Letter to All congregations in the USA, 1998-04-15: Need for temporary volunteers on construction
April 15,1998
TO ALL CONGREGATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES
Dear Brothers:
Willing volunteers who worked on the tabernacle were impelled by their hearts to take up such service. (Exodus 36:1,2) In a similar way today, thousands have been moved to volunteer to work at Bethel. Many have served as "temporary construction workers." While there is still a need for temporary volunteers on construction, those with skills and experience in other fields can also be used at Bethel on a temporary basis.
Although every field is not listed, from time to time help is needed in the following:
Communications:
Equipment installation and maintenance, including fiber optics and radio equipment
Computer:
Experienced network administrators, programmers and analysts
Construction/Engineering:
Architects, engineers and all construction tradesmen
Legal/Accounting:
Attorneys, paralegals, experienced tax preparers, and accountants (particularly those certified)
Maintenance:
Technicians and tradesmen in electronics,HVAC,elevators,controls,office machines,plumbing,electrical and vehicle repair
Medical:
Licensed health care providers including physicians,dentists,optometrists,chiropractors,registered nurses,and dental hygienists
Other fields:
Graphic artists and art designers,American Sign Language interpreters,audio/video technicians,landscapers,water and sewage plant operators
Those Who Qualify To Serve as Temporary Volunteers
The spiritual qualifications of applicants for temporary volunteer service at Bethel are of greatest importance. They must be wholly dedicated to Jehovah and fine examples as Christians in their home and congregation. Applicants must be baptized at least one year. Those in good health between the ages of 19 and 55 may apply. On occasion exceptions have been made and some over 55 who have skills needed at Bethel have been approved.
Please note that the purpose of this program is to utilize the skills of spiritually minded individuals who have many years of experience and training in specific fields needed by Bethel. Though the willing spirit of all is appreciated, those who do not have an in-depth background that is needed for the work at Bethel are encouraged not to apply.
How to Apply
Your congregation secretary has applications on file. You may apply to serve for one, two, three, or four weeks, or up to three months. Those applying should have the full support of their family. If a married brother applies for more than one month, his wife should apply also. Invitations are based on the needs at Bethel and accommodations available.
After serving at Bethel as a volunteer, one brother stated: "Each time I have come you thank me for my sacrifice and labors. Actually, the greatest benefits come to me, my family and the local congregation." The wife of one volunteer wrote: "My husband comes back so full of enthusiasm for Jehovah and the work that is being accomplished, it rubs off on all of us."
May Jehovah's spirit move all of you who qualify to make yourselves available to serve as temporary volunteers at Bethel. We take this opportunity to send you our warm Christian love.
Your brothers,
Watchtower B.V.J. Society
OF NEW YORK, INC.
P. S. to Body of Elders: Please read this letter to the congregation upon receipt. You will find enclosed copies of a revised "Application For Temporary Volunteer Program." The congregation secretary should destroy all "Temporary Construction Worker Questionnaire" forms in your files. Also, copies of a letter addressed to the temporary volunteer applicant to accompany each application are enclosed. When needed, additional applications and letters can be ordered on the monthly Congregation Literature Requests form.
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