say that after quite a few tumultuous years, I now have a pleasant relationship with both of my parents who are happily divorced and completely uninvolved with Faith Assembly.  I feel that quite a few members led many many people AWAY from the Lord with their version of the TRUTH.  I am blessed to have made some good friends there who still participate in my life in various ways. I think about many of the people I once knew and wonder what ever happened to them. I would love to hear from Derrick Down Under. Peace and All Good Things - Angela D. Sep 07 - My comments as a child who was brought up by parents under Faith Assembly teaching are directed to one who can redeem all that we have been through, our loving father God. Father God, please deliver our parents from all mindsets that are not of you.  Please heal us from all wounds inflicted by their attempts to live out what they perceived to be faith.  Give us a true understanding of who you truly are, and let us not partake of yesterdays manna but of the true and hidden manna, your Son, Jesus Christ. I ask you to touch each one that has been wounded right now and bring healing to their hearts and the deepest regions that only you know. where the enemy has took what you meant for good and used it for evil, I ask you to redeem every situation for your purpose to those who love you. Empower us Lord God, through faith in your name and your Blood, to bring healing to the hurting instead of hurting to those who need healed.  Give us the tongue of the wise to declare your heart, your word mingled with your spirit instead of your word mingled with our spirit and our wounds.  Let us declare who you really are instead of who we have been taught that you are. Truth Lord.  That is my prayer for the truth shall set us free. - Connie B. Sep 07 - My Mother was mentally ill till God healed her when I was in the 5th grade.  That was also the last year we celebrated Christmas so it stands out in my mind.  She still listens daily to Hobart's tapes and reads his books probably as much as she reads the bible.  She is also a great prayer warrior.  She never goes to the dentist (she has only the front teeth left) and goes thru great personal suffering of her body because she refuses to see a doctor. When she and Dad came back from Texas I noticed my Dad was not the same man. I spent a lot of time with him at the pool and doing different things each week.  He asked me to take him to the dr. I talked to my sister and it was arranged. I thought it might be his hearing...he was very distracted, inattentive and forgetful as well. We had to keep everything secret from my Mother.  It felt wrong but it was what my Dad wanted. Well at this point they think he has dementia but they have more tests to do. She found out the next day because he forgot and told her. She took him to my sisters to live.  He is really enjoying his freedom to watch TV, read books other then the bible, go to other churches ect.  He's been so happy and improved since on medication which won't cure but will slow things down. Yesterday my Mother called me to tell me and my sisters that we were all under the judgment of God.  We would be punished for bringing doctor's and medication into her home.  Dad can come back when he forgets medicine and trusts God. Am I supposed to say "sorry Dad you have to quit your med and go back.  Sorry if you forget to dress and feed yourself in a year..."  I love her and am trying to treat her with love and respect but listening to all those tapes are making it worse. Oh well that is part of our story. Thanks, - Lisa Aug 07 - I am sorting through what I was taught the first 25 years of my life. It is a frustrating and confusing process at times. In the end I know it will draw me closer to God. I want to have a correct understanding of who God is.  I attended a church in Milwaukee, WI that was heavily influenced by the teachings of FA.  I laugh as I read this blog as I can identify with so much people in my generation (I am 26) went through. There were a lot of negative repercussions from the teachings of this church. There was this enormous “book” of unwritten rules. This “book” was handed to new believers. They usually were frustrated within a year and left this church. They were still in love with Jesus but were frustrated with this church.  Similar to the Pharisees in Jesus time there was a lot of focus on the external. The only approved clothing for women was a jean skirt.  My brother was told he was going to hell for having his hair a little longer.  There was little room to be transparent and honest if you were struggling. There were some positive things too. I want to glean the positive truths and experiences that I had. The people were extremely generous to those in need. This small church would buy cars and food for those families who were struggling. I do not want to be bitter. I appreciate the people I grew up with. I am still serving the Lord. My wife and I have found an awesome group of believers. I am still processing a lot of what I grew up with. I am sure a lot of you can understand. Anyone can contact me if you have any further comments. 1 Cor 13 God bless, - Dave S. Aug 07 - Me and my (ex-husband) Bob attended Faith Assembly from 1979 to 1989 when we moved back to Massachusetts. We are (10) - 2 were still born children at the time. Tonia being the oldest to Matthew being the youngest at the time. I would welcome hearing from anyone who knew us at that time. We were very close to Rick and Marybeth, the Mansfield's, Jim and Ione Mennen's. I have a lot of mixed feelings about F.A.  