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Eejay

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  1. Our standards of dress are not set by worldly people. We are the ones who SET our standard. However, we do consider what is generally acceptable to the world in respect of our role as ministers, because we want to follow the example of Paul and "become all things to people of all sorts" (1Cor.9:22), whilst at the same time not "giving any cause for stumbling" (2Cor.6:3). Because the GB has prayerfully made this consideration, that is why brothers now are, without criticism, able to wear a neatly-trimmed beard if they wish. They may also dispense with jackets and ties in general, apart from meeting program assignments. Sisters can now wear slacks, also apart from meeting program assignments. An over-riding principle is that the garb we choose to wear, whatever the situation, does not appear "casual". In setting these standards, the GB will have given some consideration to how the world in general views the appearance of those claiming to be "ministers", but with far more weight given to honouring Jehovah, especially when carrying out duties relating to the ministry. A great deal of discussion has been generated over local elders making rules over and above the direction provided by the Governing Body, particularly regarding the dress code for support duties in theocratic meeting situations and in certain field ministry situations. Requirements set by local elders appear to differ. The absence of specific direction in certain matters indicates to me that the GB wants to allow us freedom to exercise our consciences and good sense in respect of how we appear when carrying out a range of ministerial activities. It seems there is also an extra space for the exercise of "reasonableness" on the part of those who have a delegated responsibility to keep things "orderly" in the congregation. For example, an insistance on brothers wearing jackets and even ties in activities in or outside of theocratic establishments where the ambient temperature is uncomfortably high and a cause of excessive perspiration is, (to me), unreasonable, and actually achieves the opposite of what is intended. (Reminds me of the collapsing British guardsman parading in full uniform in the summer sun!). The principles illustrated by the experience below is enlightening, not least because of when it was recorded. *** w88 9/15 p. 30 Christians—Firm yet Flexible *** The elders may feel that generally a certain form of attire—such as a jacket and tie for men—is appropriate for door-to-door preaching. Such was the case in a congregation in a South American land. Nevertheless, an elder there learned that a young man was holding back from sharing the good news with others. The reason? He could not afford to buy a jacket and a tie. The elder concluded that flexibility was in order and therefore encouraged the young man to begin sharing his faith with others. Perhaps a little research on the practice of infantilisation is needed? Are we really in the position of those described at 1Cor.1-2? The GB appears to think not. And our willingness to apply what is said at Heb.13:17 gives weight to that.
  2. Better word would have been informally, not casually.
  3. That would be an undesireable effect. More disturbing would be if appointed men chose to dress casually as a way of avoiding responsibility. It would be good for them to at least maintain the option of dressing appropriately in case of missing assignees.
  4. It is just about adjustment to change. The tradition of ties and jackets etc is entirely cultural, and as a specific mode of dress, has no absolutely no scriptural basis. They do say "dress as you feel!" Do you want to feel "wierd" at the Memorial? If not, dress in a way that doesn't distract you (or others) from the importance of the occasion. We would certainly have no objection to interested ones dressing as they feel comfortable, and now, in following the recent WT advice to discuss dress-code with them, we can reassure them that there is no need to dress "up" for the occasion, although our garb should reflect a respectful attitude. We have had so many changes over the years. I can remember feeling "wierd" about not asking for a contribution towards literature costs. I still feel "wierd" about not approaching people on cart work. Many are feeling very "wierd" about adjusting from "presentation" to "conversation". Adapting to change is an achievement. If it is any consolation, if that is you in your profile pic, you look anything but "wierd". 😊
  5. Well done! It is really elegant. Hopefully the material suits the climate where you are. 😊
  6. Many of the sisters where I live could give the brothers some excellent training right now on how to communicate and how to teach effectively, they are so good at it. Attending a pioneer school was enough to teach me that lesson, and also to note how, in the context of demonstrations, the sisters who participated were able to share their skills and experience with great effect. And really, just by working with such sisters in the ministry, brothers can receive that training in a most effective manner of delivery, that of learning from example on one-to-one basis. 😊
  7. Hopefully, elders following the direction in the 2024 Watchtower Study 2 para 7 this week will help to minimise any negative effects for these ones "Before the Memorial, be sure to call on as many as possible."
  8. Good idea to watch this, but of course the details are limited by the imagination and context of those who put it together. Anyway, no ties and lots of slacks there!
  9. That is interesting. It will be good to have a standard for this that is accepted generally in an area. There is some confusion and all of the brothers my way with duties today (except one) were at least "tied up" for their assignments. I'm not sure if it was conscience or habit.
  10. Maybe you didn't watch the video frame by frame as the sister suggested? Virtually the whole video is set after Armageddon and presents a fascinating glimpse of the new order. It is very different from some of the rural and rather rustic imaginings that some might have. I love the clip of the brother looking at the plans for a house and then the framework in place. Great reminder of what we are aiming for.
  11. My all-time favourite song in the whole collection. My number 2 in the whole collection. Thanks for the reminder. 😊
  12. He was likely clearing out all the churchy, creature-worshipping cobwebs! There is always a risk of babies in bathtubs when fired up with zeal! 😊
  13. An interesting aspect for me in all this is the sudden appearance of beards on those who are quite promininent, either locally or even internationally (if we can trust these pictures). I wouldn't have thought many of those beards were appearing on a sudden whim, but that many of those brothers had refrained from wearing beards because they felt that was the theocratic direction at the time. All credit to those who displayed the right attituded at the time!
  14. It is definitely a cultural thing. When you watch the hospitality videos of special conventions around the world, it is clear that there is a great variety to the way in which the hosts express their love for the friends. It can be culturally a little cooler here in the UK. If there seems to be a lack of "sparkle" in this area. , I would suggest the pioneers organise an event between them and get the ball rolling. One of the questions presented to pioneers in the recent Pioneer meeting was " Why should we take the initiative to invite others.....?" This doesn't have to apply just to working together in the field. Romans 12:10 puts it well: "In brotherly love have tender affection for one another. In showing honor to one another, take the lead." 😊

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About Eejay

Member's Public Information

  • Gender
    Brother
  • First Name
    Eoin
  • Displayed Location
    UK
  • Publisher
    Yes
  • Baptized
    Yes

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