Our Kingdom Ministry

December 2001                    For United States of America km-E Us 12/01 Vol. 44, No. 12

• ¹ When witnessing to an official, “Philip opened his mouth and, starting with [a certain] Scripture, he declared to him the good news about Jesus.” (Acts 8:35) Philip was “handling the word of the truth aright.” (2 Tim. 2:15) Today, however, traveling overseers have observed that many publishers rarely use the Bible when witnessing. Do you use the Bible in your ministry?

• ² God’s Word is the source of everything we believe and teach. (2 Tim. 3:16,17) It is what draws people to Jehovah and educates them for life. That is why it is important that we use the Bi-x—hie in our ministry rather than erely converse about topics chat interest us. (Heb. 4:12) Because most people know little about the Bible, we need to read from it to show them the practical guidance that it offers and the future that it holds out for mankind.

• ³ Read Directly From the Bible: You might try going to the door without a book bag. You could put the featured literature that you wish to offer in a slim portfolio and carry the Bible in your hand or pocket. Then, when you engage someone in conversation, you can bring out the Bible without causing the person to feel that you are trying to preach a sermon. Position yourself in such a way that your listener can follow along in your Bible. Perhaps ask him to read a verse aloud. A deeper impression is made when he can see what the Bible says rather than just hear it from you. Of course, to help him understand the point of the text, stress the thoughtconveying words.

• ⁴ A One-Scripture Presentation: After introducing yourself, you might say: “People look to various sources for direction in their lives. What do you feel is the best source of practical guidance? [Allow for response.] What do you think about this statement? [Read Proverbs 2: 6,7, and allow for response.] Human wisdom has proved woefully deficient, leading many people to despair. God’s wisdom, though, has always proved reliable and beneficial.” Then show the publication you are presenting, and highlight from it one example of God’s practical wisdom.

• ⁵ Jesus used the Scriptures to aid honesthearted ones. (Luke 24:32) Paul proved Scriptural-ly the things he taught. (Acts 17:2, 3) Our confidence and joy in the ministry will increase as we become ever more skillful in handling God’s Word aright.

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• ¹ The ability to speak is taken for granted by most people. However, speech is a gift from Jehovah. It allows us to communicate with others and to express our thoughts and feelings. Foremost, with it we can praise our God.—Ps. 22:22; 1 Cor. 1:4-7.

• ² Men, women, and children are trained in the Theocratic Ministry School to declare Jehovah’s name. (Ps. 148:12, 13) The school program for 2002 covers a wide range of Bible subjects that we can personally benefit from and use in the ministry. By preparing for the school and participating in it, we can increase our knowledge and our skills as teachers of God’s Word.—Ps. 45:1.

• ³ Read the Bible Daily: If we usually have a Bible close at hand, we can take advantage of any free time that we have to read it. Most of us have a few spare minutes during the day that we could use in this way. How beneficial it is to read at least one page every day, which is all that it takes to keep up with the Bible-reading program outlined in the school schedule! —Ps. 1:1-3.

• ⁴ The ability to read the Bible well can help us to reach the heart of our listeners and motivate them to praise Jehovah. The brothers who handle Assignment No. 2 in the school should practice, practice, practice reading the assignment aloud. The school overseer will offer commendation and suggestions to improve the reading.

• ⁵ Ose the Reasoning Book: Assignments No. 3 and No. 4 are based on the Reasoning book. Most of us could probably be more conscious of using this practical aid in the field ministry. The sisters should choose settings that are practical for the territory. The school overseer should pay particular attention to how they teach and make use of the Scriptures.

• ⁶ May the Theocratic Ministry School help all of us to continue using our God-given gift of speech to declare the good news and to praise our great God, Jehovah!—Ps. 34:1; Eph. 6:19.

  Service meeting Schedule

  
  

Week Starting December 10

Song 205

13 min: Local announcements. Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. Encourage everyone to view the video To the Ends of the Earth in preparation for the discussion at the Service Meeting the week of December 24. Using suggestions on page 8, demonstrate how to present (1) the December 15 Watchtower and (2) the December 22 Awake!

12 min: Local needs.

20 min: “Blessings From Showing Appreciation for Jehovah’s Love —Part 2.”¹ When discussing paragraphs 2-6, invite the congregation to relate experiences they have had in offering words of comfort and hope to those depressed or worried because of the recent disaster and its aftermath. Arrange in advance to reenact one or two of them.

Song 222 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting December 17

Song 211

10 min: Local announcements. Accounts report. Outline special field service arrangements for December 25 and January 1.

22 min: “Handle God’s Word Aright.”¹ Include a realistic demonstration of the presentation in paragraph 4. Also, demonstrate an effective presentation that has been used locally to encourage or console people who are distressed over current world conditions. A brief experience may be related. Ask the audience to comment on why they feel that using the Bible will make the witness that is given much more effective.

