The Watchtower, December 1, 1925
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Upon the earth distress of nations with perplexity; the sea and the waves (the restless, discontented) roaring; men’s hearts failing them for fear and for looking to the things coming upon the earth (society); for the powers of the heavens (ecclesiasticsm) shall be shaken. . . When ye see these thmgs begin to come t© pass, then (mow that the Kingdom of God is at hand. Look up, lift up your heads, rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh.—Matt. 24:33; Mark 13:29; Luke 21:25-31.
THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION
THIS journal is one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible instruction, or “Seminary Extension”, now being presented in all parts of the civilized world by the Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society, chartered A. D. 1884, “For the Promotion of Christian Knowledge”. It not only serves as a class room where Bible students may meet in the study of the divine Word but also as a channel of communication through which they may be readied with announcements of the Society’s conventions and of tSb earning of its traveling representatives, styled “Pilgrims", and refreshed with reports of its conventions.
Our “Berean Lessons” are topical rehearsals or reviews ef our Society’s published Studies most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to all who would merit the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz.. Verbi Dei Minister (V. D. M.), which translated into English is Minister of God’s Word. Oar treatment of the International Sunday School Lessons is specially for the older Bible students and teachers. By some this feature is considered indispensable.
This journal stands firmly for the defense of the only true foundation of the Christian’s hope now being so generally repudiated —redemption through the precious blood of “the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom (a corresponding price, a substitute] for all”. (1 Peter 1:19; 1 Timothy 2:6) Building up on this sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3: 1115; 2 Peter 1:5-11) of the Word of God, its further mission is to “make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery which. . .has been hid in God, ... to the intent that now might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God”—“which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as it is now revealed”.—Ephesians 3:5-9,10.
It stands free from all parties, sects and creeds of men. while it seeks more and more to bring its every utterance into fullest subjection to the will of God in Christ, as expressed in the holy Scriptures. It Is thus free to declare boldly whatsoever the Lord hath spoken—according to the divine wisdom granted unto us to understand his utterances. Its attitude is not dogmatic, but confident; for we know whereof we affirm, treading with implicit faith upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only in his service; hence our decisions relative to what may and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of his good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuilding of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge our leaders to prove all its utterances by the infallible Word to which reference is constantly made to facilitate such testing.
TO US THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY TEACH
That the church is “the temple of the living God”, peculiarly “his workmanship”; that its construction has been in progress throughout the gospel age—ever since Christ became the world’s Redeemer and the Chief Corner Stone of his temple, through which, when finished, God’s blessing shall come “to all people”, and they find access to him.—1 Corinthians 3:16, 17; Ephesians 2; 20-22; Genesis 28 :14 ; Galatians 3: 29.
That meantime the chiseling, shaping, and polishing of consecrated believers in Christ’s atonement for sin, progresses; and when the last of these “living stones”, “elect and precious," shall have been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together in the first resurrection ; and the temple shall be filled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the Millennium.—Revelation 15 : 5-8.
That the basis of hope, for the church and the world, lies in the fact that “Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man.” “a ransom for all,” and wid be “the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world”, ‘Tn due time”.— Hebrews 2:9; John 1: 9; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
That the hope of the church is that she may be like her Lord, “see him as he is,” be “partakers of the divine nature’,’ and share his glory as his joint-heir.—1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Romans 8:17; 2 Peter 1:4.
Tnat the present mission of the church is the perfecting of the saints for the future work of service: to develop in herself every grace; to be God’s witness to the world ; and to prepare to be kings and priests in the next age.—Ephesians 4 :12; Matthew 24: 14 ; Revelation 1:6; 20: 6.
That the hope for the world lies in the blessings of knowledge and opportunity to be brought to all by Christ’s Millennial kingdom, the restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the hands of their Redeemer and his glorified church, when all the wilfully wicked will be destroyed.—Acts 3 :19-23 ; Isaiah 35.
PUBLISHED SV
WATCH TOWER BIBLE & TRACT SOCIETY
IS CONCORD STREET a a BROOKLYN, NX, USA'
Tobeion Offices : British: 34 Craven Terrace, Lancaster Gate, London W. 2; Canadian: 38-40 Irwin Avenue, Toronto, Ontario; Australasian: 495 Collins St., Melbourne. Australia; South African! < Lelie St., Cape Town, South Africa.
Please Address the Society in Every Case.
YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: United States, $1.00 ; Canada and Miscellaneols Foreicn, $1.50; Great Britain, Australasia, and Soul'll Afiuca, 7s. American remittances should be made by Express or Postal Money Orders, or by Bap': Draft. Canadian, British, South African, and Australasian remittances should be made to blanch offices only. Remittances from scattered fo> eign territory may be made to the Brooklyn office, but by International Postal Money Orders only. {Foreign translations of this journal appear in several languages)
Editorial Committee: This journal Is published under the supervision of an editorial committee, at least three of whom have read and approved as truth each and every article appearing in these columns. The names of the editorial committee are: J. F. Rutherford, W. E. Van Amburgh, J. Hemehy, k II Baubbb. E. J. Cnwvtn, Terms to the Lord’s Poor: All Bible students who. by reason of old .ige or oilier luurmily or adversity, are unable to pay for this journal, mil be suppi.e.1 Hee if they send a postal card each May stating their case and requesting such provision. We are not only willing, but anxious, that all such be on eur list continually and in touch with file Berean studies. ________________________________
Notice to Subscribers: We do not, as a rule, send a card of acknowledgment for a renewal or for a new subscription. Receipt and entry of renewal are indicated within a month by change in expiration date, as shown on wrapper label.
Entered as Second Class Matter at Brooklyn, N.Y. PostoJ^ce., Am of Nlarch 3rd 1879.^
1926 CALENDAR
The new calendar has been printed especially for Bible Students. It contains the year text and weekly texts for consideration at prayer meetings, together with a calendar pad containing the hymns of the Bethel morning service. The calendar is approximately 22 j inches by 13 inches, and printed in five colors, embossed and gold stamped. Shipment can lie made about Dec. 1. The subject of the weekly texts will be used for articles in The Watch Tower throughout the coming year, and the calendar is designed to keep the texts before the attention of Bible Students.
