November

Branch Letter

Dear Kingdom Publishers:

Here at Brooklyn we enjoy having a part in providing publications for your use and to be used in the field. Recently we have had the privilege of producing four million copies of the Youth book, and we are glad it is now available in English, Spanish and German.

It has been exciting to hear so many expressions of appreciation for the book from youths themselves. In Germany a fifteen-year-old student commented: “This book is a virtual mine of information. These comments will interest many of my schoolmates, who are not Jehovah’s Witnesses.” From Canada we heard these comments from a teen-ager: “It really got to me, realizing all the situations you can get into. We should know what the problems are before we start, or it can be too late. Everyone else seems to want to force you into doing wrong.”

A Canadian father of five children said: “This publication will be a real safeguard for our young people in view of the problems in school and in the world. It will promote understanding of the world into which they are emerging and promote family unity. I feel this will be a good book for our field service and I feel our teen-agers can use it also in the service.”

These are but a few of the many expressions and they really make us happy to produce more of these Youth books so they can be gotten into the hands of the teen-agers, where they will do so much good. We know the youth need salvation, and many of them will find just what they are looking for in the pages of the Youth book.

We hope all of you will have a wonderful time distributing the book and helping both parents and teen-agers to find happiness in living. May Jehovah’s blessing go with your efforts to use the Youth book.

Your brothers,

BROOKLYN BRANCH OFFICE

We Have What We Need!

¹ Today’s teen-agers are growing up in an unsettled, topsy-turvy world. Many teen-agers are searching for answers to what life is really all about. Living conditions are far different from those of twenty or more years ago when their parents were growing up. Problems of youth today are also different. So in recent years a need has developed for a publication that would be of interest and help to the teen-age group. And now we have what we need—the new book Your Youth—Getting the Best out of It.

² This new book should be an excellent help to young people. But they need to get it in their hands and read it to benefit from it. It is our privilege to put it there. The Youth book tells them, on page 5: “Youth is a time of challenge. . . . The road of life today has plenty of rough spots. It takes courage to face them. But if you learn early how to overcome the rough spots, then the rest of the road becomes far smoother for you.” This book directs young folks to God’s Word and shows how problems of life can be handled in the right way, making life more satisfying, as well as enabling persons to be pleasing to Jehovah.

³ Today there are many young people in Jehovah’s organization, and many thousands are coming in. In fact, quite a few teen-agers accept the truth despite parental opposition. They recognize the ring of truth when they hear the good news preached to them. They accept it and show their desire to serve Jehovah by entering into a dedicated relationship with Him, doing so while still youthful. (Eccl. 12:1) The new Youth book will certainly help these young publishers to get Jehovah’s mind on matters and to make their minds over to Jehovah’s way of thinking.—Rom. 12:1, 2.

WHO ALSO NEED IT?

⁴ Who besides the young publishers need the Youth book? Certainly parents and grandparents will find it very helpful in their families. They should encourage their children and grandchildren to read it personally. They can also read the book along with them so the entire family will benefit together. We believe that the Youth book will help many parents to become more familiar with the problems facing children and teen-agers today and it should assist these parents in communicating with their children. Thus they will be in a better position to aid their children and grandchildren spiritually and in other matters of living.

WHERE CAN WE PLACE IT?

⁵ Consider people whom you know and who could benefit from this new publication. You may have neighbors or relatives with teen-age children who would greatly appreciate it. Also, youth counselors, school authorities and even policemen may find it useful in their work. Young publishers or parents may wish to show this book to teachers and encourage them to read it. Some publishers may find it productive to do street witnessing near high schools, colleges or universities, offering the Youth book to young people they meet. You may know some older persons who would like to use it as a gift for young relatives, friends, children or prospective parents.

⁶ We all rejoice to have this fine new publication for our personal use and now for use in the field service. We have what we need! Let us help many to benefit from the Youth book.

Showing that We Care

¹ When Jesus was upon the earth, he was interested in people and he felt tender affection for them. He cared about what was happening to them. That is why he toured the cities and villages and preached the good news of the Kingdom among them. He saw that they were knocked about like sheep without a shepherd. Not only did he help the people personally, but he arranged to send out more workers into the harvest, namely, his twelve disciples, as mentioned in Matthew chapters nine and ten.—See Matthew 9:35-38.

² Being interested in people and showing that they care for them are Christian characteristics demonstrated by the footstep followers of Jesus Christ. While false religion’s leaders may not care for the people and do not take care of their spiritual needs, God is not to blame for that, and we do not want to see anyone accuse God of being responsible for the suffering that has come upon the human family. Therefore, the distribution of Kingdom News No. 23 in November (from 5 to 14) presents us with a wonderful opportunity. This tract has a message that brings honor to Jehovah. People need to know why there is so much suffering on the earth and who is responsible for it, and the majority should be very much interested in the question, “Why So Much Suffering—If God Cares?”, which is the title of the new tract. There is every reason for us to be enthusiastic in presenting this message.

³ The last time we distributed a tract here in the United States, about 10,500 requests for free booklets were received at the office in Brooklyn. So a great amount of good was accomplished. This time there will be another offer of a free booklet and we hope the response will be even better. Perhaps you can cover territory that was not covered with Kingdom News No. 22. But, whatever territory you work, start out in the work early in the campaign. In the cities many publishers may be able to distribute their tracts during the first three days of the campaign. If that be the case, then the regular offer can be used in the field for the remaining period.

