Breaking from a century-old tradition in the name of health and safety, the Jehovah’s Witnesses have 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 about 90 years, Jehovah’s Witnesses have held conventions in various cities across Nigeria. 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 centres, and theatres 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 programme will be available in six installments corresponding to morning and afternoon sessions.

Related News

Regarding the 2020 “Always Rejoice” Virtual Convention, Abednego Isere from Ekpoma in Edo State said: “We could hardly wait till the end of the programme to pour out our heartfelt appreciation for the lovely, timely and comforting provision of the “six days” viewing of the 2020 Regional Convention. It gives us reasons to always rejoice despite many justifiable reasons to be sad occasioned by the global prevailing circumstances.”

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.