Kingdom Ministry, April 1969
Download: PDF — Kingdom Ministry, April 1969
KINGDOM MINISTRY
FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
"Lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near."—Luke 21:28.
VOL. XII NO. 4
Dear Fellow Publishers:
REJOICE! Yes, rejoice because of all the blessings of Jehovah on the work of our hands,yours and ours! Is it not wonderful what he is accomplishing in these days, even using imperfect human worshipers? And it is so clear that he purposes that a mighty witness be given in all the earth within a very short period.
Here at Bethel, with the help of our night shift, we have been blessed with a tremendous production of literature during the first ten weeks of 1969. Think of it! 5,637,901 bound books, a total of 82 publications, in 35 languages! Of the Paradise book alone, 632,251 in 31 languages! And laboring right along with us, operating a night shift too, the brothers in the German branch have produced over a million additional books. Can you see why we are all thrilled? Why, in one day here, March 6, we hit an all-time high in book production—123,600!
Another cause for joy! Over 1,200,000 pounds of the foreign-language production is already on its way by boat to the ends of the earth, now that the dock strike has ended. So our brothers in many lands will soon be better equipped for their ministry. And we, too, can now have a generous supply, especially of the Truth and Evolution books. In fact, all congregations are urged to order now a sufficient supply for May and June. Check your records to see how many books you have placed in past months, and order sufficient to make May and June two of the best bound book months we have ever had. We will be offering the Truth book in May and the Bible in June. Don't you agree that those should be months, not only of greatly increased bound book placements, but also of intensified home Bible study activity? Every placement a potential Bible study—let that be our aim.
It was a real happy occasion on March 9 for an audience of 2,155 to witness the graduation of Gilead's 47th Class—97 students equipped and eager to get off to their missionary assignments. However, many of
Making Public Declaration
1 "Go from door to door preaching? Not me, I could never do that." Sound familiar? Undoubtedly so, for many of us felt that way when we were first invited to share in making public declaration. (Rom. 10:10) But what changed our minds? Our love for God and our desire for salvation for ourselves and for others.
2 Is this your first month in witnessing to God's name and purposes? If so, we welcome you to the rapidly growing ranks of Jehovah's praisers. (Rom. 6:17) There is plenty of work for all to do.
3 We know that a great many of you who will be sharing in making public declaration during April are of school age. Likely you will have some time free from school during the month. If so, what are your plans for using this time? Will you use it wisely? If you are dedicated you may have arranged to vacation pioneer sometime during the month. Fine! This is making excellent use of your time. Even if you are not yet dedicated you can work along
with your parents, or others who may be pioneering, spending full days with them in the service.
4 Whether newly associated, young in years, or long-time workers, all of us will want to take advantage of opportunities to place the splendid April 15 Watchtower and the April 22 Awake! Could each of us arrange our affairs to spend a little more time in magazine activity during the month? The days are milder and getting longer, so it may be possible to spend some afternoons or evenings doing street magazine work or calling from door to door on the way to the book study.
5 The subscription department in the factory has been glad to work extra time handling all the thousands of subscriptions coming in from congregations all over the country. How have you personally done in the campaign? Have you been able to obtain two or more subscriptions yet? If not, have you followed up all the subscription promises? Why not check again (Continued on page 2, col.3)
them will continue with us until after the New York assembly, and we shall have their help in maintaining a high level of production.
Between now and the summer assemblies there is surely much to be done. During May the Gilead School facilities will be used for a special refresher course for all circuit and district servants, one group each week. In June there will be special meetings here for branch servants who will be coming in from all parts of the world. So you see, our next Gilead class will not get started until the fall.
Meantime, how busy we shall all be in the field, giving a witness worthy of the Kingdom! Our special meeting of March 30 will have launched us into April's many-featured ministry: vacation pioneering for many; the Memorial celebration; the final month of our Watchtower campaign; distribution of two special magazine issues, the April 15 Watchtower on the theme "Why Almighty God Laughs at the Nations," and the April 22 Awake! on "Are the Churches Nearing Their End?" Wouldn't it be fine for all of us to have an increased share in the witness during April? What a shout of praise, worthy of Jehovah's kingdom!
By April, too, many students of the Truth book should be maturing to the point of participation with us in the Kingdom witness. Let us do all we can to help them grasp this responsibility—this opportunity to show their appreciation, their love for the One who is opening to them the road to eternal life. Let us all attain to a rich measure of happiness during April, the happiness that comes with being satisfyingly busy in the great witness to God's kingdom.
Your fellow witnesses.
BROOKLYN BRANCH OFFICE Your Service Meetings
WEEK STARTING APRIL 6
Theme: Making Public Declaration for Salvation. (Rom. 10:10) Song 17. 5 min: Introduction, text and comments.
18 min: "Making Public Declaration." Questions and answers. When discussing paragraph 3 briefly interview some who are vacation pioneering or were in the past, letting them explain how they have scheduled their time and tell of blessings from putting forth extra effort. They can invite others in the congregation to join them in the service. On paragraph 5 have competent publisher, perhaps pioneer, demonstrate calling on person who said he would consider subscribing. Discuss additional ways of getting subscriptions before end of month, besides following up subscription promises.
12 min: Presenting the Good News "Drawing Them Closer." Talk and demonstration. Use local figures on Memorial, highlighting number attending, in comparison to number of publishers. Include demonstration of call made on Memorial attender who came in response to invitation. Describe significance of Memorial and value of Bible study today in view of the times. Arrange for Bible study.
2 min: Accounts report.
10 min: Discuss with audience the question "What Convinced You That Jehovah's Witnesses Have the Truth?" Allow for various ones to reply, giving answers from personal experiences. 13 min: Concluding comments. Include "How Did We Do in February?" and local report for March. Give progress report on subscriptions obtained during campaign. Outline special field service arrangements for April, including arrangements for vacation pioneers. Song 62.