The 1926 calendar will retail at 35e, and in quantities of fifty or more at 25c, charges prepaid.
MONEY LOST
We find that letters containing currency frequently fall to reach us. There seems to be a systematic rifling of the mails throughout the country, so that it is no longer safe to send remittances except by means of money orders or bank drafts. Please do not send currency or personal checks. Always keep a record of the numbers, dates and amounts of all money orders or drafts which you send, so that the money may be recovered in event of loss.
PORTUGUESE SERVICE
A brother unencumbered, who has had business experience and who can speak and write the Portuguese language, is desired. Anyone thoroughly consecrated to the Lord who can enter the work and give his whole time to it will please communicate immediately with the Society, addressing the President’s office. Also any brother who is a good gardener, and who would like to use his knowledge in the interests of the Lord’s people, will kindly communicate with this office.
BETHEL HYMNS FOR JANUARY 1926
Sunday 3 239 10 27 17 1 34 149 31 180
Monday 4 313 11 280 18 8 35 121
Tuesday 5 118 13 184 19 115 36 193
Wednesday 6 112 13 135 30 67 37 130
Thursday 7 267 14 200 31 279 38 91
Friday 1 34 8 183 15 109 33 300 39 74
Saturday 3 187 9 46 16 35 33 189 3 0 256_______
RbSABEREAN BIBLE STUDIES
By Means of “The At-one-ment”
STUDY XV: “A RANSOM FOR ALL”
Week of Jan. 3 Q. 1- 5 Week of Jan. 17.. Q. 12-17 Week of Jan. 10... Q. 6-11 Week of Jan. 24 Q. 18-22
Week of Jan. 31........Q. 23-28
AND HERALD OF CHRIST'S PRESENCE
Vol. XLVI December 1, 1925 No. 23
ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1925
“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing; for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.”—Isaiah 58:2.
WATCHMEN are those who are on the alert to keep a close lookout that they may safeguard and properly care for the things of interest committed unto them. The Lord has committed to the anointed ones certain interests of his kingdom, and it becomes the privilege and duty of such to give proper care to these interests. We believe that the evidence is overwhelming in proof of the fact that the Lord is present and has assumed his power and begun his reign. His first work was the casting of Satan from heaven. Now he is giving a witness in the earth that Jehovah is God and that his kingdom is man’s only hope of relief.
The members of the body of Christ yet on the earth are commissioned to give such a witness under the direction of their Head, Christ Jesus. These are the heavenly class. These are watchmen; and they see eye to eye, provided they are performing faithfully the commission granted unto them. Not everyone who is consecrated to the Lord is a watchman, and hence not everyone sees eye to eye.
The voice is a symbol of a message. This text shows that the watchmen are joyful, proving that at this time all the watchmen must be joyful. One sings in his heart, at least, when he is joyful. The watchmen have the message of the kingdom, and joyfully they tell others about it. Together and in harmony they lift up the message and joyfully give it to others.
During the year just past the church has performed the commission given to her to comfort those that mourn. Some have been found in Zion who have not appreciated the joy of the Lord and have been mourning. Some of those have had their mourning turned to joy because some other member of Zion gave unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Receiving this joy of the Lord, these in turn have joined the other watchmen and with real joy have gone forth to proclaim the message of the kingdom.
For the purpose of comforting and encouraging those in Zion and bringing greater joy to the watchmen, this annual report is made. The present commission given to the watchmen may be summed up in the words of Jesus, to wit: “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations: and then shall the end come.” (Matthew 24:14) This command must be obeyed before the great and terrible day of the Lord which marks the complete overthrow of Satan’s empire. To have some part in carrying into action this command of the King is the greatest privilege that could be enjoyed by anyone now on earth.
ORGANIZATION
That chovah has a plan which he has been carrying out from the very beginning of man needs neither proof nor argument. We may be sure that his' plan will be carried forward in his own good way. It is written concerning Jesus Christ, “Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Psalm 110:4) The Scriptures speak of Melchizedek as being a priest of the most high God. He was further a type of him who is the executive officer of the divine plan. This is proof that the Lord Jesus Christ is the head of the great divine organization. He is the Head of Zion. Of course everything is subject to Jehovah God, but the Lord Jesus is the one to whom is committed all power in heaven and earth, and he uses that power in harmony with God.
The church constitutes the members of his body, over which Christ Jesus is the Head. Those members on the earth now are properly designated as “the feet of him”. These are the anointed class on earth, and these are they who are watchmen and who joyfully do the will of the Lord on earth. Since he commands what shall be done on earth we should have no difficulty in finding that he is directing his work. The Watch Tower is the medium of communication with the various ones who are watchmen and who love the Lord. The Lord has long used it for that purpose. During the year just past The Watch Tower, we believe, has set forth some meat in due season sent from the Lord. Those who so believe study The Watch Tower, not contenting themselves with giving it a mere casual reading. Reports to the office from classes that have conducted Bercan studies in The Watch Tower during the year show much improvement in the condition of these classes.
The Watch Tower is therefore the official organ for the church, and every really consecrated and anointed child of God is interested in it. Its enemies continue to say much about it; but wTe will be content to give no heed to criticism nor be deterred from work thereby, nor even give time to consider the same, believing that the Lord wishes us to use the faculties with which we are endowed, to spread his message. This we will continue
to do by his grace., and will continue to use The Watch Tower to that end. Of course, the enemy tries to disrupt the work and to prevent the Lord’s people from studying the truth. Such is to be expected.
During the year The Watch Tower published an article under the title of “The Birth of the Nation”, showing Satan’s exclusion from heaven, and that from now on until the final conflict he goes forth to make war against those who keep the commandments of God and who have the testimony of Jesus Christ. It would therefore be strange if we do not notice some difficulties in some of the classes about various things. Satan is our worst enemy, and we are his sole earthly foe. It is a fight to the finish. The Devil is maliciously bent on doing evil. The watchmen of the Lord are determined always to do good. A closer unity among all the watchmen is had when they study The Watch Tower carefully and try to maintain the spirit of the Master.
