(Certain details have been altered to protect the identity of those involved)
Although I have never been a Jehovah’s Witness, I have been to roughly 15 of their annual memorial services. The Witnesses celebrate the Lord’s Evening Meal (what most Christians refer to as communion) only once a year. Before I describe the events of the evening, I’ll give a short summary of what usually happens at this ceremony.
Since this is the only religious holiday Jehovah’s Witnesses celebrate, attendance at Kingdom Halls for this service is much like Christmas and Easter is for Christians. If you are associated with the Witnesses in any way, and you could only make one meeting all year, this would be the meeting. Parking lots are filled and everyone is wearing their Sunday best. The service starts just after sunset. Since there is limited space at Kingdom Halls, sometimes the Witnesses will rent out public halls or hotel conference rooms. They also have a later meeting at 9:00 to accommodate everyone who wants to attend.
The meeting begins with an announcement for everyone to begin finding their seats. The building is usually packed so they want to make sure everyone is seated before they begin. A very respected man (an elder or someone of greater authority), will stand up in front of the audience and give a presentation that lasts approximately 45 minutes. Read More →
Recent Comments