⁴ Although we want to put out all our tracts in good time, this does not mean that we should ignore interest that is shown. It is suggested that we carry along a copy of the Youth book. This can be offered to any who show unusual interest. Where circumstances permit, take time to talk to interested people, be friendly. Carry along equipment so you can make written note of special interest and make it a point to call back sometime during the month of November to see how the persons enjoyed the message. If we take time to talk to the interested people as we meet them, it can be very beneficial to them. We cannot be sure that we will meet the individual again, so it is good to give the witness while we have the opportunity. Leaving a Scriptural thought with someone will only result in good.

⁵ Those who are conducting home Bible studies with interested persons may wish to present a copy of the tract and explain that all over the world this message is being given out to as many people as possible. Ask each of these interested persons whether they would like to have a few copies, say five or ten, to give to some friends or acquaintances. When they see the message in the tract, those who study may be very enthusiastic about the opportunity to pass on such good information.

⁶ We are confident that the campaign with Kingdom News No. 23 will prove to be a great blessing, because all of us, as Christians, care for people. May Jehovah bless the Kingdom News campaign.

Your Service Meetings

WEEK STARTING OCTOBER 31

10 min: Song 40. Outline field service arrangements for month of November. Remind brothers to bring Good News book to hall for special talks during month. Any local or other announcements; also Question Box.

20 min: “Presenting the Good News—With the Youth Book.” Discuss points in article with congregation and demonstrate several suggestions. Mention that other presentations may be used and other books may also be offered during the month. Presentations should lead to Bible discussions where possible.

15 min: Question-and-answer discussion of article on tract, “Showing that We Care.” Encourage all, young, old, new, to participate in tract work. Include brief demonstration of tract presentation. Make note of those who show interest and call back with Youth book to see if a study or Bible discussion can be started.

15 min: Talk on August 15 Watchtower article, “Mildness—Strength or Weakness?” As time allows have audience look up scriptures cited but not quoted in article. Show why mildness in field service is beneficial. Song 14.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 7

15 min: Song 36. Accounts report and any local announcements. Discuss Branch Letter. Invite two or more teen-age publishers (selected in advance) to tell how they like Youth book.

17 min: Discussion of article “We Have What We Need!” with questions and answers. Encourage publishers to consider all avenues for getting Youth book into hands of people who need it.

17 min: Demonstration: Preparing for Field Service—As a Family. Our work for this week is putting out Kingdom News, and we want to work with those until they are all distributed. But after that we want to be ready to put out the Youth book. Show father discussing Youth book with children. Asks how they have enjoyed it. They briefly express themselves and mention points they like. Father then takes opportunity to gather entire family together so they can prepare for field service, know what they will do during month. Father asks children to repeat what they like about book, and they do, providing more details this time. Father shows how their thoughts can be incorporated into a fine presentation at the door. One child then asked to make simple presentation, using such ideas. Father and mother also discuss scriptures they will use in their presentation, perhaps using suggestions from “Presenting the Good News” article. All see need to prepare for field service as a family and then work together in field. (Chairman could suggest that youths also work along with circuit overseer or his wife if they will be visiting soon.)

11 min: Cover material in “1977 School Schedule.” Song 39.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 14

11 min: Song 62. Announcements (If there are any Kingdom News left over they should be put out as quickly as possible). Discuss need for Christian parents to appreciate responsibility to train children. Worldly parents often sidestep such responsibility by shifting it to teachers, school counselors, older relatives, etc. Not so with Christian parents. Children an inheritance from Jehovah. (Ps. 127:3-5) How do you handle an inheritance from the Sovereign of the universe? Sincere Christians would handle such wisely, with extreme care. So children should be handled in this way. Parents themselves have responsibility to train children. (Deut. 6:6, 7) How?

22 min: Demonstrate how a family can have upbuilding discussions on Youth book. Many chapters provide basis. Select chapter; note that paragraphs usually are grouped. Read section first, then take up questions. All in family discussing subject in own words, not just reading answers. Invite opinions and experiences on subject. Through communication, learn what is in the heart. (If possible, use family who have done this with Youth book.)

5 min: Discuss with congregation points in “New Study Program.”

22 min: Talk on October 1 Watchtower article “Let the Bible Speak.” May include demonstrations as desired, slanted toward local application. Song 112.

WEEK STARTING NOVEMBER 21

12 min: Song 95. Local announcements and Theocratic News. Then cover following: We live in special period of human history. Chapter of man’s life on earth while trying to be independent of God about to end. New chapter under righteous Kingdom rule about to begin. What are we to do? We face difficult times now and in future. Yet Jesus showed we should not be discouraged but should take heart. Deliverance is near. (Luke 21:25-28) In the meantime we have work to do—preaching of Kingdom in all the earth and making disciples. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Work still continues and has success. If people are to hear God’s voice, important we continue this work.

15 min: Youths—Are You Communicating? (Discussion and demonstration by young publishers who are good examples in field service.)

(3 min.) See there is need for all to share in preaching and teaching work if sheeplike people are to hear “voice” of Fine Shepherd. Young people need to hear, too, and our young publishers are in an excellent position to help them. How? By good communication. Young people usually know which youths are Jehovah’s Witnesses because the Witnesses communicate. New Youth book provides excellent material to use in talking to other young people. Could you read a chapter and then discuss it with others, explaining some of the main points and/or Scripture texts, without using the book? This is a fine thing to do. Note this young publisher:

(4 min.) Young publisher at school approached by new student at school. New student offers some marijuana or pills. Young publisher politely turns down offer. New student very surprised, as nearly everyone uses drugs of some form. Third student listening to conversation inquires about young publisher’s view on drugs. As new student walks away, young publisher proceeds to explain feelings to the inquiring third student and shows why he or she is not interested in drugs of any kind, covering main points in chapter on drugs in Youth book.