13 min: ‘You Have Your Own Bible.’ Audience discussion based on Reasoning book, pages 279-80. If people are reluctant to listen because we use the New World Translation, what can we say? Arrange in advance for publishers to relate in their own words the suggested replies.

Song 225 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting December 24

Song 218

10 min: Local announcements. Explain what the literature offer is for January and what books the congregation has in stock. Using suggestions on page 8, demonstrate two brief magazine presentations, one using the January 1 Watchtower and the other using the January 8 Awake! Have a youth give one of them.

10 min: “The Theocratic Ministry School for 2002.” Talk by the school overseer. Encourage all to be diligent in fulfilling their assignments.

25 min: “Witnessing—To the Ends of the Earth” Audience discussion. Encourage all to think seriously about what more they can do to reach out to others with the good news, locally or where there is a greater need. Refer to the July 2001 Our Kingdom Ministry, page 4. In February we will review the video Noah—He Walked With God.

Song 24 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting December 31

Mot©: Congregations are not to move their Service Meeting for the week of December 31 to an earlier night unless the circuit overseer is visiting. In every congregation, the convention insert should be considered on the Service Meeting as scheduled. If there is a circuit assembly this week, book study conductors should announce the convention location and dates at their regularly scheduled book studies. A copy of the Recommended Lodging List should be made available by the conductor so that those in attendance can copy the hotel telephone numbers for making their reservations. However, copies of this list should not be given to anyone.

Song 140

1O min: Local announcements. Remind publishers to turn in field service reports for December. If your congregation will change meeting times for the new year, kindly urge everyone to attend regularly at the new times. Be sure that all interested ones and any who are inactive know of the changes.

15 min: Give Elders the Consideration They Deserve. Two or three ministerial servants discuss the June 1,1999, Watchtower, pages 18-19. They comment about the many duties that elders must care for, including secular work, family responsibilities, and theocratic assignments. Consider ways in which all can encourage them, lighten their load, and follow their direction. The servants agree that elders are performing a valuable service and are due “more than extraordinary consideration.”—! Thess. 5:12,13.

20 mtn: “2002 ‘Zealous Kingdom Proclaimers’ District Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses.”¹ To be handled by the secretary, with the focus on paragraphs 4-11. During the consideration of paragraph 3, read the December 15, 2001, convention assignment letter. Warmly commend the congregation for making their convention arrangements as soon as possible.

Song 219 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting January 7

Song 20

1O min: Local announcements.

20 min: Make the Best of Your Lif Family members discuss August 1. 1998, Watchtower, pages 8-9. The father wants the family to pursue a course that will bring them joy rather than disappointment. They review Scriptural admonition in the article that shows how to ensure their happiness, focusing on the need for discernment, worthwhile priorities, and trust in Jehovah. They outline practical adjustments they can make as a family.

15 min: A Close Look at Our Kingdom Hall. Talk by an elder. Take note of the condition of the Kingdom Hall. What plans are being made for a spring cleanup prior to the Memorial? What repairs need to be made before that? Explain how the congregation can assist. Stress the need to make sure that our place of worship reflects the beauty and dignity we associate with Jehovah’s house.—Ps. 84:1.

Song 126 and concluding prayer.

© 2001 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Our Kingdom Ministry (ISSN 1067-7259) is published monthly by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc.; M. H. Larson, President; G. F. Simonis, Secretary-Treasurer; 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483. Periodicals Postage Paid at Brooklyn, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Kingdom Ministry. 1000 Red Mills Road, Wallkill, NY 12589-3299.               Printed in U.S.A.

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¹ “I rejoiced when they were saying to me: ‘To the house of Jehovah let us go.’” (Ps. 122:1) In examining the psalmist’s expression, note (1) how he felt when he was invited to join in worshiping Jehovah, (2) the good associates he had, who were also keenly interested in true worship, and (3) the planning that must have been needed to extend the invitation, to gather together, and to make the journey to God’s house.

• ² Do not the psalmist’s words echo our own feelings when we hear that plans are being made for our next convention? We are filled with anticipation as we recall the joys of past conventions and the prospect of again being at a special gathering with fellow lovers of Jehovah. Arrangements have been made for three-day “Zealous Kingdom Proclaim-ers” District Conventions throughout the United '"-'States branch territory m 2002. Now is the time to make our plans to attend and to receive the fullest benefit from the spiritual feast awaiting us.

• ³ “The faithful steward, the discreet one,” has begun preparing the timely spiritual food to be served at the convention. (Luke 12:42) Each congregation has been assigned to a specific convention so that overcrowding at each venue and in the area hotels can be avoided. In addition, many brothers have started to organize the various convention departments so that “all things take place decently and by arrangement.” (1 Cor. 14:40) With so many things already in place for our benefit and convenience, what can we personally do to prepare for the convention?