WEEK STARTING APRIL 13
Theme: Following in the Footsteps of Christ. (1 Pet. 2:21) Song 118. 15 min: Introduction, text and comments. This could be handled by having a group of publishers and pioneers, young and old, gathered before meeting for field service discussing text and Branch Letter.
25 min: Distributing special magazines.
(5 min.) Highlights from special magazines. Have publishers of various age groups prepared in advance. Give points from magazines they will use in field service. Highlight fact that time is running out for false religions and it is urgent to contact all sincere religious persons to help them get out before it is too late.
(10 min.) Demonstrate various avenues of placing April 15 "Watchtower" with different presentations. Give only presentation. Chairman can describe setting. For example, "Publisher is speaking to man at door," "Publisher has stopped person on street and is presenting magazines," etc. Include sermon using theme "Religion That God Approves" and subscription offer. See February "Kingdom Ministry," page 2.
(10 min.) Demonstrate placing April 22 "Awake!" using different settings than for "Watchtower."
22 "Awake!" using different settings than for "Watchtower." 10 min: Audience discussion on the question "What Scriptures Show We Should All Have a Share in the Service?" Commentors may wish to include experiences on how they have helped new ones start in service. See "Make Sure" pages 277-280. 384-390.
10 min: Concluding comments. Include any appropriate Announcements Theocratic News. If time allows, have brief experiences from vacation pioneers and report on number out in service in April to date. Song 84.
WEEK STARTING APRIL 20 Theme: Cultivating the Fruit of Love. (1 Cor. 13) Song 45.
5 min: Introduction, text and comments.
12 min: Talk on "Let Your Reasonableness Become Known." (Phil. 4:5) Have mature brother talk on need for reasonableness in all things we do, including weddings. Use material in January 15, 1969, "Watchtower," pages 57-61. Also, "Question Box." 15 min: Making New Ones Feel Welcome.
(3 min.) Chairman: Meeting attendance increasing throughout the world. As one overseer wrote the Society, "People are popping in like popcorn in a skillet." Six-month Bible study program has likely played its part in large influx of new ones. Some though, hesitate to come because of not knowing anyone. (See "Yearbook," page 120.) Make them feel welcome.
(5 min.) Demonstration of new one being brought to Kingdom Hall and introduced to others. Mature brother arranges to single out publisher who formerly belonged to same religion as new one and mentions this to him, asking publisher: "You formerly attended the church, didn't you? What caused you to associate with Jehovah's witnesses?" In reply the publisher tells of looking for identifying mark of true religion and when he found it he could no longer continue in the former religion. (See "Truth" book, chapter 14.) Newcomer appreciates discussion and is happy he has been made to feel at home.
(2 min.) Show brief scene at home after interested ones return; they discuss the warmth and friendliness of Witnesses at Kingdom Hall.
(5 min.) Chairman discusses with audience other things that could be done to make new ones feel welcome, such as showing them around Kingdom Hall. Let them see how literature and magazines are handled; introducing them to others of same language or background, etc. ("Yearbook," pages 260, 261) Aid them to become acquainted with various publishers and let them choose the ones with whom they wish to associate. Servants can make them feel at home by making note of their names so as to call them by name when they come again.
8 min: Discussion between overseer and new publisher reporting for first time. Overseer commends for progress made, highlights Jehovah's righteous requirements and provisions for developing spiritual strength. (See "Lamp" book, page 129.)
10 min: Audience discussion of Scriptural proof that our work today closely parallels that of early Christianity. (See "Make Sure," pages 270- 281.) Brother handling this part may wish to ask some brothers to look up material on this before the meeting. 10 min: Concluding comments. Discuss how to make the most effective use of the special issues of the magazines in your territory. Give up-to-date progress report on activity in the month and total subscriptions to date in campaign. Song 15.
WEEK STARTING APRIL 27
Theme: Keeping Faith Growing by God's Word. (2 Thess. 1:3) Song 100.
15 min: Introduction, text and comments on "Convention Time Ahead." Family discusses together what assembly they will attend and the preparations that will be necessary. May also use points from February 15 "Watchtower" on "Assemblies Are for Children Too!"
10 min: Talk on theme for month. See May 1 "Watchtower."
15 min: "Regularity and Progress." Questions and answers. On paragraph 4 may have local experiences on how scheduling time regularly, on daily or weekly basis, has helped individuals make progress.
10 min: Discuss with audience activity for May. Have sermon demonstrated with offer of "Truth" book. (Use whatever sermon works best in your territory. May want to use one based on Psalm 37. See the November 1968 "Kingdom Ministry," page 5. Or, do as some do, open to picture on page 4 and discuss scripture at Revelation 21:3, 4 and what its fulfillment can mean to mankind. Only God's kingdom can bring this. Refer to chapter 12. Make arrangements for Bible study.)
10 min: Concluding comments. If time allows, have local experiences with special magazines. Song 112.
FEBRUARY SERVICE REPORT
Pubs.
Av. Hrs.
Av. B-C
Av. Bl. St.
Av. Mags.
Sp'l Pios.
145.6
66.2
8.1
142.7
Pios.
13,040
95.7
43.5
5.2
103.4
Vac. Pios.
3,079
84.1
31.8
2.6
85.3
Pubs.
324,156
9.6
5.1
.7
11.6
TOTAL
341,217
Public Meetings Held: 20,936 UNITED STATES GOAL FOR 1969 356,057 Publishers
HOW DID WE DO IN FEBRUARY?
