Visiting the JW’s
April 20, 2007
Last night, on the invitation of a family member, I visited a Kingdom Hall (Jehovah’s Witness Church). I was anxious to go, because it would have afforded me the opportunity to get a better understanding of their faith, independent of established stereotypes.
- They dress really well. All of the women were attractively dressed and all of the men wore suits.
- There are no shouts of ‘Amen or Hallelujah’ during the talks (sermons). Jehovah’s Witnesses are very deliberate in not bringing attention to themselves. The only attention grabber is (‘should be’) Jehovah God.
- The name ‘Jehovah’ (in reference to God) is said alot….alot!….really…a lot!
- The music (singing) was very solemn; well, to be honest, lugubrious at times. This is possibly however, because I am accustomed to celebration worship which would include clapping, lifted hands and dancing.
One of the things that stuck out to me the most is that ‘Jesus Christ’ was favourably referenced several times. I was pleasantly surprised when the overseer, (leader) ended the benediction (closing prayer) with the words “in the name of Christ, Amen”. They even call themselves Christians! Until then, I have ‘known’ them to be anti-Jesus.
In closing, while I have several theological issues with the Jehovah’s Witnesses (I am a Seventh-day Adventist Christian), I cannot doubt how earnest their hearts are and their dedication to spreading God’s love according to their understanding.
Will I visit again? I certainly will!
From my heart, to yours,
Akhenaton