Not really sure how I feel one way or another. I do know if greatly impacted out family in a negative way. I can't help but recall and take comfort in the verse.... "All things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose". - Shela Aug 07 - I was born in 1980 in my parents’ farm house in Indiana and into the Faith Assembly Cult. Even before I was born, the distance between my extended family and me was growing. At the church’s direction, my parents had withdrawn from their loving families, even succumbing to church chaperones at times when visits were absolutely necessary. The rifts have never healed and I did not ask for this. I understand now that my Dad is bipolar. For most of my life, though, there was no name for his bullying and abusive behavior which was unquestionably validated by leaders and members of the assembly because they perceived that he was God’s leader of our home. For some reason, the methods of men’s leadership seemed to escape scrutiny while the minutia of women’s submission was fair fame. The cult’s terrible instruction with regard to marriage ruined many families including mine and I did not ask for this. Like many others, my parents were concerned about sin developing in my life and I was beaten daily to prevent this. My dad liked to experiment with spanking different parts of my body because the Bible did not specifically forbid it. Mom and Dad were terrified of sending me to public school where I might form ideas they did not implant so I was home schooled which also had the added benefit of keeping me within the cult at all times. The beatings and the isolation had long lasting effects of tremendous fear and insecurities deep in my heart and I did not ask for this. My mother lost control of her body and, in some way, her mind when she entered the cult and fell under that umbrella of fear and legalism. Upon marrying my Dad, she promptly gave birth to five and then finally six children because she was taught that using birth control was a sin. She understood that her faith and even salvation would really be in question if ever she were to see a doctor. Even though she suffered from terrible dental, venous and emotional ailments, she did not seek medical help and so these went untreated for over 20 years. Serious bodily injury to my siblings and me went untreated and faith did not heal the wounds. Mom suffered deep physical and emotional scars at the hands of Faith Assembly and passed her confusion and pain onto her family and I did not ask for this. My parents became prominent members of their “church body,” but when they asserted disagreement with their leadership on theological questions, they were evicted without delay and, like some of their other dissenting friends, became the subjects of vicious questionnaires which were distributed throughout the cult for the purpose of discovering every possible sin they might have ever committed. They were stonewalled by their so-called “friends,” and left for hell. But, even after they left the church, they kept the legalism along with the bitterness and I did not ask for this. - D. July 07- I was only a kid when I was a member of Faith Assembly, but the effects of this "church" still remain fresh in my mind. I was not at the church in Indiana, but an offshoot in Cocoa, FL.  I never met Hobart Freeman, but other preachers in this clique graced us with their presence by coming and doing 'seminars.' There was Steve Hill, Bruce Kinsey, and Tom Hamilton that I can remember. The people in this church treated these pastors like rock stars, and thought of Freeman as a demigod.  When he died, there were people in our church who were crying. 'Your first marriage should be your only marriage.' If you divorce your spouse and re marry, you are still living in sin. This is what was taught. My parents were both divorced when they married. My sister and I were the result. When we started going to this church, my parents were told that they were living in sin, and should divorce, and reunite with their first spouses. My mom bought into this garbage, and divorced my dad, and began praying for her first husband to be returned to her. I was only 5 years old, and I was devastated.  I remember sitting on a tree stump in the apartment complex where my dad moved, bawling my eyes out, only to be told by my completely brainwashed mom that I was allowing a sprit of self pity get inside me. My dad was crushed as well. Still, he came to these church services to be with my sister and me. My sister was only 2, so she doesn't remember. Luckily, when I was around 19 or 20, my mom met a new man...a pastor, and he was able to pull her away from this cult. They were married, and I love him as a "second dad." The other one that effected my life negatively was the rule saying it was a sin to go to a doctor. When I was in third grade, I was bitten by a brown recluse in my armpit as I slept. It swelled up, and became infected, which led to gangrene. My mom refused to take me to a doctor.  I could have lost my arm. Also, my sister was severely sunburned over the course of one summer. Her face was severely disfigured in the areas around her nose.  She refused to take her to the doctor. One of my sister's friend's dad took my sister to the doctor, said that she was his daughter, and paid for plastic surgery for her. I only found this out around 3 years ago.  Also, there was a single mom with a very retarded son, around the same age as me. He couldn't even form a sentence, and basically had the mind of a 2 year old.  His mother refused to take him to a doctor, and every week at this 'church' he was brought in front of everyone, where they would lay hands on him, screaming for the 'demon' to leave him.  The kid was terrified every time.  I bumped into the 2 of them when I was 20, and the kid was still the same way. I held a grudge against my mother for a long time, but I have forgiven her.  So has my sister.  Overall, I blame Freeman for destroying my family, and taking my dad away from me. - Bill June 07 - Maybe I came across this information to make sense of what happened.  