OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY

MAY 1989

Vol. 32, No. 5

FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Meetings for Field Service

MAY 1-7

When offering the subscription, how can you use

• 1. Page 2 of The Watchtower?

• 2. Feature articles?

MAY 8-14

How would you offer the subscription

• 1. In street witnessing?

• 2. On return visits and Bible studies?

• 3. To workmates?

MAY 15-21

What do you plan to do with

• 1. Not-at-homes?

• 2. Expiration slips?

• 3. Tracts?

MAY 22-28

How do you cope with

• 1. Fear of man?

• 2. Indifference?

• 3. Rude rejection?

MAY 29-JUNE4

How will you

• 1. Follow up subscription promises?

• 2. Offer the True Peace book?

• 3. Start a Bible study with offer?

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

Whom Shall We Worship?

Rev. 14:7—Worship the Creator.

Rev. 18:2a, 4—Heed God’s warning.

• ¹ Jesus emphasized the need for people to listen attentively to the message of truth. (Matt. 11:15; 13: 9, 43) He knew it. was important for them to get the sense of his teaching, since he~was imparting knowledge that could lead appreciative listeners to eternal-life.—John 17:3.

• ² Such life-giving knowledge is an important part of “life’s water” that is now being made available to thirsting ones. (Rev. 22:17) As indicated by John’s words, it is npt the private possession of a favorealew, nor is it sold to those who have money and denied to those who do not. All who now thirst for righteousness need to be encouraged to take advantage of Jehovah’s generous free gift. (Isa. 55:1) Are you numbered among the millions today who are saying, “Come!” to those who are inclined to listen?

HOW YOU CAN SAY, “COMET

• ³ May is the second month of our Watchtower snhsi-ription campaign. What better instrument could there be for calling attention to Jehovah’s wonderful provision for life? With special emphasis given to exposing the wicked designs bf ~BaT>v4on the Great, The Watchtower can help many gain freedom from religious

  Help Young Ones Benefit From the Convention

  
  

• ¹ The invitation to the “Godly Devotion” District Convention goes out to every worshiper of Jehovah. Convention preparations have been made, keeping in mind the large number of young ones in our midst. Yes, young people, even “the little ones,” are expected to attend. —Deut. 31:12.

• ² Parents should teach their children that the convention is for them too. Fine spiritual progress can be realized when children understand that their being present and their listening to the convention program is part nt their worshin. Admittedly, it is not always easy for young ones to remain seated, quiet, and attentive during the sessions. Also, some of the for them to understand. So constant attention and effort, yes, hard work, on the part of parents is vital.

• ³ It is encouraging^{1 2 3 4 5} to 'observe the genuine interest in spiritual benefits manifested bv young children and teenagers attending the convention. Although some enthusiasm may stem superstitions and falsehoods. What opportunities do you find for offering the 'Watchtower subscription?

• ⁴ A fine way to offer the subscription is from house to house. But there are also a number of other ways, such as when making return visits or delivering current issues to people on your magazine routersome publishers are successful in obtaining subscriptions from interested people they meet in the street work. We could encourage some who are already subscribers to send gift, subscriptions to friends or relatives. You may also want to send a few gift subscriptions. Subscriptions may also be offered to business acquaintances, fellow workers, or classmates. You may think of other possibilities.

KEEP ON SAYING, “COMET

• ⁵ Continue to show interest in helping those who subscribed during April. Be sure to call back soon. Make certain that they are receiving the magazines. On such visits, you can point out a specific article and encourage them to read it. r'erhaps you can even start Bible studies with them and suggest they attend congregation meetings with you. By (Continued on page 8, col. 1)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING MAY 1

Song 71 ■

8 min: Local announcements and selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Outline field service arrangements for weekend, and encourage family groups to participate in house-to-house ministry on first Sunday of May.

17 mln: “Continue Saying, ‘Come!’ to Those Inclined to Listen." Questions and answers. Have selected local experiences related as time allows. Emphasize offering subscriptions for both The Watchtower and Awake! on every appropriate occasion. Encourage publishers to make return visits without delay and to endeavor to start Bible studies with interested persons.

20 mln: Hospital Information Services. To be handled by qualified elder Read and discuss April 1, 1989, letter dealing with Hospital Committee work. Review points from article “Doing the Necessary Things to Please God,” in the November 1987 Our Kingdom Ministry. Reports show that some still have not spoken to their doctors as outlined therein. Ask: Have you completely filled out and signed and had others sign your Medical Document card? Emphasize that local elders have the responsibility of visiting and seeing to the needs of sick and hospitalized publishers. (1 Pet. 5:2;

1 Thess. 2:7, 8) Encourage all to become thoroughly familiar with information published in The Watchtower of March 1, 1989, pages 30-1, and Awake! of February 22, 1989, pages 26-7.

