• ¹ Summertime offers opportunities to share in a variety of activities. Most of us like to take advantage of the nice weather by doing something different and relaxing. However, we have to guard against allowing our theocratic routine to be disrupted.—Phil. 3:16.

• ² We eagerly anticipate the district convention every summer. Have you made definite plans to attend, arranging for transportation and accommodations as needed? Have you thought about including someone in your congregation who may need personal assistance? Such a fine gesture of kindness could bring mutual blessings.

• ³ If you will have time available, such as during a school vacation, have you thought about reaching out for a greater share in the ministry? Many have found this to be a fine time to enroll as auxiliary pioneers. Often this has opened the door to greater privileges of service. Families can experience real joy in spending full days together in the ministry. Whatever the case, can you increase the time you have been spending Th service? With nice weather and longer daylight hours, more should be able to reap the benefits of sharing in evening witnessing.

• ⁴ How about helping a congregation that needs assistance .in covering its territory? There may be others in your congregation who would like to join you in serving for a week or two where the need is greater. If your group is small, perhaps publishers in a neighboring congregation would like to go with you. If you are limited in how far you can travel, the circuit overseer may be able to recommend a nearby congregation that would appreciate your assistance.

• ⁵ Are you planning a vacation away from home? If so, are you making plans to attend the meetings where you will be visiting? What about working in the field service with the brothers there? Including this in your vacation can be very rewarding to you . and to others. (Rom. 1:11, 12) Also, can you do informal witnessing as you travel? Be sure to take along your Bible and a supply of literature. Use some of your free time to catch up on your reading and Bible study. Remember that although we occasionally need a vacation from secular pursuits, we do not want to take time off from serving Jehovah.

• ⁶ Elders should be alert to keep congregation activities well organized. If any elders or ministerial servants are going to be away, arrangements should be made for others to care for their responsibilities. Keeping the presiding overseer advised well in advance of dates when these brothers will be away will aid him in seeing that appropriate adjustments are made.

• ⁷ Yes, summertime can be a very busy time. But distractions can easily disrupt your good routine of Kingdom service. Make the most of your summer opportunities. Define wholesome spiritual priorities, and stick to them—Phil. 1:10.

  Benefiting Fully From the Theocratic Ministry School

  
  

• ¹ The Theocratic Ministry School has been instrumental in training us in the “art of teaching” so that we can convey Bible truths to others In an effective manner. (2 Tim. 4:2) We receive valuable insight into a variety of Bible topics each week. How can we make sure that we are deriving full benefit from the vital instruction this school provides?

• ² Pay careful attention to the opening comments, of the school overseer as he highlights some of the interesting points you can learn during the meeting. Think about any questions he may raise and how you can apply the answers in your ministry.

• ³ The instruction talk is not simply a review of the~prihted material. It focuses on the practical value of the information and how it can benefit you personally. Preparing in advance will help you to concentrate better on the main points and to share in the oral review that follows.

• ⁴ Keeping up with the weekly Bible reading, can deepen your appreciation of God’s Word. Additional research can reveal an array of new and interesting details that will enhance your understanding of the truth. The presentation of the Bible highlights is more than just a repetition of the Bible account. After a brief overall review, the speaker will highlight outstanding points in the assigned portion and show how they relate to our life and worship. Be attentive so that you can learn how better to apply Bible instruction—Ps. 119:105.

• ⁵ If you are assigned a student talk, take note of the point of counsel you are currently working on. Read over the suggestions given in the School Guide^ book dealing with that speech quality, and try to apply them. When selecting material for your talk, try to emphasize points that will be practical inthe field. —sg pp. 96-9.

• ⁶ If you are a sister assigned to give Talk No. 3 or Talk No. 4, try to present the material In a realistic setting. The householder may or may not agree with everything you say, endeavor to show how you would assist the individual to reason on the underlying Bible principles. (sg pp. 153-8) This helps the audience to see how to deal with similar objections encountered In field service. Prepare well in advance, and arrange for an early rehearsal with your householder. It should not be necessary to rehearse after theineeting has started.

