Souvenir Notes — Convention, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (1966)
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C. N. E.
GRANDSTAND
JUNE 22-26
SPECIAL ISSUE Let's Clear Up Some Misunderstandings
In all probability, Jehovah's Witnesses have been among the most misunderstood and misrepresented religious group in modern times. Although they do not expect everyone to agree with their views, they do feel, as with any religious group, that it is vital to have the correct position presented. So the following, directed to one of Jehovah's Witnesses, is presented in question and answer form to clear up some common misunderstandings. A conversation between a householder and Witness might go as follows:
HOUSEHOLDER: "IS IT TRUE THAT JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES ARE A FUNDAMENTALIST GROUP?"
A fundamentalist is of the belief that every word in the Bible, including highly symbolic expressions of various prophecies as contained in the book of Revelation, is literal in application. Jehovah's Witnesses do not accept this view since the Bible uses symbolic expressions and Jesus himself gave the meaning of many of the illustrations that he used. Hence, they are not a fundamentalist group."
WITNESS: "Many people make the mistake of considering Jehovah's Witnesses a fundamentalist religion. A fundamentalist is generally recognized as a person who takes the Bible as an absolutely literal book, without allowing for symbolic meanings or the use of illustrations. As an example, Revelation 12:3 (NW) taken literally presents a problem, for it reads: 'And another sign was seen in heaven, and, look! a great fiery-colored dragon, with seven heads and ten horns and upon its heads seven diadems.' Hardly could a literal dragon with seven heads and ten horns be referred to by the inspired writer. In fact, he clears up the matter by starting out with referring to it as a 'sign'. Later, verse 9 that follows clarifies who the dragon is by stating it is 'the original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth.' So the Bible explains its reference often in another passage and in this instance, the dragon is correctly understood to be Satan the Devil.
HOUSEHOLDER: "WELL THEN, IS IT PROPER TO SPEAK OF JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES AS A MODERNISTIC GROUP?"
WITNESS: "No. The whole trend of modern theology is to reject the historical accounts of the Bible as being myths or fables. However, the historical accounts, such as that of creation, have been proved true beyond denial. The detailed accuracy of the Bible's accounts concerning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, the Noachian flood and many others check out with archaeological finds and in numerous other ways are proven true. We accept the entire Bible as the inspired Word of God."
Jesus' reference to the flood, the ark and Noah at Matthew 24:37, 38 as actual happenings is apparent for he said: "For just as the days of Noah were, so the presence of the Son of man will be."
HOUSEHOLDER: "IS YOUR SUNDAY MORNING DOOR-TO-DOOR MINISTRY ARRANGED PURPOSELY SO AS TO DRAW PEOPLE AWAY FROM ATTENDING CHURCH?"
WITNESS: "Definitely not. Sunday morning just happens to be the time when most of Jehovah's Witnesses are free to engage in the public ministry and it is proven to be a time when we find most people at home. Our interest in calling at the homes is in obedience to the command of Jesus recorded at Matthew 24:14: 'This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.' In that the Bible recommends love for our neighbor, it is a loving gesture on our part to call at that time to share this message with them. We believe very
firmly that God's kingdom will bring life, health, peace and happiness to this earth, and that it will last forever. We feel many have that interest in mind, too, and would like to learn what the Bible has to say about it."
HOUSEHOLDER: "WHY DO YOU SEND YOUR CHILDREN DOOR TO DOOR WITH THOSE MAGAZINES? IS IT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR SYMPATHIES?"
WITNESS: "No, we do not wish to take advantage of our neighbor. Rather, we have a scriptural obligation to train cur children according to Bible principles. This is a matter of being balanced and we must train our children as youths for what we want them to be as adults. A parent who wants his child to be proficient in music generally starts when the youngster is only two or three years of age. We want our children to be a blessing to their fellow man and able to make a contribution to the community by right conduct. When they call with The Watchtower or Awake!, they are being both trained and at the same time learning that part of life is helping other people. More than anything else, they are learning to worship the Almighty God Jehovah. If they
are engaged in activities of this kind, they will not be posing problems as juvenile delinquents. HOUSEHOLDER: "AREN'T YOU A NEW SECT OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY?"
WITNESS: "A sect is a section or division from another group, so it would be inaccurate to refer to Jehovah's Witnesses as a sect since they have not broken off from some other religious group. The first 'Witness' mentioned in the Bible is Abel (Hebrews 11:4-32; 12:1) and those faithful to Jehovah God since then are also referred to as faithful Witnesses. At Isaiah 43:10-12 the name is stated as follows: 'You are my witnesses,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'even my servant whom I have chosen . . . I am Jehovah, and besides me there is no savior . . . So you are my witnesses, is the utterance of Jehovah, and I am God'. Hardly would one refer to the only religion mentioned by name in the Bible as being a new religion. At Revelation 3:14 Jesus is also referred to as the "faithful and true witness", and he said to his true followers: "You will be witnesses of me . . . to the most distant part of the earth."—Acts 1:8 (NW).
"The modern-day history of Jehovah's Witnesses goes back to the latter part of the 19th century and its official journal, The Watchtower, has been in continuous publication for the past 87 years."
HOUSEHOLDER: "I AM TOLD THAT YOU PEOPLE ARE FANATICS!"
WITNESS: "Webster's dictionary defines a 'fanatic' as one who is unreasonably enthusiastic or overly zealous.' This is not true of Jehovah's Witnesses because they are reasonable in their approach and belief in their religion. They are more zealous than other religious groups but it is within reason in that each Witness engages in the ministry to the extent that his personal circumstances allow. Some are able to spend only a few hours a month in the ministry, whereas others are able to devote many more. Although they call upon people of other faiths and put forth much more effort than many others do, they do not do so at the expense of neglecting their
own family responsibilities and the caring for financial needs and household duties or recreational pursuits within the family. They are a happy, normal people that have full faith in God's Word.
"To term Jehovah's Witnesses as fanatics would mean Jesus, the apostles and early Christians were fanatics. Rather, they were dedicated to the carrying out of their Heavenly Father's will and Jehovah's Witnesses seek to do the same as modern-day conscientious Christians. I hope that some misunderstandings have been cleared up in your mind."
