January 22

The Wonders of Winter

MUCH could be said about the inconveniences of winter in the northern latitudes, of the cold and ice, of the frost and snow that threaten man and other creatures with hardship and hunger. Winter often reminds one of whining car wheels caught in slippery ruts, of grinding engines that are slow to respond in sub-zero temperatures, of the hurried pace through slush and sleet, of freezing fingers, ears and feet. With this in mind one could say, “What’s so wonderful about the wintertime?”

But winter is not all bad, is it? Ask almost any child tumbling in the snow what he thinks of wintertime. Ask the children shaping a snowman, or the young folks skating on frozen ponds, or the adults skiing down powderlike slopes, or grandfather reading a book next to a blazing fireplace. They may tell you that winter is “fun,” “a wonderful time of the year,” despite its hardships.

But the wonders of winter do not end with play and relaxation. The once-noisy chipmunks and groundhogs lie quietly curled in their snug burrows, asleep until warmer weather comes. The geese, ducks and warblers have long since left the naked shrubs and trees in their southward search for sun and warmth. The insects are stilled by the cold.

But above and beneath the blanket of snow there is life. When standing quietly in the woods or in the backyard, one can hear the tiny chickadees chirping away as they probe for seeds and insects. The woodpeckers hurry from tree to tree in search of eggs and larvae that lie dormant in the fissures of the bark or sealed in their silken cocoons. Hardy crows rendezvous above treetops. The footprints in the snow reveal that weasels, rabbits, foxes and deer are out in search of food. The frozen ponds can be heard crackling and grinding. Here is also the shimmer of a special world of sparkling water crystals that push, grow, shatter, ebb and flow with amazing precision and austere beauty.

Beneath the snow blanket, the fallen leaves, and the hard soil, also under the bark of trees, under porch steps, in barns and deserted buildings, there is life in the form of seeds, eggs, cocoons, buds, sleeping animals and dormant roots, each holding within itself the promise of life in the spring.

In fact, alive and at work in the winter forest is another world. To a depth of three inches in any square foot of the forest floor can be found organisms to the total of over 100,000,000,000​—about thirty times the human population of the entire earth! Of this total, animals large enough to be seen with the naked eye constitute only .000004 percent! These billions of organisms are busily engaged in transforming fallen leaves and other debris into the gases and nutrients that can once more be utilized by green plants to manufacture food and oxygen. Come spring, there will be food for the trees and other plant life. What a magnificent wonder of God!

Another marvel is the very symbol of winter itself​—the snowflake. These extremely fragile crystals keep their six-sided shapes as they fall thousands of feet through gray skies. Snowflakes are lacy growths of water vapor formed around minute dust particles in the air. While we do not normally notice this dust, we can see it when it is caught in the shaft of a sunbeam. At the right temperature, when a water vapor molecule attaches itself to a dust nucleus, a snowflake is born. It takes on remarkable shapes as it plunges earthward. Some shapes are delightfully simple and others are fantastically complex, but no two are precisely alike. Some snow crystals form the most beautiful designs in the world. The exquisite lacelike patterns have often been copied for jewelry pieces and fabric designs. “It is a wonder of wonders that the dance of the molecules produces these geometrical designs,” said one authority about the snowflake.

Usually snowflakes fall individually, but if the temperature is just above freezing, they might cling together as they fall, sometimes forming a flake four inches in diameter. When enough snow falls, an unusual amount of air is trapped within snow crystals. Men have been known to survive two days buried in snow without suffocating. Because of its air-holding potential, snow makes an excellent insulator, keeping heat in the lower ground levels and preserving seeds from freezing and winter crops from being destroyed. How useful this beautiful winter wonder!

Another wonder of winter is ice. The mere freezing of water is a miracle staggering in its significance. By all the rules of physical behavior ice should not float. Almost every substance, whether solid, liquid or gas, will shrink in volume as its temperature goes down. Water follows this rule precisely as a gas and, as a liquid, for 96 percent of the way down the temperature range to its freezing point. But at 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit something happens. As cooling continues, instead of shrinking, the water expands. The icy molecules seem to trap air molecules in their frosty structures, freezing into a solid at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, forming chunks of ice that float with about nine-tenths of the bulk submerged under the surrounding water.

If it were not for this phenomenon​—this wonder of floating ice—​the world’s seas, lakes and rivers would slowly freeze solid, depriving the earth of its much-needed water supply. But as it is, when winter comes, ice forms and floats on the surface of bodies of water, forming an insulating skin that protects the water beneath from further freezing and so safeguards the living things there.

To whom are we indebted for these winter wonders? The Bible psalmist wrote: “It was you [Jehovah God] that set up all the boundaries of the earth; summer and winter​—you yourself formed them.” (Ps. 74:17) Thank God, then, for these fantastic winter wonders.

Will it Mean Food for Us to Eat?

Millions of persons work hard to eke out a meager existence. To such ones, could there be anything of greater value than food?

DO YOU spend the greater part of each day working to get food for yourself and your family? Have you found it necessary to shoulder greater responsibility at work? Were you compelled to accept a second job for the sake of a better standard of living? If so, you are not alone.

The majority of earth’s people have to work hard to provide the necessities of life, and others generally seem unconcerned as to whether they succeed or not. Since food is necessary for life, it seems to many that the practical thing for them to do is to make the getting of daily food their foremost concern. But is it?

While such a course might supply one’s immediate material needs, its practicalness is questionable. A Hong Kong newspaper, The Star, of December 19, 1968, carried this bold headline: “WORKING TOWARDS AN EARLY GRAVE.” The article pointed out that the majority of men in Hong Kong work very hard to support their families. Some have more than one job. Others work two shifts each day. But warned a doctor: “This, eventually, must take its toll on a man’s health.”

When you stop to think about it, what does a man get out of life if he devotes all his time to getting his daily bread and hastens to an early grave? Yet, many hardworking people view any other course as impractical. For example, they consider a study of God’s Word the Bible a waste of time, because they see no immediate, tangible benefits for their efforts. As one Chinese housewife remarked, “But it can’t give us rice.” All over the world people with a similar attitude are devoting their efforts almost exclusively to obtaining material things.

Man’s Efforts Disappointing

The advice commonly heard is: “Work hard, save your money and you will have a ‘nest egg’ for the future.” Yet people who follow this advice are often bitterly disappointed.

Consider the Chinese woman who worked hard selling vegetables on a crowded Hong Kong street. After forty years of such hard work she returned home late one night to find that a thief had broken into her home and stolen more than $10,000, her life savings! “Now I feel like committing suicide​—I have nothing to live for,” she said. Others, who have kept their money in a bank, have had it suddenly devalued. Thus, they too have lost much or everything overnight.

Does this not underscore the soundness of the advice given by Jesus Christ? He said: “Stop storing up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break in and steal. Rather, store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”​—Matt. 6:19, 20.

Jesus thus indicated that there are treasures of greater value than material ones. Humans need more than physical food, as Jesus explained: “Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah’s mouth.” (Matt. 4:4) Spiritual food, that is, knowledge concerning our heavenly Creator, Jehovah God, also is necessary. That is why Jesus urged ones in his day who apparently were placing undue importance on physical food: “Work, not for the food that perishes, but for the food that remains for life everlasting.”​—John 6:27.

In our day it should be obvious that a quest merely for food, or for money to buy food, can only lead to disappointment. Why is this? It is because of what lies ahead. Even at this very moment 1,500 million people in South America, Africa, India and China are getting less than a minimum adequate diet and are undernourished. In fact, according to The South China Morning Post, January 2, 1969, with the passing of every minute some sixty-six persons in the world die from the effects of starvation! But this is just a foretaste of what lies ahead.

A noted scientist comments in Reader’s Digest, February 1969: “It is shockingly apparent that, in the battle to feed humanity, our side has been routed . . . . it is already too late to prevent a drastic rise in the death rate through starvation. In a well-documented book, Famine​—1975!, William and Paul Paddock predict that the time of famines will be upon us full-scale in 1975 . . . . What’s done is done. We must look to the survivors, if any.”

Scientists now see disastrous global famine as inevitable, regardless of the efforts of men to avert it. What a dismal prospect! Should this not cause us to inquire: Could there be another solution to man’s problems? Is there One who can provide sufficient food?

A Source to Consider

Think about the matter. Who made the earth with its many beautiful landscapes, and the heavens with its countless billions of stars? We appreciate these creations, but who put them there for our enjoyment? The true answer is recorded in the Bible: “Jehovah . . . is the Maker of the earth by his power, the One firmly establishing the productive land by his wisdom, and the One who by his understanding stretched out the heavens.”​—Jer. 10:10, 12.

Few persons today give any thought to the worship of their Creator. What a blessing they thereby miss! For Jehovah God indeed cares for those who put their trust in him. An ancient king made this true observation: “A young man I used to be, I have also grown old, and yet I have not seen anyone righteous left entirely, nor his offspring looking for bread.”​—Ps. 37:25.

