480,000 people to attend JW conventions nationwide

480,000 people to attend JW conventions nationwide

In their quest to spread a message of hope and positivity, Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs) are holding 186 Bible-based conventions for 15 weekends in more than 100 arenas and convention centers across the country.

With this year’s theme “Declare the Good News!,” the annual convention is held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, starting last May 24, and will run until Sept. 1, according to James Morales, spokesperson for JWs in the Philippines.

He said 480,000 people are expected to flock to various cities and towns that speak their mother tongue since the free, three-day event is presented in 13 languages and dialects.

This will boost the local economy and tourism industry as visitors have booked hotels, and will spend money in local restaurants and stores.

Last year, 442,329 delegates showed up at various function halls and stadiums nationwide, Morales said.

The Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Novaliches, Quezon City, which can accommodate more than 5,000 people, has been hosting the conventions every weekend since May 24. Thousands of delegates from Metro Manila and Bulacan will flock to this venue for eight more weekends.

Deaf delegates, who are traveling from all over the country, will attend the Filipino Sign Language convention at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia in Pasay on Aug. 9-11. An English program will be held there simultaneously for those who aren’t hearing-challenged.

Morales said JWs have been knocking on doors to invite people because they believe the program will inspire and uplift commumities.

“The lectures and video presentations give tips on how to develop good interpersonal skills, community development, emphatic relationships, family stability, and how to cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. All are welcome to attend,” he said.

To learn more about this free convention and to find a location near you, please visit jw.org Conventions.