August

Meetings for Field Service

JULY 29–AUGUST 4

Speaking with conviction

1. Why is it important?

2. How can we use

a. Our voice?

b. Facial expressions?

AUGUST 5-11

How can we be strengthened by

1. Matthew 10:28?

2. Romans 1:16?

3. 2 Corinthians 4:7?

AUGUST 12-18

How can we be clear and simple when

1. Introducing ourselves?

2. Presenting the offer?

3. Offering a Bible study?

AUGUST 19-25

Why should magazine presentations usually

1. Be brief?

2. Focus on one article?

3. Offer both magazines?

AUGUST 26–SEPTEMBER 1

“Integrity Keepers”

Mention how convention material can help us to improve our field ministry.

Another Encouraging Memorial Report

The 1985 Memorial report set out below shows a new peak attendance, a 2.9-percent increase over last year. These thousands of new ones who are saying, “We will go with you people,” need our continued help to be ‘instructed about Jehovah’s ways.’​—Zech. 8:23; Mic. 4:2.

1985 1984 Difference

Manifesting the “Spirit of Faith”

¹ It takes genuine faith to speak the message of God’s Kingdom boldly. The apostle Paul wrote: “Now because we have the same spirit of faith as that of which it is written . . . we too exercise faith and therefore we speak.” (2 Cor. 4:13) Jehovah’s people today have that faith. And speak we did​—in excess of 505 million hours during the 1984 service year! Among those who took the lead in this display of genuine Christian faith were the pioneers. Congregation publishers, too, made a commendable display of genuine faith.

² As a Kingdom publisher you hold the key position in the modern theocratic society. Faith that these are the last days, along with a sense of urgency, may move you to examine your circumstances prayerfully to see if you can do more as a Kingdom publisher, perhaps even pioneer. Do you have family obligations? Responsibilities in the congregation? Perhaps your health is not the best. Some have financial commitments. Still others may feel they are too old. For some, these may be legitimate reasons for not entering the pioneer work now. But tens of thousands of our brothers and sisters have kept the goal of pioneer service before them and, when circumstances allowed, have joyfully entered the pioneer ranks.

³ “The assured expectation” we have as Christians should influence our decisions and deeply affect our lives. If you are about to finish high school, ask yourself: ‘How can I best show my love for God and for Christ with the freedom I have as a young unencumbered person?’ Are material pursuits robbing some in your family of the joy of increased service? Some who have retired from their secular work have found their new situation opens the door to pioneer service. Whatever your situation, your faith can be given fuller expression by honestly appraising your circumstances with a view to serving as a regular pioneer.​—Heb. 11:1.

⁴ The pioneer ranks increased from 29,764 to 34,232 last September when the 1985 service year began. During the one month of August 1984, more than 4,300 applications for regular pioneer service were received. Can we do something similar this September? Pioneer applications should be submitted a month in advance. However, if you wish to take up the pioneer work the first of September this year, you may submit your application to your Congregation Service Committee even now. It is not too late!

⁵ Can you make definite plans to pioneer for at least a year? Your sense of firm commitment will give you added incentive. If you cannot adjust your circumstances just now to serve as a regular pioneer, can your service as a congregation publisher be improved or can you possibly serve as an auxiliary pioneer periodically or even continuously? Faith grows when exercised. Your faith and confidence can be nourished by auxiliary pioneering, and you may even realize that, with Jehovah’s help and blessing, you can serve as a regular pioneer.​—Mal. 3:10; Luke 14:28-30.

⁶ The “spirit of faith” is truly manifested among Jehovah’s people today. Why not seriously consider enriching yourself spiritually by becoming a regular or an auxiliary pioneer starting the first of September?

Joyfully Increasing Our Praise to Jehovah

¹ Summer has been a busy season for all of us, theocratically and otherwise. For families with children home from school, there were perhaps additional responsibilities in caring for their needs. Some may have been able to auxiliary pioneer for a month or two. Vacation time provided a change of pace for many, and there was the activity in planning for and attending the “Integrity Keepers” Convention.

² Now as we again settle into our regular routine, it is time to plan our activities for the months ahead. The district convention program encouraged us to increase our Kingdom service. How can we do that during the new service year, and especially during the autumn months that are now upon us?