Although others may have come into want, God’s servants had food to eat. Would you not like to have the assurance of receiving life’s necessities? Observe, then, what Jesus Christ said to those who would worship the heavenly Father: “So never be anxious and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or, ‘What are we to drink?’ or, ‘What are we to put on?’ For all these are the things the nations are eagerly pursuing. For your heavenly Father knows you need all these things. Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.”​—Matt. 6:31-33.

What a grand assurance! All these other things, including food to eat, will be added to you. Your efforts to obtain them will be blessed with success. But did you observe what you must do in order to be assured of these necessities of life? You must ‘keep on seeking first the interests of God’s kingdom and his righteousness.’ How practical, therefore, it is to take time to study God’s Word the Bible and learn what is necessary to please your heavenly Creator! This can lead to your receiving, not only God’s marvelous guarantee of physical necessities now, but everlasting life with both spiritual and physical plenty in God’s new system of things.​—John 17:3.

Long-Range View Practical

Working with a view to life in God’s righteous new system is most practical. However, does someone object, saying: “But that is in the future”?

Well, think about it in this way. Parents work hard to give their children a good education. This often involves supporting them and paying for their education for ten to fifteen years or more. But they believe that this long-term view of things is practical, because in time their children will be able to secure a job and supplement the family income. To heed Jesus’ advice to prepare for the future by laying up treasures in heaven is even more practical.

But how do you lay up treasures in heaven? This is done by pursuing a course of life that will result in the goodwill of God in heaven. No thief can take away these treasures, nor will they tarnish with age. These treasures will even benefit you should you die. How so? Because your having the approval of God will assure that God will remember you with a restoration to life in his new system of things.​—Matt. 6:19, 20.

Consider for a moment that grand new system of God’s making. It is not going to be this old system patched up and renovated by weak, imperfect men. No, it will be completely new. But how will it be possible to replace present governments of men with a rule by God?

Out with the Old, In with the New

This will require God’s bringing to an end this entire wicked system of things. In the Bible Jesus Christ spoke about the “conclusion of the system of things,” and his disciples referred to “the last days.” Jesus’ prophecy relates initially to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 C.E., but it is evident that it has an application also during Christ’s second presence, which in the first century was yet in the distant future. Jesus gave physical evidences for persons to look for so that they could identify this momentous time.

The Bible describes for “the last days” a time of chaotic, frightening world conditions that would include wars, pestilences, earthquakes and increased lawlessness. Also Jesus said: “There will be food shortages.” (Matt. 24:3-14; 2 Tim. 3:1-5) How evident these conditions are in the world today! All together, these things mean that we have now reached the “time of the end,” the time of Christ’s second presence, when God soon will destroy this wicked system of things.

However, there are now bright prospects for those who take the time to learn God’s will and do it. They can confidently expect preservation, as the Bible promises: “Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever.” (1 John 2:17) Think of it! Surviving when God brings to an end this wicked world.

Then, in God’s new system, life will not be a long, hard struggle for existence. God’s blessing on man’s labors will be evident. The joy-yielding work of making disciples of people of all nations and of building up the Christian organization will be extended soon to include a literal building program. The Bible promise is: “They will certainly build houses and have occupancy; and they will certainly plant vineyards and eat their fruitage.” What a pleasure it will be to work when the benefits of one’s labors can be so enjoyed! Earth’s inhabitants then “will not toil for nothing, nor will they bring to birth for disturbance; because they are the offspring made up of the chosen ones of Jehovah, and their descendants with them.”​—Isa. 65:21, 23.

At that time food will no longer be scarce, as it is in so many places today. Yes, God’s new system will usher in a time of plenty! During the reign of King Solomon of old God’s people enjoyed a time of plenty. This is prophetic of an earth-wide prosperity soon to be realized, as the Bible foretells: “There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow.”​—Ps. 72:16; Matt. 12:42.

Truly, what a fine time that will be to live! The new system will certainly fulfill the promise given through the psalmist, who said of the loving Creator: “You are opening your hand and satisfying the desire of every living thing.”​—Ps. 145:16.

A Time for Action

Clearly, this is not the time to become loaded down with the cares of this life and to concentrate all efforts on material interests. Time is fast running out for this wicked system of things! It is, therefore, urgent that we do not make material food our chief concern in life. Rather, if we truly want life, we need to heed Jesus’ counsel: “Work, not for the food that perishes, but for the food that remains for life everlasting.”​—John 6:27.

This admonition is of particular import at this time when people the world over are so engrossed in providing for themselves the daily necessities. Yet, no matter how busy you may be in such pursuits, it is absolutely vital that you also allow time to take in spiritual food. You simply cannot live much longer without this knowledge of God! Why not, then, accept the invitation of Jehovah’s witnesses to help you become acquainted with the will of Jehovah God and his glorious purposes for mankind. The amount of time you spend in this will prove to be very small in comparison to the rewards and blessings that will follow.

Really, how happy will be your lot if you put your trust, not in material food, but in the great Provider of food, Jehovah God! If you do that, you will be in line to experience his protective care during this old system’s destruction, now but a few short years away. Then you will enjoy life to the full in a cleansed earth where ‘Jehovah of armies will certainly make for all the peoples a banquet of well-oiled dishes.’​—Isa. 25:6.

Through the Snow to Learn the Bible

● In a section of Oregon that was snowed under for two months a young couple wanted so much to learn the Bible that they came as far as they could in their automobile and then walked the rest of the way to the home of Jehovah’s witnesses, who are helping them to learn about God. Bill, the husband, put his packsack on his back with all their study books and Bibles in it. Then he put their little year-and-a-half-old boy on the top of the packsack on his shoulders, and they trudged through the snow.

On one occasion Bill found a neighbor whom he had known for some time at the Witnesses’ home. Bill said to him: “You know, if you or anyone had told me a few months back that I would walk this far to have a Bible study, I would have said you were out of your mind!”

Why Crime Flourishes

SINCE 1960 serious crimes in the United States have increased 88 percent, while the population has increased only 10 percent. Now one out of every five American families suffers from a criminal act every year. But crime is not strictly an American ailment. It is on the increase world wide.

In the Philippine Republic, for example, the crime rate during the year of 1965 jumped an astounding 51 percent.

Regarding crime in England, the book Crime in Our Time, by Josephine Bell, observes: “The increase in the volume of crime in England since the end of the Second World War is both frightening and inexplicable.”

With regard to the Soviet Union, Newsweek magazine of December 23, 1968, remarked: “The Soviet Government, which normally tries to bury its shortcomings under mountains of statistics, takes the opposite tack with crime; it rarely publishes any crime statistics at all. But all signs are that crime is on the increase in Russia just as it is in all industrialized countries.”

The rate of crime is actually much higher than official statistics reveal, because many crimes are not reported to the police. It has been found that in many big-city slum areas crime may be as much as ten times the official police figures. Time magazine of February 14, 1969, reported: “Only about one-half of the rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries and major larcenies that are committed in the U.S. each year manage to get onto the police blotter.”

It would seem, therefore, that crime is flourishing far more than is generally thought. What is the reason? Is it really due to lack of education, poor housing and poverty? Or are there more important reasons?

Too Lenient

It is the view of many persons that the courts have been too lenient with lawbreakers, and that this has encouraged lawlessness. The U.S. attorney in Chicago, Edward V. Hanrahan, said in 1968: “Many sentences are way too lenient. They don’t teach the defendant a lesson or pose a warning to the rest of the community.”

Voicing a similar opinion, the police chief of Cleveland remarked: “Recent court decisions encourage crime and are very discouraging for police.” And Judge Tim C. Murphy of Washington, D.C., said: “There is an attitude that these cases must be moved through. Charges are reduced day after day.”

Speaking with regard to British crimes, Lord Shawcross, who was Britain’s Attorney General from 1945 to 1951, noted: “Crime is booming. We have been faced since the war with a massive increase year by year in serious crimes . . . . The truth is, I believe, that the law has become hopelessly unrealistic in its attitude toward the prevention and detection of crime . . . . Our laws are too heavily loaded in favor of criminals.”

Unpunished

The fact that most crimes are unsolved and unpunished is another reason why crime flourishes. It has been estimated that less than 21 percent of the reported crimes are solved by the arrest of suspects and only 6 percent end up with convictions. That is only about one conviction for every seventeen crimes committed!

In a report made in 1967 by the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Justice the conclusion was made that “if a suspect is neither known to the victim nor arrested at the scene of the crime, the chances of ever arresting him are slim.” Regarding this same situation in Great Britain, Lord Shawcross observed: “Why is it that crime pays? It pays because most criminals are not caught.”

Unless a person has a very high standard of morals, is he not likely to commit an unlawful act if he feels fairly certain that he will not be caught? For example, when reporting his income taxes, is he not likely to withhold some of his income if he thinks he can get away with it?

In the case of more serious offenses, too, a criminal will feel bolder and will strike more frequently if he thinks there is a good chance he will not get caught. The longer he is able to engage in criminal acts without detection the more set he becomes in continuing his unlawful activities. Others seeing his success are encouraged to commit crimes of their own.

