^r OUR ¹ KINGDOM MINISTRY

NOVEMBER 1990

Vol. 33, No. 11

FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

OUTSTANDING NEW PUBLISHER PEAK REPORTED

The 1990 service year ended with 850,-120 publishers in the field. This was our fourth publisher peak for the year. It was 24,841 more than our previous peak In April and 32,239 over August of last year. That represents a 4-percent increase In publishers for the year. Jehovah has certainly proved himself to be a helper to all those pressing ahead zealously in his service. (Heb. 13:6) May the 1991 service year also be fruitful as many more accept the invitation to “Comer—Rev. 22:17.

Meetings for Field Service NOVEMBER 5-11 New World Translation

• 1. How will you introduce it?

• 2. What features will you highlight?

NOVEMBER 12-18 What points of interest can you use

• 1. From current local news?

• 2. From the brochure?

NOVEMBER 19-25 How might you arouse the interest of

• 1. A religious person?

• 2. Someone who does not believe the Bible?

NOVEMBER 26-DECEMBER 2

How can your comments

• 1. Arrest and hold attention?

• 2. Stir up thinking ability?

Schedule for congregation studies in the book The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s?:

November 5: Page 63, par. 18, to page 70, par. 34

November 12: Page 71, par. 1, to page 78, par. 18

November 19: Page 79, par. 19, to page 86, par. 34

November 26: Page 87, par. 1, to page 94, par. 18

• ¹ Many today view the Bible as outdated and unrealistic. However, God’s Word has the power to change lives. (Heb. 4:12) This has been manifested in the thinking, conduct, and improved attitudes of a wide variety of people. (Eph. 4:24) Applying the Bible’s counsel contributes to a happy family environment. It promotes neighborly relations, regardless of race, color, or social standing. —Luke 10:29-37.

• ² Our personal experience with God’s Word should moveus to encourage others to investigate for themselves the true value of the Bible. An excellent framework for doing this has been provided in our new Topic for Conversation, “Why Read the Bible?” How can we use this topic along with the New World Translation and either the Trinity brochure or the “Look!” brochure in our ministry during November?

USING THE

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

• ³ After a brief introduction, we could say: “With so many pressures and problems affecting families today, we’re calling to direct attention to the only real source of practical help. In the past, people often looked to the Bible for guidance, but times have changed, haven’t they? Do you think the Bible can help solve today’s problems, such as the misuse of drugs, delinquency, and broken homes? [Allow for response.] Notice what the Bible says at 2 Timothy 3:16. [Read.] Do you think the Bible can exert that kind of beneficial influence? [Allow for response.] Most people need and want some kind of direction when facing problems or making decisions in life, don’t they? Consider where following God’s Word can lead us. [Read John 17:3.] The Bible gives clear direction for resolving personal difficulties and outlines a sure hope for the future.” If the person shows genuine interest in gaining an understanding of God’s Word, we could demonstrate the value of the New World Translation or one of the brochures.

  Directing Bible Students to Jehovah’s Organization

  
  

  • ¹ Bible students need to get ac-quainted with the organization of the "one flock” Jesus spoke about at John 10:16. They must appreciate that identifying themselves with Jeho-vaK’s organization [s’essential to their salvation.'(Hev. 7:9, 10, 15) Therefore, we should slart.directing our Bible students to the organization as soon as a Bible study is estabr lished. ¹

  • ² Help your Bible students to get acquainted with the many features of Jehovah’s earthly organization. Following the first-century pattern, all of Jehovah’s people belong to congregations that are made up of elders, ministerial servants, and publishers. Today, the members of the congregations enjoy attending five meetings a week. There are periodic assemblies and conventions scheduled during the year, and these provide special instruction along with opportunities to associate with fellow Witnesses from different areas. Also, there are pioneers, missionaries, and traveling oversebrs, as well as a Governing Body that directs the worldwide work. How might you acquaint your

  
  

• ⁴ When introducing the New World Translation, ask if the householder has a personal copy of the Bible and if he finds it easy to read. Depending upon the response, you could call attention to some of the helpful features of the New World Translation, including its use of modern language and the restoration of the divine name. You may also find it helpful to use one or two points from pages 276-80 of the Reasoning book.

(Continued on page 8, col. 1) ^1 2

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 5

- Song 180

y 10 mln: Local announcements and ^y selected Announcements from Our t Kingdom Ministry. Highlight specific articles from current magazines that can be featured this week. Remind brothers to bring Doing God’s Will brochure to Service Meeting next . week.