Song 216 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING MAY 8

Song 126 J) C.

10 min: Local announcements and Theocratic News. Encourage all to share in magazine work this Saturday. Demonstrate two or three brief magazine presentations that would be appropriate for local territory, each highlighting only one article.

) 20 min: “Help Young Ones Benefit From the Convention.” Questions and answers. Use final eight minutes to discuss key points with group of three or four exemplary youths?How have they benefited from convention programs? How have their parents or others helped them to benefit? What do they do to avoid distractions during

ers.” When discussing paragraph 13, point out that arrangements are being made to have an adequate supply of any releases, and there will be sufficient food for all to enjoy refreshment without rushing to get in line.

15 min: Daily Reminders for Build- 9 ing Spirituality. Qualified brother discusses with two or thrpp pxpmplary-puhlishejs how individuals and family groups benefit from daily reminders such as daily text, yeartext, and information on calendar. We need reminders from Jehovah. (Ps. 119:2; Acts 17:11) Show how frequent reminders can encourage us and prove useful in the ministry.

Song 91 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING MAY 29

Song 138     >

8 min: Local announcements and Question Box. Encourage all publishers to be out in field service Saturday and Sunday. This will be first Sunday in June. .. ;

12 min: “Presenting the Good News —With the True Peace Book.” Question-and-answer discussion of article.

25 min: “You Are Invited to the 1989 4 ‘Godly Devotion’ District Conven- . tion!” Presiding nvorrccr riisriissrs ^r paragraphs 14-31 with congregation. Emphasize individual and parental responsibility to avoid giving reason for unfavorable criticism of Jehovah's people. All should be concerned with avoiding any questionable conduct that would mar the good reputation of Jehovah’s people and bring reproach upon his name. Assign qualified brother to read paragraphs 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, and 26 when these are discussed. Refer to the January 1989 Our Kingdom Ministry insert, and review key points in paragraphs 9 and 10. Emphasize items 5 through 10. Adhering to these instructions outlining the Society’s rooming arrangements will help to guarantee quality accommodations at reasonable rates for all of us at future conventions. Jehovah’s name will be honored as a result of the fine conduct of his name people. In conclusion, encourage family heads to review counsel in insert with family a day or two before attending convention.

Song 152 and concluding prayer.

You Are Invited to the 1989 "Godly Devotion" District Convention!

• ¹ In just a few weeks, a worldwide, spiritually upbuilding program will begin, and you are invited! In the United States, the “Godly Devotion” District Conventions will commence on June 9 and are scheduled to run for nine consecutive weeks. There will be a total of 132 conventions, the largest number ever. Jehovah himself makes this provision through his organization, and so we can attend with high expectations that will not meet with disappointment.—Ps. 61:4; Isa. 54:13.

• ² The conventions this year will emphasize the need for godly devotion and will motivate us to make improvement in the exercise of this quality. This is especially important in view of the ungodly world that surrounds us.

• ³ Through progressive training and discipline, Jehovah has made us a unique people, unified in an outstanding organization while in the midst of this irreverent generation. Our godly devotion is genuine and free from the hypocrisy that Paul described when he stated that in the last days, people would have a form of godly devotion but would prove false to its power. (2 Tim. 3:1,5) May our cooperative spirit at all times reflect godly devotion, and may we always prove true to its power.—1 Cor. 14:40.

• ⁴ ARRIVE EARLY: Jehovah’s Witnesses are well known for their dependability and punctuality. (Luke 16:10) This is important when attending a convention. We should arrive early each day and be seated before the program begins. This requires allowing sufficient time to care for matters that need attention, such as parking our vehicle, finding suitable seats for our family, and obtaining convention food tickets.

• ⁵ Convention time affords a fine opportunity to enjoy pleasant association. But visiting with friends late into the night can hinder our efforts to be on time the next day. Much anxiety and frustration can result from getting a late start and thus having to rush in the morning. To prevent this, some families find it beneficial to set a reasonable time for retiring. By strictly adhering to a schedule, they are more likely to get a good night’s sleep and be ready for an early start the next day. This avoids their arriving while the program is in progress, which is distracting and can be an annoyance to those already seated. Our thoughtfulness in this regard can be a reflection of our reverence and respect for Jehovah, and it gives evidence of true godly devotion.

• • A THREE-DAY CONVENTION: The “Godly Devotion” District Convention will last three days. Carefully selected information vital to our spiritual health will be presented at every session. A variety of subjects related to godly devotion will be developed in talks, demonstrations, and a modern-day drama.

