Thank You All... following our blog!
It has been a good run, here at Brooklyn Bethel. Three & a half months has flown by, it's hard to believe we are headed back to Utah to our current assignment there.
We were amazed to here of how many have been interested in and sharing our experience.
Capri & I are looking forward to sharing more with everyone as opportunities arise.
We were contacted by the Bethel Office last week asking us to remain here another 3 months, however our circumstances to do not allow us to accept. We have not yet sold our home and still have to meet our financial obligations, so we will return and wait and see what Jehovah's will is for us.
It was difficult to say no the invitation since these opportunities are rare. We are confident that Jehovah's knows what is best for us and will work things our in harmony with his will.
While we look forward to returning to our assignment in Magna, we will surely miss the brothers & sisters in the Pratt congregation in Brooklyn. The body of elders have been very encouraging to us and have made us feel a part of the congregation. The publishers in Pratt come from a variety of backgrounds and lands, at least 14 different parts of the world. They are a zealous group with many years of faithful service.
They were sad to hear that we would be leaving them, as they had hoped that we would become permanent members of their congregation. We will miss them!
We have been working with another couple from Alabama, Nathan & Christine Ellis, who serve as regular pioneers there. They are here for 4 weeks and have been here for two already.
They are a very nice couple, they have were here about a year ago, we had just missed working with them as we came in about 3 weeks after they had left. They had the opportunity to work in Jamaica a couple of years ago for 5 months for Hurricane relief.
Another Single Sister was here for just 1 week, Patricia Lundt from North Carolina, this was the forth time we have worked with her and she has been here as a 'Temp' worker 13 times now!
It was nice seeing her here again.
We hope to accept another assignment in the future if the opportunity presents itself.
We are posting some new pictures they we would like to share with you.
Once again Thank you all for supporting us in this special assignment that we have been privileged to do.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Hey everyone,
Just wanted to update you about some things that have been going on here.
We have been very busy with Carpet work here, we finished a 3 week project in 90 Sands, and have begun an even bigger project at 30 Columbia Heights.
That project will take us all the way up to our date to leave here. Along with that project we have a number of other carpet installs that we fit into our schedule.
We have another couple coming into work for 2 weeks, and a single regular pioneer sister that we know that is arriving next week, and she will be here for 2 weeks also. Some of you may have met another couple that will be coming here on December 28th, Chris & Suzanne Coulombe, they came to visit us in Utah last February and he was scheduled to give the public talk at our Hall but was snowed out.
There are a number of projects here at Brooklyn, as well as at Wallkill, and they are inviting Single, Brothers & Single Sisters once again as "short-term temps", along with married couples.
This program has worked well here, which is great since it opens up opportunities for any that would like to enjoy Bethel service short-term, a reality.
We got a 'Zone Report' today during 'Morning Worship', very encouraging! Some of the countries that were reported on, are in the new Yearbook, which we got in our rooms Yesterday. Samoa', and 'Lands of the former Yugoslavia' are the focus of the 2009' Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. The latter include: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia, Very exciting.
We attended the Circuit Assembly, Saturday program last week, and that was a nice shot in the arm. This coming Sunday we will be visiting the 'Queens Russian Congregation' where Vince will be giving the public talk, it will be translated from English to Russian, we are excited about it.
Just wanted to update you about some things that have been going on here.
We have been very busy with Carpet work here, we finished a 3 week project in 90 Sands, and have begun an even bigger project at 30 Columbia Heights.
That project will take us all the way up to our date to leave here. Along with that project we have a number of other carpet installs that we fit into our schedule.
We have another couple coming into work for 2 weeks, and a single regular pioneer sister that we know that is arriving next week, and she will be here for 2 weeks also. Some of you may have met another couple that will be coming here on December 28th, Chris & Suzanne Coulombe, they came to visit us in Utah last February and he was scheduled to give the public talk at our Hall but was snowed out.
There are a number of projects here at Brooklyn, as well as at Wallkill, and they are inviting Single, Brothers & Single Sisters once again as "short-term temps", along with married couples.
This program has worked well here, which is great since it opens up opportunities for any that would like to enjoy Bethel service short-term, a reality.
We got a 'Zone Report' today during 'Morning Worship', very encouraging! Some of the countries that were reported on, are in the new Yearbook, which we got in our rooms Yesterday. Samoa', and 'Lands of the former Yugoslavia' are the focus of the 2009' Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses. The latter include: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia, Very exciting.
We attended the Circuit Assembly, Saturday program last week, and that was a nice shot in the arm. This coming Sunday we will be visiting the 'Queens Russian Congregation' where Vince will be giving the public talk, it will be translated from English to Russian, we are excited about it.
At morning worship earlier this week, it was announced that a long-time Bethelite fell asleep in death at the age of 102 years old. She is survived by her husband, both have served at Bethel since 1954. She is well known here in Brooklyn where she was "The Nurse" here for many years. One story recalls that when a member of the Bethel family was sick and stayed in for the day, they could expect a visit from her twice that day. Instead of knocking and then entering, it was enter & knock at the same time! She would take your temperature, or rather the temperature of the TV set! If it was warm, you were well enough to get out of bed, get dressed, and go back to work... now you just hang a sign out that says sick, and they bring you something for breakfast & lunch.
A memorial service will be held for her this coming Monday before Family Study.
We are down to our last 4 weeks and have been having an extraordinary time here. Time will fly by and will be back before we know it.