• ⁷ Students giving talks are encouraged to sit near the front of the hall. This saves time and enabl^ the school, overseer to offer his comments in a more personal manner. All can benefit from the kindly, specific suggestions he gives based on the School Guidebook. He may not follow the speech points in the order given on the Speech Counsel slip; he will select, a point of counsel based on what you currently need In order to make the best progress.

' These are all good reasons for us to prepare for and attend the Theocratic Ministry School every week. The instruction we receive can help us to be wise and skillful in our ministry.—Prov. 1:5.

Week Starting May 2

Song 20

5 min: Local announcements and pertinent Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Review any arrangements to expand field service activities, such as street work or evening witnessing.

15 min: “Keep Pursuing Theocratic Activities During the Summer." Questions and answers. Relate experiences enjoyed by some while auxiliary pioneering or witnessing informally.

10 min: “Do I Need to Keep Changing?” Discussion between two elders. Emphasize benefits of sharing regularly in field service.

15 min: “Use the Magazines to Share the Truth." Discuss with audience. Explain what makes our magazines different and why this should motivate us to offer them at every opportunity. Arrange for two brief demonstrations.

Song 128 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 9

Song 214

10 min: Local announcements. We should be alert to opportunities to obtain subscriptions. We can offer them to those who regularly accepted and read the magazines in the past. In most cases it is best to offer six-month subscriptions. Explain how to fill out subscription blank.

20 min: “Prepare Bible Students for the Ministry." Questions and answers. With paragraphs 4 and 5, have brief demonstration showing how to help student prepare to witness at the door. Student begins with simple presentation using Psalm 37:11. Teacher interrupts, saying: “I have my own religion.” Student not sure what to say. Both turn to Reasoning book, pages 18-19, review some suggested replies, and pick out one that student feels comfortable with. Student

resumes, gives good response, and feels encouraged with results.

15 min: Kingdom Hall Construction. Discussion between two elders. Review information on the procedure for filling out volunteer forms if one is qualified to work on Kingdom Hall construction. Emphasize (1) the two categories of those who qualify to submit volunteer forms and (2) that all volunteers, including those who had previously volunteered, need to complete one of the new forms. Then review highlights of the work of Regional Building Committees as presented on pages 322-8 of Jehovah’s Witnesses—Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom.

Song 139 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 16

Song 173

10 min: Local announcements. Read accounts report and any donation acknowledgments. Review brochures that

Do I Need to Keep Changing?

Every issue of Our Kingdom Ministry provides a variety of Scriptural presentations that we can use when witnessing. Many publishers who are quite active are eager to get new ideas and use different approaches. Our Kingdom Ministry accommodates them by supplying several suggestions each month.

It may be. however, that you do not feel the need to keep changing what you use. You may have only a few hours available each month to share in the house-to-house work. Over a period of time, you may have developed certain presentations that you feel comfortable with, and you get good results using them. You rn^ty depend upon some often-used texts, including Psalm 37:9-11,2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 21:4, and others. If so, there is no need for you to feel obligated to change fre^ quently to something else. Our primary goal is to share .the Kingdom hope with others and to help them learn what they must do to merit Jehovah's blessing. If you find timely and inviting presentations in the Reasoning book that you prefer to use and you are getting a good response with them, do not hesitate to use them.

might be offered, and call attention to a few talking points.

17 min: “Return Where You Found Interest.” Questions and answers. Have one or two of the suggested presentations demonstrated.

18 min: “Benefiting Fully From the Theocratic Ministry School.” Talk and audience discussion by school overseer. Encourage all to accept and fulfill assignments. Stress importance of keeping up with the weekly Bible reading. Explain how entire congregation can benefit from counsel given to students. Song 53 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 23

Song 192

10 min: Local announcements. Review outstanding articles in current magazines, and arrange for one or two brief presentations. Outline special field service arrangements for May 30.

10 min: “Do You Dignify Others When Offering Counsel?” Talk by elder, based on February 1, 1994, Watchtower, pages 25-9.