I’m from upstate NY, but settled off and on near Milwaukee, WI. After seeking a “Deeper Life in the Spirit” I came to Faith Assembly, and heard David Freeman many times.  I don’t remember if I every heard his father-in-law, Hobart speak, but I think I did. They always talked about him, that I do remember. I have tried to forget these years. I was a young mother married to an abusive man that used scripture to justify his actions.  Looking back, I can see how most of the other women were also held in this bondage.  No, birth control was allowed, so I had three children with this crazy man.  Most women in this church had several children.  The main couple that ran this ‘off-shoot’ location had eight children at the time that I left.  She was such an angry woman, I remember.  I can’t remember their names.  People sold their houses because of the scripture, “Owe man nothing but love.” Of course no one could seek medical help.  Seems so surreal thinking about it now.  Yes, people were shunned too…this I remember well. Toward the end of the 70’s, there was a couple that brought their daughter to church often.  It appeared that she was sick but no one was allowed to talk about it.  She later died in my friend’s living room and they prayed over her forever before she was taken away.  I left shortly after that and moved to Kansas City, where I now live.  Eventually, I was able to get away from my abuser but it wasn’t easy. I went through personal de-programming and became strong enough to seek help through the law.  I divorced him, but then had to raise a son with similar emotional issues.  Really, all three of my children with him have problems as adults.  I was bound by this man, because that’s what this church taught me.  Later, I went back to school, earned a BA and went on with a career as an advertising director. Now, my life has come full circle and I’ve left corporate life, developed a non-profit organization and spend much time in spiritual teachings. I disassociate with any so called, “Christian” These people scare me.  The “Freemanites” scare me more, and I don’t know why you defend them.  You are obviously male, and were not affected in the same way women and children were. - Maureen *Editor's note: I "defend" them because they were part of my life.  Both good and bad I learned from them, but God is good. June 07 - My mother was a member of Faith Assembly before I was born. She asked my father every Sunday to join her and he did not until I was 2 years old, that was the beginning of the end of my father on this earth. When I was 5, my mother was expecting my younger sister and my father decided that he would do something that had been eating at him for 3 years, as a diabetic, he would stop taking his insulin. He truly believed that God would cure him of his illness if he had the faith. during his last days my mother begged him to reconsider. He told her if she didn't believe, it wouldn't work. He died leaving a wife and several children behind. Being only 5, I did not know the gravity of what happened would have an effect the rest of my life. Our family finally left Faith Assembly when I was 9 along with many other members of the church who had lost family members or were too smart to stick around and wait for one of their family members to die. I do not remember or know my father because he listened to the teachings of a man that didn't believe that God works through people including doctors and nurses. I remember growing up in Faith Assembly when I was young and remembering that there was something wrong with this church and its people. For someone as innocent as a child to realize that was to know that this is not what God wanted. I always felt that no matter what I did I would be in trouble for it and God would punish me. I wanted to ask questions, but I was afraid that if I did, no one would listen to me and would reject my question as childish behavior. Who would have known that I was right to be weary of this church and its followers, this cult. As I have learned over the past few years, being a part of Faith Assembly at one time was a life lesson. It taught me to trust in God and Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, not to trust in a man (Hobart Freeman) or a church. I just wish this life lesson didn't come at the price of my father. Faith Assembly has forever tainted me and my family and I will remember every day of my life that this cult was the cause of much pain and regret for many many people. I pray that God gives the families that are still part of this cult the strength to leave and become a member of a church that doesn't alienate them from the communities that they are supposed to be witnessing to. - Joe May 07 - Wow! What a great message board. I was part of a body in Clinton, Iowa the time frame 1979 - 1982. Our teacher was Harry A. who was a Five Fold Minister who sat under Dr. Freeman's ministry. He traveled each week from FA to Clinton, IA to minister t us. My wife and I were in our mid twenties and we were introduced to Dr. Freeman's teachings. Two of our three children were born while we were there.  My wife and I trusted God with our children, job, health, finances, and lives.  God never let us down.  I thank God for Dr. Freeman's teachings and the level of detail that he put into all the theological teachings.  I spent hours and hours preparing for ministry.  