OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY

SEPTEMBER 1983

Vol. 26. No 9

FOR UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Meetings for Field Service

SEPTEMBER 5-11

What in the current magazines might appeal to:

• 1. The elderly?

• 2. Young ones?

• 3. Parents?

SEPTEMBER 12-18

Why should you always:

• 1. Have a positive attitude?

• 2. Have specific presentation in mind?

• 3. Be alert to start Bible studies?

SEPTEMBER 19-25

How do you use handbills:

• 1. To introduce your conversation?

• 2. On Bible studies and return visits?

• 3. When no one is at home?

SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 2

Good preparation

• 1. What introduction will you use today? ¹

• 2. What essential equipment do you carry?

• 3. What preparation are you making for subscription offer in October?

TOPIC FOR CONVERSATION

Can You Live Forever in Paradise?

Ps. 37:29—The Bible says you can.

Rev. 21:4—What God will do.

• ¹ A year of spiritual accomplishments! What a fine way to describe the 1983 service year. Soon we will enjoy reading the complete worldwide report in the 1984 Yearbook. But what about the goals you personally set for yourself? Did you achieve them? Was 1983 a year of spiritual accomplishments for you? A brief review of your theocratic activities in 1983 may help you work toward yet another year of satisfying work.—1 Cor. 9:26; om, pages 116-118.

• ² From the reports we have been receiving, it is evident that many of us reached our personal goals during 1983. Some enrolled in the Theocratic Ministry School, went out in the field service for the first time or started their first Bible study. Others became pioneers or were invited to Bethel. Some were appointed as ministerial servants and others as elders. All these things bring us satisfaction and please Jehovah. On the other hand, there may have been some personal goals you were not able to reach. Perhaps some unexpected circumstances hindered you. But do not be discouraged. Those goals

Are You Using

• ¹ At our recent “Kingdom Unity” District Conventions we were delighted to receive the new book United in Worship of the Only True God. A quick examination made it evident that this book was not designed for beginners, people who have little or no knowledge of the Bible. It is for those who are already acquainted with basic Bible truths. It can help us to benefit in practical ways from some of the solid spiritual food in God’s Word. This book can help us to broaden and deepen our own understanding of the Scriptures and to apply these more fully in our lives.—Heb. 5: 13; 6:1.

• ² Are you personally reaping those benefits? Are you reading the book? As you do so, take time to look up the cited scriptures and meditate on their application to the surrounding material and your own life. Do not skip over them. You cannot use the material in the book effectively until you are able to reason on it from the Bible.

• ³ Have you also been making good use of the study questions found may still be within your reach during the 1984 service year.

OUR INDIVIDUAL GOALS

• ³ Were you able to auxiliary pioneer during 1983? Could you make it your goal to do so in 1984? A brief look at the calendar will help you to plan ahead. For example, have you noticed that there are four months that have five Saturdays? Also, there are four months that have five Sundays. Yes, October has five full weekends! If you regularly have Saturdays and Sundays free for field service, a substantial part of the required hours could be realized by planning full service days. Even if you cannot enroll as a regular or an auxiliary pioneer, you may be,able to increase your field service and improve the quality of it.

• ⁴ Have you finished reading the publications that were released at the “Kingdom Unity” District Convention? What about the Our Ministry book? Have you read it and put its suggestions to work in your ministry? Were you able to keep up with the 1983 weekly Bible reading assignment? A good study sched-(Continued on page 7, col. 2)

the New Book?

both in the paragraphs and at the bottom of the page? Many of these questions, as you may have observed, are designed to make you think about your own life and how it should be affected by what you are studying. In time, of course, we will use this book at the Congregation Book Study, but if you make a personal study of it now, this will enable you to benefit more fully when we study it together later on.

⁴ At the convention it was mentioned that this book can be valuable in helping teenage youths to press on to maturity. Although they may already know the fundamental truths and perhaps share to some extent in the field ministry, as they come to understand the reasons for Jehovah’s requirements, their joy will increase and they will take greater pleasure in applying Bible counsel. The United in Worship book can help them. It encourages them to express the truth in their own words, to reason

(Continued on page 7, col. I)

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

2/WEEK STARTING AUGUST 28 /Song 16

5 min: Local announcements. Brief discussion of daily text and comments from Yearbook, tying in encouragement for all to be out in house-to-house ministry the first Sunday in September, which also is the first Sunday of 1984 service year. Special arrangements should be made for group witnessing on Monday, September 5, a secular holiday.

20 min: Why a School Brochure? Preferably an elder with exemplary children in high school should handle this part.