¹ 20 min: “Recommending the Word of God.” Question-and-answer con-⁵‘"'*sideration. When discussing paragraphs 3 and 4, have qualified publisher demonstrate new Topic for Conversation.

15 min: The Value of the New World Translation Reference Bible. Discussion. Elder considers value of Reference Bible with two or three publishers who have made good use of this publication. Consider statement of the New World Bible Translation Committee on page 5. Highlight value of footnotes, cross-references, two concordances, and appendix. Emphasize value of using this publication in personal study and in preparation for congregation meetings. Song 46 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 12

Song 6

8 mln: Local announcements and ../Accounts report. Read acknowledgmentsfrom the Society for contributions made to the Society’s worldwide work and to the Society Kingdom Hall Fund. Also, express appreciation for material support of local congrega-. tion. Outline special service arrangements for November 22.

_x 17 min: “Directing Bible Students to Jehovah’s Organization.” Question-and-answer consideration. When covering paragraph 3, have qualified publisher demonstrate how student can be encouraged to attend congre

10 mln: “Presenting the Good News/ —In a Prayerful Manner.” Warm appealing talk. Highlight need to pray for God’s direction and blessing on our ministry.                       /

18 min: “Are You Ready to Facef a Faith-Challenging Medical Situ-£v ation?” Experienced speaker gives clear talk on material from subheading “Valuable Help in a Time of Need” to end of insert article, emphasizing the benefit of working with elders and Hospital Liaison Committees when dealing with an emergency medical situation. zl,            -i

12 min: Offer Mankind's Search fordGod during December. Talk and demonstration. Publishers may find avh-riety of ways to demonstrate the value of this new book, depending on the type of territory being worked and the individuals encountered. If particular jreligion of the honsphnlrlpr is known, publisher may wish to go directly to the chapter dealing with that religion. Many people will readily recognize the value of the book as a reference work to help them become better acquainted with religions and cultures other than their own. Chapter 16 describes the new world and should appeal to lovers of righteousness. We want to help people everywhere to understand that now is the time to search for God. Isaiah 55:6, 7 could be used to show that the true God can be found. But man must seek God now, just as the apostle Paul pointed out to his audience on the Areopagus. (Acts 17: 26, 27) Just as back there, Jehovah may open the minds and hearts of some of our listeners so that they too will become believers. Demonstrate how publishers might use these scriptures when working from house to house with book offer during December.

Song 188 and concluding prayer.

Bible Students            (Cont’d)

the Scriptural background of our present arrangement by using the first paragraph on page 20. This information will make your student’s visit to the Kingdom Hall a meaningful one»

• ⁵ Similarly, prior to your district convention, circuit assembly, or special assembly day, cover what is published on page 19. Draw his attention to what is involved in a large convention, and point out the international scope that is presented in the pictures on page 18. When you comment on the illustration showing the release of a new publication, you may prepare him for a further discussion of pages 24 and 25. To explain pioneering, cover points on pages 22 and 237

ADAPT TO THE NEED

• ⁶ As you can see, it is not necessary to start at the beginningof the Doing God’s Wifi brochure. Rather, as opportunity and need arise, consider specific points- from tffff brochure that will help the student to appreciate Jehovah’s organization and encourage him to associate with the local congregation.

• ⁷ Speaking with conviction when discussing these matters will make a lasting impression on your student. Be aglow with the spirit. (Acts 18:25) Also, make sure that you,'“thd one teaching someone else,” set a good example in showing appreciation for Jehovah’s organization. (Rom. 2:21) Doing so, you may help others to join the one flock Jesus is leading to everlasting life.

© 1990 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.S.A. ■

Are You Ready to Face a Faith-Challenging Medical Situation?

• ¹ No one thinks much about the possibility of being in a hospital today or tomorrow. Still, ‘time and unforeseen occurrence befall us all.’ (Eccl. 9:11) Even if you do not accept medical treatment as your preferred form of health care, what will you do to protect yourself from an unwanted blood transfusion should an accident leave you unconscious and you are rushed to a hospital? Yes, an accident or a suddenly deteriorating health situation can abruptly bring you face-to-face with a challenge to your faith.

• ² If you should find yourself in a hospital for any reason, what will you do to maintain integrity if someone there tells you that you will die without a blood transfusion? Will you hastily accept that this claim truly represents your condition? Are you fully convincecLthat you do not want blood?. Are you ready to face this challenge to your faith and abstain from blood’?—Acts 15:28, 29.

