JWs, your advice?

Question

Had a discussion with a neighbor yesterday, who asked if we'd seen a man walking about and knocking on doors -- presumably JW, as he had pamphlets of some sort and was conservatively dressed. But he was by himself (it's my understanding that those in field service go out in pairs) and when she spoke with him, he said couldn't leave literature with her unless she made a $5 donation; she declined. He asked "what about your neighbors, would they be interested in learning the truth?", meaning us; she said she had no idea but she knew we were Catholic. He hasn't showed up here yet.

The thing is, I know the local hall has already made some kind of notation about us (probably "don't even bother") because after a couple of visits early on when I explained politely that we weren't interested, no JW team has come back. So I'm wondering now if this man is really JW or has quite another purpose for going door-to-door and just assumes the persona. Your thoughts? What to do, if anything?

I should probably add that according to my neighbor, the man used the term "Jehovah God" in his brief conversation with her ... thus the presumption that he was, or wanted to convey that he was JW.

Answer 1

Not a JW. We make no requirements of donations to leave literature with people. And we usually go to all the doors - and I've never asked someone if they think their neighbor is interested, I just go try the neighbor's door to see and let them speak for themself....hmmm.....
I will say recently we had a local church come to the neighborhood - they were only handing out pamphlets, though. I can't say I remember what religion they were - some sort of baptist church I believe. But again, they didn't require any donation, they were trying to invite the locals to their program. I think I've even had Mormons come to my door in the past, but they really don't seem to be trying to teach anything, just trying to get people to join in.
My thoughts/guess - someones out of work and trying to get easy money.
We hardly ever go it alone - safety, etc.
Even if they used the term Jehovah - I stand by the no donation is required for our literature statement. If he comes to your door and you're willing to talk to him, ask him his name and religion. If he is really "requiring" a donation - I don't see how he could be a JW.
Something's fishy.

Answer 2

Thanks for asking. I would say NO. The only concievable way it can be a Witness is if it was someone just learning about us, who got a little ahead of himself and was wanting to share but was doing it wrong. Asside from that fluke, I doubt it. As you clearly seem to know, we would NEVER deny someone literature over money.

As for what we put down if someone doesn't want us to return, we usualy mark it, Do not call. There might be a small notation on why the person asked, or the person's name so we know that if "Mr.Smith" has moved, then we should say hello to the new tenant.

I have noticed more and more on Y!A people like to use the name Jehovah to try to give credance to what they say or at the very least to make others think they are Witnesses.

Whatever you do, PLEASE, NEVER let someone make you feel preasured to give money if you don't want to.

If you would be so kind, please call the local Kingdom Hall and let them know about this person.

Have a nice day.

Answer 3

For over a year, sincere contributers here at Yahoo Answers have mentioned the seeming likelihood that impostors occasionally masquerade as Jehovah's Witness door-to-door ministers. Some impostors might merely be interested in soliciting fraudulent "donations", but it seems possible that others may be "casing" homes for future robbery. Actual Witnesses do neither of those things.

A handful of these "ministers" may actually recognize their Christian obligation to preach, but perhaps do not want to embarrass their own church's reputation.

Learn more:
http://watchtower.co.uk/e/jt/index.htm?article=article_04.htm

Answer 4

This guy is out to make some money.Jehovah's witnesses never deny people literature if they do not donate. We will leave the magazines if the person wants to read them. If you see this guy again, call the cops!

Answer 5

This person is an Imposter!Jehovah's Witnesses do not
solicite.They will accept donations, if offered, to defray
printing costs.Their message is one of hope,and truth.

Answer 6

I know for certain it was not Jehovahs Witnesses we do not charge for our literature nor is a collection plate ever passed at any of our meetings I know it was an impostor. Gorbalizer

Answer 7

keep the doors locked and 911 on speed dial...