(5 min.) Introduction. Great enthusiasm manifested at release of School brochure on second day of recent “Kingdom Unity” District Conventions. Something parents and schoolchildren have been wanting. Designed to fill particular needs of parents, children and teachers in handling situations unique to Jehovah’s Witnesses involved in secular education. Explain that although the brochure is directed to teachers, it wilLalso aid Jehovah’s Witnesses in knowing how to conduct themselves in connection with school activities. So it is particularly vital that all Witnesses be familiar with and appreciate the information the brochure contains on school activities. In this way we can all be at unity in our worship as it affects our children in school.

(7 min.) Question-and-answer discussion of “The Reason for This Brochure” on page 3 of brochure. Assign capable brother to read each paragraph before it is discussed.

(4 min.) Demonstration. Parent with younger child approaches teacher and presents brochure. Include points from paragraph 5 on page 30 of brochure, pointing out desire of parent and child to cooperate with teacher and school system.

(3 min.) Demonstration. Teenage student presents brochure to highschool teacher, briefly explaining the purpose of the brochure and what it contains.

(1 min.) Conclusion. Brief encouragement ^for parents and school-age Witnesses to make full use of School brochure.

20 min: Question-and-answer discussion of insert from begin, ning to subheading in column 1 on page 4. Conclude meeting with further brief encouragement for all to share in field service this weekend. Remind publishers to bring Our Ministry book to Service Meeting next week.

Song 8 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 4

Song 18

10 min: Introduction. Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry and local announcements. Suggest and demonstrate several well-prepared 30- to 60-second magazine presentations that publishers can use with current magazines on second-Saturday magazine day. Encourage house-to-house and street witnessing. If appropriate, specify territory that may be used for street witnessing.

15 min: “Looking Ahead to the 1984 Service Year.” After brief introduction based on first two paragraphs, conduct question-and-answer discussion of rest of article tying in appropriate points from pages 116-118 of Our Ministry book. At conclusion interview newly baptized publisher and one with some years of experience in the truth. Have them relate how they view matter of setting personal goals and how they have benefited from having definite but reasonable spiritual goals.

20 min: Question-and-answer discussion of insert from subheading in column 1 on page 4 to subheading “Society to Make Survey of Local Needs” on page 5.

Song 89 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 11 Song 116

10 min: Introduction and local announcements. Have publishers relate experiences about efforts to start new studies in Live Forever book. Remind publishers of field service arrangements for weekend, including street witnessing and house-to-house magazine work as well as house-to-house ministry using current Topic for Conversation with book offer. Also brief reminder that October has five full weekends and may offer fine opportunity for auxiliary pioneer service. Application forms are available.

15 min: “Improving Our Teaching Ability.” Questions and answers. Assign qualified brother to read paragraphs and call for reading of as many cited scriptures as time allows.

20 min: Question-and-answer discussion of insert from subheading “Society to Make Survey of Local Needs” on page 5 to end.

Song 39 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 18 Song 50

10 min: Introduction. Local announcements and accounts report. 20 min: “Are You Using the New Book?” Talk and interviews. Enthusiastic elder to present material in article in well-prepared talk, citing portions of book that illustrate points in article. Then interview two or three publishers who have appreciated and are making good use of this new book. Comments should not only show genuine appreciation but also offer practical suggestions as to how the new book can be used personally, in conducting Bible studies with advanced students and in helping young family members.

15 min: Congregation field service report. Service overseer should handle this part. Feature warm commendation for what has been accomplished by brothers in the field. Some totals and averages can be given from report for August and from overall report on 1983 service year. Call attention to increases and improvements that have been noted. Total number of auxiliary pioneers for the year and any improvement in meeting attendance could be encouraging. Brothers should seriously consider areas in need of improvement. May want to include these as goals for 1984 service year. Conclude part with positive suggestions regarding weekend service arrangements. Fourth Saturday of month coming up and magazine work is featured. Encourage use of magazines in house-to-house and street witnessing as well as in informal witnessing. Also work will continue with Live Forever book this weekend. Be alert to start studies with interested persons. Any who have not been out in service yet this month, be sure to make necessary arrangements now. Help is available for those needing personal assistance.

Song 85 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING SEPTEMBER 25 Song 40

8 min: Introduction and local announcements. Arrangements for weekend field service on first Sunday of month. If some publishers have enrolled as auxiliary pioneers (Continued on page 7, col. I)

Our Kingdom Ministry (USPS 295-360) Is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society ot New York, Inc., 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. Second-class postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y., and pending at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Watchtower, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. Printed in U.S.A.