  Keep this information where you can quickly find it as needed

  
  

• ⁵ Successfully resistingan unwanted, spiritually contaminating blood transfusion starts with a firm conviction. Such a conviction must be based on a clear understanding of what the Bible says about blood. Otherwise, you can, in the emotion of the moment, easily be intimidated by someone who claims to know more about the situation than you do. Would you be misled into thinking that maybe doctors know more about blood than God does? Surely, in these circumstances you will want to be “firmly resolved” to do “what is right” in Jehovah's eyes^ no matter what mere humans may say. (Deut. 12:23-25) But do you have to face this challenge all by yourself?—Eccl. 4: 912.

HOSPITAL INFORMATION SERVICES AND HOSPITAL LIAISON COMMITTEES

• ⁴ To assist those who need help when faced with a blood transfusion problem, the Society has set up Hospital Information Services at Brooklyn. It has also established 100 Hospital Liaison Committees in major U.S. cities. These committees are made up of more than 600 clderyspecially trained for this work.

’ Hospital Information ServicesJs able to do research in more than 3,600 medical journals worldwide to locate information on the availability and effectiveness of many forms of bloodless surgery and treatment. It then supplies Hospital Liaison Committees, health care centers, and some doctors with information on these medical advances. (Sometimes Hospital Information Services has sent out medical articles that show what can be done without blood and successfully defused an ongoing confrontation at a. hospital.) It keeps the committees posted on favorable court decisions that will assist judges in looking at our cases with added insight. It also maintains records on over 7,000 cooperative physicians so that the committees have up-to-date files to use when blood transfusion problems arise.

• ⁶ Hospital Information Services also supervises the training and work of the Hospital Liaison Committees.

In the cities where they are located, Hospital Liaison Committees regularly make informative presentations to hospital staffs to^ improve relations with them. They

also poll these staffs to find any additional doctors who will treat us_without using blood. These brothers stand ready to help you, but there are crucial advance steps you must take, to lay the groundwork for them to do that most effectively.

CRUCIAL ADVANCE STEPS —HAVE YOU TAKEN THEM YET?

• ⁷ First, make sure all in the family have their personal medical directive document thoroughly filled out—dated, signed, and witnessed. Some brothers arriving at a hospital with an undated and7oFunwitnessed document have had its validity challenged. And do all our unbaptized children have their filled-out identification cards? If not, in an emergency involving your child, how do hospital personnel know your position on blood and whom to call?

• ⁸ Then see to it that all keep these documents with them AT ALL TIMES. Check this with your children before they go to school each day, yes, even before they go to a playground or recreational area. All of us should be sure that these documents are with us at work, when on vacation, or at a Christian convention. Never be without them!

  OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY, NOVEMBER 1990

  
  

• ⁹ Think what could happen to you if you should arrive in a serious condition aLIlie emergency room of a hospital, unconscious, and/or unable to Apeak for yourself. If you do not have the.documcnt with you, and there is no relative or elder yet at the hospital to speak for you, and it is'conciuded that you need blood,' you will likely receive a blood transfusion. Unfortunately, this has happened to some. But when we have the document, it speaksToFas, expressing our will.

• ¹⁰ That is why a medical document is better than a medical bracelet or necklace. The latter do not explain our Bible-based reasons for our position and do not have signatures verifying what is stated. A Canadian court decision said about a sister’s document.(“[The patient] has chosen in the only way possible to notify doctors and other providers of healthcare, should she become unconscious or otherwise unable to convey her wishes, that she does not consent to blood transfusions." ’So never be without it!

" Since our medical directive is designed mainly for dealing with emergency situations, then in elective surgery you would be wise to write out your own personalized, more complete advance directive (based on our medical directive) so that you can include specifics, such as the type of surgery and the names of the doctors and the hospital. It is your right to do this and thus ensure the treatment of your choice. Even though you and the doctor may not anticipate serious problems, explain that this directive is to be followed in case of any unexpected developments.—Prov. 22:3

• ¹² The next important step is to talk to the necessary medical personnel that you will have to deal with in either elective or emergency treatment. To whom especially should you speak?

TALK TO MEDICAL PERSONNEL

• ¹⁵ THE MEDICAL TEAM: This is a time when the fear of man must not prevail. (Prov. 29:25) If you appear unsure, someone may decide you are noLsincere. When surgery is needed, elective or emergency, you or the nearest family member must with determination ask some pointed questions of the head of the surgical team. One important question is, Will the team respect the patient’s wishes and in all circumstances treat without blood? Without this assurance you would not be well protected.