• ⁷ Make it your resolve not to miss even one session. This may require personal sacrifices and adjustments in your schedule. Some find it necessary to make special arrangements with their employer. Many even forgo financial advantages in order to attend all sessions. Jehovah will certainly bless those who make the matter a subject of sincere prayer and put forth heartfelt effort to be there.—Luke 13:24.

• ⁸ LISTEN INTENTLY: During the convention program, do not be distracted by sights and sounds unrelated to the material being discussed from the platform. How grateful we are to Jehovah who gifted us with the ability to concentrate “intently” on thoughts of our choice. Our godly devotion should motivate us to make the choice that harmonizes with Jehovah’s request at Isaiah 55:2: “Listen intently to me.”

• ⁹ While it is true that the Sunday afternoon lecture is advertised for the general public, most of the material to be presented at this convention has been prepared especially for those who are already devoted to Jehovah. The convention will bring us up-to-date with the current needs and help us to keep pace with Jehovah’s progressive organization. Inattentiveness will result in our being left behind. We must keep ourselves absorbed in the program in order to derive full benefit from the rich spiritual nourishment. —1 Pet. 2:2.

• ¹⁰ Over the years, many convention delegates have developed the useful habit of taking notes during the program. Appropriate note-taking materials should be included with Bibles and songbooks as standard equipment when attending a convention. Some may have viewed note-taking with skepticism, feeling that there is no real benefit in it. If you have been so inclined, why not try taking notes during the “Godly Devotion” Convention? As is true for many others, you may find that it is a good way to keep your attention riveted on what is being said and that it protects you from daydreaming or allowing your mind to wander.

• ¹¹ Notes need not be extensive or elaborate. Usually a phrase or two will suffice for a key point. Elders find it advantageous to have neatly arranged notes for conducting a meaningful review of the convention program on the Service Meeting. They may also incorporate many of the points presented at the convention in their teaching and shepherding work thereafter.

• ¹² All of us should give attention to how we listen, for it means our happiness and our very life. While attending the “Godly Devotion” District Convention, we should bear in mind Jehovah’s exhortation at Proverbs 8:33-35: “Listen to discipline and become wise, and do not show any neglect. Happy is the man that is listening to me by keeping awake at my doors day by day, by watching at the posts of my entrances. For the one finding me will certainly find life, and gets goodwill from Jehovah.”

• ¹³ PRAYER AND SONG: One of the most beautiful adornments of our godly devotion is the singing of praises to Jehovah God. The singing of songs appears to have been a regular feature of true Christianity in the first century. (1 Cor. 14:15) Jehovah is also pleased when his people approach him in earnest prayer. District conventions afford us a unique opportunity to be united with thousands of our brothers and sisters in praising Jehovah in both song and prayer. However, some have shown a lack of respect for these important parts of our worship. How? By unnecessarily arriving at the convention during or after the opening song and prayer. At the conclusion of the program, some leave their seats during the song and before the prayer. Why? On rare occasions there may be good reasons for this. However, some may relinquish the privilege of singing and joining in prayer just so they can get an early start to their cars. Others have left their seats in order to be among the first in line for literature releases or for food. Care must be exercised that in the pursuit of personal convenience, we do not allow the worldly me-first attitude or ungodly traits such as greed and selfishness to hamper our spiritual progress. As a people of godly devotion, we strive to manifest appropriate respect for such lofty features of our worship, namely, our praying and singing to Jehovah.

• ¹¹ OUR CHRISTIAN MANNERS: Over the years, our Christian manners and appearance at conventions have earned us a good reputation as Jehovah’s Witnesses. This is because we rightly view our conventions as spiritual festivals, not social outings. Accordingly, we endeavor to demonstrate a spiritual frame of mind and to conduct ourselves as ministers.

• ¹⁵ Note this fine experience enjoyed by a Witness family while dining at a restaurant in a convention city last summer. The brother wrote: “A man and his wife were at a table next to ours. When they finished their meal, the man approached our table, excused himself, and said he would like to commend us for our very neat and clean appearance. My wife told the man we were attending the Watchtower Convention this weekend. He said he was sure we were. He had seen many of our brothers and sisters around the motel while he and his wife were staying there, and all displayed exemplary conduct and dress. He said that in the church he attends, the young people do not dress or act like our young people. This makes me appreciate how important it is to rear our children from an early age to be a good Christian example at all times. Credit must be given to strong counsel and direction from Jehovah’s organization to set a fine example.”

• ¹⁶ Sadly, some attending the conventions have become unduly casual in their attitude, dress, speech, and conduct. When such becomes evident either in the local congregation or during a convention, those who have spiritual qualifications should offer loving counsel with a view to readjustment. (Gal. 6:1; Eph. 4: 11, 12) Our godly devotion should move us to be diligent in upholding our good reputation and in maintaining high standards of conduct at all times.