During our time under the faith message I was called into ministry via a theophany. I conveyed this to Harry A. and he helped me to start preparing for ministry. What happened? The enemy brought offense into my life, questions, and my wife and I left the walk. Our hurt was so great the we stopped serving God. After 15 years of disobedience, with much chastisement, (we knew it was chastisement) the relationship with our Great God Jesus Christ was restored. Thank God. Where are we now? I didn't know if God could ever use me, or would he ever use me because of my past disobedience. God has assured that He forgives and helps us to get back up. At the age of 50, now for many years, I'm a Pastor of a church with about 130 members. We are Pentecostal bible believing church. Yes, God has called me into a five fold ministry, I'm doing my best with he help of the Lord Jesus Christ to fulfil my ministry. God's grace is so great. I don't know if I'll ever be able to be in another body like FA. But I thank God for FA, H. Freeman, Harry A., Steve H., B. Kinsey many others. To the ministers that God called while under Dr. Freeman's ministry, here is the scripture that Harry. A. gave me when I told him that Jesus had called me into the ministry: Colossian 4:17, "And say to Archippus (your name), Take Heed to the ministry which thou has received in the Lord, that thou fulfill it." God prepared every person who sat under Dr. Freeman's teachings for the end time. We may not understand everything now, but I know that Dr. Freeman is a positive influence in my life and ministry. I love everyone who was part of FA. We have ties to each other even if I don't know you all. In His Footsteps, - H. Shaffer May 07 - Dr. Hobart Freeman and Sister Freeman was real people of God.  I loved Faith Assembly and even to this day play messages of Dr. Freeman often.  We trust God for all healing and had (7) children at home by faith and now my wife has delivered more then 400 babies in faith plus 6 sets of twins and 48 breech babies at home. No Mothers has ever been lost. Many unkind things are said about Dr. Freeman and Faith Assembly that is untrue. This is often the case. But I can say to the glory of God Dr. Freeman and Faith Assembly has been a major blessing in my life.  Pastor Joe who is not the pastor of Faith Assembly has been very kind and often prayed the prayer of faith for our needs. - Dr. Michael C. May 07 - I was surprised and grateful to have found this posting on FA. I had searched a number of years ago, couldn't find anything - except Very negative attitudes towards FA and Br. Freeman. I was a member of a little church that started in MN. That taught and held to Br. Freeman's teachings for a little over 10 years. I experienced much of the growth and pains associated with the message being taught. In 1991 everything started to fall apart. I am saddened as to the number of close brothers and sisters still holding bitterness towards the message today. The sound knowledge Br. Freeman taught at the Glory Barn and FA I have found no equal. Personally I feel many did not take heed to Paul's warning in 2 Cor. 11:3 - minds corrupted from the simplicity of Christ. I agree with what you are saying and continue to seek the Lord daily. - JRS May 07- I have been reading, pouring over, actually, these comments from others who had the experience of all that Faith Assembly represented. I am 25 years old now, and attended FA with my family from my birth in 1981 until 1993, when we moved to Ohio. I believe that I have a very unique perspective on FA because I was a young girl and pre-adolescent when I really began to absorb and ascribe meaning to my experiences at FA. Home schooling, trips to the grocery store in my skirt, spending time with friends who I only met through FA, rules, laws and more rules. No room for grace or exploration or independent thinking. Sometimes I wonder: What would I be like now if I had not experienced that manner of upbringing? I recognize that I was so heavily influenced by the style of socializing that the FA family seemed to adhere to. When I was placed in public school at 12, I was terrified.  How does one make friends with the outsiders?  It was quite the uphill battle, with meager rations and little support. BUT, God is a gracious God who knows His children.  And He is faithful to ALL generations.  And He knows what I needed.  Today, I am blessed to have overcome the insecurities by His grace. *** If there is anyone age 20-28, born between 1978 and 1988, I would love to talk with you about the Faith Assembly experience. Thank you. - Angie F. May 07 - My time at Faith Assembly (in the mid-1970s) was just what the Lord had for me at that time. I retain many of my charismatic beliefs to this day. Unfortunately, problems came up in my personal life, and I found myself "on the outside looking in," after April 1975. God bless all the dear folk I worshipped with and that ministered to me. - Rick R. April 07 - My name is Bob Cox Sr. and a 74 yr old Canadian citizen. We (my wife & I) attended a group of people that originated out of Faith Assembly in a place called Haysville Ontario, In southern Canada. Our head speaker's name was Jerry E. In the late 1970's or early 80's. I'm sorry its been so long ago. I appreciate what you have said here, I must say I am in full agreement with what you have said concerning what it was really like. The teaching was great. I believe the problem was to many folk got into bondage and were more concerned with what others thought, than walking out their own faith in God. Too many had what I like to call...faith in faith, not faith in God. Anyway it took a while but my wife and I attend a Pentecostal church.  Our son that went with us is a pastor in a Pentecostal church, and all of our 5 children and most of our 15 grand children are born again believers in Jesus Christ.  One is also a pastor, so I have really nothing more to say than just thank God for the experience and the faith teaching we received in those days. And for God allowing good to come of it all, as far as my family is concerned. Thank you for the opportunity to share. - Bob & Anna Cox. April 07 - It's Derrick from down under once again. I last wrote to this website in Nov. of 2005. Your website remains both interesting and entertaining. I am interested in hearing from any one my age. Thanks - Derrick *editor's note - how old are ya Derrick? April 07 - Hi, it's Virginia from Australia again. I wrote on this site 21 July 2006.  