^M State plainly and with dignified conviction what your wishes are. Make it clear that you want alternative nonblood medical management of your problem.

Calmly and confidently discuss both your own advance medical directive and also the hospital’s release from liability form. If the surgeon is unwilling to work with your wishes, you will save time if you asic the hospital administrator to locate another doctor for you. That is part of his job.

• ¹⁵ ANESTHESIOLOGIST: Of all on the medical team that you need to talk to before surgery, YOU MUST NOT FAIL TO SPEAK TO THIS DOCTOR. Charged with keeping you alive while the surgeon operates, the anesthesiologist is the one who makes decisions about such matters as the use of blootLSo you are not fully protected by just talking to the surgeon. Hence, you must speak with and convince the anesthesiologist as to your position, determining whether it will be respected_ocopt.—Compare Luke 18:3-5.

• ¹⁶ The usual practice, it seems, is for the anesthesiologist to visit the patient brieflyyrathejc laje on the night before surgery—too late if he is opposed to your stand on blood. Insist that the surgeon preselect a cooperative anesthesiologist that you can talk to well in advance of elective surgery. Then there will be time to locate another one if the first one is unwilling to abide by your wishes. Do not let anyone try to talk you out of this right to be satisfied with the anesthesiologist for your surgery.

• ¹⁷ To all of these, you must make clear your nonnego-tiable stand: NO BLOOD. Ask for alternative nonblood medical management of your case. Mention any known alternatives to blood for your situation. If the medical team feels these are not useful in your case, ask them to research other possibilities in the medical literature. Assure them you can get them some information if they wish-by your asking your elders to contact the nearest Hospital Liaison Committee.

EXERCISING YOUR RIGHTS

• ¹⁸ Examine carefully the release from liability form and the consent form the hospital asks you to sign upon admittance. Sometimes right after stating that they will respect your wishes, a succeeding paragraph will declare that the signer agrees that the hospital can administer “lifesaving" treatment when they encounter problems. That could include blood. You have the right to alter any such statements to exclude blood or cross them out altogether. Nurses may try to tell you that you cannot do that, but you can! Explain that such a form is a contract with them and that you cannot sign a contract you do not agree with. If anyone tries to force yon Jo sign against your will, ask to speak to the administrator and/or the patient representative for that health care center.

• ¹⁹ Can you do such things? Yes, you can. So be aware of your rights as a patient. These human rights are not left at the front door when you enter a hospital. You do not have to give them up in order to get treatment. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

• ²⁰ One such right is called the right of informed^ consent, which means that no treatment of any kind can be givef you without your permission. You can even refuse all treatment if you wish. Your consent to treatment must follow a clear explanation of what the medical team intends to do. including all risks. Next, they must tell you abouLany,.alternatives that are available. Then, after you have been informed, you choose what treatment you wish.

• ²¹ To be sure of what you are consenting to, you MUST ask good questions about anything you do not understand, especially when large words or medical terms are used by the hospital personnel. For example, if a doctor says he would like to use “plasma,” you could innocently conclude he is referring to a “plasma volume expander," but not so. Before agreeing, asjo “Is that a component of blood?” About any of his procedures, ask: “Does that treatment involve the use of blood products?" If he describes some device'He would like to employ, ask: “Is my blood stored at any time during the use of this device?"

• ²² But what should you do if you have done ail the above and there is still no cooperation or even some resistance to your position? Do not hesitate to ask for help. Some have, waited-too long to get help and put their very lives in danger.

/ VALUABLE HELP IN A TIME OF NEED

• ²³ Note the following procedure for obtaining needed help: (1) As soon as you or a loved one faces either elective or emergency surgery where there is a confrontation because the hospital wants to use blood; or (2) if your medical situation or that of a loved one deteriorates seriously; or (3) if in the case of a child (or an adult), the doctor, a nurse, or an administrator says they are going to get a court order, then:

  If any medical situation deteriorates seriously to the point where a transfusion is being threatened, check this box as to what you should do;

  • I. Call elders In your congregation to assist you.

  • 2. Have elders call the nearest Hospital Liaison Committee if needed.

  • 3. The Hospital Liaison Committee can assist you in speaking to doctors and others.

  • 4. The Hospital Liaison Committee can help you contact other doctors for consultation with present surgeons as to alternatives.

  • 5. The Hospital Liaison Committee can also help you get transferred to a more respectful facility for needed treatment.