25 min: “1994 ‘Godly Fear’ District Convention.” Insert. Questions and answers on paragraphs 1-11, handled by elder. Call particular attention to “District Convention Reminders.” Song 19 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting May 30

Song 204

10 min: Local announcements. Theocratic News.

15 min: Review literature offer for June: Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? Call attention to appealing illustrations such as those on pages 6,236,243, and 245. Have capable publisher demonstrate a brief presentation based on one of these illustrations. using Revelation 21:4. Outline field service arrangements for coming week. 20 min: “1994 ‘Godly Fear’ District Convention.” Insert. Talk on paragraphs 12-25, handled by congregation secretary.

Song 12 and concluding prayer.

Schedule for congregation studies In the book Making Your Family Life Happy.

May 2:     Review chapters 11-14

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

• ¹ Men of faith have demonstrated “godly fear” from the time of Abel and of Noah until the present. (Heb. 11:4, 7) To exercise godly fear means to exhibit “an awe and a profound reverence for the Creator and a wholesome dread of displeasing him.” (iM p. 818) During June, July, and August, we will demonstrate this profound reverence by our attendance at the “Godly Fear” District Convention. Will you be there to enjoy the entire program, from the opening song until the final prayer?. .         - JjZfZci

• ² Each year we approach the district conven- ' tion with eager anticipation. Although considerable personal effort and expense may be involved, the blessings to be received are many. We return home with rejoicing, satisfied and built up spiritually. (Compare 1 Kings 8:66.) The association is stimulating, and the convention provides a change of pace. But remember, we gather to worship Jehovah. He commands us to do so. He is teaching us how to benefit ourselves. —Deut. 31:12,13; Ps. 122:1.

• ³ A Three-Day Convention: The program will be presented at over 165 conventions in the United States this year. The February 15, 1994, Watchtower provided a list of the locations. In addition to English, conventions will be held in Chinese, French, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and American Sign Language. A complete program in American Sign Language will be presented at Escondido, California, and Jersey City, New Jersey, but there will be no signlanguage interpreting at any other conventions.

• ⁴ The program will begin on Friday> at 10:20 a.m. and will conclude on Sunday at approximately 4:15 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, the program will start at 9:30 am. Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. Only those with specific work assignments will be permitted to enter earlier.

• ⁵ Profound Reverence for Jehovah Impels Us to Attend: Paul counseled the Hebrew Christians to “render God sacred service with godly fear and awe.”, (Heb. 12:28) Our district convention this year has been prepared to help us do just that. Some obstacles may be encountered that test our determination to attend. They may look like mountains, but with Jehovah’s help these can be conquered. (Matt. 17:20) If unable to schedule your vacation to include the entire convention, Friday morning through Sunday afternoon, have you prayerfully approached your employer to ask for the time off? (Jas. 1:6-8) School-age children who will be attending one of the earlier conventions while school is still in session should respectfully inform their teachers that they will be absent from school on Friday for this important part of their religious worship.

• ⁶ Take Advantage of the Investment: What investment is that? The time and effort spent to attend the convention. It would be unwise to make careful plans to attend this summer’s district convention only to return home Sunday evening having missed a large portion of the program. Would you excuse yourself in the middle of a banquet in order to take care of other matters? It was observed at a number of conventions last year that some left after the morning sessions. However, our spiritual maturity and godly fear should not allow us to miss any of what Jehovah has prepared for us.—Compare 1 Corinthians 2:9,10. - '

• ⁷ Most of us would probably, not think of leaving early. Nevertheless, we could still miss a good portion of the program. How could this happen? By our not planning ahead to ensure that we receive the maximum benefit from the parts presented. We want to begin the day early enough to have an adequate breakfast and to take care of other necessary matters so that we can be in our seats before the program begins. Getting a good night’s sleep is also important so that we will be alert and able to concentrate on the full day’s program.

