Feature Film Highlights Joy Despite Adversity

New Orleans, LA—Wednesday, August 26, 2020—This weekend, as millions earth-wide watch the final installment of the “Always Rejoice”! online convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses, they will enjoy the feature film, “Nehemiah: ‘The Joy of Jehovah Is Your Stronghold,’” which teaches how to remain joyful despite adversity. The historical drama follows events in the life of the Bible character Nehemiah as he and his nation attempt to rebuild and restore their capital city. The streaming video highlights lessons in courage and joy that are especially relevant in these challenging times.

For many years, conventions of Jehovah’s Witnesses have presented reenactments of Bible accounts to impart lessons that everyone can use to improve their life.

Clarence and Pam Wilson are New Orleans residents who have been attending conventions for decades and feel the Bible dramas presented each year have had a deep impact on their lives. Pam relates that the dramas "have helped me to see how Bible characters were able to build and maintain their faith in God despite skepticism and doubt. This teaches me the importance of reading and meditating on the Bible when faced with situations that can test my faith. The Bible will help me to remain strong and maintain my faith just like they did." Clarence was particularly touched by the feature film presented in 2016: "I could relate with the main character. He faced real tragedy and loss but overcame it with the help of his friends and his faith. This helped me to not let my life's challenges be my focus but to see the good things I have and look to the future with hope."

“Bible dramas have been a highlight of our conventions for many decades,” says James Gianopoulos, a local spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “The visual presentation of these feature films is simply amazing. Each viewer is drawn in by the story and left with a lasting impression of practical lessons that they can use in their own life.”

Every year many who are not Jehovah’s Witnesses enjoy watching such Bible dramas during in-person gatherings held in stadiums, arenas, or similar facilities. However, this year Jehovah’s Witnesses have been streaming the entire convention program online so that all can view from the safety of their own home. While there are more than 8.6 million active Witnesses worldwide, last year’s conventions had a peak attendance of more than 14 million. Considering the program is now available online in more than 500 languages, this year’s convention will likely be the most widely attended to date. Those interested in viewing this feature Bible drama free of charge can access the program on jw.org under the “About Us – Conventions” tab.

LOCAL SPOKESMAN – TX, OK, LA

James Gianopoulos

972-989-6512

jgianopoulos@jw.org

LOCAL MEDIA CONTACT – NEW ORLEANS

Peter Student Jr.

203-605-4971

pstudentjr@gmail.com