³ As summer ends, it may be easier to find more people at home when we call. Pleasant fall weather conditions may allow for longer days in field service. This can be advantageous if the congregation has either outlying territory or other areas yet to be worked this year. How will you be able to widen your service opportunities in the days ahead?

IN SCHOOL

⁴ What about you young ones who are still in school? No doubt you had opportunities to witness to schoolmates and teachers during the past school year. Now, however, you may have different teachers and classmates. Do they know that you are one of Jehovah’s Witnesses? If not, you will want to make it known to them during the first few weeks in school this year.

⁵ As worldly holidays come up, some will want to know why you do not join in the celebrations. Take advantage of their curiosity and receptiveness by witnessing to them. Perhaps you will be asked to make a report on what you did during the summer. Tell them about the unique experience that you enjoyed attending the district convention. Have your teachers received the School brochure? Use the Evolution and Youth books to give a witness, or share with others selected articles from The Watchtower and Awake! Many of our brothers and sisters were first introduced to the truth by classmates who were Witnesses. School is indeed a fertile field to increase your Kingdom service during the coming autumn months.

BE AN AUXILIARY PIONEER

⁶ Just before the summer started, many of us were privileged to share in the auxiliary pioneer work during the months of March and April. Have you considered doing it again this autumn? September has five Sundays, November has five Saturdays, and December has five Sundays plus time off from school for the holidays. Why not make plans right now to auxiliary pioneer this fall? The elders will be more than glad to give you an application.

⁷ There may be other personal circumstances that will change with the coming of autumn. As Christians, we want to take advantage of favorable opportunities for increasing our Kingdom service. Our united efforts in declaring the good news will bring us personal satisfaction and will increase praise to Jehovah’s name.

Meetings to Help Us Make Disciples

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 4

Song 128

10 min: Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry and local announcements. Suggest talking points to be used in presenting current magazines on second Saturday, August 10. Continue offering August 8 Awake! to persons involved in law enforcement.

20 min: “Manifesting the ‘Spirit of Faith.’” Question-and-answer consideration of article. Encourage those whose circumstances will permit them to auxiliary pioneer or enter the regular pioneer service in September to fill out the appropriate pioneer application form now. Read paragraphs and key scriptures as time allows.

15 min: Continue Offering Survival Book During August. Discussion, demonstrations, and experiences encouraging zealous field service using the Survival book offer. Commend brothers for good work already done offering this publication during July and outline opportunities open to us during August. Present one or two brief demonstrations of how local publishers have effectively offered the book. Interview one or two publishers who have placed the book and who may have been able to start a home Bible study with the interested person. Outline arrangements for weekend field service and encourage all to have a share.

Song 43 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 11

Song 192

10 min: Local announcements. Include accounts report. Briefly discuss daily text and encourage all to benefit from regular consideration of the daily text individually, with family, or in service groups. Commend publishers for what was accomplished in the field service in July. Outline congregation’s field service arrangements and encourage all to spend some time preaching the good news this weekend.

15 min: “Presenting the Good News​—With Personal Conviction.” Question-and-answer discussion of article.

10 min: “New Circuit Assembly Program to Help Us Glorify God.” Talk building anticipation for new circuit assembly program.

10 min: “Finding Joy in a Trouble-Filled World.” Talk based on article in June 15, 1985, Watchtower.

Song 19 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 18

Song 16

10 min: “Another Encouraging Memorial Report,” Theocratic News, and local announcements. Suggest brief magazine presentations that the brothers may be able to use next Saturday. Be sure to select points that would likely appeal to people in local territory.

20 min: “Joyfully Increasing Our Praise to Jehovah.” Encouraging talk, with some audience participation. Does the congregation have territory that should be worked before winter months set in? Are arrangements being made for groups to work in outlying areas of the territory? Some publishers who are making special arrangements to increase Kingdom service during autumn months may be called on for prepared comments on what they will be doing. What field service arrangements are being made to help those who will be auxiliary pioneering during these months? Encourage those who wish to pioneer to turn in applications now.

15 min: Are You Benefiting From “Young People Ask . . . ” Articles? Talk by brother who can appeal to young ones in the congregation and their parents. May focus on article in July 8, 1985, Awake! on “Is Marijuana Really Harmful?” but make reference to various articles that have appeared in Awake! pointing out how these have been appreciated by young people around the world. Encourage youth and parents to cooperate in considering these timely articles. They can open the way for beneficial discussions between parents and their children.