We had an excellent month! There were 341,217 publishers taking part in the field service, 19,085 more than last February, and just 1,255 less than our October peak. What a joy it was to see so many zealous praisers of Jehovah brave the rigorous winter weather to preach the good news! More and more Bible studies are being started. We reached another high, conducting 322,374 studies, or 8,526 more than in our previous best month, January. Though the month was short, the zeal was not and we have received a blessing as a result. It is with keen anticipation that we look to see what growth the months ahead will bring.
Public Declaration
(Cont'd)
through your house-to-house records and see if there are any persons upon whom you promised to call back. You may find there are a number who took the magazines during the month and said they would consider the possibility of subscribing. Calling on all of these may yield additional subscriptions.
6 As we look back over the joyful time we have spent thus far in the ministry, how glad we all are that we accepted the invitation to preach.
Regularity and Progress
1 "Basic to any real progress is regularity in participation," says the "Lamp" book in commenting on those who receive special privileges of service. (Page 189) How true that is! It is those who have developed a consistent pattern of ministerial service who have not only increased their joys in the ministry, but also moved forward to special privileges within the organization.
2 No doubt our progress in the truth was due to some brother's regularity in service. It was because he called to conduct a study regularly each week that we first began to realize the seriousness of the Kingdom message. You may have thought, "It must be important or he wouldn't come without fail each week no matter what the weather conditions are." Because of taking in spiritual food systematically at a given time each week you learned quickly and were soon able to express the truth to others.
3 To become a spiritually sound, mature Christian calls for regular meeting attendance, as well as personal study of God's Word. Joshua was counseled by Jehovah God that he needed regular personal study of the Scriptures to succeed as His servant. (Josh. 1:8) The same is true of us today. We may not be able to study everything we would like, or perhaps to learn as quickly as others, but having a pattern of daily or weekly study will assure us of making progress and of growth in spiritual strength.
4 Do you have a share in the field service regularly each week? It is something that we all should endeavor to do. In our secular work our everyday activity helps us to develop skill and proficiency. Likewise, when we are able to engage in the ministry often, daily if possible or at least weekly, we make more rapid progress. Those in the full-time service who have developed a good schedule tell us that when something such as sickness or other assignments interrupts their schedule they find they become somewhat rusty in their use of the "sword of the spirit." If this is true of such ones, how important it is that congregation publishers maintain a schedule of at least weekly service to keep progressing in their ministry and to keep their faith strong. Jesus set a model example for us by his daily service to Jehovah.-Luke 19: 47.
5 It is a pleasure to help others maintain regular activity, and we want to take advantage of our opportunities to do this. For example, some may be ill or elderly and unable to get out for extended periods.
We could stop by and bring them a few magazines, which they could mail out to others, or perhaps we could help them write some letters. Later we could see that the reports of their activity are submitted to the congregation. Sometimes, too, a sister who has children may be ill or the children themselves may be ill and a whole month may go by without either the sister or the children being able to get into the field ministry. How much it is appreciated when an arrangement is made for someone to stop by and care for the children so the sister is able to get into the service or to take some of the children along in the ministry. In this way their progress continues and they do not miss a month of activity.
There is one other aspect of regularity we do well to remember. A publisher would not qualify for appointment as a servant or a vacation or regular pioneer unless he had reported field service during each of the previous six months. ("Lamp" book, pages 118, 195, 199) How much better it is then to maintain a regular schedule of activity so we do not lose out on the blessings of sharing in such privileges of service.—Gal. 6:9; Rev. 3:14-19.
7 Young or old, all can show Jehovah their love for him by sharing regularly in the ministry in good weather or bad, in favorable season or troublesome season, in health or sickness. Our worship and praise will continue ascending daily to Jehovah in the new system of things, so now is the time to start showing our wholehearted devotion to him by regularity in service.
Announcements
Have you applied for vacation pioneer service in April or May? There is still time to do so. Avail yourself of this fine opportunity to establish new home Bible studies.
Accounts servant: Please keep in mind that all renewal subscriptions are for the full rate of $1 for a year. There is no publisher or pioneer rate on renewals. Publishers may subscribe for The Watchtower and Awake! for longer than one year. Some subscribe for five or more years and thus avoid the possibility of missing issues.
The offer for May will be the Truth book on a 25c contribution. In addition to English, it is now available in Afrikaans, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish.
During June the offer will be the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures for $1. Some may wish to place the Truth book along with the Bible, or if the Bible is not available then use the Truth book or one of the other late publications available.
New publications available:
The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life Afrikaans, Japanese, Chinese
1 Now is the time for us to make our plans to attend one of the international assemblies beginning in July. The dates for the eight convention cities for the United States and Canada are listed below.
Convention Time Ahead
CITY DATE
Atlanta, Ga.* July 6-13
Buffalo, N.Y. July 6-13
New York, N.Y.* July 7-13
Pomona, Calif.† July 13-20
Los Angeles, Calif. July 14-20
Kansas City, Mo. July 18-25
Chicago, Ill.* July 21-27
Spanish also
2 You will notice that the Pomona assembly is in the Spanish language only. There will be Spanish programs in conjunction with the assemblies held in New York, Chicago and Atlanta.
† Spanish only
3 In most cases it will probably be your intention to attend the assembly nearest you as it will be most convenient. However, we would like to ask all of the Michigan circuits to please attend at Chicago. We realize that the metropolitan Detroit area may be a few miles closer to Buffalo, but because of the size of the city and the limited convention facilities it will be to the advantage of you brothers in the Detroit area to attend the Chicago assembly. While the majority of publishers in circuits in western Ohio, by reason of distance, will no doubt attend at Chicago, we would also like to invite Ohio Circuits 8 and 11 to attend the Chicago assembly, even though Buffalo may be slightly closer. We have your comfort and the comfort of others in mind in asking you to arrange your plans in this way.