• ⁴ Plan Wow to Attend A90 Three Days: Do you need to ask your employer for time off to attend all of your assigned convention? Jehovah understands that some employers are “hard to please.” (1 Pet. 2:18) But our conventions are very important, and we want to make a diligent effort to attend the entire program. Approach Jehovah in prayer about such matters, seeking his guidance for a good outcome.—Neh. 2:4.

  [Program Times

  
  

  Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

  
  

⁵ Use the Recommended Lodging List to Make Your Hotel! Arrangements: By the time this information is discussed at the Service Meeting, your congregation will have received the Recommended Lodging List for your convention. Call hotels from this list, and make your reservations using the step-by-step procedure in the box on page 4, “How to Make Your Hotel Reservation.” A maximum of four adults is permitted per room unless indicated otherwise on the list. Accept only the rates shown, as that is what the hotels have agreed to charge our delegates. If a hotel attempts to charge you more than the listed rate or indicates that there are any added charges you must pay (aside from applicable taxes), do not accept the higher rate.

⁶ Some publishers, without consulting the current Recommended Lodging List, may call a hotel and ask if they have rates for our convention. The hotel may assure them that it does have a rate for Jehovah’s Witnesses, even though for good reason the hotel is not on our list. Rather than call a hotel to see if they have special rates, please check the list first. If you plan to attend a convention in a different city, obtain the Recommended Lodging List for that convention. The congregation secretary can provide you with the address of the convention headquarters located on the reverse side of the Special Needs Room Request form. Enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your request. If there is more than one convention held in that city, be sure to indicate the dates of the convention you will attend.

• ⁷ Through your congregation secretary, please inform the Rooming Department of any problems you encounter. (Be sure that you have called all the hotels on the Recommended Lodging List before informing the secretary that there are no rooms available.) The address and telephone number of your convention’s Rooming Department may be found at the top of the first page of your Recommended Lodging List.

  km-E Us 12/01

  
  

  OUR KINGDOM MINISTRY, DECEMBER 2001

  
  

• ⁸ Look Around fthe Congregation: If we are aware that a brother or a sister has a physical or material need that may make it difficult for him or her to attend the convention, can we “widen out” in our love and provide some assistance? (2 Cor. 6:12,13; Deut. 15:7) This is the spirit Paul encouraged at 2 Corinthians 8:14. Why not invite such ones to travel with you to the convention? If they are pioneers, likely they have many good experiences to share along the way. If they are older members of the congregation, they may have a wonderful theocratic history that you have never heard. Would not association with these brothers and sisters be a good influence on you and your family? Your generous spirit will be appreciated by them and rewarded by Jehovah.—Prov. 28:27; Matt. 10:42.

• ⁹ Although those with special needs are primarily cared for by their Christian relatives, the elders and others in the congregation who are aware of such needs can lovingly assist in making arrangements. (1 Tim. 5:4) When Special Needs Room Request forms are submitted to the Congregation Service Committee, the committee should review each applicant’s qualifications before forwarding these forms to the Rooming Department. The congregation secretary should include his telephone number on the form so that the Rooming Department can contact him if there are any questions. Mail the approved forms to the convention address shown on the reverse side of the form.

• ¹⁰ Respond Willingly as a Volunteer: During the convention, hundreds of volunteers assist with the smooth running of the departments. Attendants in the auditorium and the parking lots provide direction for seating and watch over our vehicles during the day. The Cleaning Department has the privilege of upholding our fine reputation for cleanliness, leaving our temporary place of worship cleaner than we found it. Can we assist these or other departments that can use our support? Will you volunteer your help to serve “shoulder to shoulder” with your brothers?—Zeph. 3:9.

• ¹¹ Do People Really Notice What We Do? During a district convention this past year, a man who had stopped studying with Jehovah’s Witnesses over 20 years ago was working in a hotel. He related to some Witnesses that he was now thinking of resuming his Bible study and going back to the meetings. Why? Because of the loving way he was treated during the days the Witnesses were at the hotel.

• ¹² A hotel salesperson said of our brothers: “Your group is the best one that stays at our hotels. Your people are so patient and polite.” How proud this must make our heavenly Father as he sees us following Jesus’ admonition: “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens”!—Matt. 5:16.

• ¹³ May we reflect the attitude of King David, who joyfully anticipated going to Jehovah’s house of worship. Our district conventions are a vital source of spiritual food and an unequaled opportunity for loving fellowship. Therefore, we enthusiastically invite you to begin making your arrangements to attend all sessions of all three days of this year’s “Zealous Kingdom Proclaim-ers” District Convention!

Klow to Make Your Hotel Reservation

• 1. Call hotels as soon as possible during their regular business hours. Use the hotel telephone numbers provided on the Recommended Lodging List.

• 2. Inform the hotel that you are attending the convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

• 3. Provide the dates you will stay in the hotel.

• 4. Be sure that you are receiving the room rate(s) shown on the Recommended Lodging List. Do not accept a higher rate.

• 5. If rooms are not available, call another hotel on the list.

• 6. Make your reservation, and ask for a confirmation number.