Bye for now, Vince & Capri
Friday, November 21, 2008
Howdy! As Bro. Forney would say. It's been a couple of weeks almost, so we'll get you up to date.
There is something new coming to your congregation real soon, but it will have to be a surprise! Sorry!
The Carpet project we have going on right now where we are working, is in the 30 Columbia Heights Office Building. The 7th & 8th floors to start with. Right now we are preparing the 8th floor. This includes 30 pillars that had carpet on them and need to have all the glue removed! That's been fun, Ha!Ha! Then there's 51 rolls of carpet to be installed, just on one floor. Plenty to do that's for sure.
As far as the last three weeks we did the 2nd floor of 90 Sands, and it turned out beautiful as you can see in the pictures. Oh, that's right we told you about the brother from Spain Branch that came to learn some particulars on installing carpets in corridors and matching the patterns. This is unusual since at that branch and several others they mainly have ceramic tile. His name is Salvador Granados, and he and his wife have been serving at the Spain branch for about 13 years.
Also, on November 2 it was the day of the New York City Marathon, it was 26 miles and ran [literally] right thorough our territory we couldn't help but see many of the runners . Since at that point of the race was between the 8th and 11th mile mark then it was interesting to see many articles of clothing along the side of the street, why you might ask?
Well, as is outlined @ Hebrews 12:1, regarding a runner in a race who 'throws off every weight' that might hinder him, and in keeping endurance.
Then there were all the people on the sidelines cheering them on, holding up signs , banging drums to a beat so that runners could keep a pace. It was really exhilarating to see the determination on all their faces.
It brought to my mind how we feel when we haven't seen someone for a long time, a brother/sister serving Jehovah for many years, and they're still hanging in there, still in the race! And, we cheer one another on and encourage each other to keep going despite any hardships, or obstacles we may have to endure.
We too, must not tire out as we get ever closer to the end of this system-of-things, and cheer one another on all the way to the finish line.
Hope everyone is doing well.
In our congregation here, we were able to cover all of the territory during the campaign. The approximately 60 publishers normally cover the territory every 3 weeks. Not only did we do door-to-door, but also street work and letter writing, which helped us to stay busy. The 12 regular pioneers had to be ingenuitive, which helped to keep everyone in the congregation encouraged. We also had the visit of the Circuit Overseer, Theodore & Mary Braeboy during the campaign, and we got to work in the ministry with them.
We also have been assigned to a different book study for the last approximately 6 weeks until the change in the first of the year.
Send us any experiences you may have had during the campaign as we would enjoy them and would like to share them with the brothers & sisters here at Bethel and the Pratt congregation that we are a part of while we are here.
Hope to be sharing more real soon.
Till then take care
With Love
Vince & Capri
There is something new coming to your congregation real soon, but it will have to be a surprise! Sorry!
The Carpet project we have going on right now where we are working, is in the 30 Columbia Heights Office Building. The 7th & 8th floors to start with. Right now we are preparing the 8th floor. This includes 30 pillars that had carpet on them and need to have all the glue removed! That's been fun, Ha!Ha! Then there's 51 rolls of carpet to be installed, just on one floor. Plenty to do that's for sure.
As far as the last three weeks we did the 2nd floor of 90 Sands, and it turned out beautiful as you can see in the pictures. Oh, that's right we told you about the brother from Spain Branch that came to learn some particulars on installing carpets in corridors and matching the patterns. This is unusual since at that branch and several others they mainly have ceramic tile. His name is Salvador Granados, and he and his wife have been serving at the Spain branch for about 13 years.
Also, on November 2 it was the day of the New York City Marathon, it was 26 miles and ran [literally] right thorough our territory we couldn't help but see many of the runners . Since at that point of the race was between the 8th and 11th mile mark then it was interesting to see many articles of clothing along the side of the street, why you might ask?
Well, as is outlined @ Hebrews 12:1, regarding a runner in a race who 'throws off every weight' that might hinder him, and in keeping endurance.
Then there were all the people on the sidelines cheering them on, holding up signs , banging drums to a beat so that runners could keep a pace. It was really exhilarating to see the determination on all their faces.
It brought to my mind how we feel when we haven't seen someone for a long time, a brother/sister serving Jehovah for many years, and they're still hanging in there, still in the race! And, we cheer one another on and encourage each other to keep going despite any hardships, or obstacles we may have to endure.
We too, must not tire out as we get ever closer to the end of this system-of-things, and cheer one another on all the way to the finish line.
Hope everyone is doing well.
In our congregation here, we were able to cover all of the territory during the campaign. The approximately 60 publishers normally cover the territory every 3 weeks. Not only did we do door-to-door, but also street work and letter writing, which helped us to stay busy. The 12 regular pioneers had to be ingenuitive, which helped to keep everyone in the congregation encouraged. We also had the visit of the Circuit Overseer, Theodore & Mary Braeboy during the campaign, and we got to work in the ministry with them.
We also have been assigned to a different book study for the last approximately 6 weeks until the change in the first of the year.
Send us any experiences you may have had during the campaign as we would enjoy them and would like to share them with the brothers & sisters here at Bethel and the Pratt congregation that we are a part of while we are here.
Hope to be sharing more real soon.