What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe?
WHO IS GOD?
The Almighty God is Jehovah. His name is found at several places in the AUTHORIZED (KING JAMES) VERSION Bible including Exodus 6:3 and Psalm 83:18. In the original Hebrew text the name "Jehovah" occurs over 6,900 times.
Jehovah is not a nameless God any more than his Son is a nameless Messiah. By his name Jehovah he is distinguished from all the pagan gods of heathendom.
WHO IS JESUS CHRIST?
WHO ARE JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES?
Jesus Christ, a created individual, is the second greatest personage in the universe. Jesus was formed countless millenniums ago as the first and only direct creation by his father, Jehovah. (Colossians 1:15-17) Because of his proved, faultless integrity, Jesus was appointed by Jehovah as his Vindicator and Chief Agent of Life toward mankind. (Ephesians 1:20-23); Philippians 2:9, 10; Acts 4:12) Jesus is Jehovah's Chief Witness and is so called at Revelation 3:14, "the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation by God."
A witness is one who has knowledge of a fact and tells others about it. Like Jesus, whose name in Hebrew means "Jehovah is salvation", so do the modern Witnesses of Jehovah proclaim Jehovah's identity as the one Almighty God. They proclaim his mighty acts. They teach his Word as the only true guide to godly living. And, like their commander and leader, Jesus Christ, the modern Witnesses of Jehovah devote their lives to his service and their testimony to his Kingdom.
True worship means to have and to exercise accurate knowledge of the one true God Jehovah and his Son, Christ Jesus. (John 17:3) To experience the ransom from death to everlasting life, a human must
WHAT IS TRUE CHRISTIAN WORSHIP?
recognize and acknowledge the following:
THAT the life of Jehovah's only-begotten son was transferred to the womb of a virgin, was born and grew up as a man. — John 1:14.
THAT during his earthly life he proved his integrity to his heavenly Father and offered his life as a ransom for the sin and death brought on by Adam's rebellion.
THAT in order to receive the gift of everlasting life, the individual must accept the ransom merit of Christ's sacrifice as the only means of salvation, "for there is not another name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved". Acts 4:12.
WHAT IS THE TRUE CHURCH?
The true church has Christ at its head. He is its Foundation Stone or Rock. No man has that position. Those composing the church are built upon that rock, "built up upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, while Christ Jesus himself is the foundation cornerstone." Ephesians 2:20.
Thus, the church consists of 144,000 associates with Christ, resurrected to the heavens as kings and priests with him. (Revelation 14:1) This group, having been selected out from among men as "a people for his name" since Pentecost until the present, makes up the church which is a body of Christians, not a building.
ARE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH BODY THE ONLY
They are the only ones to receive immortal, spirit life. However, besides this "little flock", Jesus declared, "And I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; those also I must bring, and they will listen to my voice, and they will become one flock, one shepherd." John 10:16.
So, with the church class
there is associated a "great crowd", a multitude of men and women of all nations. Today these are participating in the preaching of this good news of the kingdom. Their hope is for life on earth. The Bible foretells a "new earth" as well as a "new heavens".—2 Peter 3:13. WHAT IS THE MAIN THEME
WHAT IS THE MAIN THEME OF THE BIBLE?
The main theme of the Bible is the Kingdom of God. The first book of the Bible (the first two chapters) tells about the creation and establishment of Paradise, and (in the third chapter) of how Paradise was lost through rebellion in Eden. The last book of the Bible (particularly the last three chapters) tells about Paradise restored.
The medium used by Jehovah for this restoration and the vindication of his name and sovereignty is the Kingdom in the hands of his Son, Christ Jesus.
IS THE SERIOUSNESS OF OUR DAY?
We are living in the time of the consummation of the present system of things. Christ showed that his second presence and his taking of Kingdom power would mean turning his attention to the earth and that he then would abolish Satan's system of world government. The "sign of Christ's presence" would be the cumulative visible evidences that Christ is invisibly exercising Kingdom power and these have been evident since the outbreak of World War I in 1914.
Paul prophesied concerning these last days saying that they would be critical and hard to deal with because men would be selfish, haughty, blasphemers, fierce, proud, lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God. 2 Timothy 3:1-4.
WHO CAN SURVIVE THE END OF THIS SYSTEM OF THINGS?
This system of things will end at the "war of the great day of God the Almighty" called in the Scriptures, "Armageddon". At this time, Jehovah's executive officer, Christ Jesus, will lead
invisible forces of righteousness to destroy Satan's human organization, eliminating wickedness from the earth and vindicating Jehovah's universal sovereignty. Revelation 16:14-16.
It does not mean, for example, the destruction of this planet or of all life upon it. Ecclesiastes 1:4 explains, "but the earth is standing even to time indefinite." The end of this system of things means the end of this present worldly order under Satan's rule.
Those who exercise faith in Jehovah God and publicly proclaim the truth, thus receiving God's favor, can survive Armageddon and find themselves directly on the road to life on earth in the new order that will replace this present one. The first 1,000 years of the new order is termed 'the millennial reign of Christ':
WHAT BLESSINGS WILL THE MILLENNIUM BRING?
The uplifting of mankind to human perfection during Christ's reign will enable them to bring forth children and rear them in righteousness as well as to subdue and beautify the earth. None will oppress his neighbor and no individual will profit from another's labor, for "they will not build and someone else have occupancy". Nor will their children be brought forth for trouble, "because they are the offspring made up of the chosen ones of Jehovah, and their descendants with them". — Isaiah 65:21-23.
God's Word assures us that all men will then be united in one true worship; that "the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah, as the waters are covering the very sea." (Isaiah 11:9) Under this new order there will gradually be no more sorrowing, weeping or pain. Even death will be no more because Christ "must rule as king until God has put all enemies under his feet. As the last enemy, death is to be brought to nothing." Revelation 21:1-4; 1 Corinthians 15:25, 26.
What This Convention Means To You
The problems of living in this second half of the twentieth century are not confined to any one group.