WORLD WITNESS
Throughout the year the Society has followed a world-wide method of spreading the message of the kingdom. Certain witness days have been appointed and all the classes, regardless of what language they speak, have been notified to prepare for that day. This has been done by procuring halls and advertising public meetings. On that fixed day every public speaker, be he pilgrim or elder, has used the same subject in a public lecture. In this manner the watchmen have together lifted up their voices in song; that is to say, they have joyfully proclaimed the same good news everywhere at the same time. This method has been greatly blessed of the Lord. From every country the reports are good.
Of course there are some here and there who decline to use the subject assigned by the Society. But these are few and far between. It is to be expected that there would be some amongst those who claim consecration who would be lawless. The Master foreknew and foretold just such a condition. There are those who think that to be a little contrary shows more fully their independence, and they insist on taking their own course and not working in harmony. These are not watchmen, whatever else they may be. They are not watching for the interests of the kingdom but are watching to gratify their own whims. Nor do these see eye to eye on the great truths now due to be understood.
SCOPE OF THE WORK
It is manifest that the Lord’s work in giving a witness to his kingdom is now being conducted on a far wider scope than ever before. On the whole there are more people now in present truth in the different countries, speaking the different languages, than heretofore, but a less number actually engaged in the service. Those who are participating are showing greater zeal and energy than heretofore. With them it is not a question as to just when the work will cease and when they may go home, but with all the watchmen joyfully proclaiming the message the question is: Am I doing what - can to show forth the praises of him who has called me out of darkness into the marvelous light ?
The scope of the work necessarily increases the correspondence at the headquarters. The Society carries on a voluminous correspondence which has increased during the past year. The president’s office has its share. This includes correspondence with all the foreign countries hereinafter named. Two stenographers are employed in the president’s office to do the work, aside from a large force at the Concord Street office. An effort is made to answer all letters received and to answer them promptly. We ask, however, our brethren to be patient; for at times the work is greater and some parts seem to be more important than to reply to letters. If your letters are not answered promptly, be assured that it is because the press of work is such that there must be some delay.
The correspondence at the headquarters at Brooklyn during the year, outgoing and incoming, was as follows:
Total letters received 190,043
Total letters dispatched 161,768
PILGRIM SERVICE
The policy of the Society has been maintained throughout the year in sending brethren to visit the various classes and to hold public meetings. From the Brooklyn office is conducted all the pilgrim work of the United States, in the English language and in other languages. The attendance at the public meetings generally throughout the year has not increased, and the failure to increase has been due doubtless to the number who have heard over the radio. However the number of meetings and the total attendance throughout the year have shown an increase:
Number of pilgrims in the service
Visits made
Public meetings held
Total attendance 686,308
Class meetings held
Total attendance 496,679
Miles traveled 772,192
In addition to the English-speaking pilgrims there have been 51 pilgrim brethren in the field speaking other languages, also 4 colored pilgrims, to wit:
Polish
Russian
German
Armenian
Lithuanian
Arabic
Ukrainian
Japanese
Greek
French
Italian
Spanish
Hungarian
Colored
A resume of these foreign-speaking brethren’s service
is as follows:
Total visits 2,688
Public meetings 1,580
Attendance 97,447
Class meetings 3,149
Attendance 104,383
Miles traveled 296,592
The total number of pilgrims in all languages directed from the Brooklyn office during the year is 171, and their combined service is as follows •.
Total visits 10,297
Public meetings 6.960
Attendance 783.755
Class meetings 10.S87
Attendance 601,062
Miles traveled 1,068,784
Throughout the year the Society has furnished the handbills for the various public meetings, and on the reverse side of each one has been printed a message of the truth. This expense has been paid by the local classes, and therefore the amount is not reported. This, of course, reduced the contributions to the main office; but nevertheless the money was spent for a witness to the truth. The total number of handbills distributed during the year, which carried on the reverse side a message of truth was, to wit: 10,852,000.
Much joy and doubtless much good has resulted from the conventions held during the year. The large conventions at London, Magdeburg, Springfield, Indianapolis, and other places have heretofore been reported in The Watch Tower. In addition to these, many smaller conventions have been held throughout the country in the English language and many in the foreign tongues. At each one of these conventions a day, or at least a part of a day, was set aside for field service. This has resulted in a tremendous witness for the truth in 1925.
WITNESS BY RADIO
Beyond any question of a doubt the witness of the kingdom during 1925 has been the greatest yet given. In addition to the public meetings as above mentioned there have been many radio lectures delivered. The Society owns Station WBBR, Staten Island, which broadcasts, on a wave length of 272.6 meters, every Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Monday evening, Thursday evening and Saturday evening; the hours being, Sunday 10 to 11: 30 a. m., and 9 to 10: 30 p. m., and the other days 8 to 9 p. m. The Society also owns Station WORD, Batavia, Illinois, with an extra studio in Chicago at the Webster Hotel, which broadcasts every evening except Monday, also on Sunday mornings.
These two stations have been in operation throughout the year, and the reports that come in from week to week are gratifying beyond description. Great numbers of people who would not otherwise have heard the truth, have written these stations, expressing their gratification for the opportunity of learning something about the Bible. People who have heretofore been prejudiced against our Society, because it had been misrepresented to them, after listening to lectures over the radio have not only become friends but many of them have become supporters of the work. A large number of books have been sold to those who have written to the stations. Without doubt this method of giving the testimony concerning the kingdom has the Lord’s blessing. Seemingly he has brought to light this great invention, long ago foretold, just at the proper time to reach a class of people to whom he would have the witness given.
Station WBBR has received reports of good reception from Ireland and England, from all of the New England states, Nova Scotia, Ontario, the northern part of the United States, the middle west and the extreme south.
Station WORD is one of the super-stations of the United States, operating at 5,000 watts. The reception of this station has been good on both the Atlantic and Pacific seaboards, Cuba and the extreme northern part of Alaska. Many who have never before heard of the truth have been interested by hearing this station.
