Jehovah’s Witnesses across the world would for the second year running hold their annual convention virtually at weekend due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The outbreak of the pandemic last year forced the Church to break a century-old tradition, leading to the cancellation of 6,000 conventions in 240 countries.
“Powerful by Faith” is the theme chosen for the 2021 event, which would be delivered in more than 500 languages to households throughout the globe over six weekends in July and August and expected to unite 15-20 million people.
Since the convention is typically held from Friday through Sunday, the programme would be available in six instalments, corresponding to morning and afternoon sessions, according to a statement released by the Church in Ghana.
The statement copied to the Ghana News agency (GNA) and signed by its National Spokesperson, Mr Daniel Adashie, said Friday morning’s session would be available for streaming or download on June 28, 2021.
It said 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.
“Faith has helped our global brotherhood to continue to thrive even during a pandemic,” part of the statement read.
It further stated that “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 programme.”
For 80 years, Jehovah’s Witnesses in Ghana have invited the general public to their annual conventions in Kumasi, but the pandemic unexpectedly interrupted that tradition, compelling the international religious organization to cancel in-person conventions throughout the world.
Until the global launch of the event virtually last year, the conventions had been held in stadiums, convention centres, theatres and arenas around the world since 1897.
