Uniting the World in Faith!

Breaking a century-old tradition in the name of health and safety, the largest convention organization in the world has moved its annual in-person event to a virtual format for the second time in as many years, canceling nearly 6,000 conventions in 240 lands.

In the past, the summers might feature Jehovah’s Witnesses streaming into the city to stay in hotels and fill restaurants as they held their conventions at the Mississippi Coliseum in downtown Jackson. In 2020, the pandemic unexpectedly interrupted that tradition moving the international religious organization to cancel in-person conventions throughout the world and launch a global virtual event. This was a first for Jehovah’s Witnesses, who have held public conventions in stadiums, arenas, convention centers, and theaters around the world since 1897.

Janel and Jarrod Scott of Jackson, eagerly looks forward to this yearly event. “One of my greatest joys in attending is seeing so many different races and backgrounds worshipping in unity,” says Jarrod. “Although I miss seeing everyone in person, watching the convention virtually allows me to really focus on the program.” For Janel, she too enjoyed being with so many friends that she didn’t see very often. However, she adds, “Having the program virtually has been such a blessing. Not only is it convenient that we can view it from the comfort of our homes, but for me personally, the pandemic has made it such a challenge to maintain my joy. Being able to re-watch the program and reflect on encouraging points was beneficial in helping me keep a positive attitude this past year. We can enjoy the videos and talks long after the convention has ended.”

The continued risk of bringing thousands of people together in cities around the world prompted the organization to opt for a virtual platform for the second consecutive year. However, the move has not curbed the enthusiasm for the annual event. Congregations around the world are inviting the public to join them in this historic occasion.

“Faith has helped our global brotherhood to continue to thrive even during a pandemic,” said Robert Hendriks, U.S. spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “Our faith will continue to unite us in worship—even virtually—as millions gather in private homes around the world to enjoy a powerful and inspiring spiritual program.”

All are invited to attend the event by going to www.jw.org on the web or JW Broadcasting on the free JW Library app available for iOS or Android, or on streaming platforms like ROKU TV, Apple TV, and others. The program is free and accessible to all. The schedule for download and global streaming is listed below.

For more information, please contact Jehovah’s Witnesses United States at (718) 560-5600 or pid@jw.org.