(4 min.) Demonstrate another young publisher speaking to schoolmate about points he has learned from Youth book. Pick a chapter that would have application in local area and have young publisher cover main points and scriptures in simple way.

(4 min.) Chairman briefly interviews two young publishers in demonstrations: Could ask these or similar questions: Do you find the Youth book is easy to understand? What helps you to remember the points well? Do you find the book helpful in talking to other young people? Do you find that other youths are interested in getting a copy of the Youth book for themselves? Conclude by showing that young publishers have a great advantage in speaking to other young people. Encourage them to use this advantage well as they talk about fine things they read in new Youth book.

20 min: Hearing the Voice of God and the Voice of Jesus. (Audience discussion using the Bible) In times past Jehovah’s voice has been audibly heard by humans. (Three occasions: [1] Jesus’ baptism. [Mark 1:11] [2] Jesus’ transfiguration. [Mark 9:7] [3] 33 C.E. shortly before Jesus’ last Passover. [John 12:28, 29]) People today can also hear God’s voice. How? Does not require Jehovah to speak in a literal, audible voice. People can hear God’s voice by recognizing and paying attention with obedience to what God has caused to be written in His Word. “Voice” used as applying to “every utterance coming forth through Jehovah’s mouth.” (Matt. 4:4) Similar with voice of Jesus. Called himself the “fine shepherd” whose sheep “listen to his voice, . . . and the sheep follow him, because they know his voice.” (John 10:2-5, 11) Christ’s “sheep” “know” his voice in that they recognize and acknowledge as true what Jesus said, as recorded in the Bible. They refuse to acknowledge the teaching of “strangers,” false shepherds. They obey his commands. How then will people today hear the voices of God and his Chief Shepherd? By hearing God’s commands and principles as set forth in the Scriptures. Who will tell them? Not the clergy! No, but only Jehovah’s Witnesses carry on work of preaching the good news of the Kingdom and teaching Bible truth in all the earth. Though Jesus Christ is not now speaking in person, people can ‘hear his voice’ through visible representatives, even as overseer Paul made appeal as substituting for Christ. (2 Cor. 5:20) When Paul preached in Philippi people listened. (Acts 16:14) How urgent that we carry on this same work today if people are going to hear God’s “voice”! We cannot ourselves judge if people are “sheep” or “goats.” Individuals not predestined for either class. All must hear, and we must continue to preach. (Rom. 10:14) Are there still people in your territory willing to listen? Undoubtedly there are. Continue to preach the Word and let people hear the ‘voices’ of God and of Jesus. Then they can make a decision and in time show whether they are “sheep” who will gain life, or “goats” to be judged by Jesus as worthy of destruction. (Matt. 25:31-46) All of us, whether young or old, can rejoice to share in this unique vocal work.—Matt. 11:29, 30.

13 min: Interview several young publishers who have had good success in placing the Youth book, either at school with youths or teachers, or in field, or by informal witnessing. Find out what they do and have them relate their experiences. Encourage all to use Youth book and call back to see if home Bible studies can be started with young persons in territory. Song 73.

Theocratic School Schedule for 1977

INSTRUCTIONS

During 1977 the School schedule should be conducted in all congregations as follows:

TEXTBOOKS: The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, The Watchtower [w], Awake! [g], Sermon Outlines [so], and the books Aid to Bible Understanding [ad], Good News to Make You Happy [gh], Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook [sg] and Your Youth—Getting the Best out of It [yy] will be the basis for assignments.

INSTRUCTION TALK: No. 1: 15 minutes. This should not be just a summary of the assigned material. It should be a well-developed talk on a chosen theme, assigned to an elder if possible, or, when necessary, to a qualified ministerial servant. The coverage should not be superficial but should provide a presentation that is truly informative and helpful to the congregation.

ORAL REVIEW: 5 minutes. This will immediately follow the No. 1 talk, and will be conducted by the same brother who gave the talk. The review will be conducted, not the following week, but on the same night that the talk is given. The questions asked should help the audience to see clearly the main points covered.

TALK NO. 2: 6 minutes. This is a Bible reading of the assigned material. The reading assignments are short enough to permit the student to present explanatory information in his opening and concluding remarks, and even at fitting intermediate points. Historical background, prophetic or doctrinal significance, application of principles and expressions of appreciation for the wisdom reflected in the text may be included. The talk should be planned in a way that allows for all the assigned verses actually to be read. The allotted time should be fully utilized. The material may be presented as a talk to the congregation, or a boy may read it to his father or to another qualified older brother seated on the platform. The father or other older brother may then use questions to draw from the boy comments on the value of the material or he may offer suggestions with a view to helping him to improve his reading.

TALKS NOS. 3 AND 4: 6 minutes each. These talks are assigned to sisters whenever possible. When delivering one of these talks, the student may be either seated or standing. Although using mainly notes and the Bible, the students, when appropriate, may read excerpts or quotations from the assigned material. One assistant will be scheduled by the school overseer, but additional assistants may be used. Settings could include situations arising at home, in the field service, the congregation or elsewhere; at times the presentation may simply be informative conversation between family members or others. The sister giving the talk may either initiate the conversation to establish the setting or have her assistant(s) do so. Not the setting, but the material should be given prime consideration.