Till then take care
With Love
Vince & Capri
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Today is Sunday Nov. 9
We went out in the terr. in a building 21 floors high,each floor with 8 doors. your assigned a couple of doors,only two of you then the next pair go to a take couple of doors. you usually have 4-6 people on a floor. this morning we had 3 groups. when you knock on the door you look straight into the peep hole to see if any light comes through as it has a disk that slides over to see who's at the door. as soon as you see the slightest light you start talking. you may or may not hear a voice if not you still slide a tract in the door. if you have the kind like last week you buzz out side then if they answer you talk. very different then what were used to.
last night we had 'Family Night', there was a special dinner stuffed sole, yum !yum! and then at 7pm there was a talent show, boy are some of the Bethelites talented. there was tap dancers , a pianist, stand up comics, singers, jugglers ,they had it all. but one that they have most always is an interview with some of the long time servants, this couple brother & sister Buettell. He told how in 1941 he and 100 other brothers were in prison for not going to war. They had their own meetings in fact they split logs for seats a placed rocks for steps the picture looked like an amphitheater, really neat. when he got out he worked as a mechanic, then one day he was underneath a car and he looked out from the car saw some ankles! He hurried out from the car and there was this pretty girl,and it just happened that her mom and her were on there way to a convention and a regular pioneer too! two years later they were married. Making themselves available and wanting to do more they received an assignment as Circuit Overseers in Wyoming, they loved it, they're were no other witnesses and some areas were so hard to get to that many times they would camp out, without a tent. After a few more years they were asked to go to Gilead they were in the 26 class they're assignment Brazil they loved it had a picture many still going strong. at one point he got sick , so sick that one of the brothers asked permission that after he passed could he marry his wife? He said that helped him get well quick! They had to leave they re assignment to care for infirm parents, but then after some time they were invited to serve in Bethel in Wallkill, and now they have been at Bethel since 1977.
At the close of the show all performers came on stage and danced and the Buettells were right in the middle dancing away and in their 80's no less... cute cute!
As you can tell we are having a nice time here, the work is only a small part of a much bigger picture.
This week a brother who is serving at the branch in Brazil will be coming here to get training on Carpet Installation, and I have the privilege of training him so that he can return to Brazil and install carpeting at the branch there.
Beginning Monday we will have a couple from the Australia Bethel sitting at our table for 'Morning Worship' and so look forward to getting to know them and hear their experiences.
We are updating some of the pictures we have taken, enjoy.
Love, Vince & Capri
Monday, October 27, 2008
Hello from World Headquarters!
Here are some recent news items that we would like to share with you.
At morning worship, Jeffrey Jackson of the Governing Body, gave a report about our brothers in Texas, after Hurricane Ike.
No fatalities, 22 Kingdom Halls were damaged, 1740 homes damaged, with 15 totally destroyed.
Dallas was the first to respond, brothers brought 300 tons of supplies. A major oil company donated 45 generators, and two truckloads of food. they brought these to the witnesses because they knew that we would not turn around and sell these for a profit.
This evening, Monday, after Family Watchtower Study, we had the privilege of hearing the introductions of the 126th class of Gilead.
Brother William Malanfant introduced each couple, there are 28 of them from 6 different countries. Average age - 32, Average years in the truth - 17, average years in full-time service - 13.
We are looking forward to meeting some of them as they will be touring Brooklyn on Friday.
As each couple is introduced, they share some background information about themselves, for example, how they came into the truth, the goal to serve as missionaries and the obstacles, trials, negative thinking, etc... they experienced in reaching their goal. Some were raised around the truth, others came into the truth later, some have broken families, raised in single-parent households, and divided families. Others have disfellowshipped or inactive parent or siblings.
For example; one brother was raised in Christian home, however as he explained it, his parents fought the entire time he was at home. Abusive speech, throwing things at one another, black-eyes and the like were common occurrences. through all of this his mother remained with him. His father became inactive for several years. He left home, and after a while things improved. After some 20 years , his father is now reactivated, and for the first time since he was a young boy he recently had the privilege of going out in field service with his father. And now he & his wife have the awesome privilege of attending Gilead.
We miss you all, and look forward to sharing many more experiences with you,
Phi-li-a, Vince & Capri
Here are some recent news items that we would like to share with you.
At morning worship, Jeffrey Jackson of the Governing Body, gave a report about our brothers in Texas, after Hurricane Ike.
No fatalities, 22 Kingdom Halls were damaged, 1740 homes damaged, with 15 totally destroyed.
Dallas was the first to respond, brothers brought 300 tons of supplies. A major oil company donated 45 generators, and two truckloads of food. they brought these to the witnesses because they knew that we would not turn around and sell these for a profit.
This evening, Monday, after Family Watchtower Study, we had the privilege of hearing the introductions of the 126th class of Gilead.
Brother William Malanfant introduced each couple, there are 28 of them from 6 different countries. Average age - 32, Average years in the truth - 17, average years in full-time service - 13.
We are looking forward to meeting some of them as they will be touring Brooklyn on Friday.
As each couple is introduced, they share some background information about themselves, for example, how they came into the truth, the goal to serve as missionaries and the obstacles, trials, negative thinking, etc... they experienced in reaching their goal. Some were raised around the truth, others came into the truth later, some have broken families, raised in single-parent households, and divided families. Others have disfellowshipped or inactive parent or siblings.
For example; one brother was raised in Christian home, however as he explained it, his parents fought the entire time he was at home. Abusive speech, throwing things at one another, black-eyes and the like were common occurrences. through all of this his mother remained with him. His father became inactive for several years. He left home, and after a while things improved. After some 20 years , his father is now reactivated, and for the first time since he was a young boy he recently had the privilege of going out in field service with his father. And now he & his wife have the awesome privilege of attending Gilead.
