OUR

BMBE

AUGUST 1982

Vol. 25, No. 8

FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Dear Kingdom Publishers:

For all of Jehovah’s people recent months have been exceptionally busy. At the Brooklyn headquarters,, in all the branches and throughout the worldwide field, brothers have been working hard and exerting themselves. (1 Tim. 4:10) As a result much has been accomplished, due mainly to Jehovah’s blessing upon our. united efforts. It is evident that he has been making things grow.—1 Cor. 3:6, 7.

Last March a dedication program was held at Brooklyn Bethel in connection with the new office annex. Members of the Bethel family in Brooklyn and at Watchtower Farms had the opportunity to tour the factory and new office facilities. They saw some of the new equipment and changes now in. operation. Also, at the present time, construction of a new addition to the existing factory at Watchtower Farms is under way. This will accommodate more presses to care for our printing needs.

In recent months new branch facilities have been dedicated in Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan and Korea. Four members of the Governing Body were privileged to share in these programs. The brothers in these lands are thrilled to see the work moving ahead and are prepared to give an even greater witness concerning the Kingdom.

All of us rejoice in the new peaks reached during April in various features of the ministry, including the total number of publishers.

New publisher peaks were (Continued on page 4, col. 3)

A FINE MEMORIAL REPORT

In obedience to our Lord’s command 1,499,284 attended the Memorial celebration on April 8, 1982, here in the US. This is an all-time peak, surpassing our attendance in 1981 by 36,214. There were 4,206 partakers at the Memorial this year. In view of the excellent attendance we once again have impressed upon us that there are many who need to be taught by Jehovah in order to become actively associated with us in 'worshiping the Father with spirit and truth.’—John 4:23, 24.

Yoife—Serve

• ¹ Loyalty and godly devotion are essentials of true worship. (2 Tim. 2:19) Jehovah God rightly expects each of us to maintain a devoted attachment to him and his visible earthly organization. (Ps. 30:4; 31:23) To do this in such troublous times we must keep a clear view of our purpose in life and not allow our loyal love for Jehovah to suffer erosion. Christian youths in particular are undergoing a relentless assault on their love of God.—2 Tim. 2:22.

• ² Loyalty to Jehovah and his organization is necessary if we are to gain everlasting life. At this time of testing, how can Christian youths maintain integrity? In what ways can we manifest loyalty in the congregation? The family? How might parents and others encourage loyalty to God and the family?

IN THE CONGREGATION

• ³ Although the springtime of life should be a joyous experience, it brings with it serious responsibilities. (Eccl. 11:9-12:1) A principal decision young ones face involves dedication and baptism. Also, there is the selection of theocratic and secular goals. One’s choice of associates must be carefully examined. Each decision should reflect loyal love for Jehovah and the congregation. This is the only course that brings genuine satis

  Directing Interest to the Organization—Part I

  
  

• ¹ The spiritual development of newly associated ones involves their demonstrating a love of Bible truth accompanied by deep appreciation for Jehovah’s organization and its provisions. (Ps. 33:12; 119:97) Our progressive, regular study with new ones should therefore accord honor to Jehovah and his orderly arrangement for worship. If we faithfully call attention to the organization’s role in our lives, we will prove to be effective Kingdom teachers on Bible studies and stimulate the student’s further growth.

• ² If our teaching is to be effective in-'producing true disciples of Christ, then we must faithfully help interested persons to recognize and appreciate Jehovah’s organization. Many Kingdom preclaimers have enjoyed encouraging results from systematically directing attention to the organization. What methods can you employ to stimulate interest in congregation meetings? How can our Bible students progressively become better acquainted with the organization? What helpful ideas can be used to remove any apprehension new ones faction, peace of mind and true happiness.—Ps. 149:1, 4.

• ⁴ Young ones generally feel a keen sense of loyalty to friends. This can present real tests when such companions get involved in unchristian conduct. Many youths then face situations involving divided loyalties. Will you report serious wrongdoing or ignore it as if it never happened? Genuine regard for Christian associates and love of God will no doubt move you to report this in line with the principle at Leviticus 5:1. Christian youths thereby avoid becoming “a party to wickedness” by yielding to a false sense of loyalty.—Deut. 13: 6-8; Organization, page 181.