• ⁸ A proved method of reaping the most benefit from the program is the taking of conservative notes. It is as important for young ones to take notes as it is for adults. A 16-year-old publisher says: “I write down the scriptures mentioned during a talk. Then I can review the talk at home.”; Another 16-year-old youth adds: “J jot

OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY, MAY 1994 down main points. It keeps my mind on track.”/ Usually all that you really need for the program is your Bible, a songbook, a medium-size note pad, and a pen or pencil. Of course, parents with small children must take care of their needs, but it is best not to inconvenience ourselves and others with large coolers and an excessive amount of personal items.

• ⁹ Some brothers record the program, using an audiocassette recorder or a video camera, for replay later at home. Whether one does this is a personal matter, but the experience of some is that once they return to their normal routine, there is little time to replay what has been recorded. In addition, some key points in a talk may be missed while adjusting the recording equipment.

• ¹⁰ We should make a sincere effort to be in our seats before the program begins. Although we may be in the middle of exchanging happy experiences with old friends when the chairman announces that the program is about to begin, it shows respect for those on the program, and our brothers generally, if we promptly cease our conversation and take our seats.

• ¹¹ District conventions are always joyous occasions because of Jehovah’s abundant blessing. We receive both spiritual and material benefits. It must be remembered that considerable expense is involved in the rental of the convention facility. Also food costs are on the rise, and the Society purchases good quality food for distribution at each convention. How are these and all other expenses covered? Through our voluntary donations, either in cash or by check made payable to “Jehovah’s Witnesses.” This is in line with the spirit of Psalm 96:8, which encourages us to ^ascribe glory to Jehovah and carry a gift into his courtyards.’                            ।

• ¹² Will Your Conduct Bring Praise? Each year the May issue of Our Kingdom Ministry kindly reminds us of the importance of good conduct while attending the district convention. Of course, our conduct should always be exemplary, but when we are gathered in large numbers, we usually come under closer scrutiny by those outside the truth. Our conduct, good or bad, may speak louder than our preaching. We want Jehovah to be praised by what we say and do.—Prov. 27:2; 1 Pet. 2:12.

• ¹³ After last year’s “Divine Teaching” District Convention, a security guard at one of the motels observed: “These are the nicest bunch of kids I’ve had to watch in a long time.” Then, after commenting about the bad manners and destructiveness of other groups of young people, he added about the Witness children: “They are well behaved and a pleasure to be around. I wish other conventions held here were like this one.”

• ¹⁴ A newspaper columnist writing in a midwestern paper made this observation about the convention: “Women and girls wore fine dresses, and men and boys wore coats and ties. They earnestly took notes as they listened to four days of speakers. And if cleanliness is next to godliness, well, Jehovah’s Witnesses take that concept to a new level.” Not all reports have been that positive though.

• ¹⁵ In some locations, children have abused the use of swimming pools. They have got involved in unruly play, remaining in the pool after closing time. Usually this has resulted from having very little or no adult supervision.

• ¹⁶ At another convention it was reported that there was too much milling around during sessions. Over 1,000 (many of whom were children) were counted in the corridors during the Saturday afternoon program, which would indicate that much more training and supervision are needed by parents. Constant milling around in the corridors creates excessive noise that is distracting to those trying to listen. A few have necessary matters to take care of during the program, but should not the rest of us be in our seats, listening intently?

• ¹⁷ Most parents are firm with their children about attending congregation meetings each week. Should they not be equally firm when it comes to making sure that their children sit near them and do not wander through the corridors during the program? The convention facility is turned into a large Kingdom Hall, but this is Satan’s system, and it would be easy for unscrupulous people to enter the building with improper motives. You need TO know where YOUR CHILDREN ARE AND WHAT THEY ARE DOING AT ALL TIMES.

• ¹⁸ Dress and Grooming: We live in an age where the casual, even sloppy, look is viewed as acceptable. Many people attend church and concerts or dine at restaurants in extremely casual attire. The observation quoted in paragraph 14 shows that there are those who still admire dignified dress, particularly in connection with formal worship. Sloppy, casual dress and inappropriate grooming tell a lot about us. Never forget that the convention building is no longer a sports arena. It is an expanded Kingdom Hall. Some dress respectfully for the convention but after the sessions go to local restaurants and elsewhere dressed inappropriately or immodestly.