A New Program for Kingdom Hall Construction

Jehovah certainly is fulfilling his promise to teach his household and direct them in his ways. (Isa. 54:13) From earliest times he has made definite arrangements for united worship that includes'the giving of vital instruction. (Deut. 31:12, 13; Neh. 8:1-8; Ps. 122:1) This has resulted in great benefit to his faithful people. By adhering strictly to his counsel, they have been able to remain separate from the world and in close association with fellow worshipers. (Ex. 34:11-16; 2 Cor. 6:14-18) Especially in these last days we are admonished to assemble regularly, in order that we may not only be instructed by Jehovah but also share encouragement and incite one another to love and fine works.—Rom. 1:11, 12; Heb. 10:23-25.

From the first century on down to this present day Christians have assembled for worship both in private homes and in public places. (Acts 2:42, 46; 12:12) But particularly since 1935, when it was announced that a new meeting place under construction in Hawaii would be called Kingdom Hall, congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses everywhere have endeavored to have their own distinctive place of worship and have identified it by this name. As a result, Kingdom Halls are now seen throughout the land, and each year more are being constructed or otherwise acquired as regular congregational meeting places.

To Jehovah’s Witnesses the Kingdom Hall is the most important building in any community. It may of itself be attractive in design and construction, but even if comparatively modest in external appearance, it is greatly appreciated as a center of true worship and the hub of theocratic activity in the community. It gives evidence that the Kingdom good news is being preached locally. It is a place that provides genuine spiritual refreshment and instruction for all those who are conscious of their spiritual need.—Matt. 5:3.

RAPID EXPANSION INCREASES DEMAND FOR KINGDOM HALLS

Reports from the field show that Jehovah continues to ‘speed up’ the ingathering work as the end of this present system of things rushes in upon us. It has truly occurred just as he said through the prophet Isaiah that “the little one himself will become a thousand, and the small one a mighty nation.” (Isa. 60:22) For example, in the United States and Canada there has been an increase in the peak number of publishers in the last three years of more than 84,000. This outstanding increase has required the formation of hundreds of new congregations, and this means that hundreds of new Kingdom Halls are needed. But it has not been possible for the local congregations to keep pace with the growth in terms of Kingdom Hall construction. This need is being felt more keenly as time goes on and the ingathering work continues apace.

This information was brought to our attention on Friday afternoon at the recent “Kingdom Unity” District Convention in the discourse “How Jehovah Has Kept Us United.” The speaker briefly reviewed a number of well-known events in the modern history of the Christian congregation and pointed to the striking fulfillment of Micah 2:12, where it is written: “In unity I shall set them, like a flock in the pen, like a drove in the midst of its pasture; they will be noisy with men.” In that setting the speaker, representing the Governing Body, announced a new arrangement to speed up the construction of Kingdom Halls or otherwise acquire additional ones, throughout the United States and Canada, as well as to provide assistance to congregations needing to enlarge or improve their present Kingdom Halls.

The announcement, although stated briefly in the convention talk, was received by the conventioners with great enthusiasm. Here are some of the details that will enable all the brothers everywhere to understand more fully just how the new arrangement will operate and how each one may have a share in this expression of “Kingdom Unity” in the days ahead.

THE NEED

The convention talk made reference to what is stated in Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry on page 61, namely: “The Kingdom Hall, as a place of worship, should not be a pretentious building designed to impress others. While its architecture may vary from place to place, its purpose is functional. (Compare Acts 17:24.) It should be a comfortable and convenient place for conducting Christian meetings that help us to grow spiritually and to learn about Jehovah, and that encourage us to share in his Kingdom service.” As a center of Bible education in the community, the Kingdom Hall also serves directly in getting the good news preached in our congregation territory.

OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY. SEPTEMBER 1983

A survey of seven large cities in the United States reveals that Kingdom Halls in those cities average three congregations each. Some Kingdom Halls are presently accommodating four or even five congregations. This situation has hampered further expansion of the Kingdom work in those areas in a number of ways.

When congregations become too large to be accommodated comfortably in the Kingdom Hall, some persons, especially new ones, become discouraged and do not attend meetings regularly. It becomes more difficult for the elders and ministerial servants to care for the needs of the brothers and sisters by rendering necessary personal assistance. When the Kingdom Hall is already being used by three or more congregations, the elders hesitate to recommend the formation of a new congregation because there will be nowhere for the new congregation to meet.

