February

Meetings for Field Service

FEBRUARY 2-8

When witnessing in cold or inclement weather:

1. What can we say that may assist us in getting into homes?

2. How can we show consideration for householders?

3. How can we show consideration for publishers working with us?

FEBRUARY 9-15

When presenting literature, why is it good to:

1. Highlight specific point or illustration from publication?

2. Show how publication will specifically help householder?

3. Hand publication to person?

FEBRUARY 16-22

Why should we be concerned about the appearance of:

1. Our copy of the Bible?

2. Our book bag?

3. The literature that we offer?

FEBRUARY 23–MARCH 1

Why is it beneficial for us to work in field service with:

1. The elders and ministerial servants?

2. The pioneers?

3. Less experienced publishers and youths?

Congregation Book Study

Schedule for congregation studies in the book God’s Kingdom of a Thousand Years Has Approached:

February 1: Pages 41 to 49*

February 8: Pages 49* to 56†

February 15: Pages 57 to 64†

February 22: Pages 65 to 72*

* To or from subheading.

† Include last paragraph on page.

Have Love for the Whole Association of Brothers

¹ “If you were part of the world, the world would be fond of what is its own. Now because you are no part of the world . . . the world hates you.” (John 15:19) With those words Jesus Christ told his followers about one of the problems in life that Christians would face, namely, the hatred of the world under the influence and control of Satan the Devil. History bears out the truth of those words. That hatred was expressed in all its fury against Jesus who was impaled at the hands of those of “the world” under the direction of Satan. And it has been expressed since that time against the followers of Jesus earth wide right down to our present generation.

² Since there would be this intense hatred from the world, it can readily be appreciated that when Jesus gave the commandment to his disciples to love one another it would take on great meaning in their lives. In fact, Jesus said: “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.” (John 13:35) The need for this love becomes more and more apparent, living, as we are, deep in the time of the end.

OVERCOMING DIFFERENCES

³ Due to our imperfection there may be times when we fail to express love for our brothers. There may be differences in personality, individual likes and dislikes, differences in cultural background, and so on. When we encounter such differences we need to consider seriously the race for life into which all of us as followers of Christ have entered. While it is easy to find weaknesses and imperfections in our brothers, if we have the mind of Christ we will look to find their strong points, those areas in life where they are striving to exhibit faith and godly works. We will recognize that we, too, have certain traits that are not necessarily admired by others, and yet we want understanding of our weaknesses.

⁴ Paul, in Colossians 3:13, 14, said this: “Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely if anyone has a cause for complaint against another. Even as Jehovah freely forgave you, so do you also. But, besides all these things, clothe yourselves with love, for it is a perfect bond of union.” We need to remember that a spiritual person is distinguished by his readiness to demonstrate love toward his brothers, “putting up with” them.

WAYS TO SHOW LOVING CONCERN

⁵ As spiritual persons we can seek ways to show our love for the whole association of brothers. One of the primary steps required is to get acquainted with them, come to know something of their background, personality and way of life. Try to understand why they say and do things in a certain way.

⁶ It is also good to find ways to share with them in some form of the preaching and disciple-making work. Working with them from door to door and in other features of the ministry, seeing their zeal for Jehovah, perhaps understanding some of the problems they may face in sharing in certain service activity—all of this will enhance our Christian love and concern for them. In this way we will also have opportunity to exchange experiences, the joys, the problems encountered in doing the Kingdom work as part of the earth-wide association of brothers. Thus we can come to enjoy an interchange of encouragement.—Rom. 1:11, 12.

⁷ And there is the opportunity at times to visit with others, inviting them to our home, if possible, or going to their home. The more we come to appreciate the common work and service we all share together as brothers, the more we will come to have love for the whole association of brothers and care for one another.

⁸ This broadened view will promote unity and cooperation in the congregation. When others visit, or newly interested ones attend our meetings, they will be impressed by the warmth of loving consideration that all have for each other. Seeing this will be of assistance to them in coming out of the world, a world that will hate them for leaving it in favor of association with those who have found the true faith.

⁹ How comforting and heartwarming it is to be able to say: ‘Yes, this world hates me, even as Jesus said, but my brothers, the whole association of them earth wide, love me and I love them.’ How grateful we can be for that! By examining our own love for our brothers we can see where there is need for improvement so that in deed and in truth all will know we are disciples of the Master, Jesus Christ.

Part IV—Congregation Meetings: A Provision to Help Us Make Disciples

¹ Jesus Christ was a disciple-maker! He also taught his disciples to share in the preaching and disciple-making work as well. (Matt. 10:5; 11:1) Those early disciples recognized the importance of sharing the truth with others in compliance with Jesus’ command as recorded at Matthew 28:19, 20.

² Likewise, today, the heartfelt desire of each Christian should be to influence others to follow Jesus Christ and become his disciples. What a grand privilege we have to engage in ‘publicly declaring’ the truth of God’s Word in a manner worthy of the “good news.” (Rom. 10:9, 10, 13, 14) If we appreciate that our salvation as well as that of those to whom we preach is at stake, we will be moved to share whole-souled in this lifesaving work. (1 Tim. 4:16; Acts 20:26, 27) This will enhance our appreciation for the numerous provisions that stimulate our desire to share fully in the preaching and disciple-making work. One of these provisions is the service meeting.