• 7. Make your deposit by credit card, check, or money order. Do NOT send cash. If deposit is made by check or money order, be sure to write the confirmation number on the front. Mail within ten days.

• 8. If you encounter any problems, speak with your congregation secretary.

Rease:

□ Stay only in hotels on the Recommended Lodging List.

■ Reserve only rooms that you will actually use.

□ Keep your first reservation.

THEOCRATIC MINISTRY SCHOOL REVIEW

Closed-book review on material covered in Theocratic Ministry School assignments for the weeks of September 3 to December 24, 2001. Use a separate sheet of paper to write down answers to as many of the questions as you can in the time allotted.

[Note: During the written review, only the Bible may be used to answer any question. References that follow the questions are for your personal research. Page and paragraph numbers may not appear on all references to The Watchtower.]

Answer each of the following statements True or False:

• 1. Since faith is a fruit of God’s spirit, people without faith are not seeking that spirit, or they are doing so for a wrong purpose

Y or are resisting its operation in their lives. (Luke 11:13; Gal. 5:22) [rs p. 129 par. 1]

• 2. Psalm 58:4 correctly indicates that the cobra has ‘ears’ that are not functional be-cause it is naturally deaf. [Weekly Bible reading; see BbiR p. 1583.]

• 3. The “large army” of women mentioned at Psalm 68:11 were foreign female slaves that were released from captivity by the men of Israel when conquering enemy _x nations. [Weekly Bible reading; see w86 10/15 p. 30 par. 6.]

• 4. If each person’s moment and manner of death were already fixed at the time of birth or earlier, there would be no need -r to avoid dangerous situations or to care for one’s health, and safety precautions would not alter mortality rates, [rs p. 138 par. 3]

• 5. Paul’s remark “let no man ever look down on your youth” indicates that Timothy

• ¹ was just a teenager or in his early 20’s. (1 Tim. 4:12) [w99 9/15 p. 29 pars. 1-3; p. 31 par. 2]

• 6. As recorded at Psalm 110:1, “my Lord” re-■p fers to Jesus. [Weekly Bible reading; see w94 6/1 p. 28 par. 5.]

• 7. In the book of Psalms, the name Jehovah appears about 700 times, and the abbre-viated form “Jah,” 43 times, so that all

Y together the divine name is mentioned about 5 times, on the average, in each Psalm, [si p. 104 par. 23]

• 8. Although Jesus is spoken of in the Scrip-_? tures as “a god,” even as “Mighty God,” nowhere is he spoken of as being almighty. (John 1:1; Isa. 9:6; Gen. 17:1) [rs p. 150 par. 2]

• 9. A study of the book of Proverbs is, in ■ fact, a study of Solomon’s own wisdom, [si p. 106 par. 1]

• 10. The Bible’s counsel, found at Proverbs 21: 17, to avoid “loving merriment” indicates that having fun is wrong because it takes time away from more important matters. [Weekly Bible reading; see w9710/1 p. 27 par. 7.]

Answer the following questions:

• 11. What did Jesus’ mild reproof of Martha point out? (Luke 10:40, 41) [w99 9/1 p. 30 par. 7]

• 12. To what “glory” did Jehovah take the psalmist? (Ps. 73:24) [Weekly Bible reading; see w8612/15 p. 28 par. 3.] ’■

• 13. What view of service privileges does the psalmist express as recorded at Psalm 84: 1-3? [Weekly Bible reading; see w97 3/15 p. 8 pars. 5-7.]           c

• 14. How do Revelation 22:17 and Romans 2: 4,5 show that Jehovah does not foreknow or foreordain everything people do? [rs p. 141 pars. 1-2]

• 15. Since early Christians believed in the Millennial Reign of Jesus as mentioned in the book of Revelation, what influences led to an eventual rejection of this divine teaching by apostate Christians? [w9912/1 p. 6 A par. 3-p. 7 par.

• 16. What limits on showing “personal interest” in other people should be observed by Christians? (Phil. 2:4) [w99 12/1 p. 29 par. 1]

• 17. What is suggested by the mention at Psalm 128:3 of sons being “like slips of olive trees” around a man’s table? [Weekly Bible reading; see wOO 8/15 p. 30 par. 4.]

• 18. If we find God’s work to be fear-inspiring, how will it affect us? (Ps. 139:14) [Weekly Bible reading; see w9310/1 p. 15 par. 18.]

• 19. Why does Proverbs 5:3, 4 speak of the af-tereffects of immorality as being “bitter as wormwood” and “as sharp as a two-edged sword”? [Weekly Bible reading; see wOO 7/15 p. 29 par. 2.]

• 20. In harmony with Proverbs 14:29, how can discernment help us to avoid the conse-■/’tp/.quences of impatience and uncontrolled "anger? [Weekly Bible reading; see w97 3/15 p. 13 pars. 7-8.]