The music of these stations is furnished almost exclusively by the consecrated. WBBR has its own orchestra, which receives many compliments from the public. The Lord has greatly blessed the brethren who have arranged the musical programs as well as those who have participated in the lectures, Sunday School lessons, etc. WORD also has its own orchestra, which has given a good account of itself. Both stations also have choral singers who are fully consecrated.
In addition to these two stations the Society has recently, together with local brethren, opened at Oakland, California, a radio station with the call letters KFWM, with a wave length of 207 meters, which is on the air every week; also a station at Saskatoon, Sask., known as CHUG, having a wave length of 330 meters. We are watching for opportunities to open other stations, believing it to be the Lord’s will that the message should be spread throughout the land in this way. The Society is asking the brethren everywhere who give public lectures to prepare their lectures in advance, writing them in a clear orderly manner and of a length that will require from twenty to twenty-five minutes to read, and have these ready for use at any time an opportunity affords to use the radio. The Golden Age carries the lectures given by the president of the Society, and any of the brethren are at liberty to use these at other stations at any time the opportunity arises.
BROOKLYN
What has been accomplished during the year at Brooklyn, with modesty we say, is gratifying. The Lord is our judge, but it is due to the workers and to the friends in the field to say that Brooklyn renders a good account. The production in the factory has increased over that of 1924 with even a slight reduction in the force at work. The brethren have learned to be more efficient and by the Lord’s grace have accomplished more. In addition to the work done in the office and factory the brethren have spent more time in the field on Saturdays canvassing, and have thus distributed a large amount of literature and have received an increased blessing from the Lord. The output of books for 1925 is 41,515 more than it was in 1924. The output of booklets during 1925 shows an increase of 265,851 over 1924. The Watch Tower and The Golden Age likewise show an increase over 1924. The increase in handbills carrying the message during 1925 over 1924 was 7,036,700. Counting the production of books according to pages as compared with 19242 and taking into con-sideratiop the great increase in size of pages of the “Watch Tower Reprints” manufactured, the production at the Brooklyn plant for 1925 is as follows:
Books and booklets
3,624,110
Watch Towers printed
1,420,700
Golden Ages printed
1,978,050
Broadcasters
4,693,972
“Indictments”
13,545,000
Handbills
10.852,000
TOTAL
36,113,832
This shows an increase in production for 1925 over 1924 of 11,630,937 pieces of literature at Brooklyn.
The “Indictments” distributed in all countries and in all languages exceeded 50,000,000 copies.
FIELD WORKERS
Field workers include, of course, pilgrims, colporteurs, class workers, sharpshooters. The colporteurs who give all tffi’ir time to the service accomplish the greatest results, as might be expected. During the year there has been an average of 439 regular colporteurs and 318 auxiliary colporteurs in the field, making an average total of 757 colporteurs. These have placed in the hands of the people Studies in the Scriptures, etc., in bound volumes to the number of 159,655 copies.
During the year there were 901 classes organized for the service work and 578 sharpshooters enrolled. There has been a weekly average of 1089 workers in this department. During the year these disposed of bound volumes to the number of 168,947, and called on homes to the number of 1,415,875, which shows a decided increase over the previous year. The colporteurs showed an increase of booklet sales in 1925 over 1924 of 44,717, while the class workers showed an increase of 20,182; making a total increase of 67,051 over 1924. There was a net increase in sales of both books and booklets in 1925 over 1924 of 83,036. The following is a statement of the books in the English language sent out from the Brooklyn office during the year 1925:
Studies, Scenarios, etc. 363,096
Harp of God 545,225
Way to Paradise 37,098
Comfort for the People 712,223
Millions 19,128
Miscellaneous booklets 639,127
Watch Tower Reprints
“Finished Mystery,” Tower (ZG)
“Plan of the Ages,” Tower (ZA)
2,321,924
Books sent out from Brooklyn in the various foreign languages follow:
Studies, Scenarios, etc 425,014
Harp of God 583,668
Way to Paradise 37,269
Comfort fob the People 745,730
Millions 55,817
Miscellaneous booklets 987,932
Watch Tower Reprints
“Finished Mystery,” Tower (ZG)
“Plan of the Ages,” Tower (ZA)
TOTAL 2,841,974
GRAND TOTAL 5,163,898
In addition to the above there were 6130 Bibles sold during the year, from Brooklyn.
In order that the Bethel family might have some part in the distribution of the literature, the factory and the office have been closed on Saturdays from May to September ; and during these months the Bethel Family disposed of 4,596 Harp Bible Study Courses, 350 sets of Studies in the Scriptures, and 17,377 booklets, making a grand total of books and booklets of 24,423. This has been a great encouragement to the family, and they have received many blessings therefrom.
SERVICE week
September 7th to 13th was set aside as I. B. S. A. service week. This has proven to be most gratifying. During that week 450 classes engaged in canvassing with the books. They placed in the hands of the people 1085 sets of Studies in the Scriptures and 10,502 Harp Bible Study Courses, with other books and booklets, making a grand total of 55,978 volumes. This is proof of the value of united action, all engaging in the same blessed cause on the same day is an encouragement to those who participate; and the Lord adds his blessing. It is impossible here to give a list of all the classes who engaged during Service Week, but the report is made of thirty classes who stand at the head in the service work and who are therefore placed on the honor roll, to wit:
Tulsa, Okla.
Bayonne, N. J. Bennett, Colo. Brooklyn (Bethel) Wynnewood, Okla. Bremerton, W’ash. New Brunswick, N. J. Watertown, N. Y. Abilene, Kans. Duluth, Minn. Lansing. Mich. Nanticoke, Pa. Lawrence, Mass. Pittsburgh, Pa. Los Angeles, Calif.
Plymouth, Mich.
Benton Harbor, Mich.
Endicott, N. Y.
Easton, Pa.
Mitchell, S. D.
Wilson, N. C.
Oil City, Pa.
Boise, Idaho.
Lancaster, Pa.
York, Pa.
Bloomfield, N. J.
Detroit, Mich.
Port Huron, Mich.
New Philadelphia, Ohio.