BENEFITS RECEIVED

³ Information presented on the service meeting serves to build us up spiritually and equips us to share more zealously and effectively in the preaching and disciple-making work. Consider specific ways in which we personally benefit.

⁴ We are encouraged to participate regularly in the house-to-house work, not only because of this fine apostolic example, but also because of the fine results obtained. Our Kingdom Service often provides detailed presentations that we can use in the field. Suggestions are given showing how to start conversations, use tact, adapt ourselves to different situations, and so forth. Additionally, we are shown how we can assist our brothers to become more effective.

⁵ Service meetings also help us to appreciate better our responsibility to return and help persons who display an interest in the truth. We have been shown why we need to keep accurate records of interest found, how to prepare for these calls, and how to use the Bible effectively in teaching sheeplike persons. Have not these suggestions aided us to be more concerned about people and our responsibility toward those who respond?

⁶ Conducting Bible studies has also been given considerable attention. What will help more of us to share in this privilege of service? In an article entitled “Is Your Witnessing Purposeful?” in the April 1979, Our Kingdom Service, the question was raised: “Do we make the finding of sheeplike ones and the desire for a Bible study a subject of our prayers? (1 John 5:14) After praying, do we become easily discouraged if such prayers seemingly go unanswered for a time? Or, do we persevere in our prayers and work in harmony with what we are praying for?” Many apply the fine suggestions and encouragement given at service meetings with respect to the Bible study activity. Are you doing so? If so, has it not made you a more effective teacher?

⁷ Practical suggestions about informal witnessing have enabled many of us to take advantage of daily opportunities to give a Kingdom witness. Have you enjoyed interesting experiences by witnessing informally? What particular suggestions helped you?

⁸ Much attention has been given to the needs of young people. Service meetings have pointed out how they can develop spiritually, share fully in field activity and cope with problems at school or in divided households. Many youths have expressed appreciation for program parts that were designed especially for them.

ADVANCE PREPARATION NEEDED

⁹ Elders and ministerial servants should prepare program parts well and employ the art of teaching. Endeavor to follow closely the direction outlined in the section “Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples.” When preparing your assignment, ask yourself: Why is this part appropriate, and how can I make it helpful and applicable to the congregation? What are the main points that the audience should learn? What methods should I employ to teach effectively? (or, pp. 97, 98) The presiding overseer may provide assigned brothers with helpful suggestions, as needed.

¹⁰ After receiving a new issue of Our Kingdom Service, it is good to read it through. Later make a more careful study of the printed information in preparation for each week’s service meeting. Where audience participation is called for, be prepared to comment. (Heb. 10:23, 24) Such participation builds up faith and is an expression of our love for the brothers and for Jehovah. It also aids us in retaining points we have learned so that we can apply them in the field and in our daily life.

¹¹ So, there are many good reasons to do our utmost to derive the fullest possible benefit from the service meeting. It is one of the provisions designed to help us to accomplish our disciple-making work and to gain divine approval.—2 Tim. 2:15.

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING FEBRUARY 1

Song 25

20 min: Question-and-answer coverage of insert material on “Attend the 1981 District Convention.”

15 min: “Presenting the Good News—By Making Return Visits.” An elder and a ministerial servant discuss information, involving audience. Have capable teacher demonstrate return visits by calling back on interested person. Review key points of presentation with congregation, stressing need for advance preparation.

10 min: Review current Topic for Conversation with congregation, illustrating how current literature offer can be effectively tied into Bible presentation. Highlight specific points such as chapters and illustrations that can be used from 192-page books congregation has in stock. Highlight service arrangements for week. Local announcements. Remind all to review chapters 14 and 15 from Happiness book to be covered in public talk.

Song 8 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING FEBRUARY 8

Song 108

12 min: Accounts report and other announcements, including field service arrangements for congregation. Consider Question Box.

18 min: “Have Love for the Whole Association of Brothers.” Questions and answers. On paragraph six, ask audience how they have found it helpful working with others in the service and in other ways.

15 min: “We Need Jehovah’s Organization.” Talk by elder. For source material consult Watchtower, December 15, 1962, pages 758-763; Watchtower, July 1, 1979, pages 20-30. In conclusion, encourage all to review chapters 16 and 17 of Happiness book in preparation for this week’s public talk.

Song 65 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING FEBRUARY 15

Song 102

5 min: Announcements and field service arrangements.

17 min: “Congregation Meetings—Part IV.” Questions and answers. Highlight section “Advance Preparation Needed” and apply material to local needs.