4 You will notice that some of the conventions are for seven days;
(Continued on page 4, col.1)
"Your Word Is a Lamp to My Foot"
—Korean
"Let Your Name Be Sanctified"
—Sesotho
"This Good News of the Kingdom"
—Siamese
Tl—What Do Jehovah's Witnesses Believe?
—Turkish
Available again in U.S.A.:
From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained —English
"Your Will Be Done on Earth"
Out of stock in U.S.A.:
1969 Yearbook —English, Spanish
1969 Calendar —English, Danish,
Dutch, Finnish, French, German,
Italian, Japanese, Portuguese,
Spanish, Swedish
1968 Watchtower bound volume
—English, Spanish
1968 Awake! bound volume
—English, Spanish
Beginning the first Sunday in May,
circuit servants will give the public
talk "The Meaning of the Parables."
Presenting THE GOOD NEWS
Drawing Them Closer
1 How many will attend the Memorial in your congregation on April 1? Quite likely it will be "the best crowd ever." Last year in the United States there were 680,773 in attendance, compared to 333,672 who published in April. This means one interested person for every brother and sister, young and old. If we have the same ratio this year, you can see that a tremendous potential for growth exists. The question is, What can we do to help draw these new ones closer to Jehovah?—Isa. 55:6; Jas. 4:8.
2 Some who attend the Memorial for the first time need only to hear the invitation to attend other meetings and they do so, as was the case with an interested woman in Anguilla. (Yearbook, page 180) However, as you know, most people require additional calls in order to be drawn closer to Jehovah through the meetings. It would be good for each of us to keep in mind whom he meets at Memorial who does not now attend meetings or have a study. We get acquainted there, so it would seem that while the special event is fresh in mind would be the time to make a friendly visit and encourage them to study, or at least to attend other meetings.
3 It is also true that many who attend are ones with whom studies are being conducted, but a great many may be only subscribers to the magazines, inactive ones or perhaps ones who respond to the invitation in the March 15 Watchtower or the March 22 Awake! Surely Bible studies would help such ones. You know the ones you personally invite and where they live, so you can call back on these and see their reaction to what they hear and see at the Memorial. (Yearbook, page 68) Perhaps now they will accept your invitation to study. Even you young ministers can help by referring to your house-to-house records to see the ones who took the March 15 Watchtower and the March 22 Awake! and call back on them. Whether they attended or not you will have the opportunity to give a further witness and let them know they are welcome at other meetings at the Kingdom Hall.
Convention Time Ahead (Cont'd) however, they will have the same program as the eight-day assemblies. In other words, the sessions that will be held on the first day of an eight-day assembly will be worked into the forenoons during the first few days of a seven-day convention. Consequently you will not miss any of the program by attending a seven-day convention.
5 We are certainly all looking forward to 'assembling together' in accordance with God's commands. (Heb. 10:24, 25) None of us want to miss any of the good things that Jehovah is providing for us through these conventions. Will you be there?
4 The servants can help a great deal by setting the example in calling back on interested ones and reminding others to build on the interest generated by the Memorial. We believe you will agree that calling while the interest is still warm is a help on all of our back-calls, especially so at Memorial time.
5 Jesus showed his loving concern for sheeplike ones by directing them into one fold. We want to follow his example and his command to shepherd the "sheep," making sure that there are no strays, none who lack a shepherd or the helping care of a Kingdom publisher. (John 21: 15-17) We look to Jehovah to bless us as we endeavor to help all interested ones who attend the Memorial to draw closer to Jehovah.
Convention Rooming
Those brothers who are not on the Society's tours or charter flights but who are arranging their own travel to Europe, Hawaii or the Far East, may write to the Society's branch offices in these places for assistance on rooming if they wish. Use the room request form that will soon be available through the local congregation. Those traveling to Mexico for the Mexico City assembly December 24-28 could also send room request forms to the office in Mexico City if they desire assistance with rooming there.
Those who are on the Society's tours and charter flights will be supplied a special room request form to use in arranging accommodations in Europe, Hawaii or the Far East.
THEOCRATIC NEWS
A sister in New York in the Terrace Unit witnessed to fellow employees and in one week obtained 23 subscriptions in English. Using the "Preach the Word" booklet, she obtained 11 more in other languages.
Europe: Italy enjoyed its fifth new peak of publishers in January, and 22,381 books were placed. Despite wintry weather and Hong Kong flu, Sweden had its fourth consecutive peak. Switzerland too reported a new publisher peak.
Africa: Ghana and Ivory Coast saw new peaks of publishers in January. The 2,838 publishers reporting in Mozambique represent an 81-percent increase over last year's average. Despite persecution in parts of Zambia, a fine new peak of publishers was reached there.
Asia: A fifth new peak of publishers reported in India. Korea reports its fifteenth consecutive peak, while Japan had its eighteenth. Okinawa too reports a new peak.
Pacific Islands: Fiji enjoyed its fourth new peak of praisers this year. The Philippines and Solomon Islands reached new peaks of publishers too. Philippines enjoyed new peak in regular pioneers for sixth month in a row.
Central and South America: Panama, El Salvador, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay and Venezuela all report new publisher peaks.
Lebanon reports new all-time high in publishers in January.
Is it proper to solicit business among the brothers or use theocratic associations to arrange for parties for selling commercial goods?
The type of secular work that an individual does to support himself or his family is a personal matter. If a brother works at selling, then he should ask himself, "Am I taking advantage of my theocratic associations for commercial gain?" Never would a brother want to do this. It is also well to consider the effect his sales work may have on others being careful not to stumble them. Phil 1:9 10:2 Cor 6:3
If he wants to work for a commercial company that sells its products at home gatherings it is for him to decide. If some brothers wish to patronize a brother in business or invite him to come to their home to demonstrate his products, then this is their business. If others do not wish to purchase the products or attend parties where they are demonstrated, then they should never be made to feel obligated to do so.