The rise of crime, the plague of delinquency, the corruption of government; these are threats to the welfare of all the people, no matter what faith they confess. There is a common ground of interest to all people in any activity that makes a forthright appraisal of and attack upon these universal problems. No one conscious of the need for correction of these issues can afford to disregard any areas of potential improvement.
Let us consider some of the practical questions of the day
to which we all need an answer:
IS THERE ANY USEFUL PURPOSE TO BE SERVED IN TRYING TO PROMOTE BIBLE PRINCIPLES OF MORALITY IN A WORLD WHERE THE "NEW MORALITY CODE" APPEARS TO BE THE ACCEPTED NORM?
The happy faces of these Christians proves true joy and unity are attainable. You can experience this joy and love by being present at the C.N.E. Fairgrounds, June 22-26.
It is commonly argued that Bible principles of chastity and morality are really outmoded. A clergyman recently stated when questioned about premarital sex relations, "I probably would say go ahead. I don't know if it's got God's blessing but it's got mine." With even churchmen withdrawing support from Bible principles of morality how can we hope to have them respected? How much chance is there of preserving them? Are they worth preserving?
May we illustrate:
Stealing has been condemned by the Bible, yet there is still plenty of stealing going on. Would it be reasonable to
The history of nations proves the contrary. Great powers such as Babylon and Rome flourished during the period when families were kept together and morality was respected. When vice and shameless licentiousness sapped the vitality of the people, their governments went into a decline and eventually perished. The so-called "new morality
morality. And so society becomes increasingly burdened with a fringe population, never quite capable of caring for itself or becoming established.
When you look at the rounded-out picture of the evils that come from disregarding God's laws of morality, do the Bible rules really seem so impractical?
In fact they make sense.
DELINQUENCY AT BOTH THE ADULT AND JUVENILE LEVEL IS A MAJOR PROBLEM OF THE DAY. WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT?
Delinquency is defined as "failing in duty." At the juvenile level it is seen in mounting figures of crime, violence and irresponsibility. "The world owes me a living" is a commonly accepted concept.
prove not to lower our standards.
Jehovah's Witnesses as a group prove that delinquency can be defeated by adherence to Bible principles.
Come and see for yourself at this convention a group of clean, responsible and serious juveniles who are a pleasure to be with. Family training and discipline speak for themselves by the visible results. They
contend that since theft has never been eliminated, there is no point in trying to maintain laws against theft? Since theft is common should we now make it a lawful and acceptable practice?
Obviously our economic system could not carry on if theft and dishonesty, especially in government, were ever sanctioned. So the fact that a certain requirement of law and morality is frequently violated is not a very sound reason for abandoning it.
The same is true of sexual morality. While the Biblical rules are by no means generally observed, this does not prove that they are not the proper rules.
code" is hardly new when history shows it was the same pattern of morality that ruined Rome 16 centuries ago. It is really an old and discredited product repackaged and labelled "new".
At the personal level, sexual immorality has led to spiralling figures for venereal diseases, especially among teen-agers. High school pregnancies have reached the point of overcrowding all facilities for their care. Consider the toll in broken lives of these young women. And what about the thousands of unwanted babies born to live out their lives in orphanages and foster homes. As they get older they often adopt the same delinquent pattern of im-
That is the purpose of this convention: to talk sense, to look at practical reality. To avoid the reams of sophistry and double talk whereby the public is confused into thinking that there is no black and white; that everything has so many shades of gray that right and wrong no longer exist.
Jehovah's Witnesses take a firm and unyielding position in favor of the only real solution, God's righteous principles of moral cleanliness. You will be encouraged and strengthened by being present at frank discussions of these problems and hearing the remedy expounded. It is worth your while to be present.
condemned, let us not lose sight of the fact that "failing in duty" is not confined to the young. How much can one expect of the young when older ones set a bad example?
Before people, whether young or old, can be shown where they are delinquent (failing in duty) there must be recognition of the existence of "duty". "Duty" is not confined to strict legal requirements. There are principles of honesty, decency and straight dealing which are personal duties best remembered and adhered to by a sense of personal responsibility to an ever-living and all-seeing God. His requirements and right principles are a constant uplift, a reminder of the need to imhave been taught what "duty" means.
Similarly among the adults. You will find here intelligence and quiet efficiency that has become a byword in every city where a large convention of Jehovah's Witnesses is held. No collection is ever taken up and no entrance fee is charged. Yet everything is done smoothly, rapidly and without fanfare. They are not "failing in duty."
Come and see for yourself this vital and unusual demonstration of faith and the practical value of adhering to God's Word.
This convention has something for you as an honest and serious member of society.
What Jehovah's Witnesses have done for you
Those Canadians who have been close to the matter of development of civil liberties in this country recognize that the enactment of the Canadian Bill of Rights is in large measure due to the untiring efforts of Jehovah's Witnesses to keen open the right of
ship was another decision that protected freedom of press and of worship.
ada. Professor Frank Scott of McGill University, in his book CIVIL LIBERTY AND CANADIAN FEDERALISM
The same writer said also, "Five of the victims whose cases reached the Supreme Court of
freedom of expression. Their struggle in Quebec during the decades of the 1940's and 1950's brought home to thinking Canadians the need of better protection for their freedoms.
The TORONTO DAILY STAR said concerning the Bill of Rights: "That teeth are needed is obvious when one considers the long battle that has had to be fought for freedom of religion - for example in the case of Jehovah's Witnesses."
The battle reached its height following World War II when over 1,600 cases were fought in a ten-year period. When the attacks on the freedoms of Jehovah's Witnesses were at their height, there was no Bill of Rights to protect them.
Protection for Civil Liberties
Since Parliament declined to take any action, Jehovah's Witnesses fought through the courts to protect their own liberties. Time and again appeals were taken through all the courts to the nation's highest tribunal, the Supreme Court of Canada.
The first major case was Boucher v. The King, which
arose out of a charge of seditious libel. The case was argued twice in the Supreme Court and resulted in a decision in favour of Jehovah's Witnesses that overruled and made obsolete the principles set out in all the standard legal references. So important was the victory that Dean Bowker, head of the University of Alberta Law School, stated: "A judgment like Boucher v. The King is worth a dozen declarations of the right of free speech."