When more than two congregations use a Kingdom Hall, it becomes difficult for them to make convenient arrangements for special occasions such as the visit of the circuit overseer or the annual observance of the Memorial of Christ’s death; there may be obstacles in making adequate field service arrangements for each congregation involved. In these circumstances, when the same Kingdom Hall is used daily, certain problems are sometimes encountered with regard to maintenance or repairs. At times, excessive use of Kingdom Halls has led to difficulties with neighbors due to traffic congestion or similar problems that stem from overcrowding. The need to travel considerable distances makes attending meetings less convenient, and this hampers growth.

THE PROBLEM IS PRIMARILY ECONOMIC

But why is it that Kingdom Hall construction has not kept pace with the increases in Kingdom publishers and with the formation of new congregations? Basically the problem is economic. Whereas it is true that some expansion into outlying areas has been difficult or impossible because the brothers have not been able to build or otherwise provide appropriate Kingdom Halls in those areas, the problem the organization faces today primarily is found in the urban areas where property values have skyrocketed to such an extent that individual congregations, including large ones, have been unable to purchase even a site for the construction of a Kingdom Hall. In addition, exorbitant real estate prices have placed existing buildings suitable for conversion into Kingdom Halls out of the reach of the brothers.

The announcement made at the “Kingdom Unity” District Convention proposed a way of overcoming these many obstacles, for the benefit and blessing of all the brothers. Very nicely this proposed arrangement also gives all the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses everywhere another way to demonstrate that “Kingdom Unity” is a reality among us.

WHAT CAN BE DONE

As you may know, down through the years the Society has encouraged Kingdom Hall construction and has arranged for assistance to be given congregations by making loans from available funds. However, in recent times the need for new branch construction and printing equipment worldwide has made it necessary for Kingdom Hall loans to be curtailed. But this does not mean the Society is less interested in seeing all congregations meeting unitedly and conveniently in their own Kingdom Hall. We have been well aware of the need to speed things up. For this very reason much thought has been given to the present needs of the congregations, and this consideration of matters has resulted in the establishing of a new arrangement for giving the needed assistance by a means that appears to be equitable for all without putting an undue burden on any of the brothers. Indeed, the basic Bible principle that is put to work in setting forth this arrangement is what was stated by the apostle Paul at 2 Corinthians 8:14, 15. He was concerned with the material needs of the brothers in Palestine and made appropriate suggestions for the congregations of Asia Minor to give assistance.

The apostle referred to Jehovah’s loving arrangement to care for the needs of the Israelites during their wilderness journey of forty years, saying: “By means of an equalizing your surplus just now might offset their deficiency, in order that their surplus might also come to offset your deficiency, that an equalizing might take place. Just as it is written: ‘The person with much did not have too much, and the person with little did not have too little.’” (Compare Exodus 16:18.) But just how will this present need for new Kingdom Halls be handled?

SOCIETY KINGDOM HALL FUND —HOW IT WILL WORK

In announcing the new program, the convention speaker said: “It behooves us ’to act with practical wisdom. Much prayerful and careful thought has been given as to how we might build more Kingdom Halls. To accomplish this in the interest of the united worship of Jehovah, the Society is inaugurating a new program beginning with the new service year. The purpose of this program will be to accumulate funds for Kingdom Hall construction or enlargement of existing halls. We believe it will be possible to accomplish much toward that end by establishing a Kingdom Hall fund at the Society’s headquarters in the United States and at the branch office in Canada.”

The arrangement is to start functioning on September 1, 1983. Congregations in the United States and Canada will set up a special contribution box marked “Society Kingdom Hall Fund.” Two pressure-sensitive labels inscribed with the words “CONTRIBUTIONS FOR SOCIETY KINGDOM HALL FUND” are being sent to each congregation for identifying the boxes used for this special fund. This arrangement will allow everyone in the congregation who wishes to do so to put in a voluntary contribution from time to time. Such contributions will be sent to the Society’s office at the end of each month and will be used exclusively to aid congregations needing funds for Kingdom Hall construction. All contributions will be acknowledged by the Society as having been received and will be credited to the Society Kingdom Hall Fund.—Compare 2 Kings 12:9-16.

Of course, those congregations that are now paying for their own Kingdom Hall and have a contribution box for the construction fund may continue to use that box. If they also desire to help other congregations, they may set up a contribution box for the Society Kingdom Hall Fund.

