Jehovah’s Witnesses Hold Virtual Convention

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Jehovah’s Witnesses are hosting their annual convention online, with the virtual event set to run through the end of August.

A spokesperson said, “With families losing jobs and income, struggling to pay bills, fighting for delayed unemployment benefits and dealing with ‘COVID fatigue,’ how can families not only cope, but find joy in life?

“The ‘Always Rejoice! Convention’ of Jehovah’s Witnesses answers questions like: what contributes to finding and sustaining joy? How can you cultivate joy in the family? How can you remain joyful in difficult times?

Carlos and Anna Carter with their kids Ashlynn and Aulani watch the ‘Always Rejoice! Convention’ from home:

“The convention is streaming online with a portion of the program dedicated to families and how each member can contribute to joy in the household.”

“I benefit from the Bible’s counsel as a husband by cultivating the fruitage of the spirit found at Galatians 5:22,23,” said Paul Florestal. “This helps maintain a loving atmosphere in our family.”

The spokesperson said, “The Florestals are doing everything they can to make the convention as normal as possible for the family, even posting a homemade sign with the convention theme over their television.

“Sarah Florestal says the convention helps her see how Bible principles and a close relationship with God can help her deal with daily challenges.”

Mrs. Florestal said, “Turning to him in prayer and meditating on his Word helps us to work through any difficulties and strengthens our bond.”

Matthew and Amanda Hollis with their kids Addyson and Teagan as they watch the ‘Always Rejoice! Convention’ from home:

The spokesperson said, “Even young children find joy by learning to appreciate their family and creation.”

“When I’m sad and go outside and see the beautiful flowers; I look at them and they make me feel better,” said 7-year-old Elijah Florestal.

The spokesperson said, “Locally, the convention was scheduled to be held July 17-19, 2020 at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium in Devonshire, where over 600 were expected to attend. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, all in person 2020 conventions have been canceled as of April 2020.

“We love spending time with all in our community that attend these conventions in person with us. Yet, we are even more excited to be able to have hundreds of others, some who may not normally be able, join us to view this year’s convention program through our website.”

“Our worship is centered on our mutual love for our God and for each other, irrespective of where we are physically,” said Robert Hendriks, U.S. spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

“This year’s convention program underscores the unity of our international family and the joy that people can have against a backdrop of stress and despair.

“The two Christian principles guiding the Witnesses’ historic decision are respect for the sanctity of life and love of neighbor. As much as we long to meet together, life is far too precious to put at risk.

“The virtual meetings we have held over the past four months have proved to all of us that it’s not about where we are physically. It’s about where we are spiritually. In many ways we are closer as a spiritual family than ever before.”

Paul and Sarah Florestal with Elijah, Ryder and Adelynn watch the convention from home:

The spokesperson said, “The virtual event is scheduled to run through the end of August.

“Each year many who are not Jehovah’s Witnesses attend the annual conventions. There are more than 8.6 million active Witnesses worldwide, yet the 2019 conventions had a peak attendance of more than 14 million. With the program available online in hundreds of languages, this may be the most attended convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses to date.

“There is no charge for viewing the convention and you do not have to sign in or provide any personal information.

“To watch the convention, click here.”

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