13 min: “Directing People to the Christian Congregation.” Discussion and demonstration by brother who takes lead in Bible study activity. Jesus was appointed by his Father as head of Christian congregation. (Eph. 1:22, 23) He appointed a “faithful and discreet slave” class to care for his interests on earth. (Matt. 24:45-47) Individual Christians must recognize arrangement and work closely with organization. (Isa. 2:2, 3; Heb. 10:23, 24) It is recommended that we develop a regular program of progressively directing students to organization. A few minutes can be taken at conclusion of weekly study to do so. Subjects can be considered, such as location and function of Kingdom Hall; purpose of each meeting and how conducted; no collections at meetings (Matt. 6:2, 3); appointed elders have no titles (Matt. 23:8-10); all in congregation share in witnessing and teaching (Acts 8:1, 4). What other topics can be considered? What visual aids could be used? Why is it necessary for students to learn function of the organization on both global and local scale?

Have demonstration of qualified publisher directing student to organization by covering a specific point outlined above. Review key points, as time allows.

10 min: Talk on subject “Share Regularly in Magazine Distribution.” It is vital that we appreciate the part The Watchtower and Awake! have in spreading the good news of the Kingdom. Even though persons may have limited interest in our message, they are often willing to accept magazines. Distribution has increased during last service year. (Note current Yearbook.) A constant effort is being put forth to make magazines more interesting and appealing. Are we making full use of this provision? All will want to have a regular share in magazine activity. Select specific theme that ties in with a preselected article or subject from current issues. Highlight illustrations. (Illustrate talking points from current issues.) Young publishers can be effective in placing magazines. Prepare and participate in this activity as a family. While congregations may have arrangements for publishers to participate in the magazine activity every Saturday, it is suggested that all make special effort to share in some feature of magazine distribution on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, whether it be regular house-to-house or store-to-store work, engaging in street work, or building up a magazine route. All will want to endeavor to be magazine conscious, appreciating the full value of these publications.

Encourage congregation to review chapters 18 to 20 in Happiness book in preparation for public talk.

Song 99 and prayer.

WEEK STARTING FEBRUARY 22

Song 73

10 min: Announcements and field service arrangements. Consider main points of articles “Making Good Use of Circuit Overseer’s Report” and “Unworked Territory.”

15 min: “Dating and Courtship.” Based on Youth book, chapter 19. Talk and demonstration by brother who is a parent, if possible. It is normal for single persons to think of courtship and marriage. It is vital, however, that those contemplating marriage follow Bible principles and endeavor to please Jehovah. Be careful not to imitate spirit of world. (Gal. 5:19-21) Follow direction of Christian parents and elders.—Phil. 4:8, 9; Eph. 6:1.

Demonstration: Father and teenage son consider subject of dating. Son respectfully asks why he cannot date as others do. Father kindly gives direction, using material from Youth book, pages 142-151. Purpose of dating. Why many young people want to date. Dangers of pairing off together. Premature dating can hinder one’s development. Reason with son on Bible principles involved.

Chairman reviews basic points considered. Frankly outline need for engaged couples likewise to maintain wholesome conduct during courtship. (Youth book, pp. 152-156) Invite congregation to comment on practical value of heeding Scriptural counsel during dating and courtship.

10 min: “Marry ‘Only in the Lord.’” Talk based on Awake! of March 22, 1979, pages 27, 28. Highlight blessings received from heeding Scriptural direction.

10 min: Interview two publishers who have recently participated in the auxiliary pioneer work. Outline how they were able to adjust their schedule to pioneer even though having responsibilities similar to many in congregation. Also encourage all to participate in field service next Sunday, the first Sunday in March.

Song 70 and prayer.

Attend the 1981 District Convention

¹ “Kingdom Loyalty” District Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses. What a fine theme to stimulate our desire to attend the 1981 district convention! With worsening conditions and nationalism abounding in the world, how necessary that faithful Christians assemble together to strengthen their loyalty to Jehovah and his kingdom. (Heb. 10:23-25) A truly fine opportunity will be afforded to meet together with thousands of loyal brothers and sisters at over 100 locations this coming summer, as listed in the February 15 Watchtower (English). Additionally, we are providing the following necessary information to enable you to make your arrangements to attend, as well as to assist others who may need help to be there with you.

ROOMING ARRANGEMENTS

² Last year the Society instituted a new system of rooming for district conventions in order to assist everyone needing accommodations and to simplify the overall rooming operation. (See Our Kingdom Service, February 1980.) For the most part, this arrangement proved to be very beneficial for all concerned and will be used again this year.

³ Under this arrangement you will make all your own arrangements directly with the hotel/motel. In most cases you will pay much less than the regular rates charged by that hotel/motel since the convention has arranged for a large number of rooms to be set aside for this purpose. Already many managers of good quality hotels and motels in the convention cities have been approached and the best rates possible have been negotiated with them for those attending each convention. A number of rooms in each of these hotels and motels have been blocked off to be assigned by the hotel/motel only to those identifying themselves as Jehovah’s Witnesses or as delegates attending the Watchtower Convention. In most cases, by the middle of January 1981, your congregation will have received a list of hotels and motels in the convention city that are cooperating closely with the Society’s rooming arrangement. It will show the address of the facility, its agreed-upon rates to those attending the convention and the phone number to be used in making your reservations, along with other information.