TALK NO. 5: 6 minutes. Assigned preferably to a brother with some experience, it should be a talk to the entire audience. While giving his talk from notes, the speaker, when fitting, may read quotations or pointed excerpts from the assigned material. It will usually be best for the speaker to prepare his talk with the Kingdom Hall audience in mind, so that it will be truly informative and beneficial to those who actually hear it. However, if the material especially lends itself to another practical and suitable setting, the speaker may choose to develop his talk accordingly.

PREPARING TALKS: Where the material makes it possible, talks should follow a well-developed theme. Choose a theme that will allow for the best coverage of the material in the allotted time. Prepare all talks with the points in mind to be considered next on the Speech Counsel slip. When a setting is selected, endeavor to choose one that will show practical use of the material assigned, where that is appropriate.

COUNSEL: Specific counsel on each student talk will be given, following the program of progressive counsel outlined at the bottom of the Speech Counsel slip. Appreciative comments on important points covered by speakers, whether stated by the counselor or elicited from the audience by means of review questions, can help to keep the attention of all focused primarily on the Scriptural information presented. Be careful to use no more than two minutes for counseling each student talk.

TIMING: No talk should go overtime; neither should the counsel. Talks Nos. 2 through 5 will be stopped if necessary when the time is up.

WRITTEN REVIEWS: Periodically a written review will be given. In preparation, review principally the material in ad, gh, sg and yy and complete the assignment of personal Bible reading. Only the Bible may be used during this thirty-minute review. The balance of the hour will be devoted to a discussion of the questions and answers. Each student will check his own paper and, in reading off the answers, the school overseer will concentrate on the more difficult questions, stressing the matter of accurate knowledge and letting the audience turn to the textbooks where the answers may be checked. If, for some reason, local circumstances make it necessary, the written review may be used a week later than what is shown on the schedule.

LARGE AND SMALL CONGREGATIONS: Congregations with a school enrollment of fifty or more students should arrange for additional groups of students to deliver the scheduled talks before other elders, if possible. Rotate the students to the various halls. Where it seems advisable, sisters may take any talk, presenting it to someone else, as outlined for Talks Nos. 3 and 4.

ABSENTEEISM: If a student is not present when scheduled, a volunteer may take the assignment, making whatever application he feels qualified to make on such short notice. Or the school overseer may cover the material with appropriate audience participation.

SCHEDULE

Jan. 2 Bible reading: Genesis 1 to 4

No. 1: ad p. 642 ¶9 to p. 644 ¶6. “Genesis, Book of.”

No. 2: Genesis 2:7-9, 18-25

No. 3: gh pp. 5-9 “Where Can You Find Good News Today?”

No. 4: so 1A “What Will Armageddon Accomplish?”

No. 5: yy chapter 1

Jan. 9 Bible reading: Genesis 5 to 9

No. 1: sg Study No. 1

No. 2: Genesis 6:9-22

No. 3: gh pp. 10-13 “When and by Whom Was the Bible Recorded?”

No. 4: so 3B “Why Do We Need Help to Understand the Bible?”

No. 5: yy chapter 2

Jan. 16 Bible reading: Genesis 10 to 14

No. 1: sg Study No. 2

No. 2: Genesis 13:5-18

No. 3: gh pp. 13, 14 “How Could Imperfect Men Produce God’s Perfect Message?”

No. 4: so 4A “Why Do Christians Not Take Blood Transfusions?”

No. 5: yy chapter 3

Jan. 23 Bible reading: Genesis 15 to 18

No. 1: sg Study No. 3

No. 2: Genesis 17:1-12, 15-17

No. 3: gh pp. 15-18 “Why Can We Be Certain the Bible’s Record Is Accurate?”

No. 4: so 5A “When Did the Times of the Gentiles End?”

No. 5: yy chapter 4

Jan. 30 Bible reading: Genesis 19 to 22

No. 1: sg Study No. 4

No. 2: Genesis 22:1, 2, 6-18

No. 3: gh pp. 19, 20 “What Is the Pentateuch All About?”

No. 4: so 7A “What Are the Bible’s Moral Standards?”

No. 5: yy chapter 5

Feb. 6 Bible reading: Genesis 23 to 26

No. 1: sg Study No. 5

No. 2: Genesis 24:1-10, 15-19

No. 3: gh pp. 20-24 “What Kinds of Books Comprise the Hebrew Scriptures?”

No. 4: so 8A “How the Bible Agrees with Proved Science”

No. 5: yy chapter 6

Feb. 13 Bible reading: Genesis 27 to 30

No. 1: sg Study No. 6

No. 2: Genesis 28:2, 10-22

No. 3: gh pp. 24-28 “What Are the Highlights of the Christian Greek Scriptures?”

No. 4: so 10B “Just What Is the Condition of the Dead?”

No. 5: yy chapter 7

Feb. 20 Bible reading: Genesis 31 to 34

No. 1: sg Study No. 7

No. 2: Genesis 34:1-7, 25-31

No. 3: gh pp. 29-34 “How Does the Bible Help to Solve Problems?”

No. 4: so 12A “How Bible Training Prevents Juvenile Delinquency”

No. 5: yy chapter 8

Feb. 27 Written Review. Complete Genesis 1 to 34

Mar. 6 Bible reading: Genesis 35 to 38

No. 1: sg Study No. 8, p. 39 ¶1 to p. 41 ¶11

No. 2: Genesis 35:2-15

No. 3: gh pp. 34-38 “How Can We Show True Neighbor Love?”

No. 4: so 13B “Who Is the Invisible Ruler of This World?”