Provide the word(s) or phrase needed to complete each of the following statements:

I ■ 'rr r- % f., a,

• 21. True prophets spoke 3 l__and made

known (Deut. 18:18-20; 1 John 4:1-3) [rs p. 132 par. 3; p. 133 par. 2]

• 22. The purpose of the Proverbs is twofold —to₍ impart         and to provide

(Prov. l:f-4) [w99 9/15 p. 13 par. 1]

• 23. “The secret place of the Most High” is a place of          for those who take

God’s side of the issue of _it _x Is,“secret,” or unknown, to people who (Ps. 91:1) [Weekly Bible read-' ing; see w8612/15 p. 29 par. 6.]

• 24. ‘Not forgetting all Jehovah’s doings’ is evidently linked to v • e ■ < on “his doings,” his acts of loving-kindness as described in the 103rd Psalm. (Psalm 103:2) [Weekly Bible reading; see w99 5/15 p. 21 pars. 5-6.]

• 25. A proverb is a pithy saying that employs a .■__and is. designed to :__*__[si

107 par. 6]           W

Select the correct answer in each of the following statements:

• 26. Although he had reason to be angry over the treatment he experienced from Saul, David restrained himself because (he realized that Saul was imperfect and that God’s servants must be forgiving; he had clearly in mind his relationship with Jehovah; he knew that it was wrong to be judgmental). (1 Sam. 24:6, 15) [w99 8/15 p. 8 par. 7]

• 27. (Wisdom; Discipline; Righteousness) is a bTemT'of many factors, including understanding, insight/ shrewdness, and thinking, ability; (goodness; .underslaxid-ing; good judgment) is the ability to see into a matter and discern its composition by grasping the connections between its parts and the whole, thus getting the sense of it. (Prov. 1:1-4) [w99 9/15 p. 13 par. 2]

• 28. Joseph’s strength to resist the immoral advances of Potiphar’s wife came from (his knowledge of the Law of Moses, which condemned fornication; a healthy fear of the weighty position of her husband; valuing his relationship with Jehovah). (Gen. 39:7-9) [w9910/1 p. 29 par. 3]

• 29. The writer of Psalm 119 obviously had deep appreciation for (the word, or law, of God; the gift of life; the prospect of salvation), which is mentioned in nearly all of the psalm’s verses. [Weekly Bible reading; see w99 11/1 p. 9 par. 5; w87 3/15 p. 24 par. 2.]

• 30. In the first two chapters of Paul’s letter to the (Romans; Galatians; Hebrews), we find a number of quotations "fronTthe Psalms respecting the .(superior position) baptism; earthly ministry) of Jesus Christ, [si p. 105 par. 28]

Match the following scriptures to the statements listed below:

Prov. 2:19; U:15; 18:17; Rom. 10:17; Heb. 13:18

• 31. To acquire faith, a person must first find _:^,out what the Bible says and examine it carefully, [rs p.130 par. 3]

• 32. Christians cannot adopt business prac-y tices that are dishonest or that ignore the Wyl legitimate interests of others. [w99 9/15 p. 10 par. 2]

• 33. Those committing sexual immorality may reach the point of no return, namely death, before it is possible to recover. [w99 11/15 p. 27 pars. 4-5]

• 34. A wise and discerning person weighs the consequences of his actions and does not > blindly follow some new trend simply because it is popular. [Weekly Bible reading; see p9412/8 p. 16 par. 1.]

• 35. Even though a person’s argument may sound plausible and right, it is wise to hear both sides of a matter before coming to a conclusion, [si p. Ill par. 36]

Announcements

■ Literature offer for December: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. As an alternative offer, you may use My Book of Bible Stories, The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s?, or You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth. January: Any 192-page book published prior to 1987 that the congregation may have in stock. Congregations that have on hand Mankind’s Search for God may also offer it. February: Life—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation?, Revelation —Its Grand Climax At Hand!, or any older 192-page book that the congregation has in stock. March: Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life. A special effort will be made to start home Bible studies.

■ Since the Gilead graduation will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2002, no tours will be conducted that day at the branch office facilities at Brooklyn, Patterson, and Wallkill, New York. Any who have planned to visit on that Saturday should reschedule their visit to another convenient time. No congregation literature requests will be processed for pickup that day.

□ Congregations should begin requesting bound volumes of The Watchtower and Awake! for 2001 with their December literature request. The bound volumes will be available in Chinese, Croatian, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, and Spanish. Until the bound volumes are available and shipments are made, these will appear as “Pending” on congregation packing lists. Bound volumes are special-request items.

□ Memorial invitations for 2002 in the primary language of each congregation will soon be sent to your congregation. If other languages are spoken in your territory and you would like a supply of invitations in those languages, these should be requested immediately on a Literature Request Form (S-14). Memorial invitations are available in Albanian, Arabic, Armenian, Cambodian, Chinese, Chinese (Simplified), Croatian, Dutch, East Armenian, English, French, Greek, Gujarati, Hindi, Iloko, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Laotian, Macedonian, Marshallese, Papiamento, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Samoan, Serbian, Spanish, Tagalog, Turkish, and Vietnamese. Please request only those languages needed for your territory.