I periodically look up this site to see what is transpiring.  Thought you'd be interested to know that I went to my first church meet in over 25 years and it was the 1st time I felt at home.  It's taken that long to even want to venture into another religious place. It was pleasant but the worship not great. The word was good.  The pastor preached on Jeremiah.  I thought to myself "Lord not this one" as it was one of the first teachings I recall hearing from Dr Freeman but I believe it was for a purpose.  It was to show me that other men of God can talk the Word of God and be inspired and receive truth too.  I always knew this but it was refreshing to see.  I will go again because of the Word as the worship didn't leave much to draw me again. I also want to say that divine healing and the analogy given on your talk back website from the link above about the good Samaritan and the wine and oil as healing items is so true. When you are away from the "Divine Healing Can Only Be Supernaturally" you see so clearly that God heals in all manner of ways.  I have experienced supernatural healing and I've also received healing from mans hands too because my body isn't supernatural yet.  One day it will be.  I can't help but think that all this effort to get healing a certain way takes us away from Jesus. I  hear people say that it brings them closer to God and Jesus but I don't see it that way.  If you are wrestling with what you should be doing then you don't have faith for that. Perhaps your bridge has holes in it, or worse still is not a bridge to the other side for healing.  When I walk on a bridge I take it by faith that it will hold me.  I test it first to make sure that it is built properly but I wouldn't step on a bridge if it appeared to be in disrepair or not build properly.  Would you?  I feel sometimes we have stepped out on a bridge to find it isn't built properly or is in disrepair.  We should run back to the edge and build the bridge.  If only some could see into the spiritual realm the bridge they are walking on is so poor that they need to run back to the edge or not venture out in the first place.  The bridge is our relationship with Jesus. As for the gentlemen who was laid up in bed with a bung knee.  I sympathise with you, as I too have had to have surgery on my knee because I smashed it and I know what it’s like to learn to walk again and to know that I might not ever walk like I did again.  Only you with the Lord can make the decision as to what you should do. It appears God is already trying to speak to you anyway.  I hope you listen.  Peace be with you all and the love of God and the fellowship of Jesus Christ. - Virginia April 07 - My husband and I listened to Hobart Freeman (Mike attended the Wednesday night and Sat. school) during the "Glory Barn" days. Steve Hill ministered in Bowling Green and we attended those meetings. We were so blessed; we received healings. Our son was born dead but Jesus raised him up. We have no regrets. Anything that we did was our decision and our choice. Life is good. We continue to love Jesus and walk in his Word and wonder what happened to all those folks that we used to worship with from Faith Assembly. Lord Bless You - Bev G April 07 - I attended faith assembly for 10 years and I'm thankful for all the teaching and the zeal that this church had most certainly was a move of God. I most certainly miss all the praise. Thank you - Francisco C. April 07 - Hello, I grew up in a church associated with FA in Findlay Ohio. I learned a lot there, both from the word, but also in life. Yes there was allot of legalism, and unloving behavior from members. (I was a bad kid because I wanted to wear a pair of jeans to roller skate in! It is more modest too!) But as I go back now and read or listen to what was taught, immature people ran with allot of what was being said and twisted it and even ignored key points he said like "if you don't have the faith, then don't stop taking your medicine". I left the church as a teenager because of a lot of it. My parents were divorced because of the church. The deception of the enemy tore my family up so bad and even today my brother's life is a mess, because of some of the people who treated him so ungodly. My aunt Lana died of ulcerative colitis in 2005 thinking she was going to hell because she called an ambulance right before she died because of the pain. She is not in hell, but heaven with Jesus. A deceptive spirit came in and lied to her. She did not learn that from Dr. Freeman. He never said anything like that. As the Word says..."raise up a child" so the word is true and when the Brownsville Revival came. It stirred my heart to turn back to God and I ran after Him hard since.  