We miss you all, and look forward to sharing many more experiences with you,
Phi-li-a, Vince & Capri
Thursday, October 16, 2008
We graduated!
Capri & I finished our 1-week orientation. This is the same orientation given to new Bethel-ites. They waited until now because at the time of our arrival we were the only ones that came in. The orientation class consisted of two young regular pioneer brothers @ 2o years old, another couple our age, (young) and two new brides, 8 total.
Beginning last Friday @ 8:00 a.m. we started w/ Registration/Orientation.
We concluded our 1st day with a tour of the Office Complex, which is quite different from any tour that is given to visitors since the tour was to familiarize us with everything that is available to us as new members. This includes Chiropractic services, exercise programs (including a trainer if requested), and much more.
And the tour was given by 'Buzz Lightyear', no kidding! The brother looks exactly like Buzz Lightyear.
On Saturday we received 'Dining Room' training, where we learned how to set-up the dining tables, plates, silverware, serving dishes etc. This included filling salt & pepper shakers, sugar, napkins, cleaning & polishing them...whew!
After a busy weekend which included our 'Special Assembly Day' on Monday we continued orientation @ 8:00 to begin 'Room Care Training' which would last three mornings til 11:45. We were taught how to thoroughly clean a Bethel room from top to bottom. Each morning we were expected to clean, sanitize, make beds, dust etc... under the direction of the housekeepers. Each of us were assigned to a particular sister and are now expected to maintain the high standards of Bethel with regards cleaning.
On Monday afternoon we listened to lectures, first from the Legal Dept. then from the Treasures Office, and followed by Medical Orientation.
On Tuesday afternoon we had Laundry & Dry Cleaning orientation, followed by a tour of 117 Adams /90 Sands.
Wednesday morning was our final day of 'Room Care Training', then in the afternoon was a 4-hour lecture by the Home Overseer, Alfred Silva.
Brother Silva is our 'table head' so it was very nice for Capri & I since we have already spent allot of time together w/ he and his wife, Evangelina.
Thursday morning we went back to the "Infirmary' for two last videos and we signed up for an exercise program.
The 'Special Assembly Day' program is the one you all will be attending in Richfield in the spring. Our Bethel speaker was Guy Pierce of the Governing Body. Before the program we got to have a nice conversation with he and his wife, Penny. We found out that he was introduced to the truth in "Price, Utah", in fact both sides of his family are LDS.
Also, to our surprise we saw familiar faces at the SAD, brother & sister Tackett from the City Creek congregation! They are here visiting/touring with a group from Utah.
I was able to give my first talk in the congregation this week the Speech Quality talk, and Capri has her first student talk in a few weeks.
We have the visit of the Circuit Overseer next month and so look forward to staying busy. The friends have welcomed us with open arms and have made us a part of their family.
As far as work is concerned, we worked in the Bossart today installing carpet in a room damaged by one of the worldly tenants. He let the toilet to overflow in his room, got up in the middle of the night, only to ignore it and go back to bed. He lived on the 5th floor, and the damage went all the way down to the basement! The place was filthy, animals would not live there.
It's amazing since the brothers offer room care the same as what is given to all Bethel rooms.
We Love you, Vince & Capri
Capri & I finished our 1-week orientation. This is the same orientation given to new Bethel-ites. They waited until now because at the time of our arrival we were the only ones that came in. The orientation class consisted of two young regular pioneer brothers @ 2o years old, another couple our age, (young) and two new brides, 8 total.
Beginning last Friday @ 8:00 a.m. we started w/ Registration/Orientation.
We concluded our 1st day with a tour of the Office Complex, which is quite different from any tour that is given to visitors since the tour was to familiarize us with everything that is available to us as new members. This includes Chiropractic services, exercise programs (including a trainer if requested), and much more.
And the tour was given by 'Buzz Lightyear', no kidding! The brother looks exactly like Buzz Lightyear.
On Saturday we received 'Dining Room' training, where we learned how to set-up the dining tables, plates, silverware, serving dishes etc. This included filling salt & pepper shakers, sugar, napkins, cleaning & polishing them...whew!
After a busy weekend which included our 'Special Assembly Day' on Monday we continued orientation @ 8:00 to begin 'Room Care Training' which would last three mornings til 11:45. We were taught how to thoroughly clean a Bethel room from top to bottom. Each morning we were expected to clean, sanitize, make beds, dust etc... under the direction of the housekeepers. Each of us were assigned to a particular sister and are now expected to maintain the high standards of Bethel with regards cleaning.
On Monday afternoon we listened to lectures, first from the Legal Dept. then from the Treasures Office, and followed by Medical Orientation.
On Tuesday afternoon we had Laundry & Dry Cleaning orientation, followed by a tour of 117 Adams /90 Sands.
Wednesday morning was our final day of 'Room Care Training', then in the afternoon was a 4-hour lecture by the Home Overseer, Alfred Silva.
Brother Silva is our 'table head' so it was very nice for Capri & I since we have already spent allot of time together w/ he and his wife, Evangelina.
Thursday morning we went back to the "Infirmary' for two last videos and we signed up for an exercise program.
The 'Special Assembly Day' program is the one you all will be attending in Richfield in the spring. Our Bethel speaker was Guy Pierce of the Governing Body. Before the program we got to have a nice conversation with he and his wife, Penny. We found out that he was introduced to the truth in "Price, Utah", in fact both sides of his family are LDS.
Also, to our surprise we saw familiar faces at the SAD, brother & sister Tackett from the City Creek congregation! They are here visiting/touring with a group from Utah.