  
  

• ²⁴ CALL YOUR LOCAL ELDERS if you have not already done so. (Indeed, because of our position on blood, it is the course of wisdom to alert our elders anytime we have to go to a health care facility.) Next, if it is deemed necessary, the elders will call the nearest hospital LIAISON COMMITTEE. If you wish, some Hospital Liaison Committee members may come to the hospital at this time to help you.—Isa. 32:1, 2.

• ²⁵ These Hospital Liaison Committee elders know who the cooperative doctors are in your area and can get you in touch with them and start to line up other doctors or health care centers to assist. If none are available locally, the elders will check with the next nearest committee. And if that is not successful, they will call Hospital Information Services in Brooklyn. They may also be able to arrangeTor consultation with a cooperative doctor who can explain to your present medical team what can be done without blood. Hospital Liaison Committee brothers have been trained to handle such situations.

“Members of the Hospital Liaison Committees are also willing to help you or a relative talk to a doctor or an administrator, but you must request that help. Of course, these brothers cannot make decisions for you, but often they can assist you in considering the Society’s view of matters and alert you to your options medically and legally.

• ²⁷ If the medical team is still disinclined to cooperate, talk to the hospital administrator about replacing them with others on his staff who will respect your wishes. If the administrator hesitates to do that and ONLY if you definitely have another surgeon lined up elsewhere and you can be transferred, then you have the option of giving the administrator a dated and signed written statement naming the uncooperative doctors and stating that they are dismissed from your case.

• ²⁸ Can you do that? Yes, you have that right. And if the matter later comes before a judge, your written statement can go a long way toward his recognizing your wishes. It can also possibly open the way ethically for other surgeons now to step in and offer their services to you. And, most important, it can get you the needed medical attention before your condition deteriorates dangerously. Do not wait too long!

• ²⁹ While we cannot tell anyone to obtain health insurance, we must let you know that we often have serious problems getting an otherwise usually cooperative doctor to treat those who do not have adequate or any medical coverage.

LOADED QUESTIONS TO WATCH OUT FOR

• ⁵⁰ You should know that there are some questions that doctors and others pose that arc not always asked with good motive. The one most frequently asked by doctors (and by some judges) is:

• “Would you rather die (let your child die) than accept a ‘lifesaving blood transfusion’?"

• ³¹ If you say yes, that would be correct in a religious sense. But that reply is often misunderstood and at times even produces adverse court decisions. You must remember that you are not in the ministry in this situation. Rather, you are talking about needed medical treatment. Hence, you must adapt to your audience, medical or legal.—Ps. 39:1; Col. 4:5,6.

• ³² To a doctor, a judge, or a hospital administrator, “yes” can mean you want to be a martyr or want to sacrifice your child for your faith. Telling them about your strong faith in the resurrection in this situation will not usually help. They will brand you a religious fanatic, unable to make rational decisions when life is at stake. In the case of children, they will see you as a negligent parent who refuses so-called “lifesaving" medical treatment.

• ³³ But you are NOT denying medical treatment as such. You simply differ with the doctor as to WHAT KIND of treatment. This position will often change the whole picture for them and you. Besides, it is misleading for them to make it appear as if blood is safe and is the ONLY “lifesaving” treatment. (See How Can Blood Save Your Life?, pages 7-22.) So you must make that point very clear. How can you do it? You might answer:

• • “Ido not want (Ido not want my child ) to die. If

I wanted ( wanted my child ) to die, I would have stayed home. But I came here to get medical treatment so as to (to have my child) live. What I want is alternative nonblood medical management of my ( my child’s) case. There are alternatives available."

^M Several other questions often asked by doctors or judges are:

• • “What will happen to you if a transfusion is forced by court order? Will you be held responsible?”

• • “Will accepting or having a transfusion forced on you cause you to be put out of your religion or be denied eternal life? How will you be viewed by your congregation?”

³³ One sister responded to a judge that in such a case she would not be responsible for what he decided. While correct from one point of view, the judge took it to mean that since she would not be held responsible, then he would take the responsibility for her. He ordered a transfusion.

³⁶ You must understand that in asking these questions, some are usually looking for a way around your refusal to accept blood. Do not inadvertently give it to them! So how would we avoid that misunderstanding? You could reply:

• • “If blood is forced on me in any way, it would be the same to me as being raped. I would suffer the emotional and spiritual consequences of that unwanted attack on me for the rest of my life. I would resist with all my strength such a violation of my body without my consent. I would make every effort to prosecute my attackers just as I would in a case of rape.”