■ Please note that the Memorial for the year 2003 will be on Wednesday, April 16, after sundown. This advance notice is given so that brothers may make necessary reservations or contracts for available halls when there are several congregations using the Kingdom Hall and other facilities must be found. The elders should have an agreement with the management ensuring that there will be no disturbances from other activities in the building so that the Memorial observance can proceed in a peaceful and orderly manner. Because of the importance of the occasion, in assigning a Memorial speaker, the body of elders should select one of the more qualified elders instead of simply taking turns or using the same brother every year. If there is a capable elder of the anointed who can give the talk, he should be selected.

■ New Publications Available:

Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 1

—Finnish Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life             —Georgian, Sango

fjKnowledge That Leads io Everlasting ' Life—Large Print         —English

Sing Praises to Jehovah, (29 songs)

—East Armenian Sing Praises to Jehovah (Large songbook)                  —Sinhala

□ New Videocassettes Available: Young People Ask—How Can I Make Real Friends?     —German, Italian

September Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

Number of:            Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp’IPioS. 129 122.1 115.4 56.3 4.8

Pios 88,765 68.3 49.3 21.4 1.7

AUX. PiOS. 24,748 50.4 38.8 13.1 0.9

Pubs. 846,800   9.9   8.8 3.6 0.3

TOTAL 960,442          Baptized: 1,674

During the month of September, there were 960,442 publishers reporting. This represents a 2.5-percent increase over the same month last year. In addition, congregation publishers averaged 9.9 hours in the ministry during the month. This is an outstanding start to the new service year!

Who would likely watch the video To the Ends of the Earth over and over again? Those who have the goal of becoming missionaries. Why? To familiarize themselves with the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead. The video marked the 50th anniversary of this unique school, which was created to expand the witness work to “all the ends of the earth.” (Ps. 22: 27) Watching it will increase your appreciation for the all-important work of preaching the good news and will stir you to increased activity. Consider: (1) By the early 1940’s, what had become a major concern of Jehovah’s organization? (Acts 1:8) (2) In 1942, what startling Bible prophecy was in course of fulfillment, and how was our focus different from that of the world in general? (Rev. 17:8; W89 4/15 p. 14 par. 12) (3) What plans were made to take advantage of the anticipated period of peace after World War n? (jv p. 522 pars. 1-2) (4) What qualities of the students of the first class of Gilead School do you admire? (5) In Gilead’s first 50 years, how many students graduated, and to how many lands were they sent? (6) How much education in the Bible do the students actually get? (7) What makes a good missionary and teacher of God’s Word? (8) What is life as a missionary like, and what challenges have to be faced? (9) How do missionaries feel about their way of life, and what special joys result from their self-sacrificing course? (10) What have the thousands of missionaries accomplished thus far? Give examples. (11) What impressions do you have of the brothers and sisters who have gone to “the ends of the earth” to preach? (12) What does the example set by missionaries encourage you to do, and why?

• ¹ In last month’s part on this subject, we highlighted four ways that our appreciation for Jehovah’s love can be shown in the ministry. (1 John 4:9-11) Here we will add five more ways to do this. When we share fully in helping others spiritually, we are blessed.             WV

• ² Informal Witnessing: This is an effective way both to find people hungering and thirsting for righteousness and to place helpful literature with them. It is good to ‘buy out the opportune time’ and witness on all occasions and to whomever we meet. (Eph. 5:16) We may have to muster up courage to witness in this way, but if we appreciate God’s love and people’s needs, we will witness at every opportunity.—-2 Tim. 1:7, 8.

• ³ A missionary was richly blessed for striking up a conversation with a fellow passenger in a taxicab. The man showed interest. Return visits were made, and a Bible study was started. That man came into the truth and progressed to the point of becoming a congregation elder!

• ⁴ Writing Letters: Perhaps we are unable to go from house to house because of some physical infirmity or inclement weather. We could write letters, giving a brief witness by mail to individuals we know, those who have lost loved ones in death, or those who were not at home in the territory. We can enclose one of our timely tracts that has an appealing Bible-based message and encourages the recipient to respond if he has any questions. Use your personal return address or that of the Kingdom Hall; please do not use the branch office address.

• ⁵ Telephone Witnessing: This is a fine way to reach people whom we are unable to meet in house-to-house activity. If we do it discreetly, with kindness, tact, and skill, we may get a very good response. The February 2001 Our Kingdom Ministry, pages 5-6, provides practical suggestions on how to get the best results.

• ⁶ When a sister was witnessing by telephone, she asked a woman whether she had given much thought to what the future holds for her and her family. The woman said that she had. She revealed that because of her despair, she had isolated herself at home. Moved by the genuine concern of the sister, the woman agreed to meet her at a nearby market. As a result, the woman readily accepted a Bible study!