No. 5: yy chapter 9

Mar. 13 Bible reading: Genesis 39 to 42

No. 1: sg Study No. 8, p. 41 ¶12 to p. 43 ¶18

No. 2: Genesis 39:7-13, 17-23

No. 3: gh pp. 39-44 “How Was the Good News Preserved?”

No. 4: so 15D “Why Will the Earth Last Forever?”

No. 5: yy chapter 10

Mar. 20 Bible reading: Genesis 43 to 46

No. 1: sg Study No. 9

No. 2: Genesis 44:18-34

No. 3: gh pp. 44-47 “How Has Opposition to Bible Translation Failed?”

No. 4: so 21C “What Are God’s Requirements for Heavenly Life?”

No. 5: yy chapter 11

Mar. 27 Bible reading: Genesis 47 to 50

No. 1: sg Study No. 10

No. 2: Genesis 50:1-3, 12-21

No. 3: gh pp. 48-53 “What Are Some of God’s Qualities and Why Should We Seek After Him?”

No. 4: so 38A “What Does the Lord’s Evening Meal Commemorate and Who May Partake?”

No. 5: yy chapter 12

Apr. 3 Bible reading: Exodus 1 to 4

No. 1: ad p. 547 ¶8 to p. 548 ¶7. “Exodus, Book of.”

No. 2: Exodus 3:6-10, 13-17

No. 3: gh pp. 53, 54 “What Can We Learn from God’s Created Works?”

No. 4: so 20C “What Is the Bible’s View Regarding Modern Faith Healing?”

No. 5: yy chapter 13

Apr. 10 Bible reading: Exodus 5 to 8

No. 1: sg Study No. 11

No. 2: Exodus 6:1-13

No. 3: gh pp. 54-57 “What Does the Bible Tell Us About God’s Name?”

No. 4: so 18C “What Attitude Must Christians Maintain Toward World Affairs?”

No. 5: yy chapter 14

Apr. 17 Bible reading: Exodus 9 to 12

No. 1: sg Study No. 12

No. 2: Exodus 12:1-14

No. 3: gh pp. 58, 59 “How Does Creation Display Jehovah’s Wisdom?”

No. 4: so 22C “In the Scriptures, of What Is Fire a Symbol?”

No. 5: yy chapter 15

Apr. 24 Written Review. Complete Genesis 35-50 to Exodus 1-12

May 1 Bible reading: Exodus 13 to 16

No. 1: sg Study No. 13

No. 2: Exodus 15:1-18

No. 3: gh p. 60 “What Indicates the Length of the Creative Days?”

No. 4: so 24A “Why Is the Use of Images in Worship Displeasing to God?”

No. 5: yy chapter 16

May 8 Bible reading: Exodus 17 to 20

No. 1: sg Study No. 14

No. 2: Exodus 20:1-17

No. 3: gh pp. 61-65 “By What Steps Did God Prepare the Earth for Living Creatures?”

No. 4: so 25A “Why Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Not Practice Interfaith?”

No. 5: yy chapter 17

May 15 Bible reading: Exodus 21 to 24

No. 1: sg Study No. 15

No. 2: Exodus 24:3-18

No. 3: gh pp. 66-70 “In What Order Did God Create Earth’s Living Creatures?”

No. 4: so 26A “To Whom Only Does Bible Interpretation Belong and Why?”

No. 5: yy chapter 18

May 22 Bible reading: Exodus 25 to 28

No. 1: sg Study No. 16

No. 2: Exodus 27:1-19

No. 3: gh pp. 71-74 “What Reasons Have We for Thanking Our Creator?”

No. 4: so 27C “How Does God Testify to His Existence?”

No. 5: yy chapter 19

May 29 Bible reading: Exodus 29 to 32

No. 1: sg Study No. 17

No. 2: Exodus 32:1-4, 7-14

No. 3: gh pp. 75-78 “What Caused Mankind to Lose Its Happiness?”

No. 4: so 27D “What Are Jehovah’s Cardinal Attributes?”

No. 5: yy chapter 20

June 5 Bible reading: Exodus 33 to 36

No. 1: sg Study No. 18

No. 2: Exodus 34:1-10

No. 3: gh pp. 78-80 “What Is the Difference Between Willful and Inherited Sin?”

No. 4: so 28A “What Is the Origin of Jehovah’s Witnesses?”

No. 5: yy chapter 21

June 12 Bible reading: Exodus 37 to 40

No. 1: sg Study No. 19

No. 2: Exodus 40:1-16

No. 3: gh pp. 81-84 “How Did God End a Wicked World in Noah’s Day?”

No. 4: so 29D “How Important Is Belief in Jesus Christ?”

No. 5: yy chapter 22

June 19 Bible reading: Leviticus 1 to 4

No. 1: ad p. 1058 ¶10 to p. 1059 ¶22. “Leviticus, Book of.”

No. 2: Leviticus 2:1-13

No. 3: gh pp. 85-94 “What Happens to Us When We Die?”

No. 4: so 30C “On What Basis Are People Judged Today?”

No. 5: yy chapter 23

June 26 Written Review. Complete Exodus 13-40 to Leviticus 1-4

July 3 Bible reading: Leviticus 5 to 8

No. 1: w73 pp. 533-535; g70 1/8 pp. 12-14

No. 2: Leviticus 8:1-13

No. 3: gh p. 95 “Why Would God Not Torment Creatures?”

No. 4: so 31E “What Kind of Government Is God’s Kingdom?”

No. 5: yy chapter 24

July 10 Bible reading: Leviticus 9 to 12

No. 1: sg Study No. 20

No. 2: Leviticus 10:1-11

No. 3: gh pp. 96-99 “What Is the Origin of the Hell Torment Teaching?”