• ¹⁷ In view of the fact that we are getting very good motel rooms at significantly reduced rates, we should show our appreciation and be considerate of motel personnel, being courteous and not overly demanding. Much direction and counsel has been given regarding proper conduct at motels during the convention. Many have responded favorably and are earnestly striving to cooperate fully with motel personnel. Despite such cooperation, a negative attitude toward the Witnesses has been observed in some places. Why? Some of the following information will no doubt shock many, but in view of the problems caused by a few, it is necessary to bring these points to your attention.

• ¹⁸ The articles “To Tip—Or Not” and “Tips on Tipping,” on pages 24-7 of the June 22, 1986, issue of Awake! deserve our attention. Please reread these articles, as they specificsilly define who expect tips and how much, according to the custom in different countries. It is pointed out on page 24 that in the United States, for many who perform certain services for you, “tipping is more than a thank-you for extra service rendered. It is the principal part of a person’s income.” It also points out that “other people besides waiters—bellhop, doorman, concierge, hotel maid, cloakroom and washroom attendants . . . also depend on tips for their living.” Ignoring this fact has reaped unfriendly reactions on the part of motel staff members. In some cases disgruntled individuals have falsely accused convention delegates of stealing or of making long-distance phone calls and then refusing to pay.

• ¹⁹ Additionally, the above-mentioned Awake! articles suggest that when “attending a convention, what you do personally reflects on the whole group. People will judge the group by your behavior.” So regardless of your personal views about tipping, when you visit a city as a delegate to a convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses, if you tip just a little or not at all, others may conclude that Jehovah’s Witnesses are stingy or unwilling to pay for services rendered. Thus, giving due consideration to local tipping practices and complying with them will go a long way in maintaining ‘peace with all men’ “for the sake of the good news.” —Rom. 12:18; 1 Cor. 9:19-23.

• ²⁰ Although the vast majority of the brothers bring honor to God’s name, we must admit that some families attending conventions have given reason for complaint. For example, after renting a room with the rated capacity of no more than four or five persons, including children, some have brought in up to ten persons, and that is dishonest. To accommodate them, mattresses were taken off the beds and placed on the floor so that some could sleep on the mattresses while others slept directly on the box springs. Then extra linen was requested from the management. In addition, sleeping bags were used for children to sleep in.

• ²¹ There are motels that no longer want to rent their rooms to Jehovah’s Witnesses because some did not comply with cooking regulations. There were reports of Witnesses bringing microwave ovens, electric pots, frying pans, and so forth, for cooking meals in their rooms. In some cases the use of such cooking utensils created electrical problems for the building due to current overload. Motel managers say that the food odor remained in the rooms for days, and as a result, subsequent guests refused to stay in the rooms.

• ²² Another matter of concern is the fact that some have checked out of motels, leaving their rooms in an unsightly condition. Evidently, some who purchase food to eat in their rooms have been careless. Food residue has been found on the furniture, carpet, and walls. Large amounts of food garbage and paper trash, such as food containers, bags, and cups, have been left in the rooms. All such inconsiderate behavior has marred our good name and does not reflect our godly devotion. During the coming district conventions, let us all strive to conduct ourselves so as to “adorn the teaching of our Savior, God, in all things.” —Titus 2:10.

• ²³ FOR PARENTS: Young children and teenagers are especially invited to attend the “Godly Devotion” District Convention. Much of the information presented will be particularly encouraging for them. How fine it is to see the godly devotion of young ones who have learned to pay close attention at all Christian meetings and who are intently interested in the convention program! (Ps. 148:12, 13) But much depends on the example and supervision of the parents. Many young ones have been well trained to take notes. If as a parent you have not as yet taught your children how to take notes, why not use the time remaining before your convention to do so? Even the very young can be encouraged to write down Scripture citations and related key words they hear expressed by the speakers. Some parents arrange to review main points from the day’s program after returning to their place of lodging or while traveling home.

• ²⁴ Of course, most parents appreciate that the natural inclination of children is to be playful. They lack experience in life, and they are immature. Therefore, they have to be taught when to pay attention and how to conduct themselves at meetings. This calls for good supervision by their parents. Some parents have been lax in this area. At times, although parents may be showing proper reverence to Jehovah during a prayer, their children are playing and distracting others. Parents should know what their children are doing during prayers. What are they doing when they leave their seats during the program? Are children left unsupervised during or after the convention program?