Even if some commercial products are sold in homes, it is not proper to solicit the sale of products at the Kingdom Hall, book studies or at assemblies. This includes even those items that might be helpful in the ministry such as book bags and book covers.
Let's read and place the special magazines.
Published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 117 Adams St., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201 Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Printed in U.S.A.
Dear Fellow Publishers:
Have you looked at the service report for March as yet? It shows a fine new peak in publishers-21,079 over last year's average! How encouraging to see this fruitage from your efforts to help others grow in faith! What will April bring? Here at Bethel we already see evidence that it will be an outstanding month of praise to Jehovah.
On April 1, for the Memorial, 40,906 were present at the 187 congregations in New York city. That is up 9 percent over last year. Total partakers dropped from 249 to 243. Memorial attendance in Toronto, we have been told, went up about 8 percent, to 7,971, with 82 partakers. Did you have many newly interested ones at the meeting with you that night too? Have they kept on attending?
Something else tells us that April is going to be an outstanding service month. You have been ordering a lot of magazines. Our printing in Brooklyn, even higher than last October, reached 18,474,190 copies in March. You are keeping us busy, and we are glad that you are.
The German branch too reports a huge production: 6,413,550 magazines were printed there in March, and that is nearly triple its monthly average of last year. All together, in the United States and the ten other printing branches, March saw over 32,000,000 magazines come off the Society's presses around the world. What a crowd of people can be reached with the good news through their pages!
We just checked to see how the subscription campaign is coming along, and the results are good. From January through March, 465,- 299 new subscriptions were obtained. Just 1,318 behind the same period last year, but renewals are far ahead; so many more people are subscribing again. While giving good attention to subscriptions, during those same months you also placed over a million bound books—nearly two and a half times the report for the same months last year. Just
The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life
1 The Truth book is a great aid to us as we endeavor to keep faith growing by God's Word among interested ones in our territory, isn't it? One publisher commented on "its clear and direct approach to people." Another said: "I can't hide my enthusiasm. It's a wonderful study aid!"
2 Most of us have now had experience in offering the Truth book in the house-to-house work and have found ways to make the offer appealing in a simple presentation. Feel free to present it in the manner you find most effective. Help the householder to see that he needs to read the information presented.
Many publishers just open the book to the picture on page four and state: "As God-fearing people we are all interested in everlasting life. We would like to live under such fine conditions as are pictured here, wouldn't we? [Permit answer.] This is what God has promised for obedient mankind. [Read scripture below picture.] But when will this be possible and what is required of us? You can read the answers to these questions. This book will show you where in your Bible the answers are recorded. It is yours for only 25c."
4 Some publishers feature chapter titles. They say: "We have called because so many are asking the question, 'Why has God permitted wickedness until our day?' (Page 65) Likely you have wondered too.
think of it! Now we need to call back to encourage these people to read what they have and, if possible, we would like to study with them, wouldn't we? Let's give them all the opportunity.
Convention time is getting close. We feel it here. Do you? Will you be in attendance on the very first day? You'll be glad if you are.
We remember you in our prayers,
BROOKLYN BRANCH OFFICE
The Bible answers that question and this book will show you where in your Bible the scriptures are . . . " You may wish to feature the title "Why We Grow Old and Die" (page 27), "Where Are the Dead?" (page 34), "The Last Days..."(page 94), "How to Pray and Be Heard by God" (page 151), "Building a Happy Family Life" (page 170) or others.
5 If you would like to use a Scriptural presentation before offering the book, you may find Psalm 37:10, 11 very appropriate. You may, of course, use any other appropriate Scripture text you wish.
6 Reports indicate that you are trying to offer the Truth book to everyone and are enjoying good results. One couple crossing the country on the bus sat and talked with different people during the trip and placed fifty Truth books in three days. A brother who eats out a lot has been offering the Truth book to waitresses and found the majority very happy to receive it. Many brothers keep the book handy at their place of employment; others keep them conveniently located at home to offer to callers. Do your relatives and friends each have a copy?
Just reading the Truth book has aided many sincere ones to gain faith in God's Word. A Catholic lady read the book and then told the sister who called: "When you first came I doubted whether you were teaching the truth or whether my church was, but now I know." She left the church, is attending meetings and studying. An interested woman in California had been 'on the fence' for months. After reading the Truth book she promptly stopped attending mass and began attending meetings at the Kingdom Hall on her own. An interested man in Ohio took three days off from work to read the book. Then he told our
(Continued on page 4, col.1) Your Service Meetings
WEEK STARTING MAY 4
Theme: "Preach the Word." (2 Tim. 4:2) Song 6.
12 min: Introduction and welcome. Family or couple consider text and Branch Letter, making additional application of points to themselves. 10 min: Help New Publishers Continue. Discussion between overseer, assistant congregation servant and book study servant concerning how new publishers can be helped to continue in Jehovah's service. Suggestions given. Book study servant says he will discuss the matter with publisher who has been conducting the study and encourage him to help student have a share in the ministry early in the month and several times during the month if possible. See also suggestions in "Lamp" book on pages 83 and 84. Help new ones grow in love for Jehovah's service. 20 min: Questions and answers on "The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life." Demonstrate some short presentations appropriate in your territory.
3 min: Accounts report.
15 min: Concluding comments. Review points in "Convention Time Is Near." Emphasize providing complete information on Room Request Form. Consider "How Did We Do in March?" and congregation report for April. Commend brothers for good activity. Entertain local experiences on placing the "Truth" book. Song 10.
WEEK STARTING MAY 11
Theme: "Do All Things for God's Glory." (1 Cor. 10:31) Song 9.
7 min: Introduction, welcome. Family group or couple consider text and personal convention arrangements the city they plan to attend, sending in room request forms, volunteering to help with the assembly, etc.
