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Christ Memorial

On the 22nd of March 2008, I was invited by a friend (Ama) who is a Jehovah’s Witness, to observe Jehovah’s Witnesses, memorialize Christ’s death. Jehovah’s Witnesses had their modern-day start in the 1870’s. At first, they were called Bible Students. But in 1931 they adopted the Scriptural name Jehovah’s Witnesses. (Isaiah 43:10) From small beginnings the organization has grown to millions of Witnesses, who are busy preaching in more than 230 lands. Most congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses have meetings three times each week. The Bible is the basis for what is taught. Meetings are opened and closed with prayer. Heartfelt “spiritual songs” are also sung at most meetings. (Ephesians 5:18, 19) Admission is free, and no collections are taken. Most congregations hold meetings in a Kingdom Hall. These are usually simple structures built by Witness volunteers. You will not see any images, crucifixes, or things like these at the Kingdom Hall. Expenses are paid for by voluntary donations. For those who wish to make a donation, there is a contribution box. In each congregation, there are elders, or overseers. They take the lead in teaching in the congregation. They are assisted by ministerial servants. These men are not elevated above the rest of the congregation. They are not given special titles. (Matthew 23:8-10) They do not dress differently from others. Neither are they paid for their work. The elders willingly look after the spiritual needs of the congregation. They can provide comfort and guidance in times of trouble. Jehovah’s Witnesses also hold large assemblies or conventions each year. At these times many congregations come together for a special program of Bible instruction. Baptism of new disciples is a regular part of each assembly or convention program. The world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses is in New York. Located there is the Governing Body, a central group of experienced elders who oversee the worldwide congregation. There...

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