All this underscores a basic truth expressed long ago in the Bible. “Because sentence against a bad work has not been executed speedily, that is why the heart of the sons of men has become fully set in them to do bad.” (Eccl. 8:11) Due to inherited sin and imperfection humans are inclined toward bad from the day of their birth. They need restrictive laws and good moral standards to guide them to do what is right.

Public Support

Although the public are the victims of crime, they help to finance it by buying illegal services and products. Criminals are willing to supply these at a price. For example, could prostitution exist if it were not supported by the public? Would burglary be such a problem if thieves could not find a market with the public for stolen goods? How could the vicious narcotics trade survive if there were no market for illegal narcotics?

Also, is it not the public who support the gambling empire of organized crime? The fact is that the proceeds from gambling corrupt many public officials, finance a host of criminal activities, and even make it possible for gangsters to take over legitimate businesses. The book The Challenge of Crime in a Free Society, which is the report by the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Justice, states: “Law enforcement officials agree almost unanimously that gambling is the greatest source of revenue for organized crime.”

Further showing how gambling by the public supports criminals, Harper’s Magazine of April 1964 stated: “Our system as a whole is at fault and we must all share responsibility​—down to the individual citizen who contributes his nickels, dimes, and dollars to a policy game or bookmaker. He thus supports the army of syndicate soldiers and ‘hit’ men and feeds the coffers of this hidden government called The Syndicate, Cosa Nostra, The Mob, or whatever name you choose.”

A family may think it is not personally affected by organized crime, but it is. Racketeer-owned businesses may endanger the health of the family by illegally selling tainted foods and harmful drugs. Also, the family may have to pay higher taxes for a larger police force to fight local crime, or because corrupt public officials are wasting tax money on public works contracts given to gangster-owned contracting companies.

What Is Lacking

Why is it that the public perpetuates the climate that breeds crime and corruption? A fundamental reason is that so many persons lack respect for the high moral standards of God’s Word the Bible. Notwithstanding their profession of being Christian, they prove by their actions to be influenced by materialistic atheism. They put personal, selfish interests ahead of obedience to divine laws.

One of the persons on the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement stated: “Thorough as the Commission’s studies have been and comprehensive as its valuable recommendations are its report seems deficient to me in that it neglects to recognize godlessness as a basic cause of crime.”

Also the book Crime in Our Time remarks with regard to England: “A lowering of moral perception and standard is a definite feature of life in this country today . . . . But the number of fully believing practising Christians must now be very small, relative to the whole population.”

When the moral standards of the Bible are thrown aside, what is left to restrain man’s inherent inclination toward badness? With no restraints, with people doing what is right in their own eyes, is it any wonder that crime is skyrocketing? Furthermore, we live in the generation in which, as the Bible reports, Satan the Devil, knowing his time is short, vents great anger. “On this account. . . woe for the earth,” the Bible says. (Rev. 12:7-12) Is it any wonder that there are riots and spreading lawlessness? Is it any wonder that many city streets are no longer safe after dark?

Crime will cease to flourish and even to exist only when the Devil is put out of operation by God and when all persons live by the moral standards and divine laws of the Bible. Such a worldwide transformation is possible only by the hand of God. That it will be realized is assured us by God’s own promise: “For evildoers themselves will be cut off . . . And just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more; and you will certainly give attention to his place, and he will not be. But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.”​—Ps. 37:9-11.

Candlemas​—A Holiday That Contradicts

● According to The Catholic Encyclopedia, Candlemas, which falls on February 2, is a day set aside to honor the purification of the Virgin Mary. It is to recall Mary’s obeying God’s law by going to the temple in Jerusalem and offering a sacrifice of purification after she bore Jesus. (Luke 2:21-24; Lev. 12:1-4) How strange! The Catholic church teaches that Mary was sinless when she conceived Jesus, yet sets aside a day to honor her performance of an act that proves that she was not sinless but was imperfect, as are all the descendants of Adam.​—Rom. 3:23; 5:12.

The Northwest Passage​—Ocean Highway or Elusive Dream?

By “Awake!” correspondent in Canada

THE recent discovery of vast oil reserves in Alaska’s North Slope has again brought the question to the fore: Can the northern shores of North America be used as shipping lanes, thus cutting by thousands of miles the distance between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans? The obstacles to establishing an ocean highway through this northwest passage are formidable.

This is because the Arctic Ocean, which lies north of Canada and Alaska, is nearly completely covered by a massive, many-foot-thick ice pack. Only near the northern shores is there some open water during the summer. But much of the route is heavily choked with ice even during the more favorable part of the year, becoming plugged by massive ice floes that stream in from the permanent ice pack to the northwest. As a result, never had a large commercial vessel navigated the entire northwest passage.

Thus it was a significant accomplishment when, in September 1969, the SS Manhattan churned through hundreds of miles of heavy Arctic ice finally to negotiate the passage. But it was not an easy trip. The SS Manhattan became stuck in the ice at least six times, and needed to be freed by an accompanying Canadian icebreaker. It was even necessary to turn back after making an attempt to break through one major strait.

The Route

On August 24 the huge 150,000-ton, 1,005-foot-long SS Manhattan left Chester, Pennsylvania, headed up the Atlantic coast, traveled around Newfoundland, and passed through Davis Strait between Greenland and Baffin Island. In Baffin Bay she first met floes of ice, which she tested warily.

On September 5 the giant tanker entered Lancaster Sound, the entrance to the northwest passage. For about the next 800 miles she churned and smashed her way through the ice-clogged sea that is interspersed with numerous Canadian islands. She was halted seriously for the first time on September 9 off Melville Island, and needed help from her accompanying icebreaker. After smashing her way over 100 miles into McClure Strait, she finally was forced by heavy ice to turn around. Taking another route, through Prince of Wales Strait, she made her way past Banks Island.

On September 14 the huge tanker came out of the worst ice. Sailing from Prince of Wales Strait into Amundsen Gulf in the Beaufort Sea, she at last entered some open water, and the crew celebrated the successful passage. However, there yet remained hundreds of miles to go before reaching the destination of Point Barrow, Alaska.

Long a Dream

In their quest for a sea route to the Orient early explorers made many attempts to navigate the passage. Jacques Cartier, who claimed Canada for France in 1534, was actually searching for such a sea route. These early explorers anticipated a cargo of rich spices from China if a navigable route could be found.

Most voyages in those early days, however, were stricken with tragic losses, some with total disaster. Ships often became trapped in the ice for more than one winter, sometimes remaining enclosed during the summer so that little or no progress could be made. The dreaded disease scurvy, resulting from lack of vitamin C, took a terrible toll of human life during these expeditions.

By 1825 it was clear that the doorway to the passage lay through Davis Strait and Baffin Bay. Credit for finding the key to the passage along the continental coastline is generally given to the Franklin Expedition of 1845-1848. But the two ships and 129 men of that expedition perished in the frozen wastes. Finally, in 1903-1906 the first voyage through the entire passage was made under Norwegian Roald Amundsen, who followed Franklin’s route with a slight variation, traveling along the coastline from east to west.

In 1942 the Royal Canadian Mounted Police vessel St. Roch made the first successful voyage along the same route from west to east. Two years later it followed a more northerly route from east to west. By its voyage the SS Manhattan attempted to establish the feasibility of building specially equipped fleets of ships for transporting commercial products over this hazardous passage.

Cutting Shipping Distances

If this centuries-old dream of a northwest passage is realized, the savings in time and miles traveled can be tremendous. Use of the passage would cut the shipping distance from New York to Tokyo by 3,000 miles. The present route from London to Tokyo, not using the Suez Canal, is 15,000 miles. ]But through the northwest passage it would be reduced to less than 8,000! And Yokohama to Liverpool is 12,250 miles through the Panama Canal, but only 7,000 through the northwest passage.

Another consideration is: Middle East oil presently travels 8,000 miles to Japan and 11,000 miles to Europe. However, if the northwest passage is used, the recently discovered oil fields of Alaska and the potential ones in northern Canada will be only 4,000 miles from the Orient, 3,000 miles from England and 3,700 miles from western Europe.

Potential Commercial Benefits

Computers are now analyzing information gathered by the SS Manhattan to determine whether large tankers will be able successfully to traverse the passage throughout the year. Another voyage may be attempted by her in March to gather additional information to decide whether the route is commercially sound. What if it proves to be?

This will mean, according to Humble Oil and Refining Company estimates, that it will cost ninety cents to one dollar to ship a barrel of oil by tanker from the Alaskan oil fields to the eastern United States. This is about thirty-five to forty-five cents less than it would cost to transport the oil by pipeline, or by a combination of tanker and pipeline. Oil companies envision that it will also mean fleets of super icebreaker tankers transporting over this ocean highway two million barrels of oil a day by the early 1970’s, possibly affecting prices of oil and gasoline to the consumer’s advantage.