• ⁷ Welcoming Strangers: If we love our neighbors, we will be alert to notice any stranger who visits our meeting place and will make him feel welcome. (Rom. 15:7) Let him see that he is among those who are sincerely interested in his spiritual wellbeing. Our genuine concern and our offer of a personal Bible study may motivate him to accept our help.

• ⁸ Our Good Conduct: By our fine conduct, we adorn the truth. (Titus 2:10) When those in the world say good things about us as Jehovah’s Witnesses, they bring honor to our God. (1 Pet. 2:12) This too can help others get started on the way to life.

• ⁹ Why not review these five ways to show our appreciation for Jehovah’s great love for us and put them into action? (1 John 4:16) As you do, you will reap many blessings.

What to Say About the Magazines

-Watchtower o©c. -is Announcing Jehovah'S Kingdom

“At this time of year, most people think about Jesus Christ, whether they believe in him or not. Some say that he was not a real person. What is your view? [After a response, read Matthew 16:15, 16.] I am sure you will enjoy reading this article about ‘The Real Jesus’ to see how he affects you today and will affect you in the future.”

Dec. 22

“Wouldn’t you agree that to make life secure, we would need a safe, reliable food supply? [Allow for response.] Notice what God promised his people back in Bible times. [Read Leviticus 26:4, 5.] Awake! discusses the worries that exist today about our food. It also points to a time when God will give us security earth wide.”

-Watchtower Jan. 1 ANNOUNC INC JEHOVAH’S KINGDOM

“Do you wonder why some people seem to have an easy life while others struggle to make a living? The Bible has something to say about this. [Read Job 34:19.] How God intends to make class distinctions a thing of the past is explained in this magazine.”

AwakeF Jan. 8

“We all know about this world-shaking tragedy. Since then, people have needed comfort and help on a huge scale. This article, among other things, explains what Jehovah’s Witnesses have been doing to help the survivors, the emergency workers, and the bereaved.”

Sept. 9 Bible reading: Ezekiel 33-36

Song No. 49

No. 1: How You Can Draw Close to God (icOO 10/15 pp. 4-7)

No. 2: Ezekiel 33:1-16

No. 3: Do the Miracles Performed by Jesus Prove That He Is God? (rs p. 215 par. 3-p. 216 par. 1)

No. 4: Is Believing in Jesus Christ All That Is Required for Salvation? (rs p. 216 par. 3)

Sept. 16 Bible reading: Ezekiel 37-40

Song No. 34

No. 1: How Do You Measure Success? (wOO 11/1 pp. 18-21)

No. 2: Ezekiel 39:1-16

No. 3: Did Jesus Have a Heavenly Existence Before He Became a Human? (rs p. 216 par. 4-p. 217 par. 1)

No. 4: Does Jesus Have His Fleshly Body in Heaven? (rs p. 217 pars. 2-5)

Sept. 23 Bible reading: Ezekiel 41-45

Song No. 50

No. 1: Serve God With a Willing Spirit (it'0011/15 pp. 21-3)

No. 2: Ezekiel 42:1-20

No. 3: Is Jesus Christ the Same Person as Michael the Archangel? (rs p. 218 pars. 1-3)

No. 4: * ‘You Don’t Believe in Jesus’ (rs p. 219 pars. 1-3)

Sept. 30 Bible reading: Ezekiel 46-48

Song No. 112

No. 1: Ezekiel—Why Beneficial (si p. 137 pars. 29-33)

No. 2: Ezekiel 46:1-15

No. 3: * ‘Do You Accept Jesus as Your Personal Savior?’ (rs p. 219 pars. 4-5)

No. 4: * ‘I Have Accepted Jesus as My Personal Savior’ (rs p. 220 par. 1)

Oct. 7 Bible reading: Daniel 1-4

Song No. 10

No. 1: Introduction to Daniel (si pp. 138-9 pars. 1-6)

No. 2: Daniel 1:1-17

No. 3: Are the Natural Jews Today God’s Chosen People? (rs p. 220 par. 2-p. 221 par. 4)

No. 4: Will All the Jews Be Converted to Faith in Christ? (rs p. 222 pars. 1-2)

Oct. 14 Bible reading: Daniel 5-8

Song No. 191

No. 1: Must You Always Believe What “Wise” Men Say? (wOO 12/1 pp. 29-31)

No. 2: Daniel 5:1-16

No. 3: Must Jews Put Faith in Jesus to Be Saved? (rs p. 222 par. 3-p. 223 par. 1)

No. 4: Are the Events Taking Place in Israel Today in Fulfillment of Bible Prophecy? (rs p. 223 par. 2-p. 224 par. 2)

Oct. 21 Bible reading: Daniel 9-12

Song No. 108

No. 1: Daniel—Why Beneficial (si pp. 141-2 pars. 19-23)

