Lapulapu City, Cebu – [July 28, 2024]— Over the past weekend, from July 26-28, the Hoops Dome in Lapulapu City was filled with an atmosphere of unity, faith, and inspiration as Jehovah's Witnesses held their much-anticipated regional convention. The event saw a peak attendance of 3,505 on its final day, drawing participants from various  places in Metro Cebu eager to deepen their spiritual understanding and community bonds.

Convention Highlights

The convention centered around the theme of the "Good News," with a series of enlightening talks and discussions exploring important topics. Attendees delved into why the good news is essential, how to believe the truth about Jesus, and ways to use the good news to counter bad news. They also learned why Jehovah's Witnesses are enthusiastic about declaring the good news and how to imitate those who had faith in it.

One of the convention's highlights was the release of the first two episodes of the feature Bible drama, "The Good News According to Jesus." This drama captivated the audience with its powerful portrayal of biblical events and teachings. Additionally, the public Bible discourse titled "Why We Don't Fear Bad News" provided comforting and motivating insights, reinforcing the strength of faith in challenging times.  

Personal Experiences

Cerwin Rosales, one of the attendees, shared his thoughts on the convention: "Over the three days of the regional convention, I learned simple yet profoundly impactful lessons. It’s simple because the good news is explained in a way that everyone can understand Jehovah’s purpose. It's crucial because eternal life is the reward we can receive. This has had a significant impact on me, emphasizing the importance of Jehovah's purpose. Without it, there would be no Jesus' ransom sacrifice and no good news to hear in a world filled with bad news. I am grateful to Jehovah because my life would have no direction without the good news instilled in me by my mother, highlighting Jehovah’s purpose for humanity.

Cerwin’s wife, Beth Rosales, also expressed her feelings: "I am very happy to have attended the 2024 Regional Convention, where I learned more and felt Jehovah's great love. I was moved by the question, 'What would I be without the good news?' It brought tears to my eyes, and I thought, 'What would my life be now?' The good news can change and give direction to life. I know the promises in the Bible, but seeing and hearing Jehovah’s promises at the Convention touched my heart and mind deeply, making me cry with indescribable feelings. The Bible characters during Jesus' time are of great help to us in enduring discouragement, persecution, discipline, weakness, difficult assignments, family responsibilities, and old age. This Convention helps us know Jehovah and Jesus better and their great love for people. If we prioritize kingdom interests, we will never regret it—blessings will come 100 times over, bringing satisfaction and joy. Jehovah values our efforts, assuring us that we will not grow weary if we focus on the blessings."

 A Call to Persevere

The convention also emphasized the importance of perseverance in sharing the good news, especially in the final days. Attendees were reminded to remain steadfast, active in their preaching work, and to consider pioneering as a vital role. The message was clear: do not let the world decide for us, but let pioneering help us stay rooted in the good news. Inspired by Psalm 112:1, the convention encouraged all to praise Jehovah and fear Him to remain in the good news and find happiness in serving Him. As the attendees departed the Hoops Dome, the profound lessons and experiences from the convention were sure to resonate in their hearts, guiding their actions and strengthening their faith in the days to come.  

For more information about Jehovah's Witnesses, please visit  JW.ORG.

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contributed article