Exploitation of Children – Pressured to Recruit

For most of its history, the Watch Tower Society has viewed its members, including children, as free labour. ^[1] Prior to the demise of the magazine industry, parents were urged to exploit children on Watch Tower’s behalf to engage in the sales of books and magazines, as well as to ‘study’ with other children in order to recruit them into the religion. A search on the Watch Tower’s website generates 2,640 results for: ministry “train your children.” The first 30 results are attached.

Children are pressured to “pioneer” during school breaks and vacation periods, as well as “preach” to their classmates. The Watch Tower Society produced an animated video in 2016 of a Jehovah’s Witness mother and daughter, Sophia. The video shows that Sophia’s classmate has two moms, which information Sophia relays to her mother. The video then portrays the disallowance of gay persons into the Jehovah’s Witness paradise, and then has Sophia going to practice how to preach to that classmate. ^[2]

In addition to ‘pioneering’ during vacation, children are encouraged to ‘pioneer’ ^[3] even while attending school. A number of examples are cited below. (Also see video exhibit – from September 2019 of a 12-year-old boy in New York who is a ‘regular pioneer.’)

Doing one’s all in the canvassing and recruiting work is essential to gaining eternal life. ^[4]

The Watch Tower Society teaches that ‘parents have the right’ to compel their children to engage in this canvassing activity. ^[5]

When the authorities are made aware of the exploitation that is actually taking place, then an informed opinion can be made. Contrast the statement of the Watch Tower Society:

• “The smallest publisher, complete with placard and handbills, was just four years old” ^[6]

with the court:

• “I tend to agree with the view that taking a child as young as two on door-to-door missionary service is ostensibly exploitive, and more in the best interests of the church than of the child…We would not be approving of the vacuum cleaner salesman cited by way of analogy at trial who had his two year old son or four year old son in tow.” ^[7]
• 56 Les enfants sont ainsi amenées à faire du prosélytisme, en tentant d’amener de parfaits inconnus à connaître la religion des Témoins de Jéhovah et ultimement, à y adhérer. Est-il dans l’intérêt d’enfants aujourd’hui âgées de 8 et 11 ans, n’ayant pas encore choisi formellement cette religion (n’étant pas baptisées), de se présenter chez les gens, sans y avoir été invitées, le samedi matin, afin de se heurter à une porte close ou encore de partager des principes religieux (en utilisant des méthodes apprises) avec des gens qui répondent dans la très grande majorité des cas ne pas être intéressés?

57 C’est un fardeau psychologique lourd à porter pour de jeunes filles qui ne possèdent pas la maturité ni le recul nécessaires afin de décider de l’opportunité ou non de participer à des activités de prédication. ^[8]

Despite this, child custody cases involving a Jehovah’s Witness parent repeatedly prove that the Jehovah’s Witness parent feels that they have the unilateral right to bring the child(ren) in the Watch Tower Society’s canvassing work and to force their children to prepare for and attend all of the religion’s meetings – forcing the child(ren) to devote half of their non-school life to “increasing” the interests of the Watch Tower Society. ^{[9] [10]}

The Watch Tower Society argues that this exploitation of children is a constitutional right of the parent:

– 1988 – B. (G.) v. B. (M.) – 1988 CarswellQue 49, [1988] R.J.Q. 2697, [1988] R.D.F. 488, 19 R.F.L. (3d) 283, 21 Q.A.C. 55, J.E. 88-1382

– 1992 – Squire v. Squire – 1992 CarswellNB 31, [1992] W.D.F.L. 1023, [1992] A.N.B. No. 416, [1992] N.B.J. No. 416, 130 N.B.R. (2d) 1, 328 A.P.R. 1, 34 A.C.W.S. (3d) 431 – Leslie Alan Squire v. Kimberly Squire

The degree of fanaticism of Jehovah’s Witness parents in forcing their children, regardless of the feelings of the child, is exemplified in 1990 – Protection de la jeunesse — 433 – 1990 CarswellQue 1182. The parents had converted to Jehovah’s Witnesses, and were forcing their children to prepare for and attend all meetings, as well as engage in the door-to-door canvassing [or at least sit in the car while the parents canvassed]. The parents either wanted the children to convert to the religion, and if not, willingly had the children placed into foster care instead.

This concept that the children are some type of property that can be exploited by the Watch Tower Society is disavowed in Canadian court:

44 “The suggestion that parents have the ability to refuse their children medical procedures such as blood transfusions in situations where such a transfusion is necessary to sustain that child’s health is consistent with the view, now long gone, that parents have some sort of ‘property interest’ in their children. Indeed, in recent years, this Court has emphasized that parental duties are to be discharged according to the ‘best interests’ of the child …”: see B. (R.) v. Children’s Aid Society of Metropolitan Toronto, supra, per Iacobucci and Major JJ., at para. 218. – 2011 – Children’s Aid Society of Niagara Region v. M.S. and J.S. – 2011 CarswellOnt 8955, 2011 ONSC 4718, [2011] O.J. No. 3888, [2012] W.D.F.L. 470, [2012] W.D.F.L. 471, [2012] W.D.F.L. 472, 207 A.C.W.S. (3d) 282

This same case made the point of the distinction between religious belief and religious practice:

41 In B. (R.) v. Children’s Aid Society of Metropolitan Toronto, [1995] 1 S.C.R. 315 (S.C.C.), it was held that the freedom of religion guaranteed by s. 2(a) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (“Charter”) includes the right of parents to choose religious-based medical treatments for their children. Yet, freedom of religion “is not absolute”: see paras. 105 and 107, per La Forest J.