Hard on the heels of the above case came the decision in Saumur v. Quebec, where the Supreme Court again maintained the argument of Jehovah's Witnesses and granted an injunction against a censorship bylaw of the City of Quebec that demanded that religious literature be approved by the chief of police before it could be distributed. This injunction against censor-
v. Romain, Jehovah's Witnesses again successfully appealed to the Supreme Court, and the Quebec Provincial Police were roundly condemned for interfering with freedom of assembly and freedom of worship.
The unbroken string of victories continued in the next appeal, Lamb v. Benoit, where the Supreme Court condemned unlawful and discriminatory police action. In a second decision rendered the same day (January 27, 1959), Maurice Duplessis, dictatorial premier of Quebec, was condemned personally to pay damages and costs totalling over $50,000 to one of Jehovah's Witnesses whose business had been ruined as a result of Duplessis' unlawful act of cancelling a license. Duplessis died in September, 1959, shortly after paying the penalty imposed.
The value of these decisions and of the courageous stand of Jehovah's Witnesses has been warmly recognized by leading constitutional authorities in Can-
ADIAN FEDERALISM, discusses the above case of Lamb v. Benoit: "The Lamb case is merely another example of police illegality, but it is part of the dismal picture that has too often been exposed in Quebec in recent years. Miss Lamb, another Jehovah's Witness, was illegally arrested, held over the week end without any charge being laid against her, not allowed to telephone a lawyer, and then offered her freedom on condition she sign a document releasing the police from all responsibility for the way they had treated her. When reading such a story one wonders how many other innocent victims have been similarly treated by the police but have not had the courage and the backing to push the matter through to final victory—in this instance 12 1⁄2 years after the arrest had taken place. We should be grateful that we have in this country some victims of state oppression who stand up for their rights. Their victory is the victory for us all."
Canada in the last decade, and who have contributed so greatly to the clarification of our law were Jehovah's witnesses." Another legal commentator writing in the FACULTY OF LAW REVIEW, University of Toronto, described Jehovah's Witnesses as "the group most responsible for buttressing the privileges of citizenship."
It becomes clear from statements of recognized authorities that Jehovah's Witnesses, as a minority, fighting against great odds, have by their courageous stand made a major contribution to Canadian freedom, and their victory is a victory for the liberty of the people of Canada. Freedom of worship, press, speech and assembly have all been protected through the cases of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Never underestimate the contribution of a religious minority that sticks to principles. The very Bill of Rights, which is a protection to all Canadians, has largely resulted from the work of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Covering two city blocks, the two factories nine and thirteen storeys high, are joined at the sixth floor by a bridge that spans the street and have a combined floor space of 354,000 square feet. In addition to 18 large rotary presses, they house many smaller printing presses, linotypes, ludlows, material makers and other composing room equipment; graphotype and mailing machines, direct-pressure matrix machines and complete plate-making equipment and bindery facilities. Manned only by volunteer workers, this equipment last year produced 901,209 Bibles; 4,774,-406 books; 10,732,513 booklets; 154,805,296 advertising leaflets and 90,978,333 tracts, calendars and miscellaneous printing.
THE two large red-brick buildings (upper right) are located at 124 Columbia Heights in Brooklyn, New York. They cover the better part of two city blocks and are 12 stories high. These buildings house the world headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses and the "Bethel Home", residence of about 700 men and women who are engaged full time in the Watch Tower Society's educational work. Every resident is an ordained minister who has dedicated his life to God's service. They receive their meals and lodging at Bethel, and all, regardless of their assigned duties, receive a $14 a month allowance for personal expenses.
Administrative offices, from which the work of 1,034,268 ministers of Jehovah's Witnesses is directed through 96 branch organizations in 197 countries and islands throughout the world, are in the building at the left (rear). World statistics for 1965 list 24,158 congregations. The L-shaped building at the right was built as an annex to the other structure in 1960 to care for the rapid expansion of the preaching work. To reach the entrance, one enters through a wrought-iron gate and proceeds down a 125-foot walk that leads through a beautiful garden decked with a profusion of multi-colored flowers. The name "Bethel" means "House of God".
Leaving the skyscrapers of lower Manhattan to enter Brooklyn, either by the Manhattan or Brooklyn Bridges, one will see the two large cream-colored, green-trimmed buildings shown immediately above with the unusual signs, "Read THE WATCHTOWER and Awake!" and "READ GOD'S WORD THE HOLY BIBLE DAILY." Ideally located, overlooking the New York harbour and close to the best shipping facilities in the world, and where they can be seen by thousands of persons every day, these printing factories of Jehovah's Witnesses daily produce hundreds of thousands of Bibles, books and magazines. In addition to their work as teachers, most of those who live at "Bethel" work here.
"HE THAT RECEIVES YOU RECEIVES ME ALSO, AND HE THAT RECEIVES ME RECEIVES HIM ALSO THAT SENT ME FORTH." (from Jesus' instruction to the first Christian missionaries as recorded at Matthew 10:40.)
Officially recognized in 1953 by the United States Office of Education in Washington D.C. as offering "higher education comparable to professional colleges and educational institutions," the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead (Gilead means "Heap of Witness") had already been in operation ten years at South Lansing, near Ithaca, New York. During this time more than two thousand missionaries had already been "sent forth", as in Jesus' day, to carry the message of his kingdom all over the world.
In addition to the above, the 18 rotary magazine presses printed 141,412,715 copies of THE WATCHTOWER and Awake! magazines, consuming 9,898 tons of paper and 157 tons of ink in the process. The fact that Bibles and literature are produced in 164 languages further emphasizes the worldwide activity of Jehovah's Witnesses.
The lighter motorists who pay Most know that 'some know that in Tract Society of men and women dining room and the staff work in other literature high-speed rotary Awake! each mon branch also print monwealth county actual preaching directed by the registered of dents Association in Canada.