13 min: Plan Now to Attend the International Assembly.
Chairman: Give talk (8 or 9 minutes) including high points from articles "Assemblies Are for Children Too!" and "Why Not Make It Your First Assembly?" in the February 15 and March 15 issues of "The Watchtower." Encourage the brothers to begin to finalize their plans now. Audience participation: Ask audience for high points or other points that impressed them in the article entitled "Have You Invited Your Marriage Mate?" in the May 1, 1969 issue of "The Watchtower."
15 min: Starting New Studies.
Chairman: (3 min.) During September last year, we were offering "Truth" books in our territory. The report shows we placed 747,141 books that month,823,976 in November and 630,094 in December. (Can use local figures too.) How many people who obtained a copy are we now studying with? Have you called back at least once on each "Truth" book placement to let the householder know he can have a free home Bible study and to offer to demonstrate it for him, as suggested on page four of the December "Kingdom Ministry"? If not, then this would be a good work for May.
Demonstration: (3 min.) Back-call on "Truth" book placement: Householder remembers book, read some, but it was some time ago. Publisher tells householder that we offer a free home Bible study program. It is a 24-hour course, one hour or more a week for six months, and the only requirement is that the householder
prepare ahead of time. Publisher hands householder study folder, draws attention to questions that will be answered, and asks if he can step in for a few minutes to demonstrate. Householder expresses appreciation and invites publisher in.
Chairman: (2 min.) Encourage similar follow-up on all subscription placements.
When you cover the territory are you leaving a Bible study folder at each home whether the people are interested in our literature or not? Why not make it a personal and group goal in the congregation to see to it that one of these folders is left at each home in your territory?
Demonstration: (3 min.) Householder declines magazine offer. Publisher hands householder Bible study folder and says: 'We would like you to know that we provide free home Bible studies for individuals and families in this neighborhood.' Direct householder to a point or two in folder and offer to demonstrate study.
Demonstration: (2 min.) Mother and daughter call at home where no one is in. Youth leaves handbill. Mother hands her study folder to leave also, explaining why we want everyone in our territory to know of Bible study offer and why she has put her name and phone number neatly on folder. Daughter slips it under door.
Chairman: (2 min.) Encourage publishers to offer study on initial call also. Explain how this can be done. 15 min: "Social Events Need Christian Moderation." Upbuilding talk on high points of article in May 1, 1969, "Watchtower."
10 min: Concluding announcements. Remind publishers of our desire to make disciples and to be on the watch for interested ones while sharing in all features of service.
Encourage family studies. One parent writes: "I started all five of my children in the 'Truth' book the week after the assembly. They have all responded so well; we always go over our hour. It has really kindled their interest." Song 8.
WEEK STARTING MAY 18
Theme: Use Dedicated Time Wisely. Song 70.
15 min: Introduction, text, comments. By questions and answers consider "Do You Remember?" in May 1, 1969 issue of "The Watchtower." This will be a good test of memory and study habits of congregation. Encourage regular reading of "The Watchtower." 12 min: Answering Common Objections. Choose ahead of time objections commonly met in territory. Possibly, "I have my own religion," "I'm busy." "I'm not interested,' etc. Include, "Oh, I can't study today.'" (See "Presenting the Good News.") Ask audience how they handle these. Consider one at a time as time permits.
20 min: "Have You Studied with Them for Six Months?" Questions and answers. Encourage brothers to have students read article entitled "Have You Been Studying for Six Months?" in May 15, 1969, "Watchtower."
13 min: Concluding comments. Encourage publishers to witness to relatives, friends and neighbors and try to study with them. See March "Kingdom Ministry," page three, "Whom Can You Help?" If available, include local experiences about helping interested ones progress. Consider "Question Box." Song 68.
WEEK STARTING MAY 25
Arrange locally to cover congregation's needs.
Encourage vacation pioneering this summer. Also prepare congregation for field service activity Sunday, offering "New World Translation" and a booklet for $1.
WEEK STARTING JUNE 1
Theme: Reaping Spiritually What We Have Sown. (Gal. 6:8) Song 71. 5 min: Introduction, text, comments. 10 min: Talk on theme "Reaping Spiritually What We Have Sown." See June 1, 1969, "Watchtower."
15 min: Offer the Bible to All.
Ask audience for expressions on why householders in local territory need a copy of "New World Translation," even though they may already have a copy of the Bible. Comment also on valuable features of "New World Translation."
Demonstrate presentation and Bible study offer.
Presentation could be given from the 'concordance,' or "Important Bible Words for Quick Reference," as outlined in November 1968 "Kingdom Ministry," page two. Or sermon could feature Proverbs 4:5, 7: "Acquire wisdom; and with all that you acquire, acquire understanding." Emphasize the need to understand the Bible when reading it.
18 min: Questions from Readers. Consider as many of the following as time will allow. Call on audience to see how much of the answer they remember. Thereafter chairman or selected ones in audience may give short comment highlighting the answer appearing in "The Watchtower."
How is it possible for one to grieve the holy spirit, since it is not a person? ("Watchtower," 7/1/68, page 415) In view of what is recorded at Matthew 5:44, is it wrong to pray for Armageddon to come? ("Watchtower," 8/1/68, page 479) Is it proper for a Christian who is engaged to be married to break off that engagement? ("Watchtower," 10/1/68, page 606) What is the attitude of Jehovah's witnesses toward the use of tobacco? ("Watchtower," 2/15/69, page 126)
12 min: Concluding comments. Song 24.
MARCH SERVICE REPORT
Pubs.
Av. Hrs.
Av. B-C
Av. Bl. St.
Av. Mags.
Sp'l Pios.
145.6
70.2
8.6
147.4
Pios.
12,233
101.7
49.7
4.8
110.1
Vac. Pios.