No. 4: so 32A “What Is Meant by ‘the End of the World’?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 478, 479, Questions from Readers

July 17 Bible reading: Leviticus 13 to 16

No. 1: sg Study No. 21

No. 2: Leviticus 16:3-16

No. 3: gh pp. 100-105 “What Is the Bible’s Position on Torment?”

No. 4: so 34B “To Whom Does God Promise Everlasting Life?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 483-486

July 24 Bible reading: Leviticus 17 to 20

No. 1: sg Study No. 22

No. 2: Leviticus 17:3-14

No. 3: gh pp. 106, 107 “Why Can We Be Certain Unhappiness Will Not Always Continue?”

No. 4: so 36E “Whom Only Should Christians Marry?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 511, 512

July 31 Bible reading: Leviticus 21 to 24

No. 1: sg Study No. 23

No. 2: Leviticus 24:10-23

No. 3: gh pp. 107-109 “What Issue Was Raised in the Garden of Eden?”

No. 4: so 19E “How Can We Best Serve Community Interests?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 515, 516

Aug. 7 Bible reading: Leviticus 25 to 27

No. 1: sg Study No. 24

No. 2: Leviticus 25:1-13

No. 3: gh pp. 110-115 “Who Were Some Outstanding Keepers of Integrity?”

No. 4: so 41A “What Accounts for Christians Being Persecuted?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 517, 518

Aug. 14 Bible reading: Numbers 1 to 4

No. 1: ad p. 1235 ¶2-8. “Numbers, Book of.”

No. 2: Numbers 3:39-51

No. 3: gh pp. 116-121 “Why Did God Send His Son to Earth?”

No. 4: so 43C “What Are God’s Conditions for Hearing Prayer?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 536-538

Aug. 21 Bible reading: Numbers 5 to 8

No. 1: sg Study No. 25

No. 2: Numbers 6:1-8, 21-27

No. 3: gh pp. 121-123 “Who Benefit from Christ’s Sacrifice and What Are Their Destinies?”

No. 4: so 44A “What Obligations Rest Upon All Christians?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 556-559

Aug. 28 Written Review. Complete Leviticus 5-27 to Numbers 1-8

Sept. 4 Bible reading: Numbers 9 to 12

No. 1: sg Study No. 26

No. 2: Numbers 12:1-15

No. 3: gh pp. 124-126 “What Kind of Worship Does God Approve?”

No. 4: so 46A “Why Is There No Excuse for Racial Prejudice?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 579-581

Sept. 11 Bible reading: Numbers 13 to 16

No. 1: sg Study No. 27

No. 2: Numbers 14:11-25

No. 3: gh pp. 126-129 “What Kind of Worship Does God Not Approve?”

No. 4: so 47A “Of What Benefit Is Christ’s Sacrifice?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 581-584

Sept. 18 Bible reading: Numbers 17 to 20

No. 1: sg Study No. 28

No. 2: Numbers 17:1-11

No. 3: gh pp. 129-132 “In What Activities Will True Worshipers Share?”

No. 4: so 48B “How Can the True Religion Be Identified?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 584-588

Sept. 25 Bible reading: Numbers 21 to 24

No. 1: sg Study No. 29

No. 2: Numbers 22:20-34

No. 3: gh pp. 133, 134 “How Can Superstitions Lead to Unhappiness?”

No. 4: so 48G “Why Is It Not Wrong to Condemn False Doctrines?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 636-639

Oct. 2 Bible reading: Numbers 25 to 28

No. 1: sg Study No. 30

No. 2: Numbers 25:1-15

No. 3: gh pp. 135-140 “How Can We Protect Ourselves from Spiritism?”

No. 4: so 49A “What Hope Does the Bible Hold Out for the Dead?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 643-646

Oct. 9 Bible reading: Numbers 29 to 32

No. 1: sg Study No. 31

No. 2: Numbers 30:3-15

No. 3: gh pp. 141-145 “What Are Some of the Prophecies That Foretold God’s Kingdom?”

No. 4: so 50A “How Do We Know Christ’s Return or Presence Will Be Invisible?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 647, 648

Oct. 16 Bible reading: Numbers 33 to 36

No. 1: sg Study No. 32

No. 2: Numbers 35:9-25

No. 3: gh pp. 144, 146-150 “What Shows that Earth’s New King Is Invisibly Present?”

No. 4: so 51A “Why Are Christians Not Required to Keep a Sabbath Day?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 664-666

Oct. 23 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 1 to 4

No. 1: ad p. 444 ¶11 to p. 446 ¶2. “Deuteronomy, Book of.”

No. 2: Deuteronomy 1:6-21

No. 3: gh pp. 151-154 “What Paradise Do God’s People Enjoy Today?”

No. 4: so 52C “What Does It Mean to Be ‘Born Again’?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 675, 676

Oct. 30 Written Review. Complete Numbers 9-36 to Deuteronomy 1-4

Nov. 6 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 5 to 8

No. 1: sg Study No. 33

No. 2: Deuteronomy 6:4-19

No. 3: gh pp. 155-159 “What Paradise Awaits Obedient Mankind?”

No. 4: so 53B “Why Cannot Men Look to Science for Salvation?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 698, 699

Nov. 13 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 9 to 12

No. 1: sg Study No. 34

No. 2: Deuteronomy 10:8-19

No. 3: gh pp. 160-165 “What Is God’s Purpose Regarding Marriage?”