It will take a period of time for the Society Kingdom Hall Fund to accumulate sufficient money for a number of congregations to start borrowing from it. Therefore, those desiring to take advantage of this new arrangement should not write to the Society about their needs at this time. Please wait until notice is given to the congregations that sufficient funds have been accumulated for initiating that aspect of the arrangement. At that time congregations in need of funds for building Kingdom Halls, purchasing buildings for remodeling or remodeling and enlarging their existing Kingdom Hall may request loans from the Society Kingdom Hall Fund. Such loans will be repaid by the congregation or congregations using the Kingdom Hall. We will continue to have the congregations pay interest on the funds loaned so as to cover expenses involved in handling these matters and also to augment this fund.

CONGREGATIONS WHO HAVE DEBT-FREE KINGDOM HALLS

Some congregations already own their Kingdom Hall, and it may be practically free from debt. Under this new arrangement, such congregations may wish to contribute to the Society Kingdom Hall Fund to help other congregations get suitable halls. They may decide to set aside the Same amount of money as when they were paying off their loan and thus be able to make a monthly contribution to the Society Kingdom Hall Fund. If such an arrangement appears to be reasonable, the elders could present the matter to the congregation in the form of a resolution and let the congregation express their desire to help in this way.

SPECIAL REMITTANCE FORM TO BE USED

When the monthly remittances are made to the Society for the Society Kingdom Hall Fund, secretaries will use the special Remittance form to be provided by the Society. A supply of these forms along with an explanatory letter will be sent to congregation secretaries sometime during this month of September. When making remittances for the Society Kingdom Hall Fund, it will be necessary to make out a separate check made payable to: Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pa. As mentioned above, all contributions made to the Society Kingdom Hall Fund will be specifically acknowledged as such.

SOCIETY TO MAKE SURVEY OF LOCAL NEEDS

Earlier in this insert we called attention to the obvious overall need for speeding up Kingdom Hall construction in the United States and Canada. We have also set forth why it will take a united effort on the part of all the congregations in order to meet the present challenge and make sure that future growth is not hampered because of the lack of adequate meeting places for congregations everywhere. But before making any loans from the Society Kingdom Hall Fund, and while waiting for this special fund to be built up, the Society will be making a detailed survey of specific needs throughout this country and Canada. The Society will arrange for qualified brothers to conduct the survey in circuits and cities, and in this way it will be determined what specific needs are most urgent and where help from the Society Kingdom Hall Fund should first be directed. The survey will also determine in various localities what assistance is available in the way of skilled workers, organization and equipment for doing building or remodeling work, and so forth. With all this information on hand, it may be possible to assist congregations needing such information, and thus the Society Kingdom Hall Fund can be used efficiently in order to accomplish the most good in the shortest possible time. With the full cooperation of local elders, the survey will be completed within a short period of time.

RECENT EXPRESSIONS OF UNITED EFFORT

During the past few years, more than 150 Kingdom Halls have been constructed in the United States and Canada by large groups of brothers who assemble materials and workers in such a way as to complete the Kingdom Hall construction in two days, or on just one weekend. Groups of brothers have been organized across the country to give the needed direction for these projects. A fine witness to Kingdom unity as a reality has been given in each case. This arrangement is being taken into consideration in connection with this present special effort of the Society. A measure of direction regarding such projects may be passed on for the benefit of congregations that need additional help and that can avail themselves of the arrangement for constructing a Kingdom Hall on a weekend. More information on this point will be provided later.

ASSEMBLY HALL CONSTRUCTION

The modern growth of the organization has also made it practical and advisable to construct larger facilities throughout the country for accommodating circuit assemblies. These facilities are designated Jehovah’s Witnesses Assembly Halls. Such projects are undertaken only with the approval of the Society. More of these facilities are needed in certain areas. Eventually the Society Kingdom Hall Fund may be used also for this purpose, but no inquiries should be made on this aspect of the program at this time. We want to concentrate first on the need for building more Kingdom Halls for which there is a more urgent need.

DEMONSTRATIONS OF KINGDOM UNITY TO CONTINUE

By means of the “Kingdom Unity” District Convention program, we were made more fully aware of Jehovah’s rich blessings upon his united people today. Truly we have become, as expressed through Micah, “like a flock in the pen, like a drove in the midst of its pasture.” Jehovah has surely ‘set us in unity,’ and the rejoicing we now experience within the flock is aptly described by the words, “they will be noisy with men.”—Mic. 2:12.