⁴ WHAT YOU SHOULD DO: As soon as your congregation receives the list of hotels and motels from the convention organization, you should select the facility where you would prefer to stay. Then phone the hotel or motel immediately, identifying yourself as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses or as a delegate attending the Watchtower Convention. Doing so will qualify you for the agreed-upon rates listed. One night’s deposit (credit card, cashier’s check or money order) will be required at all locations and should be sent to them as soon as your reservations are confirmed. This deposit should be sent to the hotel or motel directly, well in advance of the cutoff date listed on the sheet(s) received from the rooming department. Motels and/or hotels are not obligated to hold the rooms without a deposit or extend the special rates beyond the cutoff date. If you find it necessary to cancel your accommodation you should write or phone the hotel/motel directly, doing so as far in advance as possible. This makes the room available to other delegates who may desire the accommodation. The convention rooming department will be monitoring the arrangement and will provide additional information through the congregation, such as which hotels/motels are filled after a month or two, as well as any additional ones it may find necessary to add to the list. Remember, therefore, that it will be your responsibility to contact the hotel/motel and make reservations based on the information provided on the list. If the hotel/motel you call first is filled, then it will be necessary for you to call the next one you have selected from the list, and so on.

⁵ DORMITORIES: A few conventions find it necessary to use school dormitories in order to accommodate all those attending. In most cases, the congregations will receive information on these a month or so after the first hotel/motel listing is sent. Those needing accommodations of this type should follow through in accord with the instructions set out on the list that will be sent to the congregation by the convention rooming department.

⁶ SPECIAL NEEDS: Most arrangements to care for those with special needs have customarily originated at the local congregation where such ones attend. Elders and others who are aware of such circumstances have lovingly extended help, which is commendable. This has often involved taking others with them in their own group—those in full-time service, the elderly, infirm or needy ones. Also they have cared for their needs in other ways, such as assisting them in making arrangements or even aiding them financially, if possible and where needed. (Jas. 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17, 18) We are confident that such loving concern will continue to be shown to all such loyal ones. (John 13:35; Gal. 6:10) However, the convention rooming department will function to provide rooming accommodations for those with special needs who can neither be cared for by themselves nor by those in the congregation where they attend. Such ones may ask the convention coordinator in their congregation for a Special Needs Room Request Form, discussing their situation with him at this time. Those with special needs are the only ones that should use this form. They should fill it out and return it to the convention coordinator to be checked for completeness, accuracy and verification of circumstances. Even though he forwards it to the convention rooming department, the individual(s) will be notified of the accommodations directly by the rooming department. This should be done well ahead of the convention. (The one with special needs should not simply go to the convention and request a room when he arrives, because the convention rooming department needs the congregation convention coordinator’s verification of the circumstances.) Both private homes and hotel/motel accommodations will be used in caring for those with special needs, according to their circumstances. Please keep in mind that private home accommodations listed by the convention are usually set aside for those with limited funds who would experience real hardship if such accommodations were not made available. They are not intended for those who want free or inexpensive rooms just to save money, such as for a vacation. Also, private home accommodations are for the convention period only. It hardly seems proper to presume upon the hospitality of our brothers by expecting them to accommodate delegates for extra days so as to visit vacation spots or do other things in the area before or after the convention.

⁷ DELEGATES ATTENDING OUT OF THE ASSIGNED AREA: District conventions are arranged at many locations to reduce the travel required in order to attend. In nearly every case, the location recommended for you to attend is the one nearest your congregation. Seating, literature, food orders, and so forth, are planned on the premise that the great majority will attend the convention to which they are assigned. However, a few for various reasons may choose to attend a location other than the one recommended for their congregation. Such individuals may ask the convention coordinator in their congregation for the address of the convention headquarters where they wish to attend. These addresses are listed on the back of the Special Needs Room Request Form. Unless these persons have special needs, they should not use the Special Needs Room Request Form. Rather, they should write to the convention headquarters and request a copy of the hotel/motel listing for that location, sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope along with this request. Upon receipt of this listing of hotels/motels they should proceed just as if they were using the listing for their local area.

⁸ YOUR COOPERATION APPRECIATED: The smoothness with which this rooming arrangement functions will largely depend on the cooperation of everyone involved—the convention rooming department, the hotels and motels, the elders serving as convention coordinators and those being accommodated. It would be good to keep two things in mind in order to avoid a problem. If a number of delegates attempt to make hotel/motel reservations on their own before receiving the listing of facilities that are cooperating with the convention rooming department, it could cause a breakdown in some negotiations. This could occur at locations used year after year where brothers, based on rumor or assumption, have been accustomed to making very early reservations. Also, it could result in difficulties if a large number of delegates choose not to use the hotels and motels listed but, for one reason or another, make their own arrangements with facilities that have not cooperated fully with the convention rooming arrangement. We hope to make the listing broad enough to give a choice of good quality accommodations and yet give preference to the hotels/motels that give the best cooperation. Our aim with this rooming arrangement is to see that delegates are accommodated as comfortably and economically as possible, according to their circumstances, so as to be refreshed and able to enjoy fully the fine spiritual benefits of the program.