• ³⁷ The strong, graphic impression must be made that a forced transfusion is to us a repugnant violation of our bodies. It is no casual matter. So hold your ground. Make it clear you want alternative nonblood medical management.

WHAT WILL YOU DO TO BE READY?

• ³⁸ We have reviewed some things that you need to do to protect yourself and your family from an unwanted blood transfusion. (Later, we hope to provide more details on handling problems that arise when infants and children are threatened with transfusions.) We have also seen what the Society has lovingly done to provide help in a time of need. What must you do with this information to be sure you are ready to face a faith-challenging medical situation?

First: Have a family discussion to rehearse these matters and to work out what you will say and do, especially in an emergency.

Next: See that you have all the documents you need.

Then: Make it a matter of serious prayer to Jehovah to back you up in your firm resolve to ‘keep abstaining from blood.’ Obeying his law on blood assures us of his favor for endless life.—Acts 15:29; Prov. 27:11,12.

Announcemen ts

• Literature offer for November: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures and either Should You Believe in the Trinity f or “Look! I Am Making All Things New.” December: Mankind’s Search for God. January and February: Any 192-page book published prior to 1980 that the congregation has in stock. If the congregation has no stock of such books to be offered, the book “Let Your Kingdom Come” should be used. The “Kingdom Come” book may be requested from Brooklyn.

• Congregations should begin requesting the 1991 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses on their November literature requests. (See the Watchtower Publications List, paragraph 10.) The Yearbook will be available in Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish. Until the Yearbook is available and shipments are made, it will appear as “Pending" on congregation packing lists. Yearbooks are special request items.—See the Watchtower Publications List, paragraphs 24 and 25.

• New Publications Available:

Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 1 (A-J)                —German

Watch Tower Publications Index 1950-1985              —French

You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth        —Trukese, Wallisian

“Look! I Am Making All Things New”

—Bulgarian

Victory Over Death—Is It Possible for You? (for Hindus) —French How to Find the Road to Paradise (four-page magazine-size tract for Muslims)              —English

Tract No. 13      —Albanian, Czech,

Serbian

Tracts No. 14,15,16     —Albanian,

Czech, Romanian. Serbian

• New Cassette Recordings Available: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth (set of eight cassettes in an album)              —German

Listening to the Great Teacher (set of four cassettes and a book in an album)               —Korean

• The following publications are now available in grade-two English Braille:

Mankind’s Search for God (four volumes)

Examining the Scriptures Daily—1991 (four volumes)

How Can Blood Save Your Life? (one volume)

Theocratic Ministry School Schedule for 1991 (one volume)

Mark orders for Braille publications, ATTENTION: BRAILLE DESK. Include name and address of the person that will use the Braille material.

• ¹ Jehovah has made numerous provisions for training us to be effective in performing our personal ministry. By using what he has provided, ‘pur very steps have been made ready.7 (Ps. 37:23) As an example, for nearly 50 years, the Theocratic Ministry School has been giving progressive training in the art of speaking and teaching. This has been supplemented by the weekly Service Meeting, with its practical talks, demonstrations, and discussion periods.

• ² We benefit from regular visits by circuit overseers- The service overseer visits each book study group and provides loving encouragement to help improve our abilities in the public ministry. Along with all of this, each time we meet for field service, ten minutes of practical instruction gives encouragement and useful suggestions for that day. (Heb. 10:23-25) Such arrangements through his organization demonstrate Jehovah’s loving concern for those he has commissioned to preach the good news.

HELP YOUTHS AND BIBLE STUDENTS

• ³ Youthful publishers and newer ones need regular personal assistance in the public ministry. While all of us can offer help from time to time, the principal responsibility falls upon the parentsand those who are conducting Bible studies with such ones. (Gal. 6:6; Eph. 6:4) Effectiveness.in using the Bible does not come automatically with the passage of time and a measure of experience. Rather, there is need for systematic loving personal assistance and training.

  Special Conventions Honor Jehovah

  
  

• ¹ Annual conventions provide Jehovah’s Witnesses with spiritual rer freshment and encouragement along

joyful Christian fellowship. Large gatherings of Jehovah's people also serve as an effective means of making known Jehovah’s naifie³ and' publicizing the_good news of the Kingdom.

• ² Regular district .conventions are arranged throughout the earth each year for the benefit of all the brothers. Then at times special conventions are held in certain regions. This provides an opportunity to show the international aspect of the organization and to give a greater witness. In 1989 three special conventions were held in Poland. How thrilling the reports we received regarding those special conventions!