• ²⁵ In some cases parents have left their children unsupervised in motel swimming pools while they are in the room, out to dinner, or involved in other activity. There are reports of children being so rowdy in the pool that the management had to close it early. This adversely affected the privileges of non-Witness guests also. In other instances, children remained in the pool well beyond closing time. Young ones have been left without proper adult supervision in the rooms to watch television but later have been found creating problems while playing with the elevators, running around in the lobby and corridors, and throwing buckets of ice down the corridors. Such unruliness and conduct unbefitting Christians is often the result of permissiveness and a lack of discipline in the home.

• ²⁶ One motel manager who observed such conduct was moved to write a letter to all of the Witnesses staying in his motel as follows: “Over the past evening or two, there have been many children running freely around the hotel and swimming pool area. . . . Also, there has been much property damage of the hotel facilities. Anyone found damaging hotel property will be arrested. Children . . . are not allowed to run freely about the hotel (for their protection). They must be escorted by their parents. Their escort may not be an older [fleshly] brother or sister.” True godly devotion should motivate parents to give close supervision to their children at all times as they bring them up “in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah.”—Eph. 6:4.

• ²⁷ YOUR FULL COOPERATION IS APPRECIATED: Considerable planning and work have been done to see that sufficient seating, literature, food, and other provisions are available for everyone attending the convention. To ensure the effectiveness of these arrangements, each congregation has been specifically assigned to a particular convention. Your full cooperation is vital in order to prevent overcrowding. Of course, there may be circumstances that make it necessary for a few to attend a convention in another area. However, most should be able to attend the convention at their assigned location.—1 Cor. 13:5; Phil. 2:4.

• ²⁸ Your full cooperation is requested in the matter of saving seats. Please keep in mind that SEATS MAY BE SAVED ONLY FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS AND ANY WHO MAY BE TRAVELING WITH YOU IN YOUR OWN CAR. Please do not reserve seats for others. At times, extra seats are reserved for no one in particular. This is unloving and is misleading to the attendants and others looking for available seats. In harmony with the Bible counsel, we should complement our godly devotion with brotherly affection and cooperate fully with the approved arrangement for saving seats.—2 Pet. 1:5-8.

• ²⁹ It is suggested that good judgment be used in bringing personal items to the convention site. In the past, some have brought large coolers or other bulky items that could not be placed under their seats. These were placed in the aisle or on seats. This resulted in depriving others of a seat, and sometimes it violated fire and safety codes. We need to show consideration in such matters.

• ³⁰ The use of video cameras and audio recording equipment is permitted at the convention site. However, those who use such equipment must exercise care to avoid disturbing or distracting others. Such equipment should not be set up in aisles or exits. No such equipment should be connected to the public address system or electrical outlets. Floodlights will not be permitted. Those who are causing a distraction or ignoring any of the above guidelines should without hesitation correct the matter when it is brought to their attention. Attendants and others in charge will be alert to correct any violation of these guidelines, and they should receive full cooperation from those using such equipment.

• ³¹ OUR GODLY DEVOTION will face severe tests in the near future. “In fact, all those desiring to live with godly devotion in association with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted.” (2 Tim. 3:12) How grateful we are to Jehovah for spiritual provisions such as the “Godly Devotion” District Conventions, where he will be training us and “instructing us to repudiate ungodliness and worldly desires and to live with soundness of mind and righteousness and godly devotion amid this present system of things.”—Titus 2:12.

District Convention Reminders

ROOMING: Your cooperation in using the listing of accommodations provided by the convention is very much appreciated. If you have not already confirmed a reservation, please do so immediately if you are planning to stay overnight in the convention city. If you find it necessary to cancel your reservation, you should write or phone the motel directly, doing so as far in advance as possible so that the room can be made available to someone else.

Congregation secretaries should be sure that Special Needs Room Request Forms have been promptly forwarded to the appropriate convention address. If you must cancel an accommodation made through the special needs arrangement, you should immediately notify both the landlord or motel and the convention Rooming Department so that the room can be reassigned.

BABY STROLLERS: In many states, baby strollers may not be used in places of public assembly. Fire regulations prohibit parking them in corridors, aisles, or between rows of seats. Since larger crowds may cause congested conditions, baby strollers are potentially dangerous not only to the baby but also to any who may stumble over them, so please do not bring them to the convention site. However, infant or car seats are permissible, since these can be secured in seats next to the parents. Your cooperation in this matter will be appreciated.