• ⁵ There are a number of factors that make the above situations a challenge to the course of loyalty. First of all, as one young brother expressed it, some youths are affected by a “spirit of selfishness” rather than genuine love for their friends. (Lev. 19:17; Prov. 27:5, 6) This causes them to hesitate in getting involved so as to avoid losing the friendship of those whose wrongs have been exposed. (Prov. 9:8) Some younger ones and their parents, due to spiritual weakness, may be resentful for a time when such wrongdoing is reported. But this should not deter loyal youths (Continued on page 3, col. 1) may experience before going to the Kingdom Hall for the first time?

PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS

• ³ From the initial study develop the habit of speaking about the organization’ every week. The student should come to see your total involvement with the truth, affection for your brothers and respect for Jehovah’s arrangement. Speak of the brothers by name and take other enthusiastic ones with you to the study. This can contribute to a lively and progressive weekly discussion. In time, the student may well reflect your own appreciation and enthusiasm for the Christian congregation.—Luke 6:40.

• ⁴ What can be done to remove any fears new' ones may have about attending meetings for the first time? Some experienced publishers have found it helpful to explain the purpose and function of the Kingdom Hall. After one interested family had refused many invitations to congregation meetings, the brother conducting the study found it convenient to take this family to (Continued on page 2, col. 3)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 1

Song 57

12 min: Local announcements, including encouragement to share in weekend field service. “A New Color Calendar for 1983.” Encourage all to order promptly.

18 min: “Presenting the Good News—Using My Book of Bible Stories.” Question-and-answer discussion highlighting unique advantages of this book. In considering paragraph 6, arrange for a brief demonstration showing how to initiate a conversation and point out features of the book. As time permits, invite audience to relate experiences which illustrate how effectively it can be used in helping others.

15 min: Use time for local needs, or have an elder give a talk on the article “An Educated Tongue —‘To Encourage the Weary’” found in the June 1, 1982, Watchtower, pages 9-14. Explain how all of us can apply this admonition in our efforts to help those who have become depressed.

Song 95 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 8

Song 91

5 min: Local announcements and accounts report.

15 min: “Youths—Serve Jehovah With Loyalty.” Upbuilding discussion conducted by an elder. Invite parents and young ones to express themselves as to how the admonition can be applied. Emphasize the responsibility of young people to fulfill their role in the family and congregational arrangement by being obedient and willing participants in the field ministry.

10 min: “Young People Ask...” Capable brother discusses with audience how this feature of Awake! might be used in your territory. Demonstrate how magazines could be offered using talking points from article in the latest issue. Encourage younger publishers to share in magazine work on second Saturday.

15 min: Loyalty to Jehovah While in School. Elder interviews some young people about situations in school where they are confronted with pressures designed to undermine their faith and morals. Young people are invited to explain what Bible principles they would consider when questions arise about (1) dating, (2) engaging in sports, (3) attending social functions,

Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-J 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. to Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, (4) patriotic ceremonies or (5) other situations common locally. Refer to Youth book, chapters 8, 16-19. Song 65 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 15

Song 45

15 min: Local announcements. “Let’s Get Acquainted.” Interview two or three individuals about how they became acquainted with the truth. Highlight blessings of getting to know one another by personal association as opportunity affords. 15 min: “Directing Interest to the Organization—Part I.” Talk and audience discussion. Capable teacher, preferably W atchtower conductor, explains why there is a need to include such instruction in our Bible studies. When considering paragraph 5, invite some who conduct studies to relate what they have done in this regard with good results.

15 min: Pioneering—A Worthwhile Goal. Invite regular or auxiliary pioneers to explain how they feel they have been rewarded by putting forth the effort to pioneer. Highlight joy and peace of mind that come from knowing we are doing what pleases Jehovah. Now that children are about to return to school, encourage sisters to consider enrollment. Review some of the practical suggestions offered in the March 1, 1982, Watchtower, pages 27, 28.

Song 32 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 22

Song 38

10 min: Local announcements, and other local needs.

20 min: Appreciating the value of personal study. Panel discussion preferably under direction of school overseer. Review many far-reaching benefits that come from good study habits. Consider helpful suggestions offered in the School Guidebook, chapter 7. Group can discuss the following questions: (1) What practical suggestions will help us regularly prepare for congregation meetings? (2) How can we keep up with reading the new magazines and other publications? (3) How can we do research on Bible questions? Recommend good study habits that use the minimum amount of time to achieve maximum results.

15 min: Talk by elder on “Questions from Readers” appearing in the March 15, 1982, Watchtower, page 31. Encourage participation

60) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible ani 11201. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201 in magazine work on fourth Saturday.