A shipbuilding boom would thus result by the opening up of the northwest passage. But Canada would perhaps be the principal beneficiary, for around her northern islands there are said to be vast reserves of oil and gas. Oil reserves are believed to be even greater than those discovered in Alaska, where major oil companies have already paid some $900 million for exploration and drilling rights alone.

In addition, vast mineral deposits have been discovered in northern Canada and more discoveries are expected. High-grade iron ore, lead, zinc, asbestos, copper and silver have been found. If the northwest passage could be used commercially and the northern shipping season lengthened, such riches could be unlocked.

Dispute over Sovereignty

Who owns the passage? That is a question being disputed. In the past Canada claimed sovereignty over these northern waterways, and no one was concerned about disputing such claims. Ministers of the Canadian government have recently issued statements to the effect that Canada will continue to exercise sovereignty over the waters of the Arctic archipelago.

Ships using the passage apparently would travel through Canadian waters, since at one point they must pass within three miles of shore, the recognized maritime offshore limit. So Canadian sovereignty over at least part of the passage appears certain. How Canada will view the remainder of the passage and expect other nations to view it is still being worked out by the government.

Nations holding sovereignty over waterways are expected to provide navigational aids and policing. And officials say that possibly six icebreakers located along the passage would be needed to help tankers through the ice. Canadian Transport Minister Don Jamieson estimated that it would cost Canada about $1,000,000,000 to provide the services required.

Although one commercial vessel has navigated the northwest passage, Commissioner of the Northwest Territories Stuart Hodgson noted: “One voyage does not make a success.” Northerners point out that last summer was exceptionally mild in the north, and that the voyage was made during the most favorable season. Veterans of the north would like to see the passage tackled in “March when she’s really tough.”

As already noted, the SS Manhattan may try this. At least until then it will not be known if the northwest passage will at last become an ocean highway, or will remain an elusive dream.

Efforts at European Unity

By “Awake!” correspondent in Luxembourg

FOLLOWING World War II the countries of western Europe faced a tremendous job of economic reconstruction. Their industries were in ruins and their people were poor. The establishment of freer international trade and closer cooperation was a logical response to the situation. During the 1950’s an added incentive for these countries to unite was the fear of many Europeans that the threat of Soviet aggression was growing.

What steps were taken to achieve this unity of western European countries? Have the organizations established for this purpose proved successful? What prospects are there now for greater unity in the future?

Early Efforts

After long preparation, the Council of Europe was established in May of 1949. The goal of this organization is to promote closer unity among its some eighteen member nations so that economic and social progress might be achieved. The Council, however, has no real power. It can only pursue its goal by making recommendations to member governments.

But in 1951, with the establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community, the first real progress toward European cooperation was realized. The six member nations include Belgium, Italy, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and West Germany. Headquarters for the organization are here in Luxembourg.

The European Coal and Steel Community was founded to create in western Europe a common market for coal and steel, as well as their subsidiary products. It was intended that barriers to trade in coal and steel among member nations, such as tariffs, quotas and other import restrictions, be abolished.

In officially announcing this project on May 9, 1950, Robert Schuman of France spoke of the eventual aim to create a United States of Europe. He acknowledged, however, that this would require progressive steps toward greater unification.

The basic idea of the organization is to provide economic integration, thus improving production and distribution of products. The success realized by this organization toward achieving these ends led to the establishing of two other parallel six-nation communities.

Further Unification Efforts

One of these is the European Economic Community, commonly called the European Common Market, or simply Common Market. Its member nations are the same six that make up the European Coal and Steel Community​—Belgium, Italy, France, the Netherlands, West Germany and Luxembourg. The Common Market was established by the Treaty of Rome, and it became operational January 1, 1958. Its headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium.

The purpose of the Common Market is gradually to remove restrictions on the free circulation of goods, workers, services and capital among member nations. And a degree of success has been realized in achieving these aims. Nevertheless, a truly unified market exists in connection with only a limited number of products, such as automobiles, household appliances, and so forth. A larger aim of this organization is a political unification of Europe.

The other six-nation organization that was established at the same time as the Common Market is the European Atomic Energy Commission, also called Euratom. It includes the same six nations as does the Common Market and the European Coal and Steel Community.

Euratom was conceived following the Suez crisis in 1956 when it was thought that a serious oil shortage might develop and that atomic energy would soon be required by European countries. Although traffic in oil was speedily restored, Euratom was established for the purpose of developing atomic energy for peaceful purposes.

These three communities or organizations that were established to create a unified Europe are linked in various ways. For example, they share in common a 142-member European Parliament, as well as a seven-man Court of Justice. Also, the three communities have an administrative body called the Commission. This was formed by merging the Commission of the Common Market, the Commission of Euratom and the High Authority of the European Coal and Steel Community. This Commission meets in Brussels, Belgium.

Present Outlook

Truly there is an abundance of machinery for creating a unified Europe. But what is the present outlook? Are European countries moving closer to a United States of Europe?

Circumstances that existed following World War II and during the 1950’s have changed. This has greatly affected the outlook. People in Europe are no longer destitute and poor, but are generally prospering materially. Many Europeans now view the danger of attack by Russia as remote. Thus, instead of their desiring to work together for the common benefit of all, the spirit of nationalism is growing stronger. The enthusiasm regarding a unified Europe, which existed a few years ago, has all but vanished.

Some European capitals are even taking a position against the Common Market Commission. A German observer noted: “Confidence has dropped to a new low. Disappointment and resignation are spreading. ‘The Six’ have virtually ceased to move ahead.” In fact, Common Market employees in Brussels have left by the hundreds to seek more promising careers elsewhere.

Stewart Alsop, columnist for Newsweek, noted recently: “There was a time when the weakness of Europe, the terrible memory of war, and the fear of Russia made it possible to talk seriously about a United States of Europe. It is silly to talk about it now.”

And beneath its headline THE FADING DREAM OF “ONE EUROPE,” U.S. News & World Report said: “Trend is toward each nation’s looking out for itself. Once-high hopes that the market would become nucleus of a United States of Europe are just about gone.”

Thus, despite the high hopes once held for uniting neighbors in Europe, selfishness and national interests have been largely responsible for the dissipation of such hopes. These efforts at European unification simply provide another example of man’s inability to provide the peace that is so much desired by mankind. For lasting peace, men must look to God.

Peace in the Far East​—When?

“PEACE ON EARTH” ASSEMBLIES GIVE ANSWER

IN MANY lands of the Far East there is considerable social ferment. Modern ideas and ancient traditions jostle one another. The hand of materialism and its way of life beckon millions from the simple farm life to huge cities. The centuries-old tranquillity of the Orient seems to be vanishing.

Added to the social upheaval are political tensions that produce fear and anxiety. Most lands have their domestic troubles. Some have tribal feuds that break out bloodily from time to time. There is, over all, the growing threat of China’s nuclear potential.

Can peace and the peace-loving attitude ever win out in this part of the world? Is it possible for national and tribal groups to find some common hope sufficiently strong to override all the issues that now divide them? Can they meet together and find reason to trust and help one another along a pathway to peace?

In the closing part of the year 1969 many people of the Far East began to have reason to hope that the answer to those questions is Yes. How did that come about? It was the impact of the “Peace on Earth” International Assemblies of Jehovah’s Witnesses on large urban centers of the East. From city after city came reports telling of interest, yes, amazement shown by multitudes who have thus far treated the Witnesses quite lightly. To get the feel of these developments it is helpful to consider what took place at the assembly cities.

South Korea Learns About Lasting Peace

The assembly in Seoul, South Korea’s capital, is a case in point. At the first afternoon’s sessions, over 14,500 listened to the talk “Loyal Advocates of the Word of God.” Joyfully they accepted the new book Is the Bible Really the Word of God? in Korean, released by the speaker at the close of his talk.

As emphasized by both the talk and the book, “not Christianity based on the Bible, but Christendom with its divided churches must bear the guilt for prejudicing millions of persons against the Bible,” so preventing those multitudes from gaining peace with God. Without that peace there can be no real peace among men and nations.

Here, as at all of these assemblies in the Pacific area, the appearance of one or more of the officers of the Watch Tower Society’s Brooklyn headquarters on the program heightened the interest of those assembled.

Many were the interesting experiences heard among the delegates. For example, one Witness told how he had been a soldier of the South Korean army undergoing missile training in the United States when he was first contacted with the Bible’s message of peace. Now, instead of pointing deadly missiles at large urban populations, he is an advocate of peace among peoples of all nations and races.

On Monday afternoon, a highlight speech was the one entitled “Peace with God amid the ‘Great Tribulation.’” Ah, yes, peace with God is the vital need in a peaceless world! An attentive audience learned that now of all times is the opportune time to acquaint ourselves with the ever-living God who bears the name Jehovah. That acquaintanceship is the key, not to a superficial worldly peace, but to a stable lasting peace among men.

The number baptized at this assembly as disciples of the “Prince of peace” was 1,511​—15 percent of the total number of Witnesses in Korea! Onlookers from the hillside above the baptismal pool could see, beyond this peaceful scene, a parade ground where soldiers were drilling. What a contrast!

