JWs to resume large in-person gatherings for first time since 2019

Jehovah’s Witnesses use sign language in interacting with the speech and hearing impaired. PHOTO FROM JW

Every weekend from May to August, Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs) will return to their assembly halls, arenas and sports centers for the first time since 2019 to attend their annual three-day Bible convention.

With this year’s theme “Exercise Patience!,” the series of Bible-based lectures and videos will be presented in 11 languages, including the Filipino Sign Language, from Friday to Sunday for three months, according to James Morales, spokesperson for JWs.

He said more than 90 cities will host 170 conventions in the country. Among the venues are SMX Pasay City, SMX Davao, SMX Bacolod, CSI Stadia in Pangasinan, Iloilo Convention Center, Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City and The Atrium in Cagayan De Oro City.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 interrupted the annual mid-year conventions of JWs.

For three years, JWs cancelled all their in-person events worldwide and held programs online.

Starting on May 26, 2023, JWs will resume in-person large gatherings with caution. Although wearing masks is a personal decision, Morales said JWs will heed health protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.

“As much as we loved the convenience and quality of our virtual conventions, nothing can replace being together in a large group setting,” said Morales.

“While our online conventions reached millions around the world and kept our communities safe, we long to get back to our joyful fellowship at these large gatherings,” he added.

Morales said JW conventions are open to the public and no collection is taken. He said the three-day program will help all those in attendance to find practical ways of building patience.

“We will discuss how patience contributes to our survival through the economic and social challenges we face today, and how God can reward our continuous exercise of patience,” he added.

For more information on the program or to find other convention locations and dates, please go to jw.org and navigate to the “About Us” tab.

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