To a certain degree the word is not taught like that anymore in churches and that is sad, but I can also understand where people are coming from in their hurt from the people that attended those churches. There was no compassion, it was all doom and gloom, and spiritual pride! It came from the members, not from him. I have to go back to Romans 8, and look at all things work together for my good. Not some, ALL. God's promises are true for everyone. I would encourage anyone reading this who has a hurt to seek God about, it is important to Him. He will show you His heart in the matter and you will have peace that passes all understanding. Also treat others with a zeal of compassion. I hope that I have helped someone. God does not want you to hurt, He wants you to be healed of that hurt and show compassion to the world in this end time where the love of many is waxing cold. Remember people failed, not God or His word. (even Freeman failed but he was just a man) - Jennifer H. April 07 - I went to an offshoot of Faith Assembly in Canada for several years. During that time I believed the faith message to be true. I still do! The problem I found was that love was absent. I was deeply hurt by the church and put out of fellowship. Nobody would talk to me including my ex wife. Only my family would have any thing to do with me. At the time I believe our offshoot became a cult and were the only ones who had the truth. There was a long time in my life that I could not listen to Dr Freedman because I felt condemnation and fear As my life did not line up to what was been taught or so I thought. I still have some troubles believing some things and struggle with my relationship with the Lord. I believe that where we went wrong is that we stopped seeking Jesus as Lord and started to seek him as Santa Clause. I believe therefore I receive anything I want even if it is not Gods will for us. Sounds like the prosperity movement today. It has taken me many years to come to terms with the things we believed there. My brother sent me this web page and as I read some of the comments that were posted I really could identify with how many of you are feeling. God used this to get a hold of me and showed me the resident and bitterness that I have been carrying all these years towards Dr Freedman. I was able to forgive him and the Lord healed me of the bitterness and resentment. I am currently listening to Biblical Theology. Apart from what seems to come across as criticism I find that his messages are full of love. Dr freedman was a man who loved Truth and wanted others to have the same love of the Truth he did. I do not find many teachers today who love Truth and therefore do not teach it. I know that those of you who are still hurting, if you seek the Face of the Lord he will show you the truth and heal your hurting hearts. That is my prayer for you. - John L Feb 07- I read many of the comments - to the poster who said "It was the best of times - It was the worst of times" I have actually said that exact phrase quite often. I began attending a faith assembly satellite church in the very early 70's as a young teen and "seeing a positive change in my life" (her words) my mom began attending also. We went from once a week here in SW Michigan to wed, fri, sat & Sunday in Indiana. I miss the feeling of community and unity of the early days of faith assembly. And I most miss that innocent faith I once knew. In the last year one of my grandchildren was diagnosed with cancer which seemed to really open this scab up for me. As a person of faith you go to God when you are in need, but I can never have the innocent faith that I had in the 70's that God's answer is what I want for it to be. Wouldn't it be nice if we could storm the gates of heaven like an angry two year old and demand our will & get it? I remember standing at my friend A's & her stillborn child's grave service and forcing myself not to cry-I needed to be happy she was with Jesus. I truly understand now the meaning of choked up-I couldn't swallow without pain for days from forcing myself not to cry. That was the mid 70's. It wasn't the 1st FA death I witnessed but the pivotal one for me. I can't tell you how many of my friends in IN & MI have tied of absolutely treatable illness' (note to the person who has a hard time believing 90-I wish it were only 90!) In the 1990's I sat beside my mother as still a "true believer" she allowed herself to die of a treatable illness than compromise her belief system (in Fl.) I told her I would honor her choices-but it breaks my heart she never saw any of her grandkids graduate, has never had the opportunity to meet her 12 great grandchildren. I feel like I sat by while someone I loved committed suicide right in front of me and that I forced myself to say she is where she wanted to be with Jesus instead of having a hissy fit like I would like to now. Even a decade after leaving faith assembly I was still trying to die to self instead of admitting let alone expressing my own loss. Sometimes I wonder was it faith or stubbornness that led to our error? Well it's 2007 and yesterday I found out one more family member never breathed a breath from another botched home delivery. Will we never learn? Tom thanks for having this board, when I heard about the recent loss of yet again a life that never got a chance to be it's hard to explain to someone who wasn't there that it's a sadness for more than just one baby, there were just so many that never had a chance to live. In this case at least the mother made it though. - Anita Feb 07 - My journey with Jesus began when I was seven.  I gave my heart to Jesus in a small Baptist Church and was baptized. From the time I was very young I had a strong sense of God's love for me. But I still struggled with the flesh and I didn't know how to do battle or fight the sins of the flesh. So as a teen I got involved in the occult and with drugs etc. During my teen years I began to question if there was a God and I prayed if He were real to reveal Himself to me. To make a long story short I went to the Glory Barn in 1974 - where I experienced the power and anointing of God. I received the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and was totally sold on Dr. Freeman's teachings. I received deliverance from occult demons, I was taught about faith and the faithfulness of Jesus. I experienced miracles and healings in my life. Mainly my life was set on a straight and narrow path to follow Jesus no matter what the cost. I was encouraged to live a holy life and to trust God and to hear from Him for myself. I still had a very strong sense