SELECTING YOUR CONVENTION

⁹ It is our hope that every lover of Jehovah will be in attendance at the “Kingdom Loyalty” District Convention, if at all possible. In most cases, you will be attending at the location nearest to your congregation, or where two or more conventions are being held at the same location, on the dates recommended for your circuit or portion thereof. Please find listed on page 6, in date order, each convention city and the circuits, or portions thereof, recommended to attend each convention.

¹⁰ Those circuits in the chart marked with an asterisk (*) may have some congregations located a little closer to another convention city, but it would be best, if possible, to attend at the location indicated so as to prevent unnecessary crowding.

¹¹ Where the chart indicates that a portion of a circuit attend at a particular location, such as ^1⁄2 or ^1⁄4, it simply means that those congregations in the part of the circuit closest to that convention would attend where indicated, but the rest of the circuit would attend another convention closest to them as shown elsewhere on the list.

¹² Your determination to be among those attending the “Kingdom Loyalty” District Convention will bring rich rewards as Jehovah blesses your efforts. May your joy be made complete by planning to be present for every session from beginning to end, all four days.

TO THE BODY OF ELDERS

Upon receipt of this insert, it will be the responsibility of the convention coordinator to meet together with the presiding overseer before the next service meeting. They can determine from the circuit list shown which city and dates their congregation is to attend, based on the circuit or portion thereof that the congregation is in as of the end of February. (If the coordinator is caring for both positions, he should meet with another member of the congregation service committee.) Where a fraction of a circuit (^1⁄2, ^1⁄4, and so forth) is involved, they should determine whether their congregation is part of the fraction nearest to that convention and, if so, plan on attending there. Then please announce at the next service meeting as well as the following Watchtower study the location and dates recommended by the Society for the congregation. It may be good to underline on the circuit list the recommended convention city and dates the congregation is to attend and post that portion of the insert on the information board for the benefit of the congregation.

In nearly every case, the elder serving as the convention coordinator will be conducting the service meeting part covering this insert as scheduled, as well as making other announcements and handling convention material on the meetings. This will serve to acquaint the congregation with their convention coordinator, as well as better enable him to coordinate convention matters. When covering this insert on the service meeting, it would be good to have a qualified brother read the key numbered paragraphs that apply to your congregation.

All the elders should be informed as to convention arrangements. They will want to cooperate fully, offering suggestions to assure the prompt, enthusiastic and effective handling of convention-related material. We appreciate very much your enthusiastic support of and kind attention to these matters.

1981 DISTRICT CONVENTIONS

JUNE 11-14:

Augusta, GA: Ga. ^1⁄4 3, ^1⁄3 8; S.C. ^1⁄2 1, ^1⁄2 2, ^1⁄3 3.

Beaumont, TX: La. 1-B; Tex. 4, 12-B*.

Cicero, IL: Ill. 2, 9, 12; Mich. 4-B; Wis. 4-B.

Jacksonville, FL: Fla. 3, ^1⁄4 5, ^1⁄3 11, 12; Ga. ^1⁄3 7.

Los Angeles, CA (Japanese also): Calif. 1-A, ^2⁄3 1-B, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 20, 21, 24, 28, 33, 35, 37; Nev. ^1⁄2 2.

Phoenix, AZ: Ariz. 1, 2-B, 3, 5; Calif. ^1⁄3 1-B; Nev. ^1⁄2 2.

Richfield, OH: Ohio 5-B, 8, 10, 11, 12.

Savannah, GA: Ga. ^3⁄4 3, ^1⁄3 7; S.C. ^2⁄3 3.

Tucson, AZ: Ariz. 2-A, 4; N.M. 1.

Tuscaloosa, AL: Ala. 1*, 2, 4, 5-A, ^1⁄2 5-B; Miss. ^1⁄2 2-B, ^1⁄2 3-B.

Wilmington, DE: N.J. 7-B, 7-C; Pa. 1, 3, 11, 13.

JUNE 18-21:

Amarillo, TX: Kans. ^1⁄3 2-A; N.M. 2-A, 3; Tex. 9, 10, ^1⁄2 18.

Baton Rouge, LA : La. 1-A, 3, 4, 5 ; Miss. ^2⁄3 4-B.

Cicero, IL: Ill. 8, 10; Ind. 1; Wis. 1.

Huntington, WV: Ky. ^2⁄3 3-B; Ohio ^1⁄2 7, 15-A, ^1⁄2 15-B, 16; Tenn. ^1⁄2 5; W.Va. ^1⁄2 1, ^1⁄2 3.

Lakeland, FL: Fla. ^1⁄2 4, ^1⁄3 9, 10.

Macon, GA: Ala. ^1⁄2 6; Ga. 1, 2, ^1⁄3 7.

Nashville, TN: Ga. ^1⁄3 4; Ky. ^1⁄2 1; Tenn. ^1⁄2 2-A, 2-B, 4, 6.

Portland, ME: Me. 1, 2; N.H. 1-B; Vt. 1-A.