Song 31 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 29

Song 59

10 min: Local announcements and main points of article “Preview of Fall Circuit Assembly.”

15 min: Presenting the Truth book during September. Talk and demonstration. This book has been published by the Society in more languages than any other. Review talking points that can be used in offering it. Show how Topic for Conversation can be developed using material in the book. For example, arrange for publisher to demonstrate using material in chapter 1, paragraphs 8-10. A special effort should be made to follow up placements so as to start Bible studies; offer suggestions on how to do that.

20 min: Fulfilling and Glorifying Our Ministry. Discussion by two or three elders with service overseer as chairman. Consider Branch Letter and “A Fine Memorial Report.” Review outstanding features of congregation’s preaching activity during the past service year. Give commendation and offer suggestions on what can be done to improve in the coming year. Discuss any local problems which tend to limit participation and suggest ways to cope with them. Encourage all to share in service on the first Sunday.

Song 107 and prayer.

Directing interest               (Cont’d)

the Kingdom Hall at a time when meetings were not being conducted. They got a tour of the facilities and from that time forward began attending meetings. His discernment and initiative helped him to overcome an obstacle in getting these new ones to the meetings.

• ⁵ This aspect of our home Bible study activity is not difficult to do, but it does require a measure of forethought and planning. However, this need not be very timeconsuming. Consider the personality of the student as well as his response to Bible truths thus far. With this information in mind you may wish to develop a five to ten minute Scriptural discussion regarding the organization. If you are acquainted with experienced publishers who have enjoyed success in helping Bible students to {Continued on page 3, col. 3)

Tract Society of New York, Ine., POSTMASTER: Send address changes

Printed in U.S.A

A Hew CoJor Caterer for 1$83

An illustrated calendar for 1983 has been prepared that is both beautiful and practical. It will feature six large four-color pictures on Kingdom-preaching themes, showing two months under each picture. When opened for wall hanging it will measure approximately 11-3/8 inches by 17-1/2 inches.

In addition to the yeartext and Memorial date, it lists field service days to help us to regularly share with the congregation in group witnessing. As a reminder to keep up with our Bible reading, it provides the weekly schedule. It also lists the dates for our written reviews so that we can prepare for a fuller share in this feature of the Theocratic Ministry School. You can readily appreciate the spiritual benefits these features provide.

The calendar will be printed in English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish. Calendars are 75c each. There is no pioneer rate. Please order the quantity you desire through the literature servant, as it is a controlled stock item and will not be stocked by the congregation. Because of the high cost of postage, we would request that orders be combined through the congregation, rather than sent individually to the Society. The initial congregation order should be mailed with the July remittance by August 6, 1982, or no later than August 15, using the Special Calendar Order form (S-5) that has been sent to each congregation. This will assure your receiving the 1983 calendar in good time.

Youths—“Serve Jehovah ' (Coni’d) from speaking up. By far, the majority of the congregation appreciate and respect such courageous loyalty in our young ones.

• ⁶ Loyal youths share in congregation meetings, as well as in the field ministry. They avoid isolating themselves. (Prov. 18:1) Increasing numbers of young ones are rejecting high-paying jobs or higher education in favor of a career in the ministry. They humbly accept counsel and direction from older ones that will enable them to continue in loyal sacred service.

IN THE FAMILY

• ⁷ What fine opportunities youths have to contribute to family unity and to grow spiritually! Although at times some who have associated with the truth from infancy may feel they have “missed something,” others who were in the world before learning the truth feel deep regrets over their bad experiences and wasted lives. How refreshing it is to see youths who have loyal-

Circuit

“Blameless as Lightbearers Amid a Twisted Generation” is the theme of our current circuit assembly program, soon to conclude. This excellent program is providing “food at the proper time.” (Matt. 24:45) Those with good spiritual eyesight can see that our present generation 'is “crooked and twisted.” (Phil. 2:15) Useful counsel and suggestions were given on how to avoid any involvement that would bring upon us Jehovah’s disfavor.