Song 183 and concluding prayer.

WEEK STARTING AUGUST 25

Song 213

5 min: Local announcements.

15 min: “Our Part in Showing Theocratic Submission.” Question-and-answer discussion of article. Read paragraphs and discuss application of cited and quoted scriptures as time permits.

15 min: Local needs.

10 min: Suggest talking points and presentations for Peace and Security or other book to be offered in September. Outline arrangements for weekend field service and encourage all to be prepared for preaching work on first Sunday of September.

Song 71 and concluding prayer.

Announcements

● Literature offer for August: Survival book for a contribution of $1.00. Any brochure, but especially Life on Earth or Divine Name for 30¢ each, may be used as an alternate offer. September: Peace and Security; if none in stock, any other 192-page book for $1.00 contribution. October: Subscription for either Awake! or The Watchtower, or both, for a contribution of $4.00 for each one-year subscription. November: New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures with any older 192-page book of which the congregation has a good supply, for a contribution of $4.50.

● Congregations will begin consideration of the United in Worship book in Congregation Book Studies during the week of October 13, 1985.

● Starting in September, circuit overseers will give the public talk “Bringing the Many to Righteousness in the Time of the End.” This will be a picture slide presentation. The public talk to be given by district overseers in connection with the new series of circuit assemblies beginning in September will be “Global Peace​—From What Source?”

● During the week of September 2-7, 1985, the Society will be taking an inventory of all literature on hand in Brooklyn. Because of this inventory, no congregation literature orders will be processed for shipment or for pickup during that week.

● Each congregation will receive three Literature Inventory forms and should take an actual count of campaign literature. Please fill out the forms completely and send the original to us no later than September 6. Keep a carbon copy for your files. We are sending a third copy for use as a work sheet.

● 1986 Calendar of Jehovah’s Witnesses: Publishers and pioneers, please order your calendars through your congregation. Congregations should begin collecting requests for these calendars now. Then on September 1, 1985, or as soon as possible thereafter, send this order to the Society, using the regular Literature Order form (S-14). Calendars in other languages should be listed under “Other Language Publications,” showing the quantity for each language separately as well as the year 1986. The calendars will be available in Chinese, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish.

Calendars are controlled stock items and will be charged to the literature account at $1.00 each, which is the rate for publishers, pioneers, and the public. Do not send the remittance with the order. (See the Cost List, pars. 22-4.) Until the calendars are available and shipments are made, these will appear as “Back Ordered” on congregation invoices.

● New Publications Available:

Aid to Bible Understanding

(Volume 25, In-Is) ​—Italian

(Volume 26, Is-Le) ​—Italian

(Volume 27, Le-Loc) ​—Italian

(Volume 28, Log-Man) ​—Italian

(Volume 29, Man-Mel) ​—Italian

(Volume 30, Mel-Moa) ​—Italian

(Volume 31, Mod-Naz) ​—Italian

(Volume 32, Naz-Of) ​—Italian

(Volume 33, Of-Pal) ​—Italian

(Volume 34, Pal-Pec) ​—Italian

(Volume 35, Pec-Pie) ​—Italian

(Volume 36, Pie-Pre) ​—Italian

(Volume 37, Pre-Put) ​—Italian

Watch Tower Publications Index for 1980​—Italian

Watch Tower Publications Index for 1981​—Italian

Watch Tower Publications Index for 1982​—Italian

● New Cassette Recordings Available:

The First of Chronicles (set of two; congregation and public: $3.00; pioneers: $2.50)​—English

Our Part in Showing Theocratic Submission

¹ Theocratic submission is a key factor in the progress and spiritual advancement of a congregation. Paul emphasized this at Hebrews 13:17: “Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over your souls as those who will render an account.” This indicates that the spiritual well-being of the congregation as a whole, as well as of each one individually, depends upon our willingness to cooperate and work closely with the elders as they fulfill their responsibilities as shepherds of the flock.

² Further emphasizing this, Paul made this appeal: “Now we request you, brothers, to have regard for those who are working hard among you and presiding over you in the Lord and admonishing you; and to give them more than extraordinary consideration in love because of their work.” (1 Thess. 5:12, 13) We can show this consideration not only by being respectful toward the elders but more importantly by doing all we can to assist them in getting the work done.

