The Tribune

Jehovah's Witnesses are set to launch their annual convention series in Nassau on Friday, July 27. The theme of this year's island-wide gathering is "Be Courageous!" The emphasis will be on how Christians can deal successfully with the challenges of modern life while at the same time being true to their Christian values. Worldwide the conventions will be held at venues in 180 different countries. Prior to the event in each country, Witnesses will participate in a house to house global campaign to invite the general public to attend the convention which is free of charge. No collections are taken.

The three-day programme consists of 54 presentations which will take the form of talks, audio dramas, interviews, and short videos. Additionally, a feature film entitled "The Story of Jonah--A Lesson in Courage and Mercy" will be shown on the final day of the convention programme. Each day, the morning and afternoon sessions will be introduced by music videos prepared specifically for this convention.

Montgomery Ritchie, a spokesman for Jehovah's Witnesses, said: "When you look at the news today, you can clearly see that people of all ages are having to deal with more anxieties and fears than ever before. It takes courage to face these pressures and at the same time uphold Christian values. We welcome everyone to this year's convention so as to benefit from the practical advice contained in the Bible.

"Learn biblical ways to face present and future challenges with courage. Via multimedia presentations, observe what real people - and even animals - can teach us about courage. A heartwarming discourse will reveal why Jesus told a grieving father: 'Have no fear.' (Mark 5:36). Listen to the Bible-based talk to be presented on Sunday morning with the theme 'The Resurrection Hope Imparts Courage - How?' On Sunday afternoon, see a feature film that explains why Jonah feared his assignment and ran away."

The convention series will run for three days each and will be held at the Assembly Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, #8, Edmond Street off Dolphin Drive, Oakes Field.

See the complete programme schedule and watch a preview video about these conventions at www.jw.org.