I was able to give my first talk in the congregation this week the Speech Quality talk, and Capri has her first student talk in a few weeks.
We have the visit of the Circuit Overseer next month and so look forward to staying busy. The friends have welcomed us with open arms and have made us a part of their family.
As far as work is concerned, we worked in the Bossart today installing carpet in a room damaged by one of the worldly tenants. He let the toilet to overflow in his room, got up in the middle of the night, only to ignore it and go back to bed. He lived on the 5th floor, and the damage went all the way down to the basement! The place was filthy, animals would not live there.
It's amazing since the brothers offer room care the same as what is given to all Bethel rooms.
We Love you, Vince & Capri
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The Annual Meeting was in some ways historic, that is what was said @ morning worship this week.
One reason for this; the entire 9 members of the 'Governing Body' had a share, which to memory has never been done before. Also, the three eldest members of the GB were interviewed, brothers, Barr, Jaracz, and Lousch... again a first.
The Yeartext for 2009' is taken from Acts 20:24;
"Bear Thorough Witness To The Good News".
Brother Guy Pearce of the governing body presented this talk, he explained that while some may believe that we are in a 'gleaning work' this is not true! Rather, we are in the heat of preaching work, it is the hallmark of Jehovah's Witnesses. Never look at the preaching work as a burden, Jehovah asks us to talk, which is natural for humans, and what better subject to talk to others about.
Brother Stephen Lett of the Governing body presented the talk; "Will Your Family Survive Armageddon?
Each father/husband, should ask: "will members of my family, my mate, children, survive? The answer: only if they are spiritually alive. While there are a number of elements that contribute to this a key element is maintaining an evening of family worship. This was a key reason for the decision for the adjustment in combining the book-study, tms, and service meeting.
In fact the Governing Body has deliberated on this for several years now. It is expected that each family, couple or single publisher will use the night for worship, be it family or personal.
This is not new, since the Israelites, Noah's family, Rahab's family, all did this.
Consider too, that while we must take care of our families physical needs, providing spiritually is vital. Jesus Christ was raised in such a household. Jehovah could have placed Jesus in a wealthy home if he wanted to, but he didn't, instead he chose a poor family to raise his perfect son. This is a sobering thought for families to consider.
At the request of the Governing Body, the talk entitled; "The Faithful & Discreet Slave and its Governing Body", presented by David Splane a member of the Governing Body".
Brother Jeffrey Jackson a member of the Governing Body interviewed Brother Barr, Jaracz, and brother Garrett Lousch. Combined they have 185 years of dedicated service.
Brother Jaracz served as the 'Company Servant' at 17 years of age, while brother Loucsh is the only one in his family in the truth. Brother Barr had the goal of attending Gilead but because of having the flu twice in two years was turned down, to which he said he was crushed, since all his friends were accepted. Brother Jackson mentioned that Brother Barr has visited 54 countries during his career in the Zone work... not bad for a 'Shy Boy', which is how he describes himself.
One other point impressed me in the concluding comments by brother Heard; consider the 'invisible' part of Jehovah's organization, we see the visible part, but remember this, the 'invisible' part is much larger!
He read 2 Chronicles 7:1-3 and said that indeed Jehovah's Glory had filled this house.
We have much more, and will share these with you upon our return,
Love, Vince & Capri.
One reason for this; the entire 9 members of the 'Governing Body' had a share, which to memory has never been done before. Also, the three eldest members of the GB were interviewed, brothers, Barr, Jaracz, and Lousch... again a first.
The Yeartext for 2009' is taken from Acts 20:24;
"Bear Thorough Witness To The Good News".
Brother Guy Pearce of the governing body presented this talk, he explained that while some may believe that we are in a 'gleaning work' this is not true! Rather, we are in the heat of preaching work, it is the hallmark of Jehovah's Witnesses. Never look at the preaching work as a burden, Jehovah asks us to talk, which is natural for humans, and what better subject to talk to others about.
Brother Stephen Lett of the Governing body presented the talk; "Will Your Family Survive Armageddon?
Each father/husband, should ask: "will members of my family, my mate, children, survive? The answer: only if they are spiritually alive. While there are a number of elements that contribute to this a key element is maintaining an evening of family worship. This was a key reason for the decision for the adjustment in combining the book-study, tms, and service meeting.
In fact the Governing Body has deliberated on this for several years now. It is expected that each family, couple or single publisher will use the night for worship, be it family or personal.
This is not new, since the Israelites, Noah's family, Rahab's family, all did this.
Consider too, that while we must take care of our families physical needs, providing spiritually is vital. Jesus Christ was raised in such a household. Jehovah could have placed Jesus in a wealthy home if he wanted to, but he didn't, instead he chose a poor family to raise his perfect son. This is a sobering thought for families to consider.
At the request of the Governing Body, the talk entitled; "The Faithful & Discreet Slave and its Governing Body", presented by David Splane a member of the Governing Body".
Brother Jeffrey Jackson a member of the Governing Body interviewed Brother Barr, Jaracz, and brother Garrett Lousch. Combined they have 185 years of dedicated service.
Brother Jaracz served as the 'Company Servant' at 17 years of age, while brother Loucsh is the only one in his family in the truth. Brother Barr had the goal of attending Gilead but because of having the flu twice in two years was turned down, to which he said he was crushed, since all his friends were accepted. Brother Jackson mentioned that Brother Barr has visited 54 countries during his career in the Zone work... not bad for a 'Shy Boy', which is how he describes himself.