Addressing the 100 students who formed the first class, the president of the Watchtower Society, N. H. Knorr, on February 1, 1943, in commenting on the above text said in part: "The course of study at the college is for the exclusive purpose of preparing you to be more able ministers in the territories to which you go . . . Your principal work is that of preaching the gospel of the Kingdom from house to house as did Jesus and the apostles. When you shall have found a hearing ear, arrange for a back-call, start a home (Bible) study, and organize a company of all suchlike ones in a city or town . . . you must help them to understand the Word, strengthen them . . . when they are strong and can go on their own and take over the territory, you can depart to some other city to proclaim the Kingdom."
In 1961 when the school was moved to the world headquarters, 3,638 students from 95 countries had completed its five month course and had been sent to more than 100 different countries. In the course of years they were joined by literally thousands of fellow ministers who responded to the message. The above picture taken at the school is representative of the international nature of the classes.
Jehovah's Witnesses last year conduct Bible studies every week in homes of intersons. The number of ministers engaged in had increased from 570,694 in 1955 to 1,03 ing the 12-month period 64,393 new Wit ters were baptized and the organization h 171,247,644 hours in calling from house making 59,165,475 return visits on interest
Like first-century Christians, the story ofaries of Jehovah's Witnesses is one of the spite persecution and martyrdom. Many ouates of the Watchtower School of Gilead fered persecution, mob action and imp Some have sealed their faith with their last summer 34,708 Jehovah's Witnesses friends met at Yankee Stadium tc hear Stanley E. Jones tell them of his personences during seven years of solitary conf a Chinese communist prison; he had just leased. At least 100,859 Jehovah's Wit known to be faithfully carrying out the preaching the good news of Christ's king working underground in "Iron Curtain"
BRANCH AND FACTORY IN TORONTO
The lighted tower below is a familiar sight to the tens of thousands of motorists who pass it each day on Highway 401 near the Dufferin turnoff. Most know that The Watchtower magazine is printed in this building and some know that it houses the Canadian Branch of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. However, few know that a staff of about 45 men and women live and work here. The living quarters, laundry, "family" dining room and kitchen are in the east end of the building. About half of the staff work in the factory printing magazines and shipping these and other literature to congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses and individuals. A high-speed rotary press turns out 620,000 copies of The Watchtower and Awake! each month. In addition to the magazines sent all over Canada, this branch also prints and ships them to Australia, New Zealand and the Commonwealth countries of the Caribbean. Part of the office staff supervises the actual preaching activity of Jehovah's Witnesses, coordinating the work as directed by the world headquarters in Brooklyn, N.Y. The building is also the registered office of the non-profit organization, International Bible Students Association of Canada, the legal corporation for Jehovah's Witnesses in Canada.
Thus it is the nerve center for the public ministry of more than 42,000 Jehovah's Witnesses in this land. From here the activity of these "ministers to the home" is organized in 907 congregations from Louisbourg, N.S. to Queen Charlotte, B.C. and from Pelee Island, Ontario to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Each congregation has its local presiding minister to oversee the ministerial service of his associate ministers. Organization
To keep this personal evangelism under good and progressive supervision, these congregations are grouped into 64 circuits of approximately 15 congregations each. A circuit is presided over by a circuit supervisor, a fulltime minister, who routes himself to consecutively visit each congregation, a week at a time, every four months. These are weeks of intensive training both in the field and by means of instructive talks. Thus it follows the early Christian organizational method of having mature men visit local congregations to strengthen them and teach them "publicly and from house to house." (Acts 15:30-32, 40, 41; 16:4, 5; 20:20) Group and personal counsel is lovingly provided for any in need.
Every six months all the congregations of a circuit meet together for two and one-half days of special training. A program of field ministry, demonstrations of effective ministerial methods, talks, and prayer is directed by
a district supervisor. Ordinarily he serves at such a circuit assembly every other week. The week in between he spends with a circuit supervisor, as the latter serves a congregation in his circuit, so that training and counsel for improvement may be given to circuit ministers as in early Christian times. (1 Timothy 4;15, 16) There are seven districts in Canada.
History of Growth
The good effect of this highly organized work is seen in
HEADQUARTERS
the fact that it produces the same beneficial results in spiritual and numerical growth as it did in the first century of our common era. (Acts 11:21) Prior to 1918 the work was directed from the Brooklyn headquarters. A small branch began operating in Winnipeg in 1918, but was transferred to Toronto in 1920. From just about 1,200 active ministers in 1920 the number grew to 6,000 in 1940 and to over 42,000 at the present time. That is a 600 per cent increase in 26 years!
Jehovah's Witnesses last year conducted 770,595 Bible studies every week in homes of interested persons. The number of ministers engaged in the work had increased from 570,694 in 1955 to 1,034,268. During the 12-month period 64,393 new Witness ministers were baptized and the organization had devoted 171,247,644 hours in calling from house to house, making 59,165,475 return visits on interested persons.
Like first-century Christians, the story of missionaries of Jehovah's Witnesses is one of triumph despite persecution and martyrdom. Many of the graduates of the Watchtower School of Gilead have suffered persecution, mob action and imprisonment. Some have sealed their faith with their lives. Only last summer 34,708 Jehovah's Witnesses and their friends met at Yankee Stadium to hear missionary Stanley E. Jones tell them of his personal experiences during seven years of solitary confinement in a Chinese communist prison; he had just been released. At least 100,859 Jehovah's Witnesses are known to be faithfully carrying out their work of preaching the good news of Christ's kingdom while working underground in "Iron Curtain" countries.
"BETHEL"
AND WATCH TOWER FACTORY
Upper left: The artistic stairwell, facing Highway 401, lighted at night. Inset: Kenneth A. Little Canadian Branch Manager, Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society of Pennsylvania. Above: Living quarters (extreme right) for the staff; lobby, library and Kingdom Hall (center section); Factory (far left). The building contains approximately 65,400 square feet of floor space and is attractively situated on four acres of ground. Left: Entrance to the offices on Bridgeland Avenue (just West of Dufferin Street).
Jehovah's Witnesses In Your Community
RESPONSIBLE FOR BUTTRESSING THE PRIVILEGES OF CITIZENSHIP
You may not have noticed, but it is a good guess that a family of Jehovah's Witnesses lives next door to you or down the street in your block; for in Metro Toronto, there is about one Witness for every 568 persons.
