LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- A group that claims the Jehovah's Witnesses cover up child molestation incidents is planning protests Sept. 27 at the denomination's world headquarters.
Silentlambs, a victim support group based in Benton, Ky., is organizing the rallies in New York City and elsewhere, according to The Associated Press. The Witnesses "disfellowshipped," or excommunicated, Silentlambs co-founder William H. Bowen this summer.
Bowen, a former elder, alleges that child molestation is widespread within the denomination. The Witnesses won't let victims warn other members about abusers in their congregations and shun those who speak out about the problem, Bowen claims.
J.R. Brown, spokesman at Witnesses headquarters, declined comment. Previously, denominational leaders have insisted they comply with state laws requiring them to report abuse claims.