WORK OF ELDERS

³ Consider some of the responsibilities assigned to the elders. Besides teaching at meetings, they also take the lead in the field ministry. (1 Pet. 5:2, 3) Correspondence with the Society and other necessary business must be handled. (Compare Acts 6:1-6.) They look after the spiritual welfare of those experiencing problems, helping them avoid anything that would endanger their relationship with Jehovah. (John 10:11, 15) So, they are required to spend much time dealing with matters connected with the Kingdom work.

CARRY OUR OWN LOAD

⁴ Since all of us are imperfect, we may offend each other at times, resulting in strained relations. But, personal difficulties of a minor nature should be resolved quickly and privately. (Col. 3:12-14; om pp. 139-40) If you are convinced that someone in the congregation has committed a serious sin against you personally, do not be hasty to turn to the overseers or someone else, requesting them to intervene in your behalf. As Jesus counseled, speak privately with the one against whom you have a complaint. (Matt. 18:15, 16; om p. 142, pars. 2, 3) If you are unable to resolve the matter and it is turned over to the elders for investigation and judgment, leave the problem in their hands, trusting in Jehovah that it will be resolved.

⁵ We can be a great help to the elders by following Scriptural principles that direct us to be modest, chaste in our conduct, and diligent in caring for our family responsibilities. (om pp. 63-4; Titus 2:2-5) Our dress, grooming, and decorum should bespeak the dignity associated with worshiping Jehovah at his house. (Eccl. 5:1; 1 Tim. 2:9, 10; Gal. 6:4, 5) Our conscientious effort in these areas will help maintain a wholesome spirit in the congregation.

⁶ The elders are concerned about the prompt, orderly handling of congregational affairs. They greatly appreciate it when we share in service regularly, turn in reports promptly, and fulfill our assignments in the Theocratic Ministry School. Working our assigned territory thoroughly, and promptly reporting its coverage, is also helpful. Doing our share to keep the Kingdom Hall clean and in good repair is a fine way to assist the elders.​—Neh. 10:39.

HELP OTHERS

⁷ Keeping the congregation spiritually strong and active is a major concern of the elders. (1 Thess. 2:7, 8) We can assist personally in helping others by ‘speaking consolingly to the depressed souls and supporting the weak.’ (1 Thess. 5:14) Our zeal for the preaching work serves to motivate others to do more. A keen personal interest in our brothers helps keep the congregation strong.​—Phil. 2:4.

⁸ So while the elders are assigned to shepherd the flock, it takes everyone, each one doing his share, to ensure the proper ‘growth of the body and the building up of itself in love.’ (Eph. 4:16; Prov. 11:14) If we appreciate the vital role played by theocratic submission in the spiritual growth of the congregation, we will ‘reckon the elders worthy of double honor’ and give them wholehearted cooperation as they shepherd the flock of God.​—1 Tim. 5:17.

Presenting the Good News​—With Personal Conviction

¹ The apostle Paul, in recalling the hard work of the Thessalonica congregation, said to them, “The good news we preach did not turn up among you with speech alone but also with power and with holy spirit and strong conviction . . . and you became imitators of us and of the Lord.” (1 Thess. 1:5, 6) Yes, Paul and his associates, along with the congregation in Thessalonica, knew for a certainty that they were worshiping God properly. This conviction was reflected in their speech. Our ministry, too, should reflect strong personal conviction.

SPEAK FROM THE HEART

² How can we reflect personal conviction in our ministry? Basically it involves expressing what is in our heart. Our manner of presenting the good news should show that we truly believe what we are saying. If we speak from our heart, our sincerity and personal conviction will shine through, for ‘out of the heart’s abundance the mouth speaks.’​—Luke 6:45.

³ If we are to reflect personal conviction, we must have a deep appreciation for the truth and for Jehovah’s organization. Having the truth, it is your responsibility to help others learn it. Thinking positively about these things will help motivate you to present the truth with conviction. Jesus set a fine example for us in speaking with the Samaritan woman.​—John 4:21-24.

⁴ The way we offer literature reflects whether we are speaking from the heart. When presenting the good news, we should be familiar with the literature offer and select specific points that can be used to whet the householder’s appetite. This will also build up our confidence as we present the literature.