Reading, Pa.
WORLD-WIDE WITNESS
At regular intervals during the year the world-wide witness has been given, and the classes in the United States have responded well. The attendance at these meetings is included in the public meetings in the pilgrim department report. Suffice to say here that these meetings have been a great blessing to those who participated conscious of the fact that they are engaging with their brethren in all languages together lifting up their voices in announcing the King and his kingdom.
FINANCIAL
Only by the Lord’s grace could such an amount of work be accomplished with such a small amount of money as is used in the service. When brethren are anxious to serve and have the spirit of the Lord, they can, by the Lord’s grace, accomplish something with a little. We are indeed grateful for the amount of finances the Lord has provided during the year. It will be observed that a larger portion of the money contributed by the American brethren was used in European work and in other foreign countries. Canada also furnished a goodly amount. During the year the Society's expenditure in the foreign field amounted to the sum of $159,926.34. In addition thereto, a great amount of literature has been printed for the foreign branches and a great amount printed on the Society’s presses in foreign countries. It is a precious privilege that the brethren of America have in participating in carrying the gospel to the other parts of the world where the friends are too poor in this world’s goods to support the work. The brethren have been liberal in their contributions in so far as the Lord has prospered them. Hereto is appended the treasurer’s statement showing the receipts of Good Hopes and disbursements during the year;
RECEIPTS
To Good Hopes donations, etc., $222,884.84 $222,884.84
EXPENDITURES
By deficit 1924 $ 4,126.88
By pilgrim and publicity expenses 3-1,510.45 By free literature expenses, etc., 15,316.88 By conventions 7,395.47
By foreign witness work 159,926.34
$222,276.02 $222,276.02
To Balance $ 608.82
OPPOSITION
During the year the enemy has been busy in his attempt to destroy the Lord’s work. Some who have heretofore been with us have turned aside and joined the enemy, and have had many unkind things to say. But we give no heed to these because we have not the time. It would interrupt our song. Those who really love the Lord and who engage in his service because of their love for him cannot afford to waste time by giving any heed to slander or other opposition reports.
Looking over the field as a whole, the year 1925 has been the most gratifying of all during the time that it has been the privilege of the Lord’s people to give the witness since the beginning of his presence. It will be found that in some countries there has been a small decrease in the work due to conditions which cannot be overcome; but by far the larger number of countries have shown an increase in the work done and in the amount of good accomplished. When we look at the great amount of work that simply must be done and the small amount that we accomplish in fact, we can appreciate the words of the psalmist, “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.” (Psalm 127:1) We know that our own feeble efforts can accomplish nothing, but the Lord adds his grace and permits his people to accomplish what he desires.
At the Brooklyn headquarters, in addition to the English language the work is carried on in a number of foreign tongues, to wit: Armenian, Arabic, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, Ukrainian and Russian. Here a brief report is given of the work done in America in the foreign languages. A more detailed report, however, will be given in The Watch Tower published in these various languages for the benefit of the brethren speaking such languages.
ABYSSINIA
The work in Abyssinia has been very limited, being carried on by correspondence with people of different tongues residing in that country.
AFRICA—SOUTH
The work in South Africa during the year has increased very much and to the gratification of those who have had part in it. The main part of the work, of course, is under the Society’s headquarters at Cape Town, but the witness has been extended into Anatonga-land, Basutoland, Bechuanaland, Cape Good Hope, Madagascar, Natal, Orange Free State, Portuguese East Africa, Rhodesia, South West Africa, Swaziland, Transvaal, and Zululand. During the year our printing press at Cape Town has been put to good use, and has furnished a great amount of free literature. The Harp and several of the booklets have been published in the Dutch and also in some of the native tongues, and have had a goodly distribution. In addition, about 250,000 pieces of free literature have been printed and distributed to the people. This witness in South Africa is gratifying.
The local manager reports that 1925 has been the banner year for the work in South Africa, that the meetings held and the amount of books and literature placed in the hands of the people is three times greater than any previous year in the history of the harvest. The sale of books amounted to approximately 50,000. The population is very scattered, and this necessitates a large amount of traveling to reach the people. The classes have been organized for the service work and have been carrying this on to good advantage.
AFRICA—WEST
The Lord continues to bless the work of his people in the West Coast of Africa, as shown by the following:
Volumes of books sold
Public meetings held
Attendance 29,210
Class meetings
Attendance
Pilgrims in the field
Colporteurs in the field
Free literature distributed 15,000
Brother Brown, the local manager, writes as follows:
Six months’ rain in this country has impeded the work somewhat; but the output of the books exceeded that of last year, and the witness has been extended far and wide along the West Coast of Africa, a distance of over two thousand miles. This country is far behind in this twentieth century; and much hardship is encountered in traveling, lodgings, food, etc. Also much money spent. But the joy of the Lord is our strength; and soon the people will realize what the Lord has done for them through his channel, the Watch Tower Bibijc and Tract Society. Without doubt the Babylonish churches here have suffered from the effects of the truth. The people are seeing the truth, and many are withdrawing from Babylon. Our public lectures are well attended, and the people like to hear about the kingdom,
In September a convention was held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, at which the brethren from various parts of West Africa were present. This convention was addressed by nine different brethren, and brought much joy to all who attended.
ALBANIA
Of course, the witness in Albania has been limited. The Harp of God, also The Desirable Government and The World Distress booklets were translated and printed in the native, tongue, a goodly number placed in the hands of the people, and the Albanians are taking hold of the truth with much joy. There are only three classes in Albania, but they are doing good work.
ARGENTINE
The Argentine Republic is a very large territory; and to cover it all with the force at hand is a very great task. Nevertheless, the brethren there are going on with the work. Brother Muniz is in charge of the Spanish work, while Brother Charles Ott and Brother Max Gumpel are working amongst the German population. During the year books have been sold and pieces of free literature have been distributed to the number of 279,944. A number of classes have been formed in different places, small in number; but their zeal for the Lord is manifest. The work is making slow but certain progress; and the witness is being given. Of course, the work must be entirely financed from the main office at Brooklyn.