4,262
86.5
34.2
2.7
89.0
Pubs.
327,329
10.9
5.7
.7
13.3
TOTAL
344,767
Public Meetings Held: 25,651 UNITED STATES GOAL FOR 1969 356,057 Publishers
HOW DID WE DO IN MARCH?
The report shows a grand new peak in number of proclaimers of the good news! 344,767 publishers and pioneers shared in the field service during March. This truly is reason for rejoicing, because it means more praisers of our loving Father.
It is also fine to see the zeal reflected in the amount of time devoted to the field service. The 5,330,140 hours reported during March is nearly half a million more than for the preceding March. Keep up the good work!
Have You Studied with Them for Six Months?
1 For many of us the answer is Yes. Many of us placed Truth books with interested people in September and got studies started in October of last year. May will be the eighth month we are studying with them. Others have been studying in the Truth book longer. Will we continue to study with these people or not? And why?
2 Some of you have not completed the Truth book with your students. What will you do? First, analyze. Why have you not completed the Truth book? Is it due to lack of appreciation on the part of the student? Has he frequently missed studies? Does he fail to prepare his lesson? If so, the fact that the book has not been completed is not a sound reason for spending more than six months with such a person who lacks appreciation. It might be better to go to chapter fourteen, if this has not yet been studied; study it together and then terminate the study if the householder is not taking any positive action to associate regularly with the congregation.
3 Perhaps you feel you should continue the study you are conducting, although six months have passed. If so, what is the basis for your decision? Has the student begun to associate with the local congregation in a meaningful way? Or has he only come to the Kingdom Hall a few times out of curiosity, while continuing to attend one of the churches of Babylon the Great on a fairly regular basis? Has the householder demonstrated that he is
taking the truth to heart and has set his mind on serving Jehovah? How? If he formerly had images around the house, have these been removed? Or does the householder, while knowing that the doctrines of the churches are unscriptural, continue to show preference for attending their meetings instead of attending those of the congregation? What changes are taking place in his life? If positive action is not being taken by the householder, it is likely that the study should not be continued.
4 If you are planning to discontinue a particular study, it might be well to spend one or two study periods with the student having a heart-to-heart discussion about the things that have been learned and their significance and the urgency of the times, rather than going ahead with a regular study of additional material. In a kind way let the householder know that the decision is one that he has to make. But there is an urgency about our work and we have a responsibility before God to use our time to aid persons who truly want to serve him. If the householder is such a person and shows it by actions, then we will continue to offer help. If not, then we feel under obligation to spend our time calling on other individuals and giving them the same opportunity to become acquainted with the Bible and make a decision that for them too can mean life. It may be that when you talk frankly to some and they see that their six-month period is coming to
Announcements
Arrange for audit of congregation accounts during June.
May 30, "Memorial Day," is a holiday for many. Overseers are encouraged to make good arrangements for group witnessing.
The offer: May: The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, for 25c. June: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and a booklet, for $1. July: The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, for 25c.
New publications available:
Did Man Get Here by Evolution or by Creation? Spanish
Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God Dutch, Korean
From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained Arabic
"Things in Which It Is Impossible for God to Lie" Korean,
Hiligaynon, Zulu
"Let Your Name Be Sanctified" Sesotho
"Singing and Accompanying Yourselves with Music in Your Hearts"
Korean
"This Good News of the Kingdom" Icelandic, Korean
"Look! I Am Making All Things New" Korean
Living in Hope of a Righteous New Order Icelandic, Samoan
T4- "Awake from Sleep!" Russian
T6—The Trinity—Divine Mystery or Pagan Myth?
—Russian
T9—The Sign of Christ's Presence
—Russian
T11—Which Is the Right Religion?
—Korean
T12—Do You Believe in Evolution or the Bible?
—Korean, Russian
Available again in U.S.A.: Sermon Outlines —French
Have all copies of the 1969 Yearbook been placed from the congregation stock? Why not get them off the shelves and place them with persons with whom you have Bible studies? They are an excellent means by which to acquaint them with Jehovah's organization. (There are no additional copies available in Brooklyn.) Please order the assembly badge cards, celluloid holders and bumper signs on the regular Literature Order Blank.
Out of stock in U.S.A.::
What Do the Scriptures Say About "Survival After Death"? —English Things in Which It Is Impossible for God to Lie" (Pocket edition) French Your Will Be Done on Earth German Authorized (King James) Version Watchtower edition, thumb-indexed) English
an end, they will see the need to take hold of themselves and go along to the Kingdom Hall. In such a case we would, of course, continue the study.
5 A special pioneer completed a study of the Truth book with a woman in January. Although this special pioneer had very few studies, she clearly outlined to the woman why she would not be continuing the study. How delighted the pioneer was to receive a phone call from the student later in the week, informing her that she had sent in her church resignation and she would be at the Kingdom Hall on Sunday. She was there and now the study is being continued. What a happy outcome!
6 In other cases, although the six months have ended, there is no question about the course we are going to follow. These people are coming to the Kingdom Hall. They are regularly associating and making progress. We will, of course, continue to study with them and help them progress on to maturity.
We appreciate the urgency of the work we are doing. When individuals show by their actions that they want to do Jehovah's will, we will continue to aid them. Where substantial progress is not seen, then, rather than continuing the study, we do well to spend that time each week trying to find and help someone who is sincerely interested in doing something about the truth.
Convention Time Is Near
We know you are excited about the international assembly, just as we are. How much we all look forward to this grand gathering and the rich spiritual things Jehovah will provide! While preparing to attend, there are some matters that need your attention now and we are glad to provide this reminder.
Rooms: Please make your request for rooms on the form provided by the Society. Send it to the assembly city at the address on the form six or seven weeks before the assembly begins. (The Society will not operate facilities for trailers or tents.)