That may not seem like much but it takes on significance when you consider that the average Witness makes more calls upon their neighbors in the interest of Bible education than possibly any other group. Of the community, one authority said they are most "responsible for buttressing the privileges of citizenship."
Another authority, in observing the Witnesses, was prompted to say that they are "getting thirty times as many conversions as Catholics." Because of their zeal, only one Witness of Jehovah God in your community amounts to a lot, especially when it comes to witnessing in behalf of their faith.
Yet, have you ever considered the many benefits Jehovah's Witnesses have advanced in your community in addition to the preserving of individual freedom in the community as a whole?
One of the outstanding contributions Jehovah's Witnesses make in a community is the educational uplift that they promote. Although this is primarily from the standpoint of
They contribute their time and talent nearly always on a voluntary basis. It is a common sight during construction to see a
business executive carrying cement blocks or a shop foreman mixing cement. Housewives and children share by providing and serving meals to the workers. Jehovah's Witnesses have a busy schedule of religious meetings. On Sunday in each congregation there is a one-hour
of Jehovah's Witnesses in these meetings is reflected in the fact that there is, on the average; over 75% of the congregation in attendance at all of the five meetings.
A collection plate is never passed at any gathering of Jehovah's Witnesses, solicitations are never made, there is no membership fee nor any ening ministers of these congregations come from many different racial and religious backgrounds.
It is well recognized that Jehovah's Witnesses provide in their kingdom halls and communities a model example of good racial and human relations. Segregation and all former conflicts or enmities, based on racial and religious prejudice, readily
There is a Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, like the one pictured here in your area.
Top - Bible Library; centre - Interior, and Bottom - Exterior view of Kingdom Hall at 124 5th St., New Toronto.
Bible education, yet it broadens their general education and interests as well. Parents and youth often become better acquainted with the laws of the community. The interest in the education of their children takes on greater meaning for the parents. Generally speaking, they get to know their community better and are able to express an interest in others for good because Bible knowledge and understanding of its principles has broadened their concern for "neighbor as well as themselves."
The center for this educational program is the local kingdom hall. Possibly there is one in your neighbourhood. Have you wondered what goes on there and how it does serve a good purpose in your community?
The kingdom hall is their "church" building in which they hold the majority of their religious meetings. Many of these meeting places are rented by the Witnesses for this purpose but increasingly throughout the world they are building their own. Although attractive and suitable to the surroundings, the kingdom halls are yet simple and functional. Sometimes a building or theatre is purchased and renovated to serve as a kingdom hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. More frequently, a new building is erected, as is illustrated by the photograph on this page of the Mimico Kingdom Hall in Metropolitan Toronto. In most cases, the Witnesses themselves participate in the building, renovating and maintenance of their meeting places.
discourse on a Bible subject presented by a qualified speaker. This is followed by a congregational study of God's Word, the Bible. The Watchtower magazine is used as a study guide and provides the theme for each week's study. This study is conducted by a question and answer method. Everyone in the congregation, including children, has an opportunity to contribute individual answers. These youngsters can give intelligent responses because Jehovah's Witnesses accept and apply the Bible's counsel to bring their children to religious assemblies and let them learn religious instruction there. In addition to these two one-hour meetings on Sunday, congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses include two more one hour meetings at some time during the week in their kingdom halls. One of these is called the "Theocratic Ministry School" where each member of the congregation is instructed on how to become a better minister of God's Word. The other is the "Service Meeting" where instruction is demonstrated to the congregation on effective ways of presenting their Christian messages, as well as providing up-to-date instruction in teaching techniques. Each congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses is divided into study groups of approximately ten persons. Individual groups meet in homes at convenient locations one evening each week for a "Bible Study". Here again the Bible is studied together with one of the books published by Jehovah's Witnesses. The interest
velope pledges. There is usually a small box at the back of each kingdom hall for contributions towards the maintenance and expenses of the building. Each member of the congregation is free to contribute exactly how much he pleases and whenever he pleases. Any and all contributions are freely offered by the individual.
Jehovah's Witnesses are also instructed to do a great deal of personal Bible study of their own. Congregation members are encouraged to go to the kingdom hall library and make use of the religious books available for research. All the Witnesses, including children, are helped to develop talks on various Bible subjects and this requires considerable preparation and research. Steady, progressive training such as this has made many a fine public speaker out of a man who never previously had extensive schooling. It has helped many young Witnesses to do extremely well at school. In brief, it is a worldwide and highly efficient theocratic educational system which follows the principles laid down by Jesus Christ as closely as possible. The whole purpose of this educational program is to train Jehovah's Witnesses to become better witnesses, better ministers and, thereby, better citizens.
Jehovah's Witnesses do not have a clergy and laity division or distinction in their congregation. All active ones in the congregation are ministers.
disappear among Jehovah's Witnesses. They have an "attractive characteristic of racial equality," according to U.S. Catholic writer William J. Whalen. "Negroes who become Jehovah's Witnesses know they will be welcomed as full human beings." All are regarded as brothers and sisters and act as such. They are guided by the Psalmist's words when he said: "How good it is for brothers to dwell together in peace and unity."—Psalm 133:1.
There are nearly 50 congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses in Metro and the presidnesses encourage complete honesty in all dealings with their fellow man and are examples of living by the strict moral code as laid down in the Scriptures. We are proving that these time-honored principles are not only practical but beneficial for the whole community in the long run. The mounting evidence of an increasing break-up of family life and the surging increases in juvenile delinquency throughout the world are evidence of the need to get back to basic Bible principles concerning family life, erroneously termed "old fashioned." So many parents today are confused as to what their obligations are, but the Scriptures show very clearly how the parents can teach children to obey the laws of God and also the laws of the country. If each parent were to do this, we would have a far more stable community and a far happier world.