Providence, RI: Mass. 1, 4; N.H. 1-A.

Richfield, OH: Ohio 1, 3, 4, 13; Pa. 12-B.

Wichita, KS: Kans. ^1⁄2 1, ^2⁄3 2-A, 2-B, 3, 4; Mo. 6-B*, 8*; Nebr. 1-A*.

Wilmington, DE: N.J. 3, 6; Pa. 2-A, 4, 6.

JUNE 25-28:

Cicero, IL: Ill. 1, ^1⁄4 4, 5, 11, 13.

Dallas, TX: Okla. ^1⁄3 4-B; Tex. 6, 12-A, 15.

Denver, CO: Colo. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; N.M. 2-B; Wyo. 2.

Greensboro, NC: N.C. 1-B, 2, 5, 6-A, 7; S.C. ^1⁄2 1; Va. 2-B.

Lakeland, FL: Fla. ^3⁄4 5, 13.

Macon, GA: Ga. ^1⁄3 4, 5, 6, ^1⁄3 8.

Pontiac, MI: Ind. 7-B; Mich. 1, 2, 3, 4-A, 5, 6, 8, 9*, 10, 11, 12, 13*, 14; Ohio 5-A.

Providence, RI: Mass. 2, 5; R.I. 1.

Roanoke, VA: Va. 2-A*, 4-A, 5; W.Va. ^1⁄2 1, ^1⁄4 3.

Utica, NY: N.Y. 6, 16-B, 22-A.

Wheeling, WV: Ohio ^1⁄2 15-B; Pa. 7, 14; W.Va. 2-A.

JULY 2-5:

Beaumont, TX (Spanish only): S-14, S-33-B*, S-33-C.

Dallas, TX: Tex. 5, 13, 14, ^1⁄4 18.

East Rutherford, NJ: N.J. 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-A, 8; Pa. 2-B.

Green Bay, WI: Wis. 2*, 3-B.

Greenville, SC: Ga. ^1⁄3 4, ^1⁄3 8; N.C. 4; Tenn. 1.

Indianapolis, IN: Ill. ^1⁄3 3; Ind. 2, 3-A, ^1⁄2 4-A, 5*, 6 7-A; Ohio 2*, ^2⁄3 6, ^1⁄2 7.

Los Angeles, CA (Korean also): Calif. 5, 8-A, 16, 17, 25, 30, 31, 32, 36, 38, 44, 45, 46, 47.

New Haven, CT: Conn. 3; N.Y. 14-A*, 16-A.

Oklahoma City, OK: Okla. 1, 2, 3, 4-A, ^2⁄3 4-B, 5.

Pine Bluff, AR: Ark. 1, 2, ^1⁄2 4, 5*.

Reno, NV: Calif. 23, 43.

St. Louis, MO: Ill. ^1⁄2 6-B, 7; Mo. 1, 2, ^1⁄2 4-A, 4-B*, ^1⁄2 5-A, 5-B, 7.

St. Petersburg, FL: Fla. ^1⁄2 2 (St. Petersburg congregations), ^2⁄3 9.

San Francisco, CA: Calif. ^1⁄2 14, 19, 26, 34, 41.

Utica, NY: N.Y. ^2⁄3 21, 22-B*, 24.

Wheeling, WV: Ohio 14; Pa. 8, 10; W.Va. ^1⁄4 3.

JULY 9-12:

Billings, MT: Mont. 1-B*, 2, 3; N.D. 1-A; Wyo. 1.

Fresno, CA: Calif. 10, 29.

Green Bay, WI: Mich. 7; Wis. 3-A, 4-A, ^1⁄3 5.

Greenville, SC: N.C. 3*; S.C. ^1⁄2 2; Tenn. ^1⁄2 5.

Hallandale, FL (French also): Fla. 1, ^1⁄2 4, 6, 8.

Hampton, VA: N.C. 1-A, 6-B; Va. 6.

Houston, TX: Tex. 2, ^1⁄2 3-A, 11.

Monroe, LA: La. 2, 6; Miss. 3-A*, ^1⁄2 3-B, 4-A, ^1⁄3 4-B.

New Haven, CT: Conn. 1, 2-A; N.Y. 3*.

Ogden, UT: Idaho 3; Utah 1, 2.

Pullman, WA: Idaho 1, 2; Mont. 1-A; Ore. ^1⁄4 5-A; Wash. ^1⁄3 3-A, 3-B, 4.

Reno, NV: Calif. ^1⁄2 14, ^1⁄2 42; Nev. 1.

St. Petersburg, FL: Fla. ^1⁄2 2, 7.

San Antonio, TX (Spanish only): S-3, S-7, S-8, S-10, S-33-A.

San Francisco, CA: Calif. 11, 15, 22, 40.

Springfield, MA: Conn. 2-B, 2-C; Mass. 3; Vt. 1-B.

JULY 16-19:

Chicago, IL (Spanish only): S-21-B, S-13-B.

Des Moines, IA: Iowa 1, ^1⁄3 2-A, 2-B, 3, 4-B; Mo. 3*.