BAPTISM: Baptismal candidates should endeavor to be in their seats in the designated section before the program begins on Saturday morning. A modest bathing suit and a towel should be brought by each one who plans to be baptized. After the baptism talk and prayer by the speaker, the session chairman will give brief instructions to baptismal candidates and then call for a song. Beginning with the last verse, the attendants will direct the baptismal candidates to the immersion site or to vehicles that will take them there, while the rest of the audience completes the singing of the song. Since baptism in symbol of one’s dedication is an intimate and personal matter between the individual and Jehovah, there is no provision for so-called partner baptisms in which two or more baptismal candidates embrace or hold hands while being baptized.

PIONEER IDENTIFICATION: All regular and special pioneers, as well as traveling overseers, will need to bring their Watchtower Identification and Assignment card (S-202) to the convention. Pioneers on the list for at least six months at the time of the district convention they attend will receive $15 worth of convention food tickets upon presentation of their Watchtower ID card at one convention only. Therefore, treat the card as carefully as you would cash. It cannot be replaced at the convention. Any gift releases or literature at pioneer rates will be available to pioneers at the bookroom only upon showing their Watchtower ID card. Those in Bethel service may obtain these same provisions by showing their Bethel ID card.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE: Volunteer help is needed for the smooth operation of a district convention. Even if you may be able to work for only a part of the convention, your services will be appreciated. If you can assist, please report to the Volunteer Service Department when you arrive at the convention. Children under 16 years of age can also contribute to the success of the convention, but they are required to work with a parent or other responsible adult.

LAPEL CARDS: Please wear the specially designed lapel card at the convention and while traveling to and from the convention site. This often makes it possible for us to give a fine witness while traveling. Lapel cards should be obtained through your congregation, as they will not be available at the conventions.

WORDS OF CAUTION: Regardless of where you park, you should lock your vehicle at all times and never leave anything visible inside. Keep your belongings locked inside the trunk, if possible. Also, guard against thieves and pickpockets, who are attracted by large gatherings. This includes not leaving anything of value unattended on seats at the conventions. Please be careful.

It has been reported that some motels provide easy access to television movies with immoral content or even of pornographic nature. This highlights the need to avoid unsupervised TV watching by children at these places of lodging.

Announcemen ts

• Literature otter for May: Watchtower subscription for one year for a contribution of $5.00. Awake! subscription may be offered on same basis. Six-month subscriptions and one-year subscriptions to monthly editions are $2.50. June: True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It? for a contribution of $1.00. July and August: One of the following magazine-size brochures for a contribution of 30e: Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, "Look! I Am Making AU Things New,” The Divine Name That WiU Endure Forever, or The Government That WiU Bring Paradise. Congregations that have the following books on hand may offer two for $1.00: Choosing the Best Way of Life, Commentary on the Letter of James, God’s "Eternal Purpose” Now Triumphing for Man’s Good, or Is the Bible Ready the Word of God? (For obtaining credit, elders should check guidelines in the Society's letter of December 21, 1988.) Additional copies of Commentary on James may be ordered from the Society. Congregations should not order the other three books mentioned, since they are out of stock.

• It is important that brothers planning charters to visit Brooklyn Bethel or Watchtower Farms first correspond by mail with the office at each location. Please provide information on the number coming and the dates for each location. The Society will provide directions and the route charter buses should take. Address your mail to Watchtower, Bethel Office, 124 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201, and Route 1, Box 300, Wallkill, NY 12589.

• New Publications Available:

New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Deluxe pocket edition; DLbi25), available in black or maroon          —Spanish

Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand! —Cebuano, Iloko, Indonesian, Tagalog Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook                —Arabic

The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life               —Niuean

You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (Small size)

—Kinyarwanda Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Question of Blood        —Chinese

• New Cassette Recordings Available:

Ezekiel (set of five cassettes; congregation and public: $7.50; pioneers: $6.25)       —Japanese

Hosea through Malachi (set of three cassettes; congregation and public: $4.50; pioneers: $3.75)              —Spanish

• ¹ It was prpphesjgd that Jesus would have Jehovah’s law ‘within his inward parts.’ (Ps. 40:8) This proved to be true, and it helped him to accomplish his Father’swm. ’

• ² His anointed disciples likewise had Jehovah’s law ‘in their mindsand written in their hearts.’ (Heb. 8:10) This enabled them to maintain fine conduct and fully accomplish their ministry. How cap all of us njakejsme that Jehovah’s law is in our minds and written on the tablet of our hearts? —Prov. 3:3.

PERSONAL STUDY AND RESEARCH

• ³ Personal study of the Word of God can help us make the truth our own. Study involves research and meditation it is a sustained, .purposeful concentration with careful attention to details. Not only should we read the Society’s publications as they are received but we should also discipline ourselves to have a regular study program that will prepare us for all our weekly meetines.