ASIA MINOR
Dnder this head we include the work in Armenia, Syria, Turkey, Georgia, and Arabia. The interest in this part of the field has increased during the past year. There have been five new Armenian classes organized, and public meetings held to the number of 65 with a total attendance of 4,500. Class meetings held 87, with an attendance of 2,762. Books sold 876 volumes, and other pieces of literature distributed 5,520. Letters received 326, and dispatched 488.
In that same part of the world is another class of Syrians using the Arabic tongue. At Mt. Lebanon there is a class of upwards of 70, and many more manifesting considerable interest and the message is spreading throughout the country. These brethren in Asia Minor also have been extending the work by correspondence to Bulgaria, Egypt, the Island of Cyprus, Abyssinia, Persia and other parts of the East and even reaching some in the Far East, Asia. At least, we are able to say that there has been a witness concerning God’s kingdom given to the truth in Abyssinia, Arabia, Armenia, and Persia.
AUSTRALASIA
The giving of the witness of the kingdom in Australasia goes majestically on under the direction of the King of kings. There is a decided increase of interest manifested by the people in the year just past. In order to get the report for the fiscal year to Brooklyn in time it was closed earlier; namely, only eleven months of the year being shown. We quote fram the Australasian report:
We have closed the books this year at the end of August, so this report covers only eleven months. Despite the shorter period, we are well ahead of last year’s output. We have well nigh cleaned out our stock of volumes. The number of colporteurs in the field has fluctuated somewhat during the year. Some of the dear ones have had to withdraw from the service for various reasons, while others have availed themselves of the opportunity to give their whole time l:> the Lord’s service, so that the number remains about the same.
The pilgrim work during the year is especially gratifying. This has almost doubled over the year of 1924. The successive world witnesses held during the year of 1925 have aroused considerable interest amongst the brethren of boili Australia and New Zealand; and the Lord’s message has been widely proclaimed, even more than heretofore. In consequence there is greater interest on the part of the public and more opposition. The D.D’s and smaller puppies are barking furiously. The brethren much appreciate the opportunities of service, and they highly appreciate the meat in due season appearing in The Watch Tower.
Literature circulated in Australasia during the year:
Studies in the Scriptures, cloth
Studies in the Scriptures, magazine The Harp of God
Booklets
Other books and booklets
Peoples Pulpits
Watch Towers
Golden Ages “Indictments” Advertising leaflets Letters received
Letters dispatched
Special public meetings held
Attendance
Semi-public meetings
Attendance
Parlor meetings
Attendance
Miles traveled
7,631
7.S69
43,962
5,489
90.0 )0
5.080
5.360
500 0 )0
1,063.12.)
3,944
4,941
26,175
9,552
5.8S9
61,58)
In view of the large expanse of territory and the small population in proportion, the work done in Australasia during the year shows remarkable results, better than any previous year. We rejoice with our Australian brethren at this increased zeal on their part and the manifestation of the Lord’s blessing toward them. Each letter from the Australasian office brings a fresh request for the President of the Society to visit that country, but press of work in America and in other places is such that it hardly seems reasonable to spare the time to make the long journey. It is a great joy to cooperate with the brethren in the far an ay countries as well as with those nearby.
AUSTRIA
As is well known by the Watch Tower readers, Austria for centuries has been largely predominated by the Catholics. Little opportunity has been had there for witnessing for the kingdom message, but during the past year there has been a great increase in the work in that laud. The people are quite poor, and it is difficult for them to buy books; but with all these handicaps there has been sold and placed in the hands of the people in Austria in the past year the following:
Studies in the Scriptures The Harp ok God Comfort for the People "Indictments” distributed free
6,748
6,368
29,757
1,170,000
In recent months the service work has been organized in Austria, and there has been a decided increase. the work has taken on a new impetus and bids fair to greatly increase within the next few months. The following is a quotation from a report from Austria:
The general convention at Vienna, of which I am enclosing a program, has spurred on the ecclesias in Austria.
We are observing here that the Jewish people in Zionism now find the spirit of grace and supplication. Some of the brethren in working from house to house amongst the Jews at Vienna since January meet with a quite different success than two years ago; the Jews are commencing to wake up!
FOR THE BLIND
The brother having charge of this work reports: "The blind are more appreciative of literature prepared for them than are the seeing people. The work during the year has increased over that of last year.” The Revised Braille is the American method used for preparing literature for the blind. The Society has literature for the blind as follows: The Harp of God, Desirable Government, Comfort for the People, various articles in The Watch Tower, and prayer-meeting text comments. The Millions book is prepared in the English Braille. These volumes are loaned to blind readers. The brethren everywhere can encourage the work cf the blind by calling on the blind people who would be glad to read the literature, and by communicating to this office information obtained.
BOLIVIA
In Bolivia the witness during the year has consisted of the distribution of free literature and the placing of a few books. The people in that land do not take very much to religious matters, but we rejoice to say that there has been some witness to the truth there.
BRAZIL
The w’ork in Brazil is conducted from the Society’s office at Rio de Janeiro. The work is chiefly amongst the Portuguese people. The Watch Tower is published in the Portuguese language, as this is the principal language spoken by the people in that vicinity; and in addition to this, of course, there is some work done amongst the English-speaking people. The Society has recently installed a printing press which we expect to use in printing much of the free literature in the near future. During the year 175,000 pieces of literature have been distributed free of charge in Brazil. The people in that land a i'o not much disposed to spend their money. While a limited number buy the books, it is much easier to get them to read something that is free. The work, of course, for Brazil must be financed from the main office at Brooklyn. The local representative’s report follows:
One brother spent five months on a trip which covered the important points on the coast and up the Amazon River. He had many wonderful experiences. In some places he had the opportunity of addressing congregations of Protestants, but generally they were notified in advance that a heretic was on the way. He sold a number of books, however. Another brother distributed tracts in Minas Geraes. About 30,000 were put out at Sao Paulo; and other towns were also canvassed and tracts distributed. The friends are receiving many blessings from the Lord and are continuing firm in .the faith. The little class of Hungarians in Sao Paulo are of good courage and are doing well. About all that can be expected to be done in this dark country is to give the people the witness concerning the kingdom, in fulfilment of the Lord’s commandment.—Matthew 24: 14.
