Jehovah’s Witnesses Hold Global Virtual Event in 240 Lands, 500+ Languages

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, cancelling nearly 6,000 conventions in 240 lands.

For decades, Philipsburg St Maarten has welcomed Jehovah’s Witnesses from Anguilla and neighboring Islands for their annual regional convention. 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.

Alice Proctor from Anguilla who has been attending our regional conventions for 15 years states: “These conventions give me the strength and encouragement to keep on going and not to give up. They help me gain a clearer understanding of deep Bible truths and help me to improve my skills as a preacher and teacher of the good news.”

Drexel Scarborough has had the custom of attending our conventions for more than two decades, he always looks forward to this time each year, he says: “After these events I feel spiritually refreshed and recharged. These conventions are always timely and exactly what I need. Experiencing the convention at home was amazing. It was such a treat to listen to the Bible based instruction and excellent teaching. I was so happy that I didn’t miss out because of the pandemic.”

“The convention has a huge impact on my faith,” notes Sara Scarborough. “It makes me meditate a lot about how can I improve my qualities and my relationships with my family and friends. The convention touches deep feelings.”

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 App, 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 contact Benjamin Peterson at (721) 520-1827 or benjaminpeterson@rcmtool.org or Jehovah’s Witnesses United States at (718) 560-5600 or pid@jw.org.