I have been lurking here since the board changed. I would occasionally post on the old board, but haven't registered here until today. I haven't figured out how this whole thing works, don't have an avatar, don't know about the emoticons, etc, but just felt I have to reply quickly to what I feel is a mischaracterization of BSF that disturbs me very much.
First, I TOTALLY understand the OP's position and can understand why she is upset. But the overall characterization of BSF based on an article found on the internet is the total opposite of what I have seen in 11 years in BSF. I believe Rhonda in TX would agree with me. My husband and I have each attended BSF for 11 years, each of us in two different classes. He has also attended classes in other cities when he travelled for work. We have also both been Discussion Leaders at different times. Our two daughters have also attended the Children's Program, our oldest just completed her ninth year and graduated this year. My husband and I both believe the Lord has used this Bible study to grow our entire family spiritually in a wonderful way. I could go on and on addressing the issues raised, but I found this article which covers everything I would want to address in the "watch.pair" article linked by Betty. http://www.jade.net.nz/blog/archive/2005_04_01_archive.html#111418717029288055
Rhonda, I hope you receive an answer that helps you from BSF Headquarters:grouphug: and will pray this for you. I am just concerned that BSF has been portrayed as a rigid, rule driven, cold, and secretive organization. It is the total opposite. Their goal it to teach people all over the world to study God's Word for themselves. I would be willing to bet the epi-pen rule was put into place because of something that happened in one of the almost 1,000 classes world-wide.
I just don't want any one who is looking for a Bible study to not check BSF out for themselves because of something they read here.
Mary in VA