SELECTED DELEGATE ARRANGEMENT

• ³ Thousands of brothers have a desire to attend one of the special con

• ⁴ Personal assistance should begin before the person actually shares in the ministry. Review the Topic for Conversation. Help those qualified to participate in the ministry to develop a simple presentation. Perhaps they can use just one of the suggested scriptures until they gain greater experience and confidence. While working together in the service, take time between doors to give commendation and provide kindly suggestions on how to improve. Emphasize the need to maintain a prayerful attitude at all times.—Eph. 6:18,19.

• ⁵ Although many regular pioneers and other experienced publishers share in the ministry mainly on weekdays, what a fine thing it is when these effective publishers can rearrange their schedules so as to be supportive of weekend field service from time to time. Such personal sacrifice on their part will be greatly appreciated by others who would like to improve by working along with them in the ministry.—Eccl. 4:9,10.

• ⁶ At one time all of us were new and inexperienced in the field ministry. Many of us received encouragement and training from more experienced publishers or pioneers. Our present skill and increased joy in the ministry are a direct result of that aid. (Prov. 27:17: Acts 20:35) May our appreciation for what Jehovah has done for us through active training in the ministry move us to make ourselves available to assist others to become more skillful in using Jehovah’s Word.

ventions. In time it may be possible for more brothers_to attend one of these. However, in order to accomplish the purpose of the special conventions and have everything take place in an orderly manner, the ar; rangement is for designatedbranches each to select a limited number of delegates to attend a particular convention. This provides for a balanced representation of the international brotherhood for the encouragement of the locaTbrothers and for the effect of a witness to all observers. Of course, this means that not all who apply and are recommended bythe local Congregation Service Committee can be selected as delegates. Some may be disappointed in not being selected, but we believe that all will understand the important reasons for such an arrangement.

⁴ In order for a fine witness to be (Continued on page 8, col. 3)

In a Prayerful Manner

• ¹ The apostle Paul wrote encouragingly to the Philippians, “For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me.” (Phil. 4:13) We also need to rely wTidlly on Jehovah for strength-fopresent the good news boldly. How can we do this?

• ² Jesus stressed the need for us “always to pray and not to give up.” (Luke 18:1) Paul exhorted, “Pray incessantly.” (1 Thess. 5:17) Yes, strength comes from prayer. We need to present the good news in a prayerful manner. We may pray for opppr; tunities to witness to otherSj_for wisdom and discernment in the house-to-house work, and for success in reaching the hearts of our Bible students. Since there is an urgent need to get the Kingdom, good.ne.w5 preached before the end comes, we also need to pray for the advancement of Kingdom interests worldwide. (Matt. 24:14) We must ‘remain awake’ in prayer in order to avoid spiritual drowsiness and increase our appreciation for the privilege of speaking to others about Jehovah’s purposes.—Col. 4:2; w62 p. 497.

ON BIBLE STUDIES

• ³ Why is prayer so important when conducting a Bible study? Starting the study with prayer puts us in the right frame of mind, and it helps the student to realize the importance of what is being said. He learns ToTook to Jehovah for direction. The student also learns how to pray by our example.—Luke 11:1.

• ⁴ What are some things that would be appropriate to +neludedn-prayors at home Bible studies? Jesus’ model prayer and Paul’s prayer in behalf of the Philippians are excellent examples. (Matt. 6:9-13; Phil. 1:9-11) Our prayers need not be lengthy, but they should deal with specifte things. It is important that we include appropriate expressions of praise to Jehovah

Word of God              (Cont’d)

Offer a personal home Bible study to those who show interest.

• ⁵ When directing attention to the Trinity brochure, you might say: “Many sincere people have been taught to believe in the Trinity, yet they And the concept very difficult to comprehend. This brochure examines the Trinity in great detail from a historical viewpoint and in the light of what the Bible says. Would you like to read it?” As for using the “Look!” brochure, you may catch the house-for his innumerable excellent works. We can express recognition of his greatness, majesty, and perfect qualities. (Ps. 145:3-5) Mentioning the Bible student by name, perhaps acknowledging his circumstances, and praying that he’ make spiritual progress would be'beneffcial. As he advances, we can ask Jehovah’s blessing upon his efforts 'to attend meetthgs and to share with others the truth he is learning. Include petitions for Jehovah’s blessing on the worldwide preaching work.