El Paso, TX (Spanish only): S-6, S-18, S-24, S-28.

Fresno, CA: Calif. 8-B, 9*, 39.

Hallandale, FL (Spanish only): S-12, S-16, S-26.

Hampton, VA: Va. 1, 3.

Houston, TX: Tex. 16, 17.

Landover, MD: D.C. 1; Md. 1, 4; Pa. 5*, 9*.

Los Angeles, CA (Spanish only): S-4, S-9, S-20, S-23 S-31, S-32.

Louisville, KY: Ind. 3-B, ^1⁄2 4-A, 4-B; Ky. ^1⁄2 1, 2, 3-A, ^1⁄3 3-B, 4*; Ohio ^1⁄3 6, 9.

Memphis, TN: Ark. 3, ^1⁄2 4; Miss. 2-A, ^1⁄2 2-B; Mo. ^1⁄2 4-A; Tenn. ^1⁄2 2-A, 3.

Niagara Falls, NY: N.Y. 8, 13; Pa. 12-A.

Omaha, NB: Iowa ^2⁄3 2-A; Kans. ^1⁄2 1; Mo. 6-A; Nebr. 1-B, 2, 3; S.D. ^1⁄2 1.

San Francisco, CA: Calif. 12, 13, 18, 27, ^1⁄2 42.

Seattle, WA: Wash. 1, 2, ^2⁄3 3-A, 5, 6, 7-A, 7-B, 8.

Springfield, IL: Ill. ^2⁄3 3, ^3⁄4 4, 6-A, ^1⁄2 6-B; Iowa 4-A; Mo. ^1⁄2 5-A.

JULY 23-26:

Chicago, IL (Spanish only): S-21-A; Kans. 3-C.

Detroit, MI (Spanish only): S-13-A, S-29-C*.

Fresno, CA (Spanish only): S-5-B, S-15.

Landover, MD (Korean also): Md. 2, 3, 5, 6; Va. 4-B; W.Va. 2-B.

Queens, NY (Spanish and Greek only): S-1, S-2, S-17, S-22, S-25, S-27, S-29-A, S-29-B, S-30.

Rochester, NY: N.Y. 7, 9*, ^1⁄3 21.

St. Paul, MN: Minn. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; N.D. 1-B; S.D. ^1⁄2 1; Wis. ^2⁄3 5.

Woodburn, OR (Spanish only): S-19.

JULY 30—AUGUST 2:

Fresno, CA (Spanish only): S-5-A, S-11.

Mobile, AL: Ala. 3, ^1⁄2 5-B, ^1⁄2 6; Fla. ^2⁄3 11; Miss. 1.

Portland, OR : Ore. 1, 3, 4; Wash. 7-C.

Queens, NY (Italian also): N.Y. 5, 14-B, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23.

San Antonio, TX: Tex. 1, ^1⁄2 3-A, 3-B, 7, 8, ^1⁄4 18.

AUGUST 6-9:

Long Island City, NY (French only): N.Y. 20.

Natick, MA (Portuguese only): T-1.

Portland, OR: Ore. 2, ^3⁄4 5-A, 5-B, 6, 7.

Queens, NY: N.Y. 1, 2, 4, 10, 11, 12.

AUGUST 20-23:

Los Angeles, CA (Chinese only): North American Chinese.

Making Good Use of Circuit Overseer’s Report

¹ Circuit overseers regularly visit all congregations in an effort to stimulate and spiritually encourage their brothers. When they complete their visit, they submit a written report to the Society, leaving a copy with the congregation. How can these reports be best utilized by the elders?

² The Organization book, page 86, outlines this arrangement, stating in part: “Before leaving the congregation, but after his meeting with the body of elders, the circuit overseer fills out a report to the branch office on what service he rendered during his visit, making observations on the spiritual condition of the congregation, matters that were discussed with the elders, and so forth.”

³ This report should be circulated to all elders so that they can personally review it and make notes, where needed. It should also be considered at subsequent elders’ meetings as an aid to analyzing the needs of the congregation as well as the observations and suggestions of the circuit overseer. Elders will want to act upon the suggestions made in this report, applying these to the congregation’s activity. To this end, they can make good use of the time set aside in the service meeting for considering local needs. If proper use is made of this report, both the local elders and the congregation as a whole can benefit more fully from the visits of the traveling overseers.

Presenting the Good News—By Making Return Visits

¹ In his parable of the sower, Jesus compared the spreading of Kingdom truth to a farmer sowing literal seed. Not all the seed would sprout and produce, but some would fall on good soil and grow. This would bring joy to the sower. The spiritual sowing and reaping we participate in today likewise brings great joy as Jesus promised.—John 4:36.

² After our initial sowing of seed by means of a literature placement or simply a Scriptural discussion, further cultivation is needed. This is usually best accomplished by making return visits. Since far more literature is placed than return calls are made, there is a great potential for making effective return visits. Some may hold back from making such calls, thinking that only the skilled and outgoing publishers are qualified to make return visits. However, it is not as difficult as some may have imagined.