In Korea, where there were only eight Witnesses in 1949, there are now more than 10,000. These have found peace with God. Despite aggressions, infiltrations, shootings and killings along the country’s north border, conditions that keep most South Koreans in a state of fear, here was an assembly that featured faith in God’s Word and pointed Go the source of peace that it advocates.

Ambassadors of Peace in Japan

Before the conclusion of the Seoul assembly another happy gathering had begun at the Korakuen Cycling Stadium in Tokyo. The same program was featured at all of these “Peace on Earth” Assemblies. When one considers that Japan has a total of 7,843 Witnesses, it is remarkable that most of the sessions at Tokyo were attended by 10,000 to 12,000 persons. Still more remarkable is the fact that 1,200 of these Japanese Witnesses, having put secular occupations in secondary place, are spending a minimum of one hundred hours each month in the work of spreading the Bible’s message of peace throughout Japan.

It was a joyful event when 798 persons presented themselves as candidates for baptism​—among them a ten-year-old boy and an assistant professor at one of Japan’s universities. The boy, the only member of his family interested in Bible study, explained that he had the permission of his parents and schoolteacher to come to the Tokyo assembly.

One young Witness, persecuted by unbelieving parents so that she left home and went to another city to find employment, was here at this assembly. The mother, hearing of the Tokyo gathering, decided to attend with the object of tracking down her daughter. Well, she was so favorably impressed by what she heard and saw that she brought her husband along to the stadium on the next day. Now they have found their daughter, and they too want to study the Bible and find peace with God.

At the closing session the audience was delighted to learn that soon work on publication of the New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures in Japanese would begin. Why such delight? Because now people in Japan would be able to read for themselves in clear, understandable language the Word of God, and so learn the way to peace with its great Author. Enthusiastic applause also greeted the announcement that the Society’s branch office in Tokyo had already become too small, and that plans were under way for enlarged premises outside the city.

It was a remarkably peaceful assembly​—all the more so when contrasted with the riotous conditions that engulfed Tokyo just two days later, when public transport was paralyzed, sixty persons were injured and 1,500 rioters were arrested. To many it was comforting to learn that a thousand-year reign of peace is the promise held out by the God of the Bible, whose promises never fail.

Taiwan Hears Good Tidings of Peace

The scene now changes to the assembly hall in The National Taiwan Arts Center in Taipei. This island stronghold of the Nationalist Chinese was next to hear about “peace on earth” through the international assembly scheduled in its capital city for October 18 through 21.

Since the Witnesses are not so well known here as in other parts of the East, the international aspect of the assembly did much to give local people a broader view of the Witness organization. Delegates came from eight other nations, besides representatives of Taiwan’s three major ethnic groups​—the Chinese, the Taiwanese and the Amis. Southeast Asia was well represented also​—Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.

A new book in Chinese, a paperback edition of “Your Word Is a Lamp to My Foot,” was released at this convention. Its theme: God’s inspired Word sets the pattern according to which the organization practicing true worship must organize and work. This is the way to peaceful, united accomplishment. This publication had been printed in Taiwan and delivered to the assembly site just forty-eight hours before its release to a grateful throng.

Then came the Bible drama entitled “Fortify Yourself so as to Maintain Integrity.’’ This was vividly enacted on the platform. It showed how each part of the spiritual armor described in the Bible book of Ephesians, chapter six, is essential for those who would remain loyal to the God of peace and so receive his goodwill. How grateful all were that, in a land wracked by serious political differences, Jehovah had provided a peaceful and upbuilding assembly as a foretaste of what is to come​—a time when all the earth, including Taiwan, will be at peace!

Good News Announced in Hong Kong

On October 17 conventioners began to arrive in the British crown colony of Hong Kong, with its high-rise buildings and teeming population, perched precariously on the coastland of Communist China. Local Witnesses began to sense the international tone of the assembly when thirty-five delegates from Singapore and Malaysia arrived at the Kai Tak Airport. They were met and taken directly to accommodations arranged in the homes of their spiritual brothers and sisters in Hong Kong.

The public lecture came on the second day. The largest attendance up to this point was 303. To the joy of all those present, the figure climbed to 678 as the public address “The Approaching Peace of a Thousand Years” was presented. That meant that one and a half times more than the total number of local Witnesses were interested in learning about God’s provision for “peace on earth”!

On Monday, release of the English edition of Is the Bible Really the Word of God? brought much pleasure to the conventioners. Was it not wonderful to have something that comes to grips with objections raised by scientists, historians and religious critics? Convincing evidence that the Bible is of divine origin makes it all the more imperative that its wholesome principles be put into practice with a view to attaining peace and unity.

One tour conducted for the benefit of Western delegates took them to within sight of the Communist territory​—the Bamboo Curtain. They saw, as a barrier, a wire fence and a narrow river. Would the Bible’s peaceful message ever penetrate there? It would, if that is Jehovah’s will, for it is all God’s good earth to which he will in his own way soon bring everlasting peace and righteousness.

Hong Kong truly shared in the eye-opening publicity that attended the “Peace on Earth” Assemblies. No doubt many humble people were impressed by the unity and peace so evident among Jehovah’s worshipers, and so lacking among the population at large.

Hope Extended to Filipinos

The Philippine Republic has its own internal troubles, as do almost all lands. Elections are almost always accompanied by violence and killings. Indeed, the Constabulary headquarters in Manila reported that in the eight-week period leading up to November’s elections fifty-nine persons had been slain and sixty wounded.

Was it not appropriate, then, that a “Peace on Earth” Assembly of Jehovah’s Witnesses should be scheduled for Manila, October 22 to 26? But no single stadium would be adequate for the large crowd expected. Why, the number of Witnesses in the country had increased in the last ten years from 30,077 to 49,257! So a contract was made for use of the Rizal Memorial Athletic Complex, comprising a football stadium with a capacity of 30,000 and a baseball stadium that would hold 20,000. This worked out well, for the smaller stadium could be used for sessions in the Tagalog language, while a double platform in the football stadium would serve the other two major language groups​—Iloko and Cebuano. Meetings were also provided for those speaking Hiligaynon, Pangasinan, Bicol and Samar-Leyte.

On Saturday morning, after a talk emphasizing the need to dedicate one’s life unreservedly to Jehovah God as the first step toward being at peace with him, 1,835 persons submitted to baptism before a crowd of witnesses. This is in addition to 6,381 who had taken this step in the Philippines during the year ending August 31, 1969.

Over 40,000 attended the Sunday-morning sessions. Then, as the afternoon drew on, the stadiums began to fill. When every seat was taken, those on the street kept pouring in and sitting on the grass before the platform. As the speaker was introduced, it was marvelous to see this huge crowd intently waiting. They were evidently eager to learn about the thousand-year reign of peace that God’s kingdom by Christ will bring to worthy ones of humankind. It turned out that 64,715 were present​—far exceeding all expectations!

Favorable comments on this assembly could be heard from all sides. One writer in the Evening News (Manila) of October 24 commented: “We have yet to see a convention in this country as orderly and impressive as the one currently being held by members of Jehovah’s witnesses . . . . In contrast to familiar political conventions, the delegates are well-behaved, orderly and attentive to their speakers who are exhorting [them] to remain in the faith amidst world upheavals.”

Truly this assembly brought much praise to Jehovah’s name. It was like running a large city for five days​—a city free of rivalries, disorders and quarrels. People of Manila were treated to a foreview of the real “peace on earth” that is promised to become a reality soon during the thousand-year reign of Christ.

Peaceful Penetration of Papua

Right in a bush area, some fourteen miles from Port Moresby, an entire town had to be built to provide adequate facilities for another assembly. Papuan natives, using bush materials ready at hand, soon converted the plans into reality.

Using open fires, meals were prepared for the delegates​—6,500 meals all together during the four-day gathering on this island. To outsiders it was amazing to observe how peoples of sixty-four different language groups ate, lived and worshiped together in peace. Those conventioners really enjoyed a peace and happiness unmatched by any other group. Not long ago, in fact, Papua put on a Games Week for the South Pacific area, constructing special buildings to house visitors from New Guinea and other places. However, because of the fear and distrust among the various tribal groups, these buildings were hardly used at all.

Sessions of the program were presented in English, Melanesian-Pidgin and Motu. The local news media gave excellent coverage. Attendances ranged around 1,000 each day. Papuans and islanders from far and near showed keen interest in the Bible-based hope of “peace on earth” and how it would come with relief from their fears and troubles.

It is difficult to realize that as late as 1952 there was but one Witness in all the territory served by the Papua branch of the Watch Tower Society. This past year a peak number of 1,481 active Witnesses was reached. This assembly provided an excellent springboard from which to spread even more widely throughout the South Pacific the grand hope of an everlasting peace by God’s kingdom.

