Jehovah's Witnesses in The Bahamas will hold their first national district convention in many years at the Ballroom, Wyndham (Hotel) Nassau Resort, beginning Friday, July 16 to Sunday, July l8. Approximately 3000 local and international delegates from across The Bahamas and the United States are expected to attend.

" In a year where religious themes and the subject of God have caught the attention of the public, Jehovah's Witnesses will present a convention that will center on the theme 'Walk With God,"' said a spokesman. "The entire program will be based on the Scriptures and will offer encouragement to sincere individuals who are troubled by recent world events and declining moral values.

"In view of the current spotlight on the role of religion in world affairs, the Witnesses will make clear to all how true Christians should conduct themselves in a world of changing values," the spokesman continued. "All those attending the convention will hear thought-provoking talks and interviews that will encourage all to desire to walk with God."

"This year's program will feature important information for families," stated Sidney McKinney, a local traveling overseer who visits the congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses throughout The Bahamas to encourage and strengthen its members. "We invite people of all faiths, including those with no religious affiliation, to attend this convention and to listen to what the Bible says about meeting life's challenges, marriage, raising children, and living according to God's standards. All of us are deeply affected by the events of our time, and we do need guidance," Mr. McKinney added.

The first day of the convention will feature the Keynote Address, "Walk With God in Turbulent Times." The second day will feature a baptism ceremony after the talk "Walking With Jehovah By Appointment." The final talk that day, "Keep on the Watch The Hour of Judgment Has Drawn Near," will scrutinize current events in the light of the Bible and reveal their meaning. The third day will feature an enactment of Christian activity in the first century, with participants in period dress.

"This promises to be a significant and memorable convention," stated Mr. McKinney. Jehovah's Witnesses are active in 235 countries and number more than 6,400,000 worldwide.

The public is invited to attend any session of the entire program. In addition to the program being presented in English, it will also be presented in Creole. The Creole program will be held on Friday and Saturday while the program in English will cover the entire three days, Friday to Sunday. The morning sessions will begin at 9:30 a.m. each day. On Friday and Saturday, the afternoon sessions for the English will begin at 2:00p.m. and 1:40 p.m. on Sunday. The Friday afternoon session for the Creole program will start at 2 :00 p.m. and 1:40 p.m. on Saturday.