³ Having made the first friendly contact, you have common ground for the return visit. So when should the second call be made and what can be said to the one showing interest? In some cases, if the person has shown genuine interest, a return visit can be made as soon as a day or two after the initial contact. While he may or may not have had opportunity to read any literature that was left with him, your first visit will be fresh in his mind. Waiting too long may allow the interest to wane.

⁴ As for what to speak about when you return, a helpful suggestion is to lay a good foundation first on the initial call and then build on it. Some record should be kept of what you spoke about. If possible, find out the name of the individual and then on the return visit you can greet that person by name. Be warm and friendly and indicate you have something additional to share with the person. If no one is at home, try again at a different time. Be persevering. Lives are involved and we want to make every effort to cultivate further the initial interest shown. In some cases you might even phone before leaving for the territory to ensure that someone will be home, impressing the person with the importance of your call.

⁵ Preparation is the key to success. Before making the call, think about what you wish to consider with the person. Bible Topics for Discussion offers some fine suggestions on various subjects of interest, such as “Bible,” “Earth,” “Jehovah, God,” “Kingdom,” “Last Days.”

⁶ Some do not make return visits because they do not schedule a definite time for them. Return visits can be made in the evenings, on weekends, just after completing house-to-house calls, or at other times convenient to your personal schedule. All are appropriate. Your joy will greatly increase as you regularly share in this important field.

⁷ In view of the fine success we have enjoyed in placing the pocket-size books with the public in the past, February is a month that will feature one of the 192-page books on a contribution of 60c. It is hoped that during the month you will make time available for return visits on those potential sheeplike persons you contact in your field service activity.

Unworked Territory

Some congregations have territory that has not been worked in the past year or more. We have asked the circuit overseer to make arrangements for other congregations in or outside the circuit to help cover territory that has not been worked during the past year. Please inform your circuit overseer if you are available to help out in this activity.

There are 305 counties or parts of counties in the United States that are not assigned to any congregation. This territory needs to be worked also. Those interested in helping out should check with their congregation secretary for information from the Society concerning unassigned territory.

As we all have a full share in the work of Kingdom-preaching, it is hoped that a good witness will be given in all our territory this year.

November Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

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

Sp’l Pios. 535 129.9 89.5 49.6 5.1

Pios. 17,413 83.6 58.2 31.1 3.4

Aux. Pios. 17,364 59.0 42.4 18.6 1.6

Pubs. 522,143 8.5 8.2 3.6 .4

TOTAL 557,455

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 1,948

Topic for Conversation

Why the Bible Was Written

1 Cor. 10:11—Sounds a warning.

2 Tim. 3:15—Makes wise for salvation.

Announcements

● The MEDICAL ALERT cards distributed last September should now be updated for 1981. Please cross out the former date and neatly write in the new date so that your card will be current. If additional copies are now needed, a small supply can be ordered with a congregation order. Next year’s supply will be sent automatically in September.

● Literature offer for February and March: One of the older 192-page books. Encourage publishers to offer books of which congregation has an excess stock. April and May: Watchtower subscription for $2.50.

● Arrangements will be made to provide a copy of the March 15, 1981, Watchtower, for all newly interested persons who attend the Memorial on April 19, 1981. This is the issue scheduled to be studied on April 26. Congregations may wish to order extra copies for Memorial distribution.

● The April 1 and 15 issues of The Watchtower and also the April 8 and 22 issues of Awake! will have articles specially suitable for placing with the public and for obtaining subscriptions. Be sure to place your order early for extra copies, including those that will be needed by auxiliary pioneers.

● All bodies of elders will have their quarterly elders’ meeting during the month of March. They should review latest report of circuit overseer.

● New cassette recordings (also with Braille labels) available:

To the Hebrews and The Letter of James—English (Both books on one cassette. Price for congregation and public: $2; pioneers: $1.75.)

Acts of Apostles—Dutch (Set of 3 cassettes. Price for congregation and public: $6; pioneers: $5.50.)

● On Saturday, April 11, the Bethel home and factory and Watchtower Farms buildings will be closed for spring cleaning, so there will be no arrangements for tours on that day.

Question Box

● Is it proper to write to the Society or its branch offices for addresses of persons we can write to as pen pals?

We recommend that publishers who wish to correspond with brothers in other cities and even in foreign countries work such matters out for themselves. Oftentimes many fine friendships have resulted from acquaintances made at assemblies. Then by means of regular correspondence it has been possible to develop a warm, enduring friendship. There is nothing wrong in such personal correspondence. However, addresses for such correspondence purposes must be obtained on an individual basis. All the addresses in the Society’s files and in congregation files are confidential and they cannot be released for personal use.

Some schools encourage correspondence with pen pals as training in certain courses. In some instances younger publishers have witnessed effectively by means of correspondence and have succeeded in stimulating genuine interest in the truth. It is up to each individual, however, to decide if he will participate in such a school-sponsored program of letter writing. Those who do write to worldly persons, however, do well to keep in mind giving a Kingdom witness rather than cultivating an interest in worldly affairs, in view of the warning against “bad associations” given at 1 Corinthians 15:33.