Message of Hope “Down Under”

October 26 was a unique day in connection with the “Peace on Earth” Assemblies in the Pacific area. It was the final day of the Manila assembly, the next-to-last day of the Port Moresby assembly, and the opening day of a six-day assembly in the Showgrounds of the city of Melbourne, Australia. From all across the country the conventioners came, some of them traveling 2,500 to 3,000 miles one way to get there. Too, there were several hundred overseas delegates.

So international was the assembly that meetings had to be arranged for those understanding Finnish, Greek, German, Italian, Polish and Croatian. Language barriers did not divide them or in any way prevent people of all those nations from enjoying unity and peace now. Two special sessions, using talks, experiences and photographic slides, were put on for the benefit of Western visitors​—these depicting the progress of the Kingdom work in Australia from its inception.

Keen interest was shown in the tremendous distances through sparsely setled territory that must be covered in order to reach people with the good news of peace. One full-time Witness had covered some 100,000 miles with his utility truck in the past three and a half years. His territory comprises some 300,000 square miles. In this field he reaches many of the aborigines. To overcome to some extent the problem of illiteracy, he carries with him slides and colored pictures explaining to these honest-hearted natives how they too can enjoy peace with the Almighty Creator.

An audience of well over 25,000 heard the final talk of the Melbourne assembly. On this occasion the speaker noted that peace had prevailed at this and all other international assemblies held by the Witnesses this year. Without doubt it was because of the unifying force of God’s Word taken into honest hearts. It was also due to the conviction that God’s promise of an earth-wide peace will soon be fully realized. The thought uppermost in the minds of the conventioners as they started what was to be for many a long trek home: They would seek and maintain peace with one another and with all men, and, above all, with Jehovah their God.

News of Peace for New Zealand

Auckland’s Alexandra Park Raceway is normally filled with impatient crowds​—people intent on winning a bet, people who think nothing of throwing trash all over the grounds. But on November 4 this trotting stadium saw a crowd of a different kind. There was no jostling, no shouting, no smoking. It was the “Peace on Earth” International Assembly of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

The major portion of New Zealand’s population have a European background, while considerably less than 10 percent are Maoris, who are Polynesian by race. But regardless of racial origin, many New Zealanders are gladly accepting God’s Word as the basis for their faith, and are rejoicing in the hope of the Kingdom of everlasting peace. Opening day at the Raceway brought delegates by carloads and busloads, so that by afternoon the attendance had reached 7,115​—already 1,000 over the peak attendance at the last international assembly here in 1963.

The beautiful platform design included the Maori words of welcome, HAERE MAI in floral outline. Many years ago most Maoris became nominally Christian, though in many instances still holding to traditional pagan ideas such as taboo. But now many of them have become eager students of the Bible and participate regularly in spreading the message of peace as Jehovah’s witnesses. One of them, interviewed on the platform, told that out of 200 of his fleshly relatives who are Witnesses, 193 were present right there.

“Seeking the Goodwill of God” was the subject of a discourse on Friday morning. It pointed the way for those desirous of being at peace with God​—the way of dedication. Indeed, many more New Zealanders and others had dedicated their lives to God, for right after this talk 421 candidates for baptism were taken in buses to the large, heated Mount Eden Pool and there immersed in water.

The paradisaic beauty of these islands brought to mind that time in history when the first human pair enjoyed peace with God in the paradise of Eden. How fitting, then, the title of the widely advertised public lecture at this assembly​—“The Road Back to Peace in Paradise”! How thrilled the audience of 8,400 was as text after text from the Bible was explained to show how and when that paradise condition will be restored!

The peaceful setting, the upbuilding program, the practical organization of all the assembly arrangements, did much to draw the conventioners into closer unity with one another and with God’s worldwide congregation​—especially through personally meeting with and hearing experiences of fellow Witnesses from so many other lands. All had the deepened conviction that Jehovah is truly prospering his people with peace and spiritual plenty. They are encouraged and refreshed to go on extending the good news of peace to other sincere ones who long for God’s kingdom to establish global peace.

The Isles Can Rejoice

“Let the many islands rejoice,” is a Biblical invitation that can be repeated with even greater force today. (Ps. 97:1) The distant islands of the Pacific could certainly respond to that invitation during the period November 9 to 12, 1969, when assemblies were being held simultaneously at Suva, Fiji, and Papeete, Tahiti. English was the language mainly used at the first, while French and Tahitian were used at the other.

Though all of those islands should be scenes of happy contentment, this is by no means the case. In Fiji particularly there is an undercurrent of racial feeling. Indian immigrants and the native population are distrustful one of the other. Those, on the other hand, who have made peace with God and who are united as his witnesses happily work together to preach the good news of peace to others. The atmosphere at these gatherings reflected this.

An attentive audience of 1,621 at Suva heard the public address and rejoiced to learn that God’s purpose to establish peace earth wide would soon be carried out. There was also about forty minutes of delightful singing by three separate choral groups, each in its traditional style​—one from Fiji, one from Samoa and one from Tonga. How grand it was to hear this native talent for blending voices used to sound out the praises of the One who alone is worthy​—Jehovah, the God of peace!

One native Fijian expressed what was doubtless the effect of this assembly on those who shared its many blessings: “My note pads are full and my mind is about to burst with everything I‘ve heard and seen at this assembly! I’ll explode if I don’t start soon telling others about these things!”

The “Peace on Earth” Assembly at Papeete, Tahiti, was a grand event, too, not only for the local Witnesses, but for the islanders in general. It was the first international assembly held here by Jehovah’s witnesses, and it was the first assembly requiring greater facilities than could be offered by a Kingdom Hall. The auditorium known as Salle de Basket at the Fautaua Stadium was the place contracted for. There were actually many more delegates from other lands than there are Witnesses in Tahiti. The local press took note of the fact that representatives had arrived from twelve other countries around the world, and then went on to explain: “For Jehovah’s Witnesses, the main thing is to show that the Bible is applicable to the everyday life of an individual, for young ones as well as for parents. . . . According to Bible chronology, this millennium of peace [the theme of the public address]​—between men themselves and also between men and animals—​is not far away, but in just a few years more. Who does not want to believe in peace?”

Tahitians really enjoyed the Bible dramas presented on the platform, for it was at one of these, entitled “Fortify Yourself so as to Maintain Integrity,” that the audience reached a peak of 610. Colored lighting effects made the action more realistic. Onlookers learned how vital it is to use all the provisions for Christian association and Bible study that are available so as to have the spiritual strength to stay at peace with God amidst a lawless world.

One airport employee, though used to seeing every day the hospitality and the flowery welcome ordinarily given to visitors, was deeply impressed by what he witnessed on this occasion. Said he: “I am really touched to see how a faith can keep people who don’t even know one another so united. We should all be Jehovah’s witnesses, because by your love you are different from the rest of us.”

Hawaii Welcomes Peace Delegates

The modern city of Honolulu in its beautiful island setting was next to receive delegates to a “Peace on Earth” Assembly. On the very first day, November 11, Honolulu’s International Center was packed out with a crowd of 9,061. Overflow arrangements were provided in the adjoining Exhibition Hall, and they were really needed, for 15,443 persons came to hear the public lecture.

The speaker told of God’s express purpose to have the whole earth transformed into a Paradise. But there was more. The question also arose, Who will find the way back to that peaceful relationship with God once enjoyed by Adam and Eve? Each one who hoped to do so would have to take the steps outlined in God’s Word, the Holy Bible. And there were some at the assembly who had determined to do just that, for 314 persons offered themselves for baptism in token of their dedication of themselves to God. It was truly a memorable sight as they were immersed in the blue waters of the Pacific.

Saturday morning a special session, with talks, experiences and reminiscences, gave some history of the Kingdom work in Hawaii. Ellis W. Fox, now in his eighties, told how he had come to Honolulu in 1915 and had sowed some of the first seeds. As he spoke to an audience of 9,671, how delighted he was to see a realization of the words written by Bible writer James: “The fruit of righteousness has its seed sown under peaceful conditions for those who are making peace”!​—Jas. 3:18.

Appropriately, the assembly came to a close amid the colorful hues of a typical Hawaiian sunset, soft trade winds gently swaying the palms. Deeply impressed on the departing delegates’ minds was the conviction that the long-promised era of peace is now near; Jehovah’s grand purpose with respect to worthy ones of humankind will soon be realized to their everlasting joy. Then everything wherein there is breath will be doing what it was designed to do​—praising the God who grants peace!

A Peaceful Future Certain

Yes, those “Peace on Earth” Assemblies answered the question on many people’s minds: When will peace, freedom from fear and anxiety, come to the many nations and tribes of the Far East?

The unity and loving cooperation of Jehovah’s witnesses from many racial, national and tribal backgrounds, as they lived and worshiped together in peace during these many assemblies, offered powerful testimony to the ability of God’s spirit to unite humans right now as nothing else can. Observers could see that it was possible for Bible principles to be followed, and that the following of them produces fine results even amid a godless world. How true the words of the psalmist: “Abundant peace belongs to those loving [Jehovah’s] law, and for them there is no stumbling block” !​—Ps. 119:165.