No. 2: Daniel 10:1-21

No. 3: Do the Prophecies About Restoration of Israel Have Fulfillment Today? (rs p. 224 par. 3-p. 225 par. 3)

No. 4: Is God’s Kingdom a Real Government? (rs p. 226 pars. 1-2)

Oct. 28 Bible reading: Hosea 1-14

Song No. 23

No. 1: Introduction to Hosea and Why Beneficial (si pp. 143-5 pars. 1-8,14-17)

No. 2: Hosea 4:1-19

Nb. 3: Who Are the Rulers in the Kingdom? (rs p. 226 pars. 3-5)

No. 4: What Effect Will God’s Kingdom Have on Human Governments? (rs p. 227 pars. 1-2)

Nov. 4 Bible reading: Joel 1-3

Song No. 166

No. 1: Introduction to Joel and Why Beneficial (si pp. 146-8 pars. 1-5,12-14)

No. 2: Joel 1:1-20

No. 3: God’s Kingdom Will Sanctify Jehovah’s Name (rs p. 227 pars. 3-5)

No. 4: God’s Kingdom Will Unity All Creation in Pure Worship (rs p. 228 pars. 1-2)

Nov. 11 Bible reading: Amos 1-9

Song No. 80

No. 1: Introduction to Amos and Why Beneficial (si pp. 148-50 pars. 1-6,13-17)

No. 2: Amos 1:1-15

No. 3: God’s Kingdom Will Eliminate War and Corruption (rs p. 228 par. 3-p. 229 par. 2)

No. 4: God’s Kingdom Will Provide Food for All and Do Away With Sickness (rs p. 229 pars. 3-5)

Nov. 18 Bible reading: Obadiah 1-Jonah 4

Song No. 96

No. 1: Introduction to Obadiah and to Jonah and Why Beneficial (si pp. 151-3 pars. 1-5,10-14; pp. 153-5 pars. 1-4,9-12)

No. 2: Obadiah 1:1-16

No. 3: God’s Kingdom Will Provide Homes, Employment, and Security for All (rs p. 229 par. 6-p. 230 par. 2)

No. 4: God’s Kingdom Will Cause Righteousness and Justice to Prevail (rs p. 230 pars. 3-5)

Nov. 25 Bible reading: Micah 1-7

Song No. 138

No. 1: Introduction to Micah and Why Beneficial (si pp. 155-8 pars. 1-8,16-19)

No. 2: Micah 1:1-16

No. 3: God’s Kingdom Will Resurrect the Dead (rs p. 230 par. 6-p. 231 par. 3)

No. 4: God’s Kingdom Will Provide a World of Love and Harmony (rs p. 231 pars. 4-6)

Dec. 2 Bible reading: Nahum 1-Habakkuk 3

Song No. 137

No. 1: Introduction to Nahum and to Habakkuk and Why Beneficial (si pp. 158-60 pars. 1-7,11-12; pp. 161-3 pars. 1-5,12-14)

No. 2: Nahum 3:1-19

No. 3: God’s Kingdom Will Make the Earth a Paradise (rs p. 232 pars. 1-3)

No. 4: Did God’s Kingdom Begin to Rule in the First Century? (rs p. 232 pars. 4-6)

Dec. 9 Bible reading: Zephaniah 1-Haggai 2

Song No. 146

No. 1: Introduction to Zephaniah and to Haggai and Why Beneficial (si pp. 163-6 pars. 1-6,10-12; pp. 166-8 pars. 1-7,13-16)

No. 2: Zephaniah 2:1-15

No. 3: Must the Coming of God’s Kingdom Await the Conversion of the World? (rs p. 233 pars. 1-2)

No. 4: * ‘God’s Kingdom Won’t Come in My Lifetime’ (rs p. 233 par. 4-p. 234 par. 1)

Dec. 16 Bible reading; Zechariah 1-8

Song No. 1

No. 1: Introduction to Zechariah (si pp. 168-9 pars. 1-7)

No. 2: Zechariah 6:1-15

No. 3: What Indicates That We Are Living in the Last Days? (rs p. 234 par. 2)

No. 4: How Are Wars and Food Shortages a Part of the “Sign”? (rs p. 234 par. 3-p. 235 par. 4)

Dec. 23 Bible reading: Zechariah 9-14

Song No. 176

No. 1: Zechariah—Why Beneficial (si pp. 171-2 pars. 23-7)

No. 2: Zechariah 9:1-17

No. 3: How Has Luke 21:11 Been Undergoing Fulfillment Since 1914? (rsp. 236 pars. 1-3)

No. 4: What Does the Increase in Lawlessness Indicate? (rs p. 237 pars. 1-2)

Dec. 30 Written Review. Bible reading: Malachi 1-4

Song No. 118

* As time permits, the student should reply to the householder’s assertions, objections, and so forth, so as to meet the needs in the territory.

6

¹

Limit introductory comments to less than a minute, and follow with a question-and-answer discussion.