• ¹⁹ Candidates for baptism need to be reminded that certain bathing attire is inappropriate for the occasion. The outfit should be modest and in good taste. Who should determine this? The elders are responsible to see that anyone getting baptized from their congregation does not give any cause for stumbling. (2 Cor. 6:3, 4) This would rule out revealing swimwear and T-shirts with worldly slogans or advertising. It would be appropriate for the elders to discuss this matter with the candidate while reviewing the questions in the Our Ministry book.

• ²⁰ Hotels and Motels: A measure of patience and empathy are often necessary when checking in at the hotel or motel. If a large number are checking in at the same time, there could be some delays. We need to display the fruitage of the spirit at all times but particularly when dealing with employees at motels and restaurants. We also need to be reminded of the need to tip in an appropriate fashion. Please take a few minutes to review the articles “To Tip—Or Not” and “Tips on Tipping” on pages 24-7 of the June 22,1986, issue of Aiiake!

• ²¹ Recording Devices: As stated earlier, the use of recording equipment, and particularly videocassette recorders, is a personal decision. If you decide to record, please show consideration for those around you. It may be distracting even when the recording is done from one’s seat. No one should block the view of fellow convention-ers while taping. Furthermore, no recording devices of any sort are to be connected to the electrical or sound systems, nor should they block aisles or walkways.

• ²² Seating: The problems associated with saving seats are still in need of attention. Again we would like to remind everyone: SEATS MAY BE SAVED ONLY FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS AND ANY WHO MAY BE TRAVELING WITH YOU IN YOUR CAR At some conventions when the doors opened at 7:30 each morning, there was a rush as brothers and sisters entered the building. It was observed that “those friends who walked to their seats in the usual manner could find seats only in the very top section of the arena. Many were saving almost whole sections, and then many of the seats they reserved were not filled.” These inconsiderate practices seem to persist despite regular reminders. Should we not search our heart in this matter and meditate on the principles in Philippians 2:3,4?

• ²³ Each convention makes provisions for those with special needs, such as the elderly and the physically disabled. Please be sure not to occupy seats in one of these sections if you do not qualify. Also, be alert to assist those with special needs to find a seat if they are not accompanied by someone responsible for their care.

• ²⁴ Literature and Food Service: When we gather for the district convention, we enjoy an abundance of physical and spiritual food. Both should be received with thanksgiving, nothing being wasted. (2 Chron. 31:10; Prov. 3:10; John 6:12) In recent years it has been noted that a considerable amount of packaged food and drink is being taken and then discarded unopened. Do we want to show appreciation for all of Jehovah’s provisions? Then we will take only what is needed and not waste any food. Parents, do your children understand the importance of not wastinglood? You must set a good example for them. Please do not take food away from the convention site for later use. To cut down on crowding in the corridors, it is best that only one family member pick up food for the entire family and not obtain more than what is needed for that meal.

• ²⁵ On June 3,1994, the first of the “Godly Fear” District Conventions will begin. Have you completed your preparations, and are you now ready to enjoy three days of happy fellowship and spiritual good things? It is our sincere prayer that Jehovah will bless your efforts to convene this summer and be fed at Jehovah’s table of good things at the “Godly Fear” District Convention.

Baptism: Baptismal candidates should be in their seats in the designated section before the program begins on Saturday morning, it has been observed that some wear types of attire that are not dignified and detract from the occasion. 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 the candidates and then call for a song. A fter the last verse, the attendants will direct the candidates to the immersion site. 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 can-diSaies embrace or hold hands while being baptized.                                        ?

Badge Cards: Please wear, the 1994 badge 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. This was outstandingly true last year with regard to the conventions held in Moscow and Kiev. Wearing our badge will also facilitate the operation of the simplified food service arrangement. Badge cards and holders should be obtained through your congregation, as they will not be available at the convention. Remember to carry your current Medical Directive card. Bethel family members and pioneers should also have their identification cards with them.