But then, too, there was the message of the entire assembly program. God will, unfailingly, clean out all peace disturbers and establish on earth a thousand-year reign of peace, and that in the very near future. (Rev. 20:6) Men and nations will be unable to prevent it. (Dan. 2:44) It will be for the blessing of those who genuinely long for peace and righteousness. Such ones must, without exception, be in peaceful relationship with God, knowing his will and doing their very best to put it into practice in their lives. Now, while still surrounded by selfish men and evil conditions, is the time when each one can prove his love for God and his faith in the lasting peace that he will bring to all the earth.

[Picture on page 18]

At Seoul, South Korea, conventioners enjoy closing remarks by Watch Tower Society president N.H. Knorr

[Picture on page 19]

Japanese Witnesses play Kingdom songs of praise to Jehovah on the koto, a harplike instrument

[Pictures on page 20]

Witnesses of the Amis tribe in Taiwan sing Kingdom songs, to delight of overseas visitors

Full-time preachers at Hong Kong assembly delighted to receive new book in Chinese, “Life Everlasting​—in Freedom of the Sons of God”

[Picture on page 22]

Some of the 64,715 at the public address, Manila, Philippines

[Picture on page 24]

View of platform at Auckland assembly showing words of welcome in Maori language

[Picture on page 25]

Honolulu refreshment stand​—Hawaii style

Sheep Know the Voice of Their Shepherd

THE following report on shepherding in the Middle East casts interesting light on Jesus’ illustration at John 10:2-5, wherein he speaks of the sheep as knowing the voice of their shepherd and their being given names:

“The modern shepherd . . . has a wonderful memory, which retains the name of every sheep. The flocks sometimes contain several hundred, and yet each one has a name and the shepherd knows it, and calls every sheep by its proper name. . . . [One observer] tells of watching shepherds with flocks upon the slopes of Mount Hermon: ‘Each shepherd . . . trains his sheep to come at his call, to go in order, in twos or fours, in squares and circles; one from the outer circle in a flock of a thousand will come when its name is called.’ It is the voice of the shepherd that the sheep recognizes.

“A stranger once declared to a Syrian shepherd that the sheep knew the dress and not the voice of their master. The shepherd said it was the voice they knew. To prove this, he exchanged dresses with the stranger, who went among the sheep in the shepherd’s dress, calling the sheep in imitation of the shepherd’s voice, and tried to lead them. They knew not his voice, but when the shepherd called them, though he was disguised, the sheep ran at once at his call.”​—Orientalisms in Bible Lands, by E. W. Rice, pp. 159-161.

“Your Word Is Truth”

How Many Fathers Do You Have?

HOW many father’s do you have? “Why, I have only one!” you may reply. And true, every man that has ever lived has had at least one father; even Adam, for we read, “Adam, the son of God.”​—Luke 3:38.

But if you are a Roman Catholic you would have well over 425,000 “fathers”; since that is the number of Roman Catholic priests in the world and your religion requires that you address them all as “Father.” At least that is the requirement in English-speaking lands. But many other religions refuse to recognize this title for priests, ministers or pastors. What does the Bible say? It is God’s Word, concerning which Jesus said to his heavenly Father, “Your word is truth.”​—John 17:17.

The term “father” occurs some 1,750 times in the Scriptures, in singular, plural and possessive forms. Primarily it is used to refer to literal fathers and to male ancestors. At times it is also used to refer to the older men of one’s people, in which sense both Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and the apostle Paul used it.​—Acts 7:2; 22:1, RS.

All who are true Christians also have another Father. Do they not pray, “Our Father in the heavens”? (Matt. 6:9) In fact, as far back as the time of Moses, God was spoken of as the Father of his people. (Deut. 32:6; Ps. 89:26; Isa. 63:16; 64:8) The apostle Paul makes one or more references to Jehovah God as Father in every one of his letters. He also refers to God as “the Father of glory,” even as the disciple James speaks of God as “the Father of the celestial lights.”​—Eph. 1:17; Jas. 1:17.

Jesus Christ is also termed “Father” in the Scriptures. Thus at Isaiah 9:6 he is termed the “Eternal Father.” This he is in two senses: In that he himself lives eternally and in that he gives eternal life to his children. Especially is he the Father of the “great crowd” of “other sheep”; his anointed footstep followers being often referred to as his brothers.​—John 10:16; Rev. 7:9.

The term “father” is also used in the sense of chief, founder or first one. Thus Abraham is called the “father of all those having faith.” (Rom. 4:11) At Genesis 4:21 we find Jubal termed the “father” or founder of musicians. (RS) And Jesus termed Satan the Devil “the father of the lie.”​—John 8:44.

Then, again, the Bible uses “father” merely as a term of respect. The prophet Elisha addressed the prophet Elijah as “my father.” Two kings of Israel, in turn, addressed Elisha as “my father.” The servants of the Syrian general Naaman addressed their master as “my father.”​—2 Ki. 2:12; 6:21; 13:14; 5:13.

The apostle Paul stated that he was a father in a spiritual sense in that he brought the hope of everlasting life to others. Thus he wrote to the Christians at Corinth: “Though you may have ten thousand tutors in Christ, you certainly do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have become your father through the good news.” He spoke of Onesimus as “my child, to whom I became a father,” and also referred to Timothy as “my beloved child.” Not only did Paul liken himself to a father, but he also said that he was like a mother to those whom he taught the good news.​—1 Cor. 4:15; Philem. 10; 1 Tim. 1:2; 2 Tim. 1:2, RS; 1 Thess. 2:7, 11.

Concerning the use of the term “Father” in Christendom today The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church states: “In England . . . all Roman Catholic priests . . . are now called ‘Father,’ a custom introduced apparently from Ireland in the latter half of the nineteenth century. It has also come into wide currency among Anglo-Catholics. On the continent other terms are used for the secular clergy.” The New Catholic Encyclopedia tells of the use of the term in the United States. Thus the Jesuit weekly, America, September 20, 1969, had an article entitled “In Memoriam: Father Gardiner,” and in another article mentioned upward of twenty different priests, the names of all of whom began with the initials “Fr.”, an abbreviation of the title “Father.”

What about this use of the term “Father” as a title for the clergy? Does the fact that the term “father” is so often used in the Scriptures, and that in various ways, justify such use? Well, what does Jesus Christ say about the matter? He specifically commanded his followers: “Do not call anyone your father on earth, for one is your Father, the heavenly One.” Clearly he meant that “Father” as a religious title should be used only in referring to Jehovah God, the heavenly Father. That Jesus did not mean to preclude referring to one’s literal father as “father” is clear from his own frequent use of the term father in this sense.​—Matt. 23:9; 10:37; Mark 10:29; Luke 15:20.

But what about the apostle Paul’s referring to himself as “father”? There was good reason for his referring to himself as the spiritual “father” of certain ones, for he brought spiritual life to them. It was only to such ones that he spoke of himself as their father. But did any of these address Paul as “Father Paul”? Absolutely not! Nowhere in the Scriptures do we ever read of him or of Peter or any of the other apostles being addressed as “Father.”

There is also the term “Holy Father” as given to the popes of Rome. What about it? If no one on earth is to be given the religious title “Father,” then still less should any man be called “Holy Father.” Jesus in prayer addressed God in heaven as “Holy Father.” (John 17:11) Now, would it be proper to take that title that the Bible applies only to God and apply it to a man? For those who truly desire to please God, the answer is obvious.

So, how many fathers do you have? You have your literal father who begot you. Jehovah God and Jesus Christ may also be your Fathers, depending upon your faith and works. And so also can the Christian minister who brought you the life-giving truth from God speak of himself as your father through the good news. But there is no man on earth, not even the one who taught you God’s Word, whom you should address with the religious title “Father.”

Bad News! Good News!

● When a man began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s witnesses, his minister came by his home to pay him a visit. The minister said to the man: “I heard some bad news about you. I understand that you have gone over to Jehovah’s witnesses.” The man replied: “Let me tell you one thing; it might be bad news to you, but it is good news to me. All the years that I have been in church I have not learned a thing. But Jehovah’s witnesses have taught me the Bible’s truth and I am glad I can bring it to others.” The clergyman departed immediately.

Watching the World

The Pesticide Peril

◆ Can DDT be a threat to life? Dr. Lamont C. Cole of Cornell University, according to U.S. News & World Report, tells this story: “The World Health Organization sent DDT to Borneo to kill mosquitoes. It worked fine. But it didn’t kill roaches, which accumulated DDT in their bodies. Lizards which lived in the thatched huts ate the roaches. The DDT slowed the lizards. Cats then easily caught the lizards. But the cats died​—as the story goes. With the cats gone, rats came, carrying a threat of plague. And, with the lizards gone, caterpillars multiplied in the huts, where they fed on the roof thatching. Then the roofs started caving in.”

Drop in Seminarians

◆ The number of candidates for the priesthood entering French Catholic seminaries in 1968 was 810. In startling contrast, the 1969 figure was 475, a 41-percent reduction.