AVOID MANNERISMS

⁵ Sometimes certain mannerisms can affect the householder’s view of our sincerity and conviction. Needlessly looking at our literature or allowing our gaze to wander while speaking to a householder could give the impression that we are not sincere. We should look at our householder while speaking, indicating that we believe what we are saying.

⁶ Some who are shy may find it difficult to maintain visual contact with the householder. Is this your problem? If so, what can be done about it? Sometimes this problem is a result of thinking too much about your own weaknesses and inabilities while speaking, perhaps feeling that someone else is better qualified to help the person. However, this is Jehovah’s work. Think of Jehovah and his unlimited power and might instead of your own weaknesses. When the apostle Paul was in a position where he had to stand alone, he said, “the Lord stood near me and infused power into me, that through me the preaching might be fully accomplished.” (2 Tim. 4:17) You, too, can receive power from Jehovah through prayer.

⁷ Other mannerisms, such as shifting from one foot to another or excessively thumbing through your Bible or literature, may reveal nervousness. These mannerisms can be controlled if you become aware of them and rely on Jehovah to help you to develop greater courage.

⁸ Facial expressions, too, are important since they generally reveal what is in your heart. Strong conviction and a sincere interest in the householder should be reflected in your countenance.

⁹ Our choice of words also has a large bearing on the impression we leave. If we repeatedly use expressions such as “I think” and “maybe” the householder could get the idea that we are not sure of what we are saying. Our choice of words should reflect conviction on our part.​—Compare Matthew 7:28, 29.

¹⁰ As you work hard to present the good news with personal conviction, you can have the assurance that ‘your labors are not in vain in connection with the Lord.’​—1 Cor. 15:58.

New Circuit Assembly Program to Help Us Glorify God

“Doing Our Part in Glorifying God” is the theme of the new series of circuit assemblies starting in September. We have many reasons for wanting to glorify God. Unlike people of the world who are quick to praise men for their accomplishments while remaining blind to Jehovah’s wonderful works, our objective in life is to “do all things for God’s glory.” (1 Cor. 10:31) This circuit assembly program will help us to do that.

Besides featuring encouragement for pioneers and for those who may be able to take up the pioneer ministry, the Saturday program highlights the need to keep strict watch on how we walk if we are to glorify God. (Eph. 5:15, 16) Specific counsel is offered on how to avoid being ensnared by demoralizing elements in this wicked world and on the need to impale fleshly desires.

On Sunday helpful suggestions on personal Bible reading are offered. You will receive practical counsel on “Seeking God’s Glory, Not Our Own.” Newly interested ones especially will benefit from hearing the public talk identifying Scripturally the only source of global peace. All those attending this circuit assembly program should come away refreshed spiritually and strengthened in faith. Be sure to attend and invite others to be there with you.

Theocratic News

◆ Brazil has had three all-time publisher peaks this service year, the latest being 166,900 in March. They conducted a new peak of 167,470 Bible studies and recorded their 20th consecutive peak of regular pioneers with 5,201 sharing in this work in March.

◆ March saw a 6-percent increase in publishers in Canada and new peaks of 81,376 total publishers, 42,798 home Bible studies, and 3,212 regular pioneers.

◆ Cyprus had its third successive peak with 1,083 reporting in March. The Memorial was attended by 2,165.

◆ Guam’s total of 234 publishers is an all-time peak and an 11-percent increase. With new peaks of 392 home Bible studies and 3,001 return visits, as well as an average of 11.7 hours spent by the congregation publishers in the field, prospects for future growth are fine.

Topic for Conversation

A Bright Future for Mankind.

Ps. 37:29, 37​—Prospect of living forever in peace.

Ps. 37:39​—Coping with these distressing times.

May Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

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

Sp’l Pios. 309 132.1 89.1 54.0 5.9

Pios. 36,610 82.9 45.4 30.5 3.3

Aux. Pios. 38,562 59.6 32.7 17.4 1.6

Pubs. 604,911 9.3 7.0 3.6 0.5

TOTAL 680,392

Newly Dedicated Ones Baptized: 2,646

Congregation Book Study

Schedule for congregation studies in the book Survival Into a New Earth:

August 4: Chapter 16

August 11: Chapter 17

August 18: Chapter 18

August 25: Chapter 19