Rooming: We are again asking for the cooperation of everyone in using only the listing of accommodations provided by the convention. If we bypass the Society’s arrangement, and secure a motel not on the approved list, we undermine much of the hard work of our brothers who negotiate with the motels for better rates! IF YOU EXPERIENCE A PROBLEM WITH A MOTEL, please do not hesitate to bring it to the attention of the Rooming Department overseer at the convention so that he can assist you in resolving the matter right away. Congregation secretaries should be sure that Special Needs Room Request forms are 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 locations baby strollers cannot be used in places of public assembly. Fire regulations prohibit parking them in corridors and aisles or between rows of seats. Since large 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 is appreciated.

Volunteer Service: Can you set aside some time at the convention to assist in one of the departments? Serving our brothers, if only for a few hours, can be very helpful and bring a good measure of satisfaction. If you can assist, please report to the Volunteer Service Department at the convention. Children under 16 years of age can also make a fine contribution by working under the direction of a parent or other responsible adult.                  . .

Words of Caution: By keeping alert to potential problems, we can save ourselves unnecessary difficulty. Often thieves and other unscrupulous individuals will prey on people who are away from their home environment. Be sure your vehicle is locked al all times, and never leave anything visible to tempt someone to break in. Thieves and pickpockets find their best pickings at large gatherings. It would not be wise to leave any valuables at your seat. You cannot be sure that evefyonF'around you is a Christian. Why offer any temptation? Reports have been received of attempts made by some outsiders to lure children away. KEEP YOUR CHILDREN IN SIGHT AT ALL TIMES.

Cable television that is available in many motels often features lewd, pornographic movies. Be alert to this snare, and do not permit children to have unsupervised access to the TV in the room.

Please do not phone the management of the convention auditorium seeking information about any convention matters. If the information is not available from the elders, please write to the convention address found on the back of the Special Needs Room Request forms on file with each congregation secretary.

■ Literature to be used during May: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines, as well as any brochure (except the School brochure). Where interest is found on return visits, subscriptions may be offered. June: Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? July: A combination of three 32-page booklets that the congregation may already have in stock. If the congregation does not have a supply of booklets, an appropriate brochure may be used as an alternate offer. The 32-page booklets should not be requested from the Society, but congregations should use such booklets as they now have on hand. August: Any of the following 32-page brochures may be used: Does God Really Care About Us?, Enjoy Life on Earth Forever!, ‘Look! I Am Making All Things New,’ Should You Believe in the Trinity?, The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever, The Government That Will Bring Paradise, and What Is the Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It? NOTE Congregations that will need the above-mentioned campaign items should request them on their next monthly Literature Request Form (S(d)-14). Please do not request 32-page booklets, since these are not available from the Society.

■ Before undertaking a Kingdom Hall construction project, the elders should contact the Regional Building Committee for their area. The regional committees have been provided information that can assist congregations in making wise decisions. It is prudent to consider suggestions offered by the regional committees before purchasing such items as chairs, wall covering, carpet, or heating and air-conditioning equipment. While the Society does not recommend any suppliers, information is shared with the Regional Building Committees concerning suppliers that have previously provided quality materials in a reliable manner.

■ Congregations may now begin requesting New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures—With References/ Insight on the Scriptures in Spanish. This is available on 5 1/4-lnch 1.2-megabyte or 3 1/2-lnch 1.44-megabyte diskettes. A computer with a hard disk having a minimum of 20 megabytes of free space is required. Until this item is available and shipments are made, it will appear as “Pending” on congregation packing lists.

■ The Watchtower Library—1993 Edition will soon be shipped to congregations. Commercial CD-ROMs costing from 825 to $50 or more contain a single encyclopedia or a few reference works. Watchtower Library will access The Watchtower back to 1950 and many other of the Society’s publications back to 1970.