What other contributions have Jehovah's Witnesses made in their communities other than the example of good racial relations? Being under the command to render to "Caesar", or the state, all things belonging to the state this means to obey all the laws of the land to the letter, provided such laws do not conflict with the law of God. This means that there is a moral as well as a legal duty. As one newspaper put it, "They bend over backward to observe all laws of the township as faithfully as possible." Jehovah's Witnesses encourage complete honesty in all dealings with their fellow man and are examples of living by the strict moral code as laid down in the Scriptures. We are proving that these time-honored principles are not only practical but beneficial for the whole community in the long run. The mounting evidence of an increasing break-up of family life and the surging increases in juvenile delinquency throughout the world are evidence of the need to get back to basic Bible principles concerning family life, erroneously termed "old fashioned." So many parents today are confused as to what their obligations are, but the Scriptures show very clearly how the parents can teach children to obey the laws of God and also the laws of the country. If each parent were to do this, we would have a far more stable community and a far happier world.
Honest, orderly, peace-loving, morally upright, law-abiding, educationally-minded for themselves and their youth, advancers of the cause of freedom, racially unbiased and promoters of good citizenship from the standpoint of righteous principles — these are among the fine benefits Jehovah's Witnesses promote in your community. Above all, however, Jehovah's Witnesses as Christians first, are serious about fulfilling the commission which Jesus gave to all Christians, namely, to go to the ends of the earth teaching men to observe and to do all the things that Jesus commanded. They believe that this command to preach applies most particularly to this era. They believe that within a short period of time, specifically this generation, all human wickedness will be erased from the earth and mankind will be able to dwell together in peace and unity with freedom from want and fear. They accept as truth Jesus' words in the "Sermon on the Mount" when he said that there would come a time when the meek or the righteous ones would inherit the earth.
Who is there among us who would not want to live in peace, especially in these critical times? Jehovah's Witnesses want to help all of mankind to obey God's principles. They want to tell them of the provisions that God has made for man to live on this beautiful earth under perfect conditions, free from tension, strife and war. They believe that in calling at your door to talk about God's purposes for the earth, they are, in fact, doing the greatest community service that anyone possibly can. After all, who can think of any better gift to offer one's neighbor than the opportunity of living on a paradise earth in peace and happiness forever?
FREE ARE YOU INTERESTED IN THE BIBLE?
To arrange for a personal home Bible study free of charge, just fill in your name and address in the space below, clip it out and mail it to Jehovah's Witnesses at the Kingdom Hall nearest to you.
172 Donlands Ave.
20 Drewry Ave. Willowdale
3003 Dundas St. W.
701 Ellesmere Rd. Scarborough
124 5th. St.
New Toronto
1005 Gerrard St. E.
1 Holly Ave. Weston
18A No.7 Highway, Woodbridge
24 Peter St. N.
Port Credit
900 Sheppard Ave. W.
Downsview
416 Victoria Park Ave.
ADDRESS
CONVENTION NEWS
WATCH TOWER CONVENTION, NEWS SERVICE DEPT. 402 Oakwood Avenue Toronto 10 Ontario
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Jehovah's Witnesses and Family Unity
There is a growing trend of compromise in the field of morals. Everyday more are speaking out in favor of a "new morality" code. Instead of seeking to arrest the trend toward a lowering of moral fibre, clergymen in greater numbers are urging the acceptance of it. Whether it is for good or bad they are not certain and they are not in agreement upon its consequences. One thing certain is that they do not know where it will eventually lead.
That God's word is essential for a purposeful and happy family life is seen in the many who have submitted to its direction. And it is noticeable in the family life and reflected in the worship at the kingdom halls where Jehovah's Witnesses congregate. Children assemble with their parents and are not segregated into Sunday School groups by themselves. This is as was done in Bible times. As stated at Deuteronomy 31:12: "Congregate the people, the men and the women and the little ones and your alien resident who is within your gates, in order that they may listen and in order that they may learn, as they must fear Jehovah your God and take care to carry out the words of this law." The author of "Christians of the Copperbelt" succinctly put it this way, stating: "Families are easily recognized in their meetings as little clusters of father, mother and children."
On the other hand, Jehovah's Witnesses have found that adhering to the high moral standards of the Bible has proven to be not only the wise course but also one that leads to real happiness and peace of mind. Because the Bible advocates this is why they have chosen to do so. Adhering to scriptural truths and being guided by Bible principles has noticeably resulted in a unity within the family and an earth-wide organizational unity among the Witnesses.
That this would be so is shown in the Bible, for God's powerful counsel reaches right into the private lives of those receptive to it, uniting them and changing their conduct for good. For example, note the words of the inspired Bible writer, Paul, at Titus 2:4, 5: "that they may recall the young women to their senses to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sound in mind, chaste, workers at home, good, subjecting themselves to their own husbands, so that the word of God may not be spoken of abusively."
Take the Viggo S. Linck family of 1032 Strathy Avenue, Port Credit. "No leaving the youngsters at home for me," says Viggo. "My wife Lis and I find that the taking of our five children to the kingdom hall meetings is not only the right thing to do but is what the Bible recommends. Vagn is 17 years old; Vinni, 16; Micah, 8; Joel, 6 and little Sarah-Ann is only 18 months old. Although in different age brackets, the children take an interest in the meetings and enjoy the wholesome association with us. The three older ones take an active part in the Bible discussions, too, since they feel a part of it. But this interest would not be possible except for the right example we, as parents, set and our doing things together as a family unit."
The Lincks have had an exciting family life since arriving in Toronto early in 1951 from Denmark. In 1958 they whisked off to Africa and spent better than four years in Kenya. A rash move? No. It was in response to an appeal of moving where they could enlarge their joy of activity in spreading the "good news" of God's kingdom! Noteworthy is the fact that the Lincks, with three young children then, were willing to pull
up roots, move to a country under emergency rule and a totally different environment. The Lincks spent a year at Nairobi, then moved to the town of Nakuru where there was a need for establishing a congregation. They stayed there at their own expense. How many families would do that? How many would risk job security and take on a different living standard in a country of internal political upheavals? Not many.
The Lincks were not disturbed. It was the knowledge of the true God and his Word that prompted them! Knowledge that His spirit was with them unquestioningly provided the needed assurance. Viggo said that time and again he and his family drew upon the words at 1 Peter
5:7 for guidance. Peter said: "throw all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you." This passage gave them much needed comfort and encouragement. Even the children progressed spiritually. It was because Bible study was steadily maintained and regular attendance at congregational meetings was never neglected.