Have you finalized your transportation arrangements?
Are you helping new publishers and interested ones make arrangements to attend?
Can you help in one of the assembly departments? Have you given your volunteer service form to the overseer?
Overseers: Please order lapel cards and holders now. (Lapel cards Continued on page 4, col.3) Presenting THE GOOD NEWS
Conducting Studies Regularly
1 Many Bible study servants have observed that a large number of studies are conducted irregularly. Can this pattern be changed? It is likely that in many cases it can be. As Kingdom publishers, you appreciate the urgency of the times and you put forth considerable effort to be on hand for the study, don't you? How often is it, though, that students forget their appointments or get busy with something else? Sometimes sickness is a problem. But how can it be handled if the student has forgotten or is inclined to let something else interfere?
2 One publisher says : "Well, since we are here perhaps we could just take fifteen minutes and cover a paragraph or two." In the majority of cases householders have agreed. In fact, when fifteen minutes have passed and the publisher comments that the time is up and the study can be concluded if the householder wishes, the householder often changes his mind and suggests that the study continue. Even if the study is concluded after an abbreviated session, the interested one has been benefited by getting some spiritual feeding and he is further impressed with the importance of regular study.
3 If you find that an interested
The Truth That Leads to Life (Cont'd) brother: 'I learned more in three days than I have learned in my whole life,' and he promptly began attending meetings. The husband of one of our sisters, who previously had little interest in religion, took the book to read during his noon hour and then began staying up late at night reading it because he found it so impressive. Many interested persons have been placing the book with others—like the man in Ohio who obtained the book from a brother in his shop and in the following two weeks placed nine Truth books and two Bibles with his friends.
Since the Truth book was released last July, the Society's factory in Brooklyn has printed over 12 million copies. It is now available in Brooklyn in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Afrikaans and Chinese. We know it will keep faith growing by God's Word.
one simply cannot have the study as planned, it is often good to suggest another time the same week. While this may call for you to adjust your schedule, it will impress the student with the importance of taking in the life-giving knowledge regularly.
4 We hope you will enjoy good success in your efforts to conduct studies regularly and make disciples.
Question Box
How can we help those planning to be baptized this summer?
Many publishers are now having home Bible studies with individuals who are regularly attending the congregation meetings and sharing in the field ministry. These earnest students of the Bible have left Babylon the Great and are leading upright, moral lives in harmony with the Scriptures. With many the matter of dedication and baptism has come up, and it is necessary for them to take these important steps in order to have Jehovah's approval.
Encourage individuals who are seriously considering dedication and baptism to be diligent to finish a study or a careful reading of the books "Things in Which It Is Impossible for God to Lie" and "Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God." Let them know also of the procedure the organization follows in having the overseer review portions of the book "Your Word Is a Lamp to My Foot" with prospective baptismal candidates. The overseer should see to it that these candidates for baptism obtain a copy from the literature servant so that they can review the information to be covered and acquaint themselves with what the Scriptures have to say. This also allows the student to speak with the one with whom he studies if some matters are not clear.
Those planning to be baptized should make this known to the overseer. The overseer or another mature brother whom he may appoint will need to arrange for convenient and ample time to review the information on pages 7-40 of the "Lamp" book with baptismal candidates. (Usually 3 or more sessions.) The overseer will conduct at least one of the sessions himself. Many overseers will desire to conduct all of them. The overseer should be sure that the candidate understands the basic Bible teachings outlined, is qualified to make an acceptable dedication and be baptized and that he has made up his mind unconditionally to serve Jehovah faithfully. This is a weighty responsibility resting on the shoulders of the overseer. So, serious and prayerful thought and assistance need to be given to each one wanting to be baptized. Now is the time to assist individuals to prepare themselves if they are planning to get baptized this summer.
THEOCRATIC NEWS
Publishers in Erie, Pennsylvania, placed close to a thousand "Evolution" books with teachers in their territory, with one copy accepted for each school library.
Cuba's January report shows new peak of publishers, averaging 14.4 hours, 8 back-calls and 1.1 Bible studies.
Four new congregations in Dahomey. New peak of 1,520 publishers, also peak in pioneers.
Ninety baptized in Mozambique in first six months of this year, more than in all of last service year. Two new congregations formed.
Lebanon enjoys new peak of 1,064 publishers. Circuit of 485 reports 713 attend assembly.
Japanese special issue of "Awake!", "Is It Later than You Think?" publicized on Japan's nationwide T.V. show. Over 300,000 magazines placed that month. Philippines reports 45,771 publishers; 10 percent report as pioneers.
Togo reports 1,045 publishers-a 28 percent increase. At district assembly attended by 2,673,162 baptized.
Use of the "Lamp" Book
In April we began to use the book "Your Word Is a Lamp to My Foot" in the Theocratic Ministry School as a basis for instruction talks. It will be beneficial for all of us to review it.
However, it should be kept in mind that the book itself is made available only to those who have made known to the congregation overseer that they have dedicated themselves to Jehovah God and want to be baptized. It is not meant for distribution to newly interested Bible students or even to those who may report as publishers but are not yet taking definite steps to prepare for Christian baptism.
Nevertheless, it is a fine thing for all to be present at the School so that they can personally benefit from the talks that are given.
Convention Time Is Near (Cont'd) are 1c each and badge holders are 5c each.) None will be available at the assembly.
Order bumper signs for those desiring them and be sure to specify the city they will attend. The cost is 10c each.
Pioneers: Bring your cafeteria ticket. Treat it as cash. Replacements will not be available.
Now is the time to finalize your plans and to make the necessary arrangements to be at the assembly. We look forward to being with all of you there.
Help one another start new studies in the "Truth" book.
Published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 117 Adams St., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201 Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Printed in U.S.A.