■ Please note that the Society is using the ZIP + 4 code. Therefore, the Society’s address is as follows: Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483. For those who wish to use this ZIP + 4 code, please keep in mind that the 25 Columbia Heights address code is not the same as that used when addressing mail to individual members of the Bethel family. Personal letters to members of the Bethel family should be addressed as follows: 124 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-1698.

Angola: During the month of December, total magazine placements increased over 10,000 from the previous all-time peak. The 21,965 publishers are conducting 60,691 Bible studies.

Latvia: The work continues to move ahead in Latvia. Last December a peak of 577 publishers reported.

• ¹ The ultimate goal in conducting Bible studies is to make new disciples, workers who will join us in teaching others. (Matt. 28:19, 20) So the purpose of the study is not Just to impart knowledge; it should instill heartfelt faith in our students and prepare them to share their hope with others. (2 Cor. 4:13) In what practical ways can we help them become qualified to teach others? —2 Tim. 2:2.

-Set the Ministry as a Goal: From the very start, make it clear that true worship involves “public declaration for salvation." (Rom. 10: 10) Our very name, Jehovah’s Witnesses, implies that we must speak to others. Help them to see that their being taught is not just for their own salvation. When they become teachers themselves, those who listen to them also have opportunity for salvation—1 Tim. 4:16.

• ³ Review What Is Learned: Periodic reviews of what has been learned are a valuable teaching aid. They help the student to grow spiritually as newly learned truths are embedded in his mind and heart. We have experienced this ourselves when answering the review questions that are included in the Watchtower Study. Prepare simple, direct questions for your student to answer in his own words.

• ⁴ Your review could take the form of a field service setting. Pose a question or describe a situation commonly encountered when witnessing to others. With you acting as the householder, let your studerit demonstrate what he would say. Commend him for what he did well, and offer practical suggestions that will help him to be even more effective next time. This training will teach him how to use what he has learned and will develop his skill in using the Bible.

• ⁵ Reasoning Book: Make sure your student has a copy of the Reasoning book, and train him to use it. Show how it provides suggestions on starting conversations, answering Bible questions, or dealing with objections. Use the book in the study to demonstrate ways to speak to others in a convincing manner. This book can build his confidence, increasing his initiative to declare the Kingdom message.

‘Stress the Importance of the Meetings: Congregation meetings, especially the Service Meeting and the Theocratic Ministry School, are designed to prepare us for field service. All the fundamentals for effective witnessing are reviewed and demonstrated by those who are experienced and skilled. Emphasize the importance of the meetings, and do what you can to help him to attend. Regular attendance can provide your student the stimulus he needs to become a true disciple of Jesus.

¹ Not to be overlooked is your own personal example. Your willingness and regularity in the preaching work show your deep appreciation for the truth. Such a course encourages your student to do more to demonstrate his faith. (Luke 6:40) All of this can help a new person to view the ministry as a privilege and to be grateful to have a share in it.—1 Tim. 1:12.

'The value of truthful, factual information is largely undermined in today's society because of exaggerated advertising, misleading political promises. and deceptive international claims. The Watchtower and Awake! are unique in that they alone declare the truth about God's Kingdom and explain what all must do to enjoy the eternal blessings ft will bring.

• ² In one country a ministry of information official who appreciated the value of these two magazines readily assisted in getting approval for their distribution. He stated: “I consider The Watchtower one of the best magazines; I am only too glad to help.”) It is our privilege to help others by distributing these journals that can impart lifegiving knowledge. (John 17:3) How will you present these valuable magazines during May? Perhaps the following suggestions will be helpful.

• ³ If you are featuring the opening articles in the May 15 “Watchtower,” you might say: ■ “We’re talking to people about the world’s bestselling book. Do you know what it is? [Allow for a reply.] We’re talking about the Bible. There must be a very good reason why so many people have purchased the Bible. The reason is found at 2 Timothy 3:16.” After reading the text, highlight appropriate points in one of the articles.