The Lincks returned to Toronto in 1958.
Even the children share in the ministry. It gives them a sense of security, of sharing, of progressing and of belonging. It helps them to learn to rely upon their God Jehovah. It gives them the confidence and conviction that only the truth of the Scriptures can give. It comes
where family unity is practiced and, as is evident with the Lincks, where the proper example is set.
Where family worship is strong and one's reliance is upon the God who can save, is there any need to look to a "new morality?" For the Lincks and many thousands of others who have the conviction that comes from drawing upon the living God Jehovah, the truth of God's Word has brought unity to their families. It has broadened their outlook in a peaceful and joyful way. Their lives take on meaning, their interest is one of purpose and no ring of uncertainty beclouds their future. Bible study and its application truly does bring blessings and family unity.
"TRAIN UP A BOY ACCORDING TO THE WAY FOR HIM"
No widespread juvenile delinquency with Jehovah's Witnesses
Juvenile delinquency, in just the last decade or two has skyrocketed to such a degree that it has now become a major problem throughout the world. The fact that crime and delinquency have grown several times faster than the population growth is alarming indeed! However, many an honest inquirer has in a concerned way said if all persons would live by the "golden rule", or the Bible, then delinquency would not exist!
Although one cannot expect such changes to occur under present conditions, nevertheless, it is generally known that crime and delinquency practically do not exist among Jehovah's Witnesses, even though in 197 lands persons of all races and speaking hundreds of languages are active members. It raises the question, "Why?" How is this possible especially on such a large scale?
It is because Jehovah's Witnesses have a love for God and His word of truth. This love prompts them to train their children according to Biblical principles. It is this love that gives them the drive to group together and attend congregational meetings each week. It is the kind of love Jesus spoke of to his disciples at John 13:35: "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love among yourselves."
one of the world's most serious problems, juvenile delinquency in the Bible and its principles.
It is with ample reason, then that Jehovah's Witnesses feel they have found the solution to
Take the Bible principle at Proverbs 22:6 and see how it works. The scripture reads: "Train up a boy according to the way for him; even when he grows old he will not turn aside from it." This scripture involves parental training directed toward the youth. How do the Witnesses apply this rule of conduct? It is by setting the example in attending congregational meetings, seeing that the children do so as well, and conducting regular Bible studies in their homes with their children. Young boys and girls are encouraged to enroll in a weekly ministry school course along with adults, which course trains them to speak "publicly and from house to house."
To be sure, children tend to make mistakes or misbehave at times. But here again, Bible
principles apply. Even though not all experts on child raising agree among themselves, the Bible rule at Proverbs 23:13 makes sense in saying: "Do not hold back discipline from the mere boy." Parental discipline, tempered with justice, love and parental wisdom, brings about respect for the parents and in the long run, brings blessings.
To show that it has immeasurable benefits, a publisher of seven New York City neighbourhood papers had this to say of a Yankee Stadium convention of Witnesses: "One of the many things I like about Jehovah's Witnesses is the order and quietness in the stadium. I like to see children take an interest in religion and just look at them here! I told my church committee we should be like Jehovah's Witnesses—have meetings for the whole family."
A French couple received a letter from a worker priest in Le Havre, France after their two boys, eight and ten years of age, called at his residence. He wrote the parents: "Madame. Monsieur: I am still under the charm of the long conversation I have had this morning with your two children, Patrick and Philippe, and since I am appreciative of all that is beautiful and up-
Family Worship A Must:
THE "SPIRITUAL CEMENT" THAT HOLDS A FAMILY TOGETHER.
Like a cancer that grows and destroys cells is the force that tears families apart. Today, an ever-growing number of families are literally pulled apart—simply because there is a lack of family worship.
Family worship is the "spiritual cement" that holds a family together. It involves the worship of the true God, Jehovah, and a continuous growth of each family member in worshipping Him in spirit and truth. Prayer, study of the Bible and togetherness, in assembling at congregational meetings are basic essentials in this worship if one is going to experience God's blessing. Family worship subsequently brings about a cooperativeness within the family circle. It builds up a confidence between the members and a mutual interest in each other. It results in a wellbeing and happiness that is vital if one is going to prosper.
How does one achieve it and where does one begin? It is easy to say it must be done but family members already set in ways or habits feel it's a seemingly impossible task.
However, begin one must! An incentive to start will be provided this month in the form of the five-day "God's Sons of Liberty" District Assembly of Jehovah's Witnesses. Incentive? Yes, in that its entire program will consist of skits, talks, pantomimes and symposiums, all designed to instruct those in attendance. One is not required to "join" in membership or feel obligated in any way by attending. The basis of appeal is the taking in of knowledge of the only true God and of his Son Jesus. (John 17:3). It is the taking in of accurate knowledge of God's Word that will provide the urge or incentive to worship together and doing so at this large assembly will be upbuilding to say the least.
Attending at the C.N.E. Fairgrounds will be whole families young and old, including babesin-arms. Close to 50,000 delegates from eight provinces, 45 of the United States and 14 other lands is a large family in itself and one that will be exciting to observe and experience!
Do you desire to share in family worship? Let the "God's Sons of Liberty" District Assembly help you and your family! It may be the means of motivating your family to truly experience family unity.
right, I am taking this liberty of writing to you, their parents, to shall we say congratulate them.
"Truly, I never remember having heard children express their faith so interestingly and with so much conviction and intelligence . . . In a world whose values are falling apart, it is comforting to meet values that the passing years will, I trust, bring to maturity and fruition. I do not know you, but judging by your two children, you must be praiseworthy parents."
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Bible principles work since they originate with God. For this reason they continue to apply them along with their children. When the "God's Sons of Liberty" District Assembly of Jehovah's Witnesses convenes June 22, you will see thousands of children and teenagers present. It is because the truth of God's word appeals to them. Observe their interest and attentiveness. It will help you to place confidence in the Word of God as the answer to juvenile delinquency.
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