of Gods love for me. I experienced a greater depth and commitment to God that I don't think most Christians are aware of. We were challenged to go all the way with God and to not look back. This teaching delivered me from the world and all it's ways. That was good for me I needed it. I began to receive Dr. Freeman's tapes and tried to live this "holy" life. I gave up everything - my family and my education - to move from California to Indiana to sit under the "anointing". Hindsight is 20/20 and looking back I realize that during this time I lost the awareness of God's love and lived in fear. Fear of not having enough faith, fear of something bad happening to me and I couldn't go to the doctor, fear of deception, etc. The fear is very real and unless you've been through it you can't understand it. During this time I stopped reading the Bible and only listened to tapes - I actually shut down spiritually. I remember clearly Dr. Freeman's last message before he died. It is not recorded because he told everyone to turn off their tape recorders what he had to say was to the ministers. He severely rebuked the other ministers at FA and said he would do it all himself if he had too. That he would even lock the doors if necessary. I told myself that if he locked those doors I was out of here. That was the first time I dared to challenge Dr. Freeman in my thoughts. I also remember the day they announced his death and I imagined Dr. Freeman entering heaven into the loving arms of our savior and not being "hit over the head like he always hit us over the head." It took ten years to recover and to think clearly again. To trust and develop my own relationship with Jesus w/o Dr. Freeman. True healing began after I repented from all of my spiritual pride and self reliance. And yes there is life after FA and it's wonderful. There are a lot of wonderful men and women of God who are teaching the Word and I have been so blessed by them. And I don't regret all that I've learned from my experience with FA - both good and bad. Our walk with Jesus is a journey - He is the author and finisher of our faith. I don't understand everything and I don't have all the answers but I love Jesus and that He has taught me. One last thought - we were always taught that you know a "prophet" by their fruits. Well the fruit that Dr. Freeman left behind (during his latter years) was confusion, bitterness, betrayal, and death. History records several men of God who started out good and anointed but ended up doctrinally deceived and wayward - Dr. Freeman was not the first - and this is to be our lesson - to look only to Jesus as our guide and that we need each other - we are not to walk alone - we need each others love and prayers and support!!! That was FA greatest fault.  And yes "Grace" - where was the teachings on love and grace! One person does not have all the light.  Dr. Freeman was a gifted man and if he would have stayed in his gift and calling I don't think he would have hurt so many people. - Carol B. Feb 07 - If any one has a desire to hear CARL SEITZ recordings, I have them mastered on 2-cd" they include about 50-60 songs. One of the 2 cd's are from the original burnt recordings. The other one is from cassette burnt to cd, both copies are good.   Get in touch with Gene if you would like a copy of these. - Gene Cornell rccci@netzero.com Feb 07 - Hi Tom, why, after all these years, are we typing in searches for Faith Assembly?  For me, I like hearing from old "family" members so I come back to this site to read the testimonies.  Here is mine - Jesus saved me at 20 yrs of age in 1974.   2006 it marked 32 yrs of walking with Jesus. I was introduced to the ministry of Faith Assembly in 1976 by tapes. Moved from out west to attend FA in 1981. Brother Freeman died in 1984. Of my 32 yrs of walking with Jesus, only eight years was Brother Freeman alive for me to listen to. Of those 22 years, the last 14 years have been without attending "church" and I love my salvation more today than when I first believed!  I believe in those eight years I heard constantly the Word and was told to believe it and God is faithful to His Word. When I first began one promise I believed in was 1 Pet.1:5.  (Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time). Looking back over my 32 years, I now have and know it by experience.  What I learned in those 8 short years about trusting in His Word is exactly what we had to do!  We had to take it by faith.  We had no experience at the time. But the man we sat under did, and he labored to tell us that we can believe the Word too.  We had to take it by faith.  Now the man is gone but the Word is not.  Now we have some experience.  All these years we have been walking by faith.  Now Phil.1:6 is easy to believe. I will experience that promise as well. So here we are 22+ years later and some are still bitter, resentful, hurt, even hateful of the ministry they once praised. Were you following a man? When the man died, did your hopes and dreams die with him? Do you feel abandoned, let down and forsaken, because the one you were following is no longer here to lead you on? So naturally one could feel like that.  Forget the clay vessel. So it had flaws. So do I. The Word doesn't have flaws.  It doesn't matter now who was in the pulpit, the result God was after is this: that we would hear the word to believe His Word.  