The brothers everywhere are to be commended for having taken the initiative in Kingdom Hall construction over these many years. United effort on local and regional levels has resulted in the building of thousands of Kingdom Halls throughout the United States and Canada. A number of Assembly Halls have also been built in recent years. In their respective communities these buildings have not only served the direct needs of the congregations and circuits in a marvelous way but have also stood out as a witness to all those seeing them that Jehovah’s name people are active in the area. Additionally, while sustaining the costs involved in constructing and maintaining all these local projects, the brothers have continued to make generous contributions to the worldwide expansion of the Kingdom work.

In view of the enthusiastic response that greeted the initial announcement made at the “Kingdom Unity” District Convention concerning the Society Kingdom Hall Fund, we are confident that there will be a corresponding ready response from all the brothers as they receive these additional details. As further aspects of the arrangement are worked out and after more specific information • is received by the Society through the survey of needs that will be made, still more details and clarifications will be provided.

But even now this Society Kingdom Hall Fund arrangement provides us with another opportunity to demonstrate in a most practical way that we are truly a united people, worshiping Jehovah as one organization in Kingdom unity. In thinking beyond our immediate congregational needs, we should consider the needs of our brothers in other parts of the United States who have a particular need for financial assistance in building Kingdom Halls. This will serve the additional good purpose of drawing us closer together in Kingdom unity as we more realistically look at the needs of “the entire association of [our] brothers in the world,” in terms of what we individually and as congregations can do to fill the obvious need. —1 Pet. 5:9.

CONCLUSION

May this entire arrangement become to each of us a matter of continued, urgent and heartfelt prayer. And may all of us seek ways to act in harmony with our prayers in order that this present need for more Kingdom Halls may be filled. As Jehovah continues to open the way for more of the “other sheep” to be gathered into the one flock of his united worshipers, may he also see to it that we have adequate facilities for helping all these new ones to become firmly established in the truth and grow to spiritual maturity. May the sound of our crying out joyfully and in unison continue to be heard and increase day by day until it reaches its anticipated crescendo with the bringing in of the very last one of those to whom Jehovah will extend his protection during the great tribulation. Truly our happiness does abound now and will continue to increase in the future with Jehovah’s rich blessing on our united worship of him as the only true God.

Meetings . . . Disciples (Cant’d) for October, give commendation and remind others that they still have opportunity to enroll also. Announce any arrangements being made to assist those serving as pioneers during October.

20 min: Elder gives well-prepared talk on chapter 5 of Our Ministry book from page 28 to subheading on page 41. Highlight Scriptural requirements for those who are appointed to serve as overseers in the congregation.

17 min: “Presenting the Good News—With Subscriptions.” Questions and answers and demonstrations. Assign capable brother to re'ad selected paragraphs. Present one or two well-prepared brief demonstrations using Topic for Conversation “Can You Live Forever in Paradise?” Demonstrate how to tie in magazine article with Topic and then present subscription. Allow time for audience to comment on demonstrations.

Song 42 and concluding prayer.

New Book               (Cont’d)

on the scriptures and to discern how these can help them to make sound decisions. Since youths are more prone to make the truth their own when someone studies with them personally, logically you parents with teenage children are the ones to do that.—Compare Genesis 18:19.

⁵ United in Worship of the Only True God is the book that is now recommended for study with newly interested persons after they have completed either the Truth book or You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. If you are conducting a study with someone who is ready to go into a second book, and if you have a copy of the new book, do not hesitate to start using it right away.

* May we all use this new instrument well (1) to contribute to the spiritual advancement of ourselves and our own families and (2) to help others who have already studied basic Bible truths to press on to maturity.

JUNE SERVICE REPORT

	Pubs.	Av. Hrs.	Av. Mags.	Av. R.V.	Av. Bi.St.
Sp’l Pios.	332	123.7	85.3	50.5	5.8
Pios.	23,644	78.0	46.3	29.4	3.5
Aux. Pios.	21,490	58.9	34.9	17.0	1.6
Pubs.	549,894	8.9	7.0	3.5	0.5
TOTAL	595,360

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 4,590

• ¹ As ministers of the good news, we have been entrusted with the responsibility of making disciples. (Matt. 28:19, 20) In the United States alone, over 150,000 new disciples have been baptized during just the last five years. This gives evidence of Jehoyah’s blessing upon our efforts in the ministry. But have all these new disciples been adequately trained to teach others? Indeed, have we all been careful to maintain a high level of teaching ability in our disciple-making work? Are we making disciples who are firmly established in the truth, and have they been trained in the art of teaching so they can help others?