One other point impressed me in the concluding comments by brother Heard; consider the 'invisible' part of Jehovah's organization, we see the visible part, but remember this, the 'invisible' part is much larger!
He read 2 Chronicles 7:1-3 and said that indeed Jehovah's Glory had filled this house.
We have much more, and will share these with you upon our return,
Love, Vince & Capri.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Greetings All,
They call it the "Annual Meeting Buzz", and a buzz it has been!
Guests arriving from every corner of the earth, coming in for the annual meeting. We have met many, most have been serving Jehovah for decades in various assignments, their gray-headedness reflecting their dedicated service.
At lunch on Thursday we met a sister who is serving in Mozambique as a missionary who is in her late 80's. Graduated from the 18Th class of Gilead she has served loyally with her husband who died nearly 25 years ago. Soon after his death a brother who had admired them, took an interest in our now widowed sister. He being much younger, some 25 years pursued her, but she was not interested, considering the huge age difference. He though was persistent, insisting and not giving up. She then went to a close friend an older sister & dear friend to ask for advice, the advice... "If you don't marry him I will!" They have been happily married for 20 years now.
On Friday evening we were invited to an 'Open Room' (open house), the couple we attend meetings with. The room was filled with pillars, what a treat. We met a couple in their 20's, who have just completed their third year as missionaries in Malawi, and were here for annual meeting & to visit friends & family. Their experience was upbuilding, especially for any pursing extended-service privileges. As regular pioneers they had the goal of going to Gilead and so submitted applications. After about 9 years in his family a number of serious problems shook them up, with his mother leaving the truth, which affected other family members shaking them up spiritually, which brought tremendous stress on them. Affected by all this his health suffered. The right side of his face began to droop, come to find out it was cerebral palsy.
However, they were determined to keep regular pioneering & continue w/ their goal, which they did for an entire year. Finally it took it's toll and they had to stop pioneering but would go back on the list in 1 year. Imagine how they must have felt when just 1 week later of discontinuing pioneering, in the mail was the 'Long-Form' (Gilead App.), which now they no longer qualified for. Discouraged, they called Bethel to ask could they fill it out and submit it? The answer: NO.
After 1 year, they were able to go back on the list as planned, however they knew that now they would have to start all over again, and that it may take years for them to reach their goal, or perhaps not at all.
A brother told them that they shouldn't have to wait, you have the 'Long-Form'! Write the branch, explain your situation, and leave it in Jehovah's hands. 3 months later they were invited to attend Gilead, and are now serving in Malawi!
The lesson, don't give up, never doubt that Jehovah knows and takes a personal interest in each one of us.
Bye, for now, Love, Vince & Capri
They call it the "Annual Meeting Buzz", and a buzz it has been!
Guests arriving from every corner of the earth, coming in for the annual meeting. We have met many, most have been serving Jehovah for decades in various assignments, their gray-headedness reflecting their dedicated service.
At lunch on Thursday we met a sister who is serving in Mozambique as a missionary who is in her late 80's. Graduated from the 18Th class of Gilead she has served loyally with her husband who died nearly 25 years ago. Soon after his death a brother who had admired them, took an interest in our now widowed sister. He being much younger, some 25 years pursued her, but she was not interested, considering the huge age difference. He though was persistent, insisting and not giving up. She then went to a close friend an older sister & dear friend to ask for advice, the advice... "If you don't marry him I will!" They have been happily married for 20 years now.
On Friday evening we were invited to an 'Open Room' (open house), the couple we attend meetings with. The room was filled with pillars, what a treat. We met a couple in their 20's, who have just completed their third year as missionaries in Malawi, and were here for annual meeting & to visit friends & family. Their experience was upbuilding, especially for any pursing extended-service privileges. As regular pioneers they had the goal of going to Gilead and so submitted applications. After about 9 years in his family a number of serious problems shook them up, with his mother leaving the truth, which affected other family members shaking them up spiritually, which brought tremendous stress on them. Affected by all this his health suffered. The right side of his face began to droop, come to find out it was cerebral palsy.
However, they were determined to keep regular pioneering & continue w/ their goal, which they did for an entire year. Finally it took it's toll and they had to stop pioneering but would go back on the list in 1 year. Imagine how they must have felt when just 1 week later of discontinuing pioneering, in the mail was the 'Long-Form' (Gilead App.), which now they no longer qualified for. Discouraged, they called Bethel to ask could they fill it out and submit it? The answer: NO.
After 1 year, they were able to go back on the list as planned, however they knew that now they would have to start all over again, and that it may take years for them to reach their goal, or perhaps not at all.
A brother told them that they shouldn't have to wait, you have the 'Long-Form'! Write the branch, explain your situation, and leave it in Jehovah's hands. 3 months later they were invited to attend Gilead, and are now serving in Malawi!
The lesson, don't give up, never doubt that Jehovah knows and takes a personal interest in each one of us.
Bye, for now, Love, Vince & Capri
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Hey everybody!
Capri & I went to our 1st Book Study on Tuesday, and will attend the Theocratic Ministry School & Service Meeting on Thursday. Both meetings begin @7:00 p.m.
A married couple & single Bethelite also attend and they take turns driving to the meetings throughout the week.
We had the privilege of having a couple come to book study w/ us from Hong Kong.
They are originally from Lexington, Kentucky, and have been in Hong Kong for 10 years.
After the book study they shared their field service experiences with all of us. It was awesome!!