FOR OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS

• ⁵ All of Jehovah’s people are our fellow workers. (1 Cor. 3:9) Therefore, when secular authorities seek to interfere with the preaching of the good news, we are moved to pray “concerning kings and all those who are m.high station.” For what purpose? (j*In order that we may go on leading a calm and quiet life with full godly devotion and seriousness.” (1 Tim. 2:1, 2) Such prayers are actually in favor of our brothers around the world. We pray that the author-itiesTnay be favorably disposed toward our work.

• ⁶ By means of prayer, we can request strength for dur brothers who preach under difficult circumstances and for those who may be spiritually sick, that they can have a fuller share in the ministry. (2 Thess. 3:1, 2) It is also good to pray for congregation elders, traveling overseers, and the Governing Body—alToT “those who are working hard among you.” —1 Thess. 5:12.

• ⁷ At all times we need to cast out. anxieties upon Jehovah. (Ps. 55:22; 1 Pet. 5:7) We are assured that no matter what it is we ask in harmony with his will, he will hear us. (1 John 5:14) Therefore, if we pray for Jehovah’s assistance in fully accomplishing our ministry, we should be confident that he will listen and make our way successful.—2Tim. 4:5.

holder’s interest by featuring either the inviting cover or the heading “Bad Things—Why Does God Permit Them?” on page 15.

⁶ During November, be alert to opportunities to encourage people to read the Bible. Be quick to follow up with return visits on those who express interest. Help them cultivate a genuine appreciation for the power of God’s Word. By applying its principles in their lives, they will gain lasting benefits both now and in the life that is to come.—1 Tim. 4:8.

THEOCRATIC NEWS

* India reported a new peak of 10,272 publishers for June. This is 17 percent over last year’s average. There were also new peaks in regular pioneers, return visits, and Bible studies.

Special Conventions (Cont’d) given, the Society requests that everyone cooperate with the arrangements outlined for special conventions. If some brothers make their own arrangements to attend a special convention, even though they have not been selected as delegates, it creates problems. The number of delegates sent from selected countries to a special convention is determined by the Society. This is necessary in order to avoid overcrowding at the convention facilities, it facilities were to be overtaxed, it would hinder the smooth running of the convention and would not make a favorable impression on local authorities.

⁵ Selected delegates should keep in mind that their purpose in attending the convention ’is to advance Kingdom interests. This purpose is more readily accomplished when all delegates cooperate with traveland other arrangements made by the Society and'¹ do not make independent arrangements.

^sThis year special conventions have been held in Berlin, Germany, and Sao Paulo, Brazil. In December a special convention will be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. During January 1991, special conventions will be held in the Far East. The three locations will be Manjla, the Philippines JaipgL Taiwan; and Bangkok, Thailand. Delegates have already been selected for these conventions. Other special conventions for the summer of 1991 have been announced through the congregation, and Congregation Service Committees have approved dedicated and baptized members of the congregation and sent in applications for them. It is expected that all selected delegates wilfmake every effort to give a jine witness, in company with delegates attending from other lands.

⁷ Whether selected as delegates to special conventions or attending local conventions, may our daily conduct give evidence of our whole-souled devotion and our sincere desire to honor Jehovah in all we do!

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

Why Read the Bible?

2 Tim. 3:16—It is inspired of God and beneficial.

John 17:3—It can lead to everlasting life.

8

¹

Bible students with the various aspects of Jehovah’s organization? How can you help them see that the organization’s structure is Bible-based?

USE THE DOING GOD'S WILL BROCHURE

²

The Doing God’s Will brochure has comprehensive mforinatlOfinje-garding JehovaJi’.s organizatiuu-With it you can progressively ac-quaint Bible student's with the organization and help them appreciate its operation. A good way to begin is by discussing whaLtakes place a±_the Kingdom Hall. This will encourage th’e’studenfTo attend congregation meetings. Before inviting him to the public talk forthe’first time, review the information on pages'!? and"I5. Draw Ins'attehtibH tO the~pictures. Describe the location and appearance of the local Kingdom Hall. You may even show him a picture of the Kingdom Hall you attend.

¹ When the circuit overseer’s visit is announced tb the congregation, consider with your Bible student pages 25~and.21. Use the questions at the end of page 21 to make the main points stand out. Consider with him (Continued on page 2, col. 1)

³

AUGUST SERVICE REPORT

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

Sp'l Pios. 147 122.3 68.4 52.3 5.6 62.3 27.4 21.2 2.5

58.6 25.0 14.3 1.3

9.9   6.2   3.7 0.5

mes Baptized: 1,247