United in Faith Worldwide!

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.

Joe Caines of Concord, who has been attending regional conventions of Jehovah’s Witnesses for the past 50 years, is helping coordinate the internet live-streaming program for his local congregation.

“While we will miss being in company with thousands of fellow worshippers, there are many benefits to this adjusted method of watching the convention program online,” Caines said. “For one thing, the virtual program will be divided over several weekends. That will enable us to better absorb the information. Also, we can review any portion of the program when we like.”

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.

“Powerful by Faith!” is the theme of the 2021 global event, which will be delivered in more than 500 languages to households throughout the globe over six weekends during July and August 2021, uniting some 15-20 million people in 240 countries. Since the convention is typically held from Friday through Sunday, the program will be available in six installments corresponding to morning and afternoon sessions. “Friday” morning’s session will be available for streaming or download beginning June 28, 2021.

Caines said that the advent of modern technology has changed the content of the convention program for the better. “We have always looked forward to the Bible dramas presented each year. In recent years video productions have replaced live actors on stage. They are so well-produced that you feel as if you are transported back in time.”

A highlight of this year’s virtual convention will be a full-length movie Bible drama entitled “Daniel (of Daniel and the lions’ den) – A Lifetime of Faith”.

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 visit: https://www.jw.org/en/jehovahs-witnesses/conventions/