• ⁴ Good study habits strengthen our conviction respecting the truth and brighten our hope for the future. Yes, we “grow to salvation.” (1 Pet. 2:2) When we learn interesting things from the Scriptures, we want to speak about them. We are thus mnvori tn show love for our neighbors by speaking to them about the things we have learned. Our share in speaking “the word of the kingdom” with zeal is bound up with appreciation for spiritual things gained through good study habits.—Matt. 13:19.

  Help Young Ones         (Cont’d}

  review these with all the family in the evening. Also, it would be best not to bring toys, coloring books, and other playthings to the convention.

  GIVE ATTENTION TO DISCIPLINE AND APPEARANCE

  ⁶ Some parents have allowed their children to become a disturbing element during the program. Even during prayers, some children play anti distract others. Ask yourself, ‘What are my children doing during the prayers? Should they be allowed to leave their seats during the program?’ Concerned parents find it wise to sit close to their young ones. This enables them to exercise proper supervision so that they do not become a distraction to others. Even when parents have convention-related responsibilities, they should make every effort to sit with their children during the sessions. Children need the supervision of their own parents also during periods of

  
  

AIDS TO STUDY

• ⁵ Jehovah’s organization has provided us what we need to acquire an excellent knowledge of the truth. Are you making good use of the 1930-1985 Index? With this fine instrument and the various publications now available, what a treasure of accurate knowledge we have! Not to be overlooked are the Insight and Revelation Climax books? Are you effectively using these?

• ⁶ Getting the most from personal study will depend on how much we put into it. Within your daily circumstances, determine when and where you can find the needed quiet and solitude forconcentration and meditation. Be sure to pray for Jehovah’s help before beginning study. To act wisely in these critical times, we need tn have the truth of God’s Word inscribed deeply in our hearts and minds. (Prov. 7:1-3; Josh. 1:8) Jehovah uses his spirit to embed his law and reminders in our hearts. (John 14:26; 1 Cor. 2:10) Hejvillnot ignore a sincere request for help to find and understand the treasures of his Word.—Prov. 2:1-6.

• ⁷ We need to be regular and consistent in our study program in order to get God’s law ‘into our inward parts.’ Thus we will develop greater spirituality, gain a much better understanding of the truth, improve nnr skills.in helping others learn the truth, and maintain a more solid footing on “the path of life.”—Ps. 16:11; Col. 2:7.

recreation when away from the assembly place.

• ⁷ How do our young ones dress for conventions? If they wear casual clothes and play shoes, will this help them understanri the carioiihness of the occasion? On the other hand, children who dress appropriately for Christian meetings reflect the dignity and seriousness of the occasion. This brings praise and honor to Jehovah’s name.

• ⁸ A serious frame of mind can be encouraged by arranging for the children to do some work after the sessions, As mentioned in the insert, children under 16 can work along with a parent or other responsible adult under the direction of the Volunteer Service Department. Many young ones consider this a beneficial aspect of the convention.

• ⁹ Perhaps by reflecting on these suggestions, parents as well as others can be alert to help young ones derive greater benefit from the convention.

  [ IPRESENTING THE GOOD NEWS _

  
  

With the True Peace Book

• ¹ As we see developments leading to the fulfillment of the prophecy at 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3, we are determined to continue to be intensely occupied in warning men of what Is impending. Accordingly, in our field ministry during June, we will feature the book True Peace and Security—How Can You Find It? This fine publication deals with what people are thinking about and offers them a sound basis for hope.

WHY TIMELY

• ² Many people are wondering if current peace efforts of the superpowers will succeed or if their failure will throw the nations into a nuclear conflict. The True Peace book can comfort them with the knowledge that God will usher in lasting peace for mankind. His purpose for the earth does not allow for its destruction by men. Hunger, abject poverty, and homelessness are the daily lot of millions. The True Peace book points to the only real solution to the problems that plague the nations. Personal insecurity due to burgeoning crime makes many feel like hostages in their own homes. The True Peace book sheds Scriptural light on the remedy. Modern life-styles, including abuses and misuses of God-given sexual powers, have devastated the lives of countless individuals and families. The True Peace book points to God’s standards and the protection afforded those who choose to live by them.

  Continue Saying, “Come!” (Cont’d) your showing sincere interest in them, they may respond favorably and be moved to make spiritual progress.

  • ⁶ Memorial attendance figures for the United-States-show that more than one million people who are not yet publjshers_of the good news attend this most important event. Do you know who these interested people are in your congregation? Are they subscribers for The Watchtower? What is being done t_O_helB them grow spiritually?

  • ⁷ The invitation, “Come!” is extended to people of all the nations. Through his Son Jesus, Jehovah has graciously made available the gift of life to all who will respond to the invitation, “Come!” and “take life’s water free.” Will you have a full share in extending the invitation to others during May?