They are in an English speaking congregation, in fact the Kingdom Hall that they go to has 7 congregations, all share the Hall. There are meetings from 8:00 in the morning until 8:00 at night. As you can imagine, this presents some challenges for them.
for example; 'elders meetings', going 'questions with unbaptized publishers', 'baptism questions', and even 'judicial meetings' have to be held elsewhere.
They usually hold these meetings at the local parks or even the local McDonalds or KFC...
No one has to be nervous about being called into the back room, (Ha, Ha!) but beware if you're invited to the Park!
Land is so expensive there that it is nearly impossible to afford to build new Kingdom Halls.
All of these congregations are English... they need English-speaking publishers there, which by the way is true all through Europe.
The sister, is a 'Commuter Bethelite', while her husband works full time and works in Mainland China.
They mentioned that during the recent Olympics in China that there were many witness visitors that came through there, and that security became even more strict. Witnesses that tried to bring literature into the country were questioned and their literature confiscated.
So, whenever they could they would remind the visiting witnesses that this would be unwise.
The people whom they witness to in the territory are primarily Godless, and while that may seem challenging they're having great success. You see they don't have to refute false teachings from Christendom. The sister conducts 15 Bible studies! She said that this is very common in the congregation, with 87 Bible studies being conducted in the field.
Most of their witnessing is done in street work, which is where they find English-speaking people. you see, it's the English that are the housekeepers, gardeners and so forth. Since it would be disrespectrul to go to a residence and ask to speak to the help, it is best to find these through informal witnessing.
To help with their income the sister teaches English, the common language spoken there is Cantonese & Japanese. One of the persons that took an interest in the truth was one of her students, to teach she would use magazines & newspapers. However, the sister found out that the lady was interested in the Bible, so the sister asked her would it be okay if she used the publication, "My Book Of Bible Stories" to which she agreed. The next week English lessons were taught out of the publication and during the session many questions were asked and answered.
So here she was conducting a Bible Study & getting paid!
However, her conscience would not allow her to do that again, so she suggested discontinuing the English lessons, but instead having a personal Bible study, to which she agreed... she now attends the meetings regularly.
'We have a busy week here at Bethel, with the Annual Meeting this Saturday, people are coming in from all over the world. We have had the privilege of meeting missionaries, branch members, special pioneers, and traveling overseers from all parts of the globe.
We are thrilled to have this awesome experience, and glad to share it with you!!!
We are told that beginning tommorrow it will really get busy here, as more and more arrive for this special event.
Well, its getting late and we start our day @5:30 am. it's Bed time.
Phi-li-a, Vince & Capri
Capri & I went to our 1st Book Study on Tuesday, and will attend the Theocratic Ministry School & Service Meeting on Thursday. Both meetings begin @7:00 p.m.
A married couple & single Bethelite also attend and they take turns driving to the meetings throughout the week.
We had the privilege of having a couple come to book study w/ us from Hong Kong.
They are originally from Lexington, Kentucky, and have been in Hong Kong for 10 years.
After the book study they shared their field service experiences with all of us. It was awesome!!
They are in an English speaking congregation, in fact the Kingdom Hall that they go to has 7 congregations, all share the Hall. There are meetings from 8:00 in the morning until 8:00 at night. As you can imagine, this presents some challenges for them.
for example; 'elders meetings', going 'questions with unbaptized publishers', 'baptism questions', and even 'judicial meetings' have to be held elsewhere.
They usually hold these meetings at the local parks or even the local McDonalds or KFC...
No one has to be nervous about being called into the back room, (Ha, Ha!) but beware if you're invited to the Park!
Land is so expensive there that it is nearly impossible to afford to build new Kingdom Halls.
All of these congregations are English... they need English-speaking publishers there, which by the way is true all through Europe.
The sister, is a 'Commuter Bethelite', while her husband works full time and works in Mainland China.
They mentioned that during the recent Olympics in China that there were many witness visitors that came through there, and that security became even more strict. Witnesses that tried to bring literature into the country were questioned and their literature confiscated.
So, whenever they could they would remind the visiting witnesses that this would be unwise.
The people whom they witness to in the territory are primarily Godless, and while that may seem challenging they're having great success. You see they don't have to refute false teachings from Christendom. The sister conducts 15 Bible studies! She said that this is very common in the congregation, with 87 Bible studies being conducted in the field.
Most of their witnessing is done in street work, which is where they find English-speaking people. you see, it's the English that are the housekeepers, gardeners and so forth. Since it would be disrespectrul to go to a residence and ask to speak to the help, it is best to find these through informal witnessing.
To help with their income the sister teaches English, the common language spoken there is Cantonese & Japanese. One of the persons that took an interest in the truth was one of her students, to teach she would use magazines & newspapers. However, the sister found out that the lady was interested in the Bible, so the sister asked her would it be okay if she used the publication, "My Book Of Bible Stories" to which she agreed. The next week English lessons were taught out of the publication and during the session many questions were asked and answered.
So here she was conducting a Bible Study & getting paid!
However, her conscience would not allow her to do that again, so she suggested discontinuing the English lessons, but instead having a personal Bible study, to which she agreed... she now attends the meetings regularly.
'We have a busy week here at Bethel, with the Annual Meeting this Saturday, people are coming in from all over the world. We have had the privilege of meeting missionaries, branch members, special pioneers, and traveling overseers from all parts of the globe.
We are thrilled to have this awesome experience, and glad to share it with you!!!