• ² We now have two excellent new teaching aids, You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, for new ones, and United in Worship of the Only True God, for more advanced students. The effective use of these teaching aids will undoubtedly help more to become disciples of Christ. This emphasizes the need for us to give more attention to the various teaching qualities that will help us and those we teach to become complete in every respect as Christian disciples.—1 Tim. 4:16; 2 Tim. 3: 16, 17.

JESUS WAS A TEACHER

• ³ The Great Teacher, Jesus Christ, set the model for us to follow in teaching others. He imitated his Father Jehovah God. (John 5:19; 6:45; 8:28) He showed

Looking Ahead           (Cont’d)

ule will help you contribute more to the meetings. Why not set these as goals for 1984? Reaching them will be spiritually rewarding.—Ps. 1:2.

⁵ Attending the Congregation Book Study is another very important part of our worship. We are now studying the Live Forever book. Being regular at this meeting will indeed add to our enthusiasm as we continue offering the book in the field during September. Starting studies in it should be another goal for each of us.

FAMILY GOALS

• Family unity is precious in Jehovah’s eyes. It is strengthened when families get involved in theocratic activities and work together toward common goals. When was the last time you went from door to door with your mate? Can you set aside a month in which the entire family could auxiliary pioneer or spend more time in field service? Do you set aside some time great personal interest in those he taught. He loved his disciples and made personal sacrifices for their benefit. (Mark 6:31-34) His teaching was authoritative, based solidly on the inspired Word of God. (Matt. 7:28, 29) He demonstrated patience and was always kind, even when he was firm in dealing with those he taught. He was perfect in the art of teaching. He taught by example’, practicing what he encouraged others to practice. And he used appropriate illustrations. (Matt. 13:34) He stimulated thinking ability through the skillful use of questions. (Matt. 17:24-26) He used repetition for emphasis and to make sure that his point would be well established in the minds of his hearers. (John 21:15-17) He taught, not just to convey knowledge but to sharpen understanding as well—helping his disciples to develop faith and a close relationship with Jehovah. He built up in his disciples the qualities they would need for them to be productive ministers and to remain steadfast in the faith.—Acts 1:8.

• ⁴ Whether we are among the thousands of new ones who have recently become Christian disciples or have many years of experience, we should all strive to imitate closely the example of Jesus, the Great Teacher. Articles in future issues of Our Kingdom Ministry will help ■ us to improve our teaching ability.

every month to preach together as a family? Those who do, experience great joy as they become more closely united in praising Jehovah.

• ⁷ Did you have a regular family study during 1983? Do all cooperate with the arrangement? Are all members of the family regular each week in the field service? Some may need to establish these as their goals for 1984.

• ⁸ Family unity can be strengthened by other goals too. Circuit assemblies provide a fine opportunity for family members to work together in volunteer service. There is also much to do in the upkeep of the Kingdom Hall. Elders will gladly suggest ways you can help.

• ⁸ We can be sure that Jehovah is happy when we work to achieve spiritual goals. Perhaps you would like to select, for a start, two or three of the above-mentioned goals. Then, as these are attained, move on to others. Make it your determination to continue advancing even more during the 1984 service year.

  PRESENTING THE GOOD NEWS

  
  

With Subscriptions

• ¹ “‘Look! There are days coming,’ is the utterance of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah, ‘and I will send a famine into the land, . . . for hearing the words of Jehovah.’” (Amos 8:11) We can truly say that these words have found fulfillment today. There are people everywhere hungering for the truth. They need to hear the Word of God.

• ² Jehovah’s people can supply this need. For over a hundred years we have been using The Watchtower to help satisfy such spiritual hunger. For the last 64 years Awake.' also has been helping sincere persons to come to an accurate knowledge of the truth.

• ³ No doubt you have enjoyed and benefited from the many fine articles that have been appearing in these magazines over the years. Why not help others benefit too? How can we do so?

BY OFFERING SUBSCRIPTIONS

• ⁴ There have been some very fine experiences in obtaining subscriptions. For example, in the April issue of Our Kingdom. Ministry we were told of one brother in Macao who obtained 82 new subscriptions in November and 200 in December. Although we may not have that much success, a positive attitude will certainly assist toward obtaining subscriptions.

• ⁶ This positive attitude is very important. After applying the suggestions made in the April Our Kingdom Ministry insert, a circuit overseer wrote: “I want to say this has had a telling effect on all of us. I especially have noticed the difference in the past two weeks or so. Because of being positive toward obtaining subscriptions it is common for a car group to return from service, having taken at least four or five subscriptions."