The work in Brazil is making satisfactory progress, for which we are very grateful.
BRITISH WORK
By the term British, as herein used, we mean the countries of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, which are under the jurisdiction of the London office. The witness given during 1925 in these countries has surpassed that of any previous year. It will be gratifying to note that a greater number of books on the truth, Scripture Studies, etc., have been placed by the British office this year than in any previous year during the harvest period. The annual report submitted by Brother Hemery, the manager of the British work, says:
I have again the privilege and honor to send you the British Branch yearly report. The past year has been one of unceasing activity in the service of our Lord, our King; and the zeal of the brethren Is reflected in the increase in the number of books sold, which the report shows. We could have wished for a still better report; for though there is a good showing and an increase over last year of 160,000 books, the increase is much more in the smaller than in the larger books. Large as these figures are, I believe they are yet to be greatly exceeded.
In some districts the lack of money owing to unemployment makes it almost impossible to sell the larger books; during the past year the government has paid out £100,000,000 in umm ployment relief. The fact that the books are being sold shoos the people want to hear of affairs. The service work does well, though not all the classes are active. Some of the classes are very small, and do not enter into their privileges as they might do. But this applies also to some of the larger classes. The service work has taken up a total of 292,189 books.
The colporteur work is lively; and to these dear brethren who day by day and throughout the year go forth serving the Lord, our hearts go out. There are 167 whole-time colporteurs, and these with the 96 auxiliaries have accounted for 173,610 books.
A summary of the British work is as follows:
Studies, all kinds 104,837
11 Aims 135 848
Millions and Talking with the Dead 2J.384
Booklets, DG and Cojiioet 16S.S16
Booklets, others 75.371
Books, Paradise, Scenaiuos, Mannas, etc. 7.175 Proclamations and various other tracts 5,055,85.)
Number of meetings
Total attendance 139,012
Folders (each with a message) 8,993,670
Number of classes
Number of pilgrims
N unite r of \ isits
Attendance 113,721
Auxiliary service
Colporteurs, v.hole time
Colporteurs, auxiliary
Letters received 41,342
Letters sent out 69,767
The British report continues:
We have held 2490 public meetings, and have distributed folders to advertise them, every one carrying some message of the truth, to the number of 8,993,000. The attendance of strangers at the meetings was 139,042.
The pilgrim service lias been much enjoyed by the classes; 2769 visits are reported, besides 625 visits made by auxiliary service, chiefly class elders who serve on appointments from the office.
The British friends were much heartened by your, visit; It left a deep and abiding impression on their minds, and has been effective In the furtherance of the work. I am extremely glad to be able to report the enthusiasm of the brethren, and that there was never so much unity of heart and mind in the British field as at present True there are still some who believe they have a right to conduct the Lord’s harvest work in their own way apart from the lead of the Society. It is not these that have contributed to the increased numbers in this report.
BULGARIA
During the year there has been considerable literature distributed in Bulgaria. One brother has traveled and held meetings there during the year with good results.
CANADA
It is indeed gratifying to note that every branch of the work in Canada shows an increase in 1925 over 1924, which at that time was the banner year. A large portion of Canada is prairie country, thinly settled; and as it is difficult to give public witnesses and reach many people, the system of holding meetings at public schools has been adopted with very gratifying results. During the year meetings have been held at 526 different school houses in Canada, with a total attendance of 12,375, at which books were placed in the hands of the people to the number of 9,860. It is understood, of course, that this work is confined to Western Canada, known as the prairie country. It is hoped to extend this branch of the work to the other parts of Canada in the near future. During the year there have been 9 pilgrims devoting all their time to the sendee in Canada, besides 12 auxiliary pilgrims; and much local work has been done by brethren of the various classes.
The following is given of the Canadian work for 1925:
Public meetings held 2,245
Attendance 179,084
Class meetings 2,042
Attendance 103,406
Miles traveled 180.647
Letters received 18,876
Letters dispatched 22,293
Circulars dispatched 21,859
Total books sold, bound volumes 61,913
Booklets and Bibles, etc., 205,974
Total number of pieces of literature sold 276,449 Free literature distributed, including
“Indictments’' 2,382,052
The colporteur work in Canada during the year shows splendid results. There were 71 colporteurs in the field, which is an increase of 18 over last year. The report of Brother Salter, the Canadian representative, says:
Despite the fact that there has been a considerable falling off in sales for the months of August and September as compared with the corresponding months last year, I am happy to report that the total sales for the year are in excess of last year by 4740 pieces, the total for the year being 276,449. There has been a healthy increase in the number of colporteurs, there being an average of 71 in the service.
An outstanding witness of the year was made through the distribution of the “Indictments”, both in the English and French languages, and also in the message upon the back of our dodgers, which have been so largely used this year. The total number of pieces distributed was 2,382,052, which is 454,709 in excess of last year.
The attendance at meetings this year has been very gratifying indeed; that of the public totaling 179,084, while that of the classes was 103.406, making a grand total of 282,400. This attendance has been the result of the service of nine pilgrim brethren of English, German and Ukrainian languages, and twelve auxilaries serving week-end appointments. The mileage, as you will note, has been very heavy, totaling 1S0.647 miles.
The pilgrim service has included that of Newfoundland, the reports to hand from the pilgrims serving there being to the effect that while it is a very difficult country to serve, the interest among the Newfoundlanders is very keen. The number of consecrated there, however, is small and very scattered.
We have had another very successful year in witnessing in the province of Quebec. The sale of literature has not been quite so high as last year; but a very thorough distribution of the “Indictment” was made, as well as that of other literature, with much persecution as a result. Many of the brethren were cast into prison, but in all cases arrangements were made for them to be bailed out, and the cases fought in the courts. I am happy to say that in each and every instance the cases have been dismissed; and I believe that as a consequence the Catholic priesthood will be less inclined to molest them in the future.