No. 4: so 54F “What Is Sin Against God’s Holy Spirit?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 700-702

Nov. 20 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 13 to 16

No. 1: sg Study No. 35

No. 2: Deuteronomy 13:1-16

No. 3: gh pp. 166-173 “How Can Children Be Made ‘Wise for Salvation’?”

No. 4: so 55B “What Is the Distinction Between Soul and Spirit?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 707, 708

Nov. 27 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 17 to 21

No. 1: sg Study No. 36

No. 2: Deuteronomy 18:9-22

No. 3: gh pp. 174-176 “How Does God’s Word Help Us to Realize Happiness?”

No. 4: so 56A “What Is God’s Holy Spirit or Active Force?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 709-712

Dec. 4 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 22 to 25

No. 1: sg Study No. 37, p. 181 ¶1 to p. 183 ¶14

No. 2: Deuteronomy 23:9-23

No. 3: gh pp. 177-179 “From What Things Must We Abstain?”

No. 4: so 57B “How Does the New World Translation Aid Us to Understand the Bible?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 713, 714

Dec. 11 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 26 to 29

No. 1: sg Study No. 37, p. 184 ¶15 to p. 187 ¶34

No. 2: Deuteronomy 28:1-14

No. 3: gh pp. 179-182 “What Should Love Motivate Us to Do?”

No. 4: so 58B “How Do We Know that Jesus Always Was and Always Will Be Subject to His Father?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 739, 740

Dec. 18 Bible reading: Deuteronomy 30 to 34

No. 1: sg Study No. 38

No. 2: Deuteronomy 32:1-14, 43

No. 3: gh pp. 183-190 “What Prospects Give God’s People Grounds for Joy?”

No. 4: so 59D “Why Has Jehovah Permitted Wickedness?”

No. 5: w75 pp. 741-744

Dec. 25 Written Review. Complete Deuteronomy 5 to 34

New Study Program

¹ At our weekly congregation book study we are currently using the Man’s Salvation book. It appears that most of the congregations will be able to complete their study of this book by the end of November. Therefore, beginning with December the Peace and Security book will be used for six months. After that it is planned that we will study the Holy Spirit book for the next six months.

² So that there will be uniformity in the study of these books throughout the country, a schedule will appear each month in Our Kingdom Service beginning with December, listing the pages to be studied each week during that month. This will help to keep some from dragging out the lessons and others from hurrying through the material too fast. Also, this uniformity will be of aid when any brothers visit another congregation, as when on a vacation, for they will always know where the lesson is for any book study evening. This will also prove helpful to the presiding overseer as he may visit different book study groups as well as to the circuit overseer as he goes from one congregation to another.

³ If for any reason, such as assembly time or severe weather problems, a study is not held, the section scheduled for that week can be combined with the material scheduled for the following week. In such instances not all paragraphs have to be read, so that the study is completed within the hour.

Suggested Presentation

Eccl. 11:9, 10.

Magazine Supply

Each congregation should give careful attention to the ordering of magazines. It is good to order what you need. Quantities can be adjusted as the needs increase or decrease. It is good not to run out of magazines. At the same time, it is not good to have magazines accumulate, thus wasting paper.

When offering current magazines, it is appropriate to ask for the contribution. Our experience has proved that publications are viewed as of greater value by the individuals who contribute for them.

Announcements

● Literature offer for November: Youth book or other small book, for 25c. Also, tract distribution. December: New World Translation and Good News book, for $1.25. January: Watchtower subscription, with three booklets, for $1.50.

● When recommendations are sent in by letter for appointment of elders, ministerial servants or pioneers, it will be appreciated if these are always signed by the congregation committee. If someone is away and cannot sign, please give the explanation. In most cases, of course, these recommendations are sent in on S-2 forms at the time of the circuit overseer’s visit.

● New Publications Available:

Good News to Make You Happy—English, German, Spanish

Holy Spirit—The Force Behind the Coming New Order!—English, Spanish

Your Youth—Getting the Best out of It—English, German, Spanish

A Secure Future—How You Can Find It—Finnish, Greek, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish

Is There a God Who Cares?—Finnish, Greek, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish

There Is Much More to Life!—Finnish, Greek, Italian, Swedish

● The price for all Watchtower and Awake! binders is now $2.00 to congregations and public, and $1.75 to pioneers.

● When ordering the 1977 Yearbook, publishers and pioneers are requested to do so through the congregation with which they are associated. Orders for the Yearbook in the following languages may be placed after the dates listed. December 1 — English. December 20 — French, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish. January 20 — Dutch, German, Korean. Yearbooks are 50 cents each for publishers. These are cash items and so payment must accompany all orders along with a Remittance and Credit Request form. Regular and special pioneers on the list before July 1, 1976, may receive a free Yearbook by making request of the brother handling the literature. This will be included in the congregation’s order, and credit may be requested from the Society for the pioneers’ copies. Pioneers may obtain additional copies at 15 cents each.

1977 School Schedule

¹ The Theocratic School Schedule for 1977 is being sent with this issue of Our Kingdom Service. This schedule should prove to be especially helpful to all those who enrolled in recent years. Note that the School Guidebook will furnish the Instruction Talk material throughout the year. Thus all will become more familiar with the School Guidebook. The Theocratic School has two objectives: (1) To improve our ability to present Bible truth, and (2) to make us more familiar with God’s Word, its doctrines and principles.

² The student talks will feature Sermon Outlines, the Youth book and the Good News book. By our going through these two books received at our district assemblies, all will personally profit thereby, as well as be helped in offering these books to others. Presiding overseers should check to see that the congregation has sufficient Sermon Outlines on hand, and if not, should order these at once.