A Woman Head

◆ Mrs. Cynthia Clark Wedel on December 5 became the first woman to occupy the highest post in American Protestantism: president of the National Council of Churches. As president of the council for the next three years, Mrs. Wedel will head an organization that is sharply divided over race and other issues. Said one associate: “She knows who controls the money in the council. She also knows who’s willing to spend it and when.”

Animal Blood to Food

◆ It is estimated that more than 2,000,000,000 pounds of animal blood was thrown away last year. Many persons who do not respect God’s law against the use of blood call this an enormous waste. (Lev. 17:10-14) Two scientists in America have discovered how to turn animal blood into a substance that looks like powdered milk. In fact, it is said to taste a little like powdered milk and is 50 percent protein. The substance is so new that the scientists who developed the product have yet to name it. If it comes into general use, you may have to read your food labels carefully in order to avoid it.

Aid Deserters

◆ A group of American clergymen opposed to the war in Vietnam planned a series of services in four cities on December 17, after which the proceeds would go to assist United States draft resisters who are living in Canada. The drive is being sponsored by Clergy and Laymen Concerned About Vietnam, which is said to be the first such effort to date by any group involved in aiding men who refuse military service.

World’s Refugees

◆ There are now said to be 17,318,320 refugees in the world, almost double the 1964 number. Refugees are generally defined as “homeless​—victims of war, intolerance and social unrest.” The report, prepared for the National Conference on World Refugee Problems, stated that 1,052,088 refugees are living in the United States. Seventy-five percent of the refugees were in Asia and Africa.

Thieves Take Valuables

◆ In mid-November the souvenir shop of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome was robbed. Valuable Vatican stamps and coins and an unspecified sum in cash were stolen. The New York Times stated that the burglary followed by twelve days reports by some Italian newspapers​—which reports were denied by the Vatican—​of the theft of valuable paintings from the private apartment of Pope Paul VI in the Vatican Palace. In another recent incident, the Times says, Vatican guards arrested a young German tourist who had smashed the marble hands of a statue of Pope Pius VI near the high altar. The young man reportedly stated that he acted in protest against the Roman Catholic Church’s “alliance with nuclear powers.”

An Animal’s Worth

◆ A bankrupt California zoo auctioned off an orangutan for $10,000, a lady hippo for $3,000, a Bactrian camel for $26,700 and a chicken for $1.50.

Chaos or Partnership?

◆ Governor Rockefeller of New York was asked, What would happen in Latin America if the Nixon administration failed in implementing its new policies? His answer was simple. “Utter chaos,” he said. Rockefeller believes that Latin Americans stand at the “crossroads.” The time has come, he said, to face squarely the basic economic policies, also health and educational issues that may mean the difference between rational development and stagnation for 250,000,000 Latin Americans. The United States will have to face in the hemisphere the basic choice: Chaos or partnership, he said.

Belief in God

◆ German-born space scientist Dr. Wernher Von Braun reportedly said he finds it as difficult “to understand a scientist who does not acknowledge the presence of a superior rationality behind the existence of the universe as it is to comprehend a theologian who would deny the advances of science.” “Manned space flight is an amazing achievement,” he said. “But it has opened for us thus far only a tiny door for viewing the awesome reaches of space. Our outlook through this peephole at the vast mysteries of the universe only confirms our belief in its Creator.”

“Blood Substitute”

◆ Dr. Leland C. Clark, Jr., of the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, has developed a “blood substitute” that may be of great help to surgeons sometime in the future. Said Today’s Health for November 1969: “The man-made blood substitute can carry up to 20 times as much oxygen as plasma dissolves. Use of the new fluid can eliminate the risk of hepatitis and other infections and does not require tissue-typing or cross-matching, Doctor Clark says.” The substitute reportedly is inexpensive to produce and can be stored.

Church Raided

◆ What is a church party like? A “Las Vegas” or gambling party attended by some 400 persons at St. Callistus Roman Catholic Church was raided by police. They confiscated a truckload of gambling equipment and a large sum of money. Sgt. D. G. Antoine said they had “a real operation going,” that is, a gambling operation. “There also were two large bars operating at the church, serving mixed drinks and beer,” Sgt. Antoine said. “The bars were operating in violation of state liquor laws. They were not licensed.” According to officers, there were four regulation-size dice tables, several blackjack tables and several chuck-a-luck tables being used at the church. One of the classrooms was being used exclusively for bingo and the other for poker, officers said.

Hard to Tell

◆ Police in Atlantic City admitted that they had failed to separate a girl from the boys. A prisoner that was identified as Charles Albert Nehus, who was tossed in the men’s part of the Atlantic City prison on theft charges, turned out to be seventeen-year-old Phillis Kachur. Police Capt. Albert Wilson merely said: “Well, it’s hard to tell these days.” The sex revelation was made after eight days during an examination of the prisoner in Atlantic City Hospital.

Churches in Trouble

◆ Churches in Pacifica, California, are having very rough times, a local newspaper said. Congregations are not growing, pledges are low. There is not enough money for mortgage payments, ministers’ salaries, overseas missions and payments to the archbishop or central headquarters. Some Lutheran churches are experimenting with the following: doing away completely with paid clergy and with formal church buildings; allowing only people actively engaged in social action to become church members; meeting in stores, banks and theaters; letting the people of the congregation give the sermons and hold services; letting the minister get a regular job like everybody else. If these changes cannot be implemented, small local churches may well become a thing of the past, they believe.

Thrive at High Altitudes

◆ An estimated half of Peru’s 12 million people live at altitudes of 15,000 feet or higher. Almost all the people of Bolivia live at similar heights. The Indian population who live high in the Andes are able to work in copper mines at altitudes up to 17,000 feet, where other people can hardly breathe, much less swing a pick. They play soccer and do heavy work and are able to perform as well at high altitudes as other people do at sea level. Heart attacks are practically unheard of among the millions of Peruvians who live at altitudes of 15,000 feet or more. At these heights many pilots use oxygen. Outsiders often get intense headaches, vomit, have nosebleeds and shortness of breath.

“G” Rating

◆ The Motion Picture Association of America, the industry’s self-censoring or self-regulating body, has given a recent movie a “G” or “General” audience rating. This classification means that the film is considered to be wholesome entertainment for every member of the family, from grade-school child to grandmother. Reviewers generally have heaped high praise on the picture. Newsfront magazine reportedly stated that within the first five minutes of the picture a man is shot. Then follows a triple hanging, a mutilation, a knife murder, a multiple ambush, another shooting, a skull-crushing, a gunfight on horseback, another ambush, a snake bite and a final shooting. If this won a “G,” what are the “X” (restricted) movies like?

A “Suicidal Course”

◆ Ecologist Dr. Barry Commoner, of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, warned that the United States was “approaching the point of no return” in its disruption of the chemical balances of man’s environment and had only about one generation in which to reverse its “suicidal course.” Dr. Commoner referred to the natural nitrogen cycle, bacterial problems in New York Harbor and the contaminated rivers of Illinois as symptoms of the potentially fatal “violence” done.

Family Still Popular

◆ A family, by general definition, consists of a father and a mother and some children. In the United States, with a population about 200,000,000, there are approximately 50,000,000 family groups, about 5,000,000 more families than there were in the country at the time of the 1960 census. The year 1968, which produced the largest number of marriages in recent years, saw the forming of 2,100,000 new families. This figure was surpassed only once before​—in 1946. More than 92 percent of all Americans, and 99 percent of those under 18 years, lived in families in 1967. The American family now averages 3.7 persons related by blood or marriage.

Disorders Costly

◆ The disorders that took place in Montreal, Canada, in 1969 during the strike by police and firemen were costly. Some have estimated that the cost of extra police activity and loss in property damage totaled about $11,600,000. Most costly in property damage was the siege of Sir George Williams University by students. Police were called in and the occupying students responded. When the battle was over, property damage was estimated at more than $3,000,000.

Aliens to Report

◆ During the month of January, aliens in the United States must report their current addresses to the Immigration and Naturalization Service. Persons who are out of the country at that time should file their addresses on their return. The ruling applies to all aliens except diplomats and some members of organizations to which the United States belongs, such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States. Forms for this purpose can be obtained at any office of the Immigration and Naturalization Service or in any post office.

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1969 Watch Tower Publications Index

The new Watch Tower Publications Index, covering publications of the Watch Tower Society produced during 1969, is now available. This valuable reference work will enable you to find the latest information on many important subjects and Bible doctrines. It will help you to refresh your mind on many points that might otherwise soon slip by you. It will enable you to compare new things learned with matters covered in earlier publications.

Take advantage of all the Indexes of the Watch Tower Society. Send also for the 1930-1960 Index (for $1), the 1961-1965 Index (for 50c), the 1966, 1967, 1968 Indexes (each, 10c). Send today.

Please send me [ ] 1969, [ ] 1968, [ ] 1967, 1966 Watch Tower Publications Index (each, 10c); [ ] 1961-1965 Index (50c); [ ] 1930-1960 Index ($1). I am enclosing ․․․․․․․․.