Pleased indeed am I to report that the spiritual condition of the Lord’s people throughout Canada seems to be excellent. There are very few classes where there is any evidence of contention or division. On the contrary all the friends seem to be united in action as never before. They have more fully than ever before entered into the joy of the Lord.
And now I would like to take advantage of this opportunity of assuring you of my deepest Christian love and loyalty in the cause of our King, and at the same time to assure you that you are held in the highest esteem and love of the friends throughout this land, being continually remembered by us, one and all, at the throne of grace.
CANAL ZONE
The work here is organized and conducted under the direction of the Brooklyn office and has had a healthy increase during the year.
CENTRAL EUROPEAN OFFICE
As heretofore announced, the Society during the World War established a central office in Switzerland, through which it conducts its work in the other countries of Central Europe, to wit: Switzerland, France, Belgium, Holland, Italy, Austria, Czecl.o-Slovakia, and Germany. Germany's work is now independent of the Central European office. The Central European office acts more in the nature of a clearing house for the benefit of the other countries. For some time this has been under the direction of Brother Binkele. Brother Bmkele's physical condition has been such in the past few months that he has been relieved of his duties, and Brother Zaugg is at present in charge. All these countries, however, communicate direct with the home office in Brooklyn and are under the management of the Brooklyn headquarters. The books and other literature for all the countries above named aside from Germany have been published largely in the Central European office at Berne, Switzerland. In addition to this, other of our literature is printed there for parts of Southern Europe. The reports of the various countries appear under the respective heads of said countries, but it is interesting here to note that the countries above mentioned with the exclusion of Germany, have held meetings as follows:
Total lectures 5,846
Total attendance 455,230
CHILE
Brethren have traveled through Chile during the year, and have distributed a large amount of free literature and placed some books, and have been telling the people concerning the kingdom.
CHINA
During the year some effort was made to give the witness in this benighted land but with little success. A few meetings were held and some books placed. Probably the Lord is not ready to take his message of truth to these people. We know, however, that the time will come when they must learn that Jehovah is God.
COLORED
Our colored brethren have been doing splendid work during the year. The sale of books is included, of course, in the general report. This branch is carried on not for the purpose of segregation; but because it is believed that through a separate branch the public can be reached in a better way and because it affords an opportunity for our colored brethren to develop as speakers and to serve more efficiently. There are four pilgrims in the service.
COSTA RICA
The work here is progressing very -well under the management of the local office directed from Brooklyn, and a good witness has been maintained during the year.
CUBA
Several meetings were held in Cuba during the year. A brother was sent there from Jamaica to hold some meetings, and also a brother from America on another occasion. There are several zealous brethren in Cuba. They are arranging for a convention there soon, and are carrying the message to the people.
CZECH O-SLOVAKIA
There are only a few in Czecho-Slovakia who are consecrated; but these have been putting forth their best efforts during the past year to give the witness. They have placed in the hands of the people the following:
Studies in the Scriptures 327
The Harp of God 1,248
Booklets 16.597
“Indictments” distributed 262,500
The work here is really just beginning to take on an impetus. Like other Central European countries, it is financed by the American office.
The people of Czecho-Slovakia have begun to realize that John Huss was a martyr to the cause of righteousness; and recently an emblem to the memory of Huss ■was raised in that land. The pope severed the relationship of the Vatican with Czecho-Slovakia immediately. This will open the way for the people to get their minds in a better condition to receive the truth, and we anticipate a greater spread of the truth in the near future.
DENMARK
Reference is also made to the Northern European office. The report from Denmark shows an increase in the work over last year. Eleven colporteurs in the field have been doing good work under difficulties. The service work amongst the classes has been recently reorganized. The report from Denmark says:
Several classes have now taken up the service work with enthusiasm and a number of others will join soon. The number of classes is increasing and the work progressing, although conditions are not so favorable as in other lands.
Books have been distributed by the Danish brethren as follows:
Studies tn the Scriptures
4,009
The Harp of God
4.674
Booklets
29,910
Manna and Song books
Public meetings held
Attendance
39.730
Country class meetings held
Attendance
16,400
Class meetings in Copenhagen
1.0-53
Attendance
26,722
EGYPT
During the year three Greek brethren spent some time in Egypt visiting particularly the cities of Alexandria, Port Said, and Cairo. A number of meetings were held which were largely attended; and quite a good amount of literature was placed among the Greek-speaking people in that country and some amongst the natives, who are mostly Mohammedans and few of whom have any interest in the Bible. Nevertheless, the witness was given.
FINLAND
Almost every item of the work in Finland shows an increase over that of last year. During the world-wide witness meetings, a total of 598 meetings were held -with an attendance of 58,351. Thirty conventions were held during the year, all of which were highly appreciated and many blessings resulted. The distribution of literature in Finland during the year has been as follows:
Studies in the Scriptures
The Harp of God
Millions
World Distress
Talking With the Dead
A Desirable Government
Other books
Bibles
Copies of the Drama papers
Copies of The Watch Tower
Copies of The Golden Age
Total amount of literature sold Free literature distributed
Total amount of literature sent out
Letters sent out
Letters received
Public meetings held
Attendance
Class meetings
Attendance
5,373 4.112 8.608
26 424 6,755 851
9,396 325
1,970
32,263 169,171 265.258 42S.398 693 656
10,524 7,137 1,813 234.482
1.538
76,084
The greater amount of this work has been done in the past few months after the reorganization of the work under the general direction of the Northern European office, managed by Brother Dey. Brother Harteva, the local manager of the Finnish work says:
It has been a great joy for us all to have Brother Dey. The dear Lord directed you in arranging matters in this way. The work shows that the Lord is manifesting his approval of this arrangement.
FRANCE AND BELGIUM
In these countries the Society does not maintain an office for the French-speaking people, because this work is conducted from the Society’s office at Berne, Switzerland. Neither the French nor the Belgians are much given to religious matters, but during the past year there has been a decided increase in interest manifested in these countries. French books have been sold as follows:
The Hasp of God 11,498
COMFORT FOB THE PEOPLE and DESIRABLE
Government booklets 101.863
“Indictments” 2,134,000
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