The theme for the fall series of circuit assemblies starting in September is “Making the Truth Manifest in Our Lives.” (2 Cor. 4:2) Do we really know the truth and are we practicing it in our lives? The program is designed to offer practical help in both of these areas — knowing and living the truth. Pioneering will be highlighted, especially for younger ones. Information related to handling objections in the field and helping school children to combat the theory of evolution will be considered. The part, “By Keeping Strict Watch on How We Walk” will emphasize the need for each of us to watch carefully how he is building spiritual qualities in both himself and in those with whom he studies. The public talk is entitled: “How Does the Truth Affect Your Life?” It will be followed by two discourses: “Living Today With Soundness of Mind” and “Walking Orderly in the Truth With Jehovah’s Organization.” We urge you not to miss any of this excellent assembly program.

ly submitted to parental direction in the truth! Reflecting on his personal experience and how much his mother had helped him spiritually, one Bethel brother expressed appreciation that he was never a part of the world and its ways.

• ⁸ All in the congregation can do much to encourage young ones in loyal service. Help them set spiritual goals of working in behalf of the congregation and eventual full-time service. (See Proverbs 16:3.) Share regularly with them in the ministry.

• ⁹ A spirit of rebelliousness pervades this dying old system. Acts of disloyalty are the order of the day. Whether young or old, we must counteract any trends that could undermine our worship of Jehovah. Look to Jehovah for the joys and blessings his service affords. Youths, view life’s responsibilities soberly and face each day’s challenges with loyalty and godly devotion.

Ann o un cemen ts

9- Literature offer for August: My Book of Bible Stories on a contribution of $2.50, or, if not available, use any 192-page book on a contribution of 75c. September: Truth book for 75c. October and November: Subscriptions for either The Watchtower or Awake! for $3.50 each for a one year subscription; six month subscription $2.00. • The congregation secretary should fill out and send the Pioneer Information Report (S-207) to the Society as soon as he has received the August service reports from the pioneers. This must be sent in even if there are no pioneers in the congregation. Keep duplicate in the congregation file.

O Each congregation will receive three Literature Inventory forms and an actual count should be taken of all campaign literature in stock and of all controlled-stock items listed on the inventory form. Please fill out the forms completely and send the original to the Society no, later than September 6. Keep a carbon copy for your files. The third form is to be used as a work sheet.

© At circuit assemblies having the new program starting in September, district overseers will give the public talk “How Does the Truth Affect Your Life?” Starting in September, circuit overseers will give a public talk entitled “Fulfilling the Command to Preach the Kingdom.

O If congregations are interested in having circuit overseer slide talks from previous years shown, they should contact their circuit overseer as these slide talks cannot be ordered from the Society directly.

O New Publications Available:

Making Your Family Life Happy

—Yoruba

O New Cassette Recordings Available: Jehovah’s Name to Be Declared in All The Earth—Drama (single cassette)                    —Finnish

The Good News According to Matthew (set of three)

—Danish, Japanese The Good News According to Mark (set of two)    —Danish, Japanese

Directing Interest               (Cont’d)

attend congregation meetings, why not take the initiative to ask them for workable ideas and suggestions? In time you will have a wealth of material to effectively employ in conducting your studies.

WHY BENEFICIAL

⁶ If we fail to channel the student’s attention to the organization, we inhibit his progress toward genuine discipleship. He must appreciate that the doctrinal truths being learned find their source, not in us, but in the Scriptural worldwide arrangement of worship Jehovah is using and blessing. Help your students develop the conviction of heart that will impel them to associate with us. (Zech. 8: 20-23; 1 Cor. 14:24, 25) Imitate Jesus and enthusiastically direct honest-hearted ones to Jehovah’s visible organization. Future issues of Our Kingdom Ministry will outline additional suggestions, including use of the brochure Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Twentieth Century in directing interest to the organization.

Using “My Book of Bible Stories"

• ¹ My Book of Bible Stories has filled a need. Parents interested in teaching their children needed a book designed for that purpose. The Society saw that need and filled it. The book is simple but not childish. Its large print is appreciated by both young and old. Its many pictures are appealing to young minds. The short stories, related in a colorful manner, hold attention of youngsters. Children need something that extracts the lessons and principles from a Bible story and explains them in a way that young minds can grasp.

• ² After finding it difficult to conduct a family study, one parent that started using the book happily told us: “My children and I now find it a great pleasure.” Obviously pleased, a mother wrote: “My five-year-old never fails to bring the book to me at bedtime.” After a few studies with her children, another parent happily observed: “It is amazing how much their little minds can grasp!”

² We have also heard from youngsters who like the book. One told us that “it makes the Bible come alive!” A teenager related: “When I started reading it, it was very hard to put it down.” An eight-year-old exclaims: “It is my favorite book ever since I have been living!” A ten-year-old expressed appreciation for the book saying: “I would like to have faith in Jesus like his disciples.”