  
  

YOUR PRESENTATION

• ³ “Source of True Peace and Security” will be the new Topic for Conversation beginning in June. The two scriptures to be used are 1 Thessalonians 5:3 and Micah 4:3, 4. You will find that several of the suggested introductions given on pages 9-15 of the Reasoning book can be adapted to this topic and to the needs in your local territory.

• ⁴ In your conversations, use the two cited scriptures to show that man-made peace is not lasting but that God’s peace is everlasting. After reading and commenting briefly on Micah 4:3,4, you may be able to draw the householder into the conversation by asking what he thinks the fulfillment of that prophecy will mean for suffering mankind. Would he be happy to see this prophecy fulfilled in our time? Then you could turn to the illustration facing page 99 in the True Peace book, comment on it, and then call attention to one or two appropriate selected statements on the next few pages that point up the reliable hope of earth-wide peace and security. Invite the householder to investigate the subject further with the aid of the True Peace book. Of course, you may wish to call attention to another portion of the book in your discussion with a particular householder.

• ⁵ If you do not have a supply of the True Peace book or if you should run short, feel free to use any other 192-page book available.

^s True peace is not limited to the absence of armed conflict, since it includes health, safety, and general well-being. Only Jehovah, the “God of peace," and his Son Jesus Christ, the “Prince of Peace,” can guarantee these eternal blessings to those who make peace with them. (1 Thess. 5:23; Isa. 9:6) We can help our neighbors to enjoy peace with God and his Son now and find comfort in the hope of earth-wide peace soon to be realized. We can do this if we keep our “feet shod with the equipment of the good news of peace,” offering the True Peace book during June.—Eph. 6:15.

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Handl:

May 1: Pages 11* to 14

May 8: Pages 15 to 17

May 15: Pages 18 to 21

May 22: Pages 22 to 27’

May 29: Pages 27* to 32

• To or from second subheading.

’ To or from chapter heading.

THEOCRATIC NEWS

• ♦ Dominican Republic reported a new peak of 11,205 publishers in December. Bible studies were up 18 percent from last December to 20,067, and return visits were up 25 percent.

• * Guyana saw an 8-percent increase over last year's average, with a pea k of 1,468 publishers in December.

♦ Ireland reached their ninth consecutive publisher peak In December with 2,930 reporting. A peak of 298 regular pioneers was also reported.

♦ A new peak of 163,692 publishers was reached in Italy during December, a 5-percent increase over last year's average. Congregation publishers averaged 13.1 hours in the service.

* Martinique had a new peak of 2,649 publishers in December for a 9-percent increase, their fourth consecutive publisher peak. Their special assembly day was attended by 4,941, and 77 were baptized.

♦ Peru continued to see good growth as they reported a new peak of 29,-187 publishers for December, an 11-percent increase over the same month a year ago. Congregation publishers averaged 14.8 hours in the field.

Question Box

• Is it proper to write the Society or its branch offices for addresses of persons with whom you may wish to correspond on business or other personal matters?

All addresses in the Society’s files and in congregation files are confidential and cannot be released for personal use. Therefore, no one should write to the Society or to its branch offices, requesting such information.

The congregation must keep in focus its purpose and work involving our whole-souled dedication to Jehovah and the doing of his will. Neither the Society nor the congregation can involve itself in the support or promotion of business activities. Such ventures should be viewed strictly as personal, private commercial enterprises. Publishers who wish to correspond with brothers in other cities and even in foreign countries should work such matters out for themselves.

FEBRUARY SERVICE REPORT

Au Av Av Av

Pubs. Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp'l Pios.     235 123.3  74.8 52.3

Pios.      61,863  74.1  31.6 25.9

Aux. Pios.  22,776  55.2  23.1 16.9

Pubs.    696,729   8.8   5.4  3.7

TOTAL 781,603

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 3,060

8

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mostly from the opportunity to travel, the excitement of the crowds, eat

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ing out, and so forth, even very young children can be helped to appreciate the convention itself and gain spiritual benefits accordingly.

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HOW PARENTS CAN HELP

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Children need to have their minds directed toward spiritual matters in anticipation of the convention. Before attending the convention, why not sit down with your children and review the information in the Insight book Under the subject “Godly Devotion"? Undoubtedly it will help all m the family to benefit from the convention program.

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Many parents have reaped excellent results by equipping their children with their own Bible, soug_-book, and other literature. Instilling a proper view of the Bible and our literature will help control the tendency to play with the books by drawing or writing in them Encourage children to take notes, and then (Continued on page 1, col. 2)

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© 1989 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-360) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., and International Bible Students Association, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y., and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201.                                                                         Printed in U.SJL