’ Another publisher wrote: “I really want to thank you for the special insert in the April Kingdom Ministry. My attitude about offering subscriptions has taken a 180° turn for the better. My qualms have disappeared about the price when I reflect that the average subscription in the U.S. costs $18.00 a year. The insert is chock-full of stimulating ideas.” It would be good for all to review the April 1983 insert before each subscription campaign begins.

• ⁷ A delightful spiritual meal has been prepared for us by “the faithful and discreet slave” class! The four issues of The Watchtower for October and November will open with feature articles on “Paradise” that should be very attractive for presenting to the public. The October 8 Awake.' develops the subject “Moral Bankruptcy—Where Is It Leading?” And the cover subject of the October 15 Watchtower is “You Were Meant to Live in Paradise.”

’When offering Awake! subscriptions during the month of October, it may be that after introducing yourself you could say: “Many feel that there is a general moral breakdown within the family and on all levels of business and government. Do you feel this is so? [Allow comment.] News reports seem to indicate this. But wicked men will not always maintain control. Note, please, what the Bible says at Psalm 37:29. [Read and comment.] The morally bankrupt condition we see on the earth must be leading to something bad. This issue of Awake! examines this alarming trend, in the article ‘Moral Bankruptcy—Where Is It Leading?’ [Discuss points from article.] We are offering this magazine on a subscription basis. You can receive 24 issues for $3.50." (Or you may want to offer a subscription for both magazines for $7.00.)

• ⁹ It may be that you would like to offer The Watchtower initially. After introducing yourself, you could say: “With conditions in many parts of the world worsening day by day, many sincere people are asking if things will ever get better. What do you think? [Allow for a reply.] At Revelation 21:4 the Bible has comforting words about the changes God will bring. (Read and comment.] The October 1 issue of The Watchtower has articles showing that millions now alive will never die but can look forward to living forever in a Paradise on earth. I am sure you will find them encouraging. If you would like, this magazine can be sent to your home twice a month for an entire year for just $3.50.”

• ¹⁰ With the spiritual famine getting worse, we are happily experiencing the fulfillment of Isaiah 65: 13: “Look! My own servants will eat.” We are eating well! With such an abundance of spiritual food, why not share it with others? Be positive in offering subscriptions! •

Announcemen ts

• Literature offer for September: You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, for contribution of $2.50. October and November: Subscription for The Watchtower or Awake! or both. Offer single one-year subscription for $3.50 or the two for $7.00. Six-month subscriptions are $2.00. December: New World Translation and any older 192-page book for contribution of $3.75 or New World Translation with the brochure Enjoy Life on Earth Forever! for $3.25. Continue offering the brochure whenever appropriate on contribution of 25c.

• After September 1 congregations may order additional copies Of the United in Worship book. Remember, this publication will not be used at present as a house-to-house campaign offer. It is for use at home Bible studies, at the Congregation Book Study and for personal study. It may also be offered to people who have read the Truth or Live Forever books. As a start, we suggest you order about one book for e$ch Bible study being conducted in the congregation as well as one for each publisher who may need a personal copy. When additional supplies are needed, these may be ordered.

• There will not be special public talks in January and February based on the United in Worship book. Plan to use talks from the regular series during that time.

• The presiding overseer or someone assigned by him should audit the congregation accounts on September 1 or as soon as possible thereafter.

• We are pleased to announce that a new Cost List has been prepared. Four copies are being sent to each congregation. The secretary should keep one copy; the other three should be given to the brothers caring for the literature, magazines and accounts.

• • Important cost changes effective September 1, 1983:

Kingdom News

Nos. 30, 31, 32           50c per 50 or

1,000 for $10.00 Handbills (Order in

lots of 1,000.)           $3.00 per 1,000

• • Neu’ Publications Available:

Happiness—How to Find It —Greek My Book of Bible Stories      —Efik,

Hausa, Igbo, Palauan, Sango Organized to Accomplish Our Ministry                  —Greek, Italian.

United in Worship of the Only True God      —English, French, Greek,

Italian, Spanish

Good News for All Nations —English, French, Greek, Italian, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish

School and Jehovah’s Witnesses

—English, French, Greek, Spanish Kingdom News No. 32 —English, French, Greek, Italian, Spanish

• • Available Again in U.S.A.:

“Your Will Be Done on Earth”

— Spanish

• • New Cassette Recordings Available: Kingdom Melodies No. 4 (single cassette)

Schedule for congregation studies in the book You Can Live For- * ever in Paradise on Earth:

September 4: Pages 120 to 126

September 11: Pages 127 to 133

September 18: Pages 134 to 141

September 25: Pages 142 to 147