What did Hobart Freeman repeatedly try to tell us? To believe the Word! I heard that God was not a man that He should lie, that God will not alter the thing that He has spoken, and that His Word is forever settled in heaven so believe it. The most important thing I learned from the ministry of Faith Assembly was to believe what Jesus says. At times I have failed, given up, but He has not. So for me, it was what I was taught at Faith Assembly. Now the glory of Faith Assembly has withered. And the glory of a man is fading away. But thank God I heard that the Word endures forever! Be blessed saints in the Lord, - David l. Feb 07 - Thanks again, for this web site, Tom! I had visited a couple years ago but apparently did not leave a post, so this time I will. It does make my heart ache to read these stories of so much pain, suffering, and death that has been associated with Dr. Freeman's teachings and church. I attended the Lafayette "Body" from June, 1977 through 1988 when my wife (Pebba) and I moved to West Virginia under the assumption that was where we had been called to live and minister. While living away from the "Body" God was able to bring us back into a more realistic perspective on life and faith. Thanks to a loving United Methodist pastor and his wife and many others in the church and community we were able to get involved again in fruitful and productive Christain lives. Life was still not without it's troubles though: Peb had deeply suppressed emotional and physical pain re-surface. I had a hunting accident that almost killed me with infection as I stubbornly refused to submit to surgery for seven days. Again, because of the unconditional love of the people around us and thinking with the "brain God gave me" (as my grandmother always reminded me) I went in for the surgery and Peb sought help through Christian counseling. But again, these have not been "cure-alls". Life will always be challenging because that is how we grow. God is more interested in our character and spiritual/emotional healing than our physical healing and financial prosperity! We must NEVER give up loving God through loving others, no matter how different they are from ourselves! Pebba (now Debbie) and I are living in the Indianapolis area. Our two oldest daughters will graduate high school and college respectively, followed by our two oldest sons the following year, and then our youngest finishing high school in 2013!  I have also completed a masters degree in ministry from Indiana Wesleyan University. Debbie is still pursuing more health and healing through what she believes are God's "alternative" means, naturopathic remedies as well as faith and prayer. PS: We still listen to Carl Sites music once in a while as well as many of the old worship tapes from FA and Lafayette and Adams Mark, etc. It's hard to find anything else that compares! We miss and love all of you we met through the years at FA, Lafayette, Indy meeting, Zion Lake, Emmetten, etc. - Chuck D Jan 07 - Nice Website. I really wish Steve Hill would write a book about his experiences there. Steve is very well respected now and friends with many famous ministers including David and Greg Wilkerson to name just a couple. It seems he won't mention Hobart Freeman's name. Maybe he does privately. Anyway, here is the preface to the book that Steve should write. "Before there was Brownsville, or before there was Toronto, people were flocking from all over the world to a corn field in Indiana". I was one who came as a young single man and was grateful I got there just in time for the start of the Charismatic School.  I got a good Brethren-Baptist Seminary level education.   We used to have to stand in line outdoors in twenty below zero to get a good seat in the Glory Barn.  Like get there at 5 or 6 AM on Sunday morning. As to the many people there who Dr. Freeman was unable to control and to the many people who were following a man instead of the Word of God in spite of Dr. Freeman telling them not to do so.  We always had a saying for that. There was an upstairs auditorium in the barn and an overflow in the basement. We always said it was "those people sitting in the basement" who were doing all that bad stuff that Hobart wasn't really teaching. God bless you Tom. - Steve S. Jan 07 -  I find it interesting the number of times the words, spin-off, satellite, or some other name that taught the "faith message" is used. My fathers name and church have been grouped together with Faith Assembly for years.  My father was never a member of "FA" as it is referred to, nor was his church ever a part of FA. Dad and Mr. Freeman were friends.  They never agreed on everything. The same as you don't always agree with your friends on everything. He did respect Mr. Freeman, and agreed that the message of faith is a critical part of a deeper life with Jesus.  The church in Wyoming, and the pastor there, have never been a part of FA either. When the faith message first came out, it was when cassette tapes were new.  For the first time people could get their hands on a message without spending a lot of money on expensive equipment.  The ministers who preached the message of faith, were invited to preach all over.  It never made a church they taught at a satellite of FA.  People made assumptions based on the message being taught.  They also made assumptions based on others opinions (instead of their own convictions), whether from the pulpit or otherwise. I am sorry for the pain and wrecked lives, which came from bad decisions or fear of reprisal.  I'll say this, in all the water that has passed under the bridge, God has never failed to keep His word.  Only man can fail God.  Gods word is still true and always will be.  Life is never without scars.  God has been faithful to me always.  I have made and lost friends because of who my father is all my life.  God has never stopped being a friend, and I'll never stop being his, because of what someone else does or says.  We all are required to live according to His entire word, not just the dramatic parts.  No one ever said Christianity would be easy.  Only that the reward for faithfulness to God is beyond description. - Jim H .../Continue onto 2006 and earlier comments. 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