⁴ These expressions should encourage us to make good use of this book. Can you think of opportunities to offer it informally to others? Some youngsters have taken it to school and placed copies with their classmates. A number of teachers have taken copies and some of them have later read stories to their classes. Numerous placements have resulted from simply showing the book to visiting friends or neighbors. Offering it as a gift to relatives or workmates has accounted for many placements. One brother was able to start many conversations about the Bible simply by displaying and reading the book during his daily ride on public transportation.

• ⁵ When offering the Bible Stories book from door to door, many feel that if they can get it into the hands of the householder, it will virtually place itself. Its modest cost is appealing. Many adults find its simple, direct approach to the Bible to be refreshing; do not hesitate to offer it to them. If older persons you meet have other interests, offer any one of the 192-page books.

• ⁶ How could you start a conversation using the book? You might ask: , “Do you think the earth will ever be a happy and peaceful place to live?” Turn to story 71 and relate highlights from Isaiah 11:6-9 or Revelation 21:3, 4. Or, you might pose this question: “Do you find it difficult to explain the Bible to your children? If so, this book can help -you. Let me show you how it can help you to explain the meaning of the Lord’s prayer.” Review the highlights of story 91.

• ⁷ Also, remember that the entire text of this book is now available on cassette tapes. Parents have found them ideal for teaching the Bible to children who have not yet learned to read. What an excellent way to help them develop their reading ability, and at the same time, learn the fundamentals of God’s Word. The use of these tapes may divert their attention away from the unwholesome television programming which causes parents so much concern. When making return visits on families who have shown interest, inform them of the cassette tapes and describe their practical value.

• ⁸ So, My Book of Bible Stories has filled a need. It can help us fulfill our God-given responsibility to rear our children “in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah.” We will‘find cause for real joy in being able to impart “the comfort from the Scriptures” that can bring our children a sure hope for the future.—Eph. 6:4; Rom. 15:4.

Schedule for congregation studies in the book- Happiness—How to Find It:

August 1:  Pages 30 to

August 8:  Pages 41  to

August 15:  Pages 51  to

August 22:  Pages 61* to

August 29:  Pages 70* to

* To or from subheading.

MAY SERVICE REPORT

Av.     Av.    Av.

Fuhs.  Hrs.    Mags.  R.V. Bi.St.

Sp’l Pios. 436 132.9 100.3 52.1 5.3 Pios.       20,299  85.2  58.8 32.4

Aux. Pios. 35,204  59.1  41.4 17.4

Pubs. 533,545   8.8   7.9 3.6 0.5

TOTAL    589,484

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 3,144

MEMORIAL REPORT

Total         1982      1981 Difference

Attendance 1,499,284 1,463,070 +36,214=2.5%

Number of

Partakers 4,206     4,204      +2

Meetings for Field Service

AUGUST 2-8 When offering the “Bible Stories'' book:

• 1. How will you tie in the Topic for Conversation?

• 2. What features will you highlight?

AUGUST 9-15

How will our cooperation help:

• 1. When group is being organized for service?

• 2. When directions are given for working in the territory?

• 3. To avoid loss of time in service?

AUGUST 16-22

Why is it considerate to:

• 1. Close gates and screen doors when leaving?

• 2. Avoid leaving literature exposed in the door?

• 3. Use sidewalks instead of crossing lawns?

AUGUST 23-29

How can children share in giving a witness:

1. By using a tract or handbill? 2. By reading a Scripture?

3. By pointing out highlights of the literature offer?

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

Is God's Kingdom Near?

Matt. 6:10—We pray for it.

Luke 21:31, 32—Nearness of Kingdom.

Branch Letter                  (Cont’d)

reached during April in Austria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Finland, France, Greece, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, Sweden, Venezuela, West Germany and 15 other lands. In quite a number of countries April was the best month thus far in reporting total hours, return visits, home Bible studies and auxiliary pioneers.

With overseers taking the lead, publishers and pioneers everywhere are demonstrating a zealous spirit in developing new interest and directing Bible students to the organization. Also, there is no question that the house-to-house ministry is reaching more of the ‘deserving ones.’ (Matt. 10:11) What a grand privilege we have to be engaged in this holy work of the good news! —Rom. 15:15, 16.

Your Brothers, Brooklyn Branch Office

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