• ⁴ Or after a brief introduction, you could say something like this:

■ “You’ve probably noted that in recent years there has been growing concern worldwide over the problems facing children. What problems of children do you see locally that are of concern to you?” Allow for a reply. Point to some of the serious problems children are going through around the world as discussed in the opening articles of the May 8 Awake!, and direct attention to the solution ottered by God’s Kingdom.

• ⁵ In your record of return visits, likely you have a list of those who showed a little interest initially, but nothing ever came of it. Since there was only limited response, you may not feel a need to keep calling back. But you may be able to use this list to develop a magazine route. When you note an article that you feel might be appealing to a particular person, make it a point to visit that individual and offer the magazine.

"Informal Witnessing: This is an excellent way to create interest in the magazines. A discreet display of the eye-catching covers may be enough to start a conversation. A sister laid some issues on her desk so that fellow workmates could see them as they passed by; she was able to place several. Make it a point to carry a few copies, and take the initiative to offer them this month when you go shopping, go to school, ride the bus, or come in contact with others elsewhere.

• ⁷ With the help of The Watchtower and Awake!, we have found answers to vital questions about Jehovah and his worship. We want to use these journals in every way possible to help others come to know “Jehovah the God of truth.”—Ps. 31:5.

  

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how a high court upholds a teenager’s stand. J think you’ll appreciate what it has to say.”

• ⁴ You may decide to offer a brochure using this approach:

■ "I enjoyed our brief discussion last time about the future of this earth. Can you imagine what life will be like here when God brings an end to wickedness and suffering? (Show picture on page 31 of the brochure What Is The Purpose of Life—How Can You Find It?] Notice all these Bible verses on pages 29 and 30 that describe the blessings that God’s Kingdom will bring. [Pick out one scripture, and read it directly from the brochure.] rd^{1 2 3} like to leave this with you.”

• ⁵ When you go back, perhaps you will learn that the householder gets his own religious literature and he feels that is suf-ficienLYou could say:

■ “Regardless of our religion, we’re all affected by many of the same anxieties —crime, serious illness, environment tai concerns—isn’t that so? [Allow for comment.] Do you feel there Is any real solution to these problems? [Read 2 Peter 3:13.] The purpose of qur_literature is stated on page 2 of The Watchtower. [Read a selected sentence or two.] Many people who are not Jehovah’s Witnesses enjoy reading our publications because of the hopeful message they contain, which is based on the Bible.” If the householder’s response is favorable, explain our Bible study program.

• ⁶ Yom might take this approach:

■ “The last time I was here, we talked about the future prospects for our world. What do you think about this report? [Mention some current news item of concern.] When people hear things like that, it causes them to wonder what this world is coming to_? doesn’t it? We believe that such things indicate that we’re living in 'the last days’ foretold in the Bible at 2 Timothy 3:1-5.” After reading highlights, you can ask if he has seen people who fit that description. Continue with a discussion of one of the subheadings on pages 234-8 in the Reasoning book.

• ⁷ If we prepare well and show a genuine desire to help, we can be confident that the honesthearted ones will listen. —John 10:27, 28.

© 1994 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-360) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Trad Society ol New York. Inc., and International Bible Students Association, 25 Columbia Heights. Brooklyn. NY 11201-2483. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn. N.Y., and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483            Printed In U.S.A.

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Many of us have had success in distributing magazines and brochures. It is important that we return and try to stimulate further interest? Our success in doing so may depend on how well we prepare before we make a return visit.

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Remember that most young people are anxious about the same things that concern adults. The May issues of Awake! have articles that examine current problems from the standpoint of young people. These articles provide insight that can help young ones, as well as their parents, to appreciate what really matters in life.

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If you placed the May 8 “Awake!,” you might plan to follow it up by offering the Mau 22 issue. You could say:

■ "The last issue I left with you featured articles on the subject of hope for children. Our young people have to grow up in a world that offers little hope for the future. Many of them show their resentment by rebellious conduct. But there are some who keep their balance and maintain high ideals. This article in the latest Awake! explains