We are told that beginning tommorrow it will really get busy here, as more and more arrive for this special event.
Well, its getting late and we start our day @5:30 am. it's Bed time.
Phi-li-a, Vince & Capri
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Hey there everybody.
We had a great day today. Because we have not received an Congregation assignment yet Capri & I went to the meeting with some good friends of ours, Terry & Katrina Turner.
The congregation is in the south Bronx by the name of Bruckner-English. Our day began with a pancake & oatmeal breakfast in the 90 Sands dining room @ 7:00 a.m. From there we went back to the room to finish studying our Watchtower, we were then picked up at 9:00 to head off to the meeting. However, just before that about 15 minutes before leaving, we got a phone call in our room from a brother who introduce himself and asked if we needed a ride to the meeting. He said that he had received notification that we had been assigned to the 'Pratt' Congregation in Brooklyn, a congregation with 75 publishers and with only 4 elders.
He said that he looked forward to the help we would be able to give, especially the help of another elder.
Since we already had made plans to go to the meeting with the Turners, I just told the brother we would begin attending meetings Tuesday.
The Bruckner congregation has only 4 elders also, with about 80 publishers, they were wondering if Capri & I could be assigned there, that they need the help.
Anyways after the meeting we went immediately in to the field Ministry in the Bronx... What an experience. A group of us 10, went to the top of a 21 story tenement with 7 or 8 residences per floor.
All ten of us would stand in front of the common hallway if front of the elevators, and then brother Turner would then send two from the group to go do 3 or 4 doors while the rest of us just waited for them to finish. they would then return, give Brother Turner the not-at-homes, he would then assign two more to finish the other three doors while the rest of us wait. Then, when finished, we would all take the stairs down to the next hallway and repeat the routine. (By the way in many cases the stairways were filled with a stench, reason: we had to walk over puddles of urine!)
What an experience!
No one actually opens the door either, you just talk to the peep-holes, giving your presentations and reading Scriptures.
Capri & I got to go on a couple of Bible studies, and Brother Turner & I made a couple of Shepherding calls too.
We finished our day back at Bethel with a hearty Meatloaf dinner.
we are now back at the room eating chocolate cake.
Life is tough!!!
Love You, Vince & Capri.
We had a great day today. Because we have not received an Congregation assignment yet Capri & I went to the meeting with some good friends of ours, Terry & Katrina Turner.
The congregation is in the south Bronx by the name of Bruckner-English. Our day began with a pancake & oatmeal breakfast in the 90 Sands dining room @ 7:00 a.m. From there we went back to the room to finish studying our Watchtower, we were then picked up at 9:00 to head off to the meeting. However, just before that about 15 minutes before leaving, we got a phone call in our room from a brother who introduce himself and asked if we needed a ride to the meeting. He said that he had received notification that we had been assigned to the 'Pratt' Congregation in Brooklyn, a congregation with 75 publishers and with only 4 elders.
He said that he looked forward to the help we would be able to give, especially the help of another elder.
Since we already had made plans to go to the meeting with the Turners, I just told the brother we would begin attending meetings Tuesday.
The Bruckner congregation has only 4 elders also, with about 80 publishers, they were wondering if Capri & I could be assigned there, that they need the help.
Anyways after the meeting we went immediately in to the field Ministry in the Bronx... What an experience. A group of us 10, went to the top of a 21 story tenement with 7 or 8 residences per floor.
All ten of us would stand in front of the common hallway if front of the elevators, and then brother Turner would then send two from the group to go do 3 or 4 doors while the rest of us just waited for them to finish. they would then return, give Brother Turner the not-at-homes, he would then assign two more to finish the other three doors while the rest of us wait. Then, when finished, we would all take the stairs down to the next hallway and repeat the routine. (By the way in many cases the stairways were filled with a stench, reason: we had to walk over puddles of urine!)
What an experience!
No one actually opens the door either, you just talk to the peep-holes, giving your presentations and reading Scriptures.
Capri & I got to go on a couple of Bible studies, and Brother Turner & I made a couple of Shepherding calls too.
We finished our day back at Bethel with a hearty Meatloaf dinner.
we are now back at the room eating chocolate cake.
Life is tough!!!
Love You, Vince & Capri.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
We are in our second day here in Brooklyn Bethel, we have an awesome room in 90 Sands on the 24th floor overlooking Brooklyn and the 'East river' (Haven't seen anyone in cement goulashes yet).
Being up this high gives us a nice view of the city. We get to see the sunrise in the morning, and the moon clearly in the evening.
Today we got our official Bethel ID with our picture on them, we will upload a picture later.
We know that you must have been encouraged to hear of the announcements of Gene Jensen as an elder, and Chris Forward as a new Ministerial Servant. You won't even miss Capri & I with these new assignments.
We love and miss all of you and will continue to update you about our wonderful experience here at world headquarters.
We have yet to get our work assignment, a congregation assignment and locker assignment.
Phi-lia, Vince & Capri
Being up this high gives us a nice view of the city. We get to see the sunrise in the morning, and the moon clearly in the evening.
Today we got our official Bethel ID with our picture on them, we will upload a picture later.
We know that you must have been encouraged to hear of the announcements of Gene Jensen as an elder, and Chris Forward as a new Ministerial Servant. You won't even miss Capri & I with these new assignments.
We love and miss all of you and will continue to update you about our wonderful experience here at world headquarters.
We have yet to get our work assignment, a congregation assignment and locker assignment.
Phi-lia, Vince & Capri
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