Presenting the Good News—With the Youth Book

¹ It is our wish to see the young people get the best out of their youth. The new book about youth will be a great help to young people, and we want to get it into their hands. Also, it will help parents and grandparents who have much to do with young people. You may already have in mind some points to use in presenting the Youth book and you are welcome to use them. We do not want always to leave the door as soon as somebody accepts a book. Keep in mind that our real desire is to start Bible discussions where circumstances so allow. Following are some suggestions that may be helpful.

² To open a presentation the question might be asked, “Did you realize that half of the world’s population now is under twenty years of age? All of us should be interested in the youth today. The Creator certainly is and he wants them to enjoy life. [Read the first part of Ecclesiastes 11:9.] But do we see all of the young people truly happy in these days? They face many pressures in life; there are many traps and pitfalls that take away happiness. Many of their problems can be avoided if they know what the Creator has to say. [See Youth book, page 144.] Knowledge is a protection. Knowledge of God’s Word is especially beneficial at this time. It can protect the youth from disappointment and calamity. [Read Ecclesiastes 11:10 and introduce the book.]”

³ If the person being spoken to is a youth, then instead of speaking about the youth or young people, you can say ‘you’ and you may wish to include the first part of Ecclesiastes 12:1.

⁴ In speaking either to youths or to adults the question might be asked, “What do you believe is the greatest problem facing young people today?” There may be a variety of responses, depending upon the personal experience of the one to whom you speak. If it is the danger of drugs, then we have Chapter 15. If someone feels that there is really no future for the youth today, there is Chapter 24. Really, whatever the response may be, we should have in mind an appropriate chapter in the book.

⁵ If an older person comes to the door, we may wish to inquire as to whether there are any teen-agers living in the home. If the response is in the affirmative, we may point out that many people do not realize that half of the world’s population today is under twenty years of age. Then go into the presentation of Ecclesiastes 11:9, as outlined above, and follow up by showing that we are all interested in youths and want to help them to get the best out of their lives. For that reason this book has been published. It has proved to be a great help to adults in counseling and dealing with youths, and because of its contents, many parents and grandparents are presenting a copy to each one of their children or grandchildren as an aid in making a success of his or her personal life. Reference can be made to the table of contents. It may be said that many parents have found it difficult to raise these subjects with youths, so the book has proved an invaluable aid. Chapters are arranged with subheadings, and groups of paragraphs under the subheading can be read and then discussed together with the young people.

⁶ No doubt publishers who are parents will be enthusiastic in recommending this new publication to other parents. Here is a suggestion they could use: “As a parent surely you will agree that rearing children today presents many challenges. I have certainly found that to be the case. Many parents wonder how they can follow the Bible’s advice to ‘train up a boy according to the way for him,’ found at Proverbs 22:6. A fine help for parents is this new publication Your Youth—Getting the Best out of It. Note some of these chapter titles in the table of contents. [Mention several chapters that would be of local interest.] I am sure you will find this Bible study aid a help to you as a parent in teaching your teen-age children as well as something of great interest to them. [Then introduce the book.]”

⁷ The following might be helpful in determining which book to offer: “We are calling because people are interested in improving the quality of daily life. May I inquire if there are any teen-age children living in the home at this time? [If so, then present Youth book. If not, then continue by saying:] We have something special for youth. However, we have information that will be of great benefit to you. Many people wonder if the time will ever come as described at Revelation 21:3, 4, in the Bible. [Read verses.] Since this promise of a better life under better conditions comes from God himself, we can be sure it will come to pass. The first chapter [turn to it] in this Bible study aid [Truth book] entitled ‘Grand Blessings from God Near at Hand!’ will help you to learn when and how these better conditions will come.”

⁸ May you have much joy and many blessings presenting the good news with the Youth book in the field service during November.

Theocratic News

◆ Many brothers in Spain who had been imprisoned for several years because of their integrity were recently released from prison due to an amnesty proclaimed by the king of Spain. It is reported that many of them will return to full-time service in the Spanish field.

◆ Mexico reports a new peak of 84,065 publishers for June. It would have been even better but, due to heavy rains and flooding in many parts of the country, they have not received 240 reports. Although some brothers lost their belongings, none have lost their lives and help has been provided for those in need.

◆ Although there are still about 27 congregations to report for June, in Benin the number of Bible studies being conducted is reported as 270, which is an increase of 18 percent.

◆ Upper Volta is happy to report 62 publishers, their 7th new peak in the service year. This represents a 41-percent increase over last June. A new peak of 3,312 in magazine placements was reached.

Question Box

● Is it proper that the body of elders arrange for musical accompaniment for congregational singing other than using the Society’s recordings?

This is a matter for decision by the body of elders. Accompaniment for singing does help the congregation to sing well. Some congregations may not have record players to use in playing the Society’s recordings. Where qualified persons with musical talent are available, many congregations prefer to have piano or other instrumental accompaniment. It would not be good to try to use someone who does not really know how to play an instrument well.

When recordings are used, care should be used to replace worn-out or damaged records, thus maintaining the high standard of the meetings that should be found in the congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

August Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

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

Sp’l Pios. 662 117.0 41.1 4.3 115.8

Pios. 16,175 85.6 31.1 2.8 78.2

Temp. Pios. 5,853 69.1 18.1 1.1 64.5

Pubs. 510,452 8.8 3.8 .4 11.5

TOTAL 533,142

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 2,922

UNITED STATES GOAL FOR 1976

588,242 Publishers