42 In law, there is a well-recognized distinction between religious beliefs and religious practices.

43 Religious practices “can and must be restricted when they are against the child’s best interests.” In such an event, “there would be no infringement of the freedom of religion provided for in s. 2(a) [of the] Charter”: see B. (R.) v. Children’s Aid Society of Metropolitan Toronto, supra, at para. 107

More of such cases are in: 6b – Impact on Children Raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses ^[11]

The Watch tower magazine, September 15, 1941, page 285, par 2

“There was a booth In the Arena corridor marked “New Pioneers”, and up till this point 300 new pioneers had already signed up at this assembly, one being a seven-year-old. (Before the convention closed more than 700 had signed up.) The present pioneer band includes some men 86 years old and some women 77 years old, and some children nine years of age…

par 3

Another speaker considered “Pioneer Requirements” and stressed the need for meeting the “hours” requirement to remain permanently In the work, and that the back-calls made by pioneers should be increased.”

pages 286 and 287

SUNDAY, AUGUST 10, “CHILDREN’S DAY”

On an occasion last spring Judge Rutherford stated at headquarters in Brooklyn, “This is the day of the children.” Today at the assembly marked the time even as such. The full significance of what Almighty God here caused to come to pass on this day will only be realized later under His revelation. He knows the end from the start.

Early this morning, at seven-thirty o’clock, there was an assembly of the candidates to hear the discourse on “Baptism”, prior to their immersion; where 3,903 presented themselves therefor, of whom 1,357 were children, and out of almost “all nations, kindreds, people and tongues”…

The speaker then began in a calm, clear voice, as of a father quietly instructing his own children at home m obedience to the divine command. Early he described the Paternal Government of Christ Jesus, “The everlasting Father,” when “there shall be no more religionists, no more politicians, no more commercial gangsters”. (Applause) The enemy shall be pushed out: “let the gangsters take notice now and begin to move!” (Applause) Those surviving Armageddon were pictured by Noah’s sons surviving the Flood, and they may never die. “That’s the hope of you children.” (Applause)…

They will have dominion over the animals as Adam first had It, “and it will be nice for these birds and animals to become friends of you children.” (Applause) Ezekiel 34: 25 describes the safety then, so that they “shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods”; “and some of them are learning it here now” (meaning those unable to find rooms or those at the trailer camp). (Applause)…

Then the divine mandate shall be carried out, to fill the earth with a righteous, perfect offspring and this by marriage and childbearing. “Some of these desecrators of His name claim that they only have the right to say who shall get married”; but they are presumptuous. In the Kingdom the “great multitude” will look to the Lord to guide as to selecting each a mate for himself. “Why, then, should a man who has the prospect before him of being of the great multitude now tie himself up to a stack of bones and a hank of hair?” (Applause)

Then timely words were addressed to the parents of the children, especially any who “send your children to those devilish movies to learn all the wicked things. Keep them at home and teach them the truth. The child that is encouraged by its parent to spend time in those movies that adulate religion does not show any real love for his own chlld”. Parents should “teach their children concerning The Theocracy. IN THIS DO NOT FAIL!” The children should keep always in mind Ephesians 6 : 1: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord.” “If your parents are not devoted to the Lord, then you had better get somebody else to instruct you.” (Applause) “You may soon meet Abraham, Daniel and other faithful men of old who shall be here as perfect men.” (Applause)…

The speech concluded, Judge Rutherford fixed attention directly on the children before him, commenting that “consecration is an individual matter; no one can consecrate for you. A question is about to be propounded to each one of you All of you … children who have agreed to do the will of God and have taken your stand on the side of his Theocratic Government by Christ Jesus and who have agreed to obey God and his King, please stand up.” (The children before him arose as one body) “Behold, more than 15,000 new witnesses to the Kingdom!” (Applause) “All of you who will do what you can to tell others about God’s kingdom and its attending blessings, please say Aye” (Cry, “Aye !”) (Applause) “If you had an instrument in your hands that you could use to the honor of Jehovah and learn of his kingdom, would you use it?” (A unanimous “Yes!”) “Then be seated, and I will tell you about It… The Lord has made possible the preparation of this book as a message for you [holding up the new book]. [Great, prolonged applause] The title of this book is ‘CHILDREN’. [Applause] There are registered at this convention, and I see before me, more than 15,000 children between the ages of five and eighteen. All of those children have stood up and have likewise signified their devotion to The Theocracy. Thank God that I have come to this day when it is my privilege to speak to such an army of young men and women taking their stand on the side of Jehovah! When they try to silence you, the Lord will put his hand over you and see to it that they do not silence you. Millions of persons of good-will to this hour desire to know the truth, but the long-skirted, lace-curtained religionists will try to keep them in the dark.” The book called “Children” will do a work of enlightening them.

Concerning the faithful ones of old who shall be resurrected Judge Rutherford commented: “Soon you will see Barak and Deborah (I got a picture of her in this book), and when you see her you will love her very much. She is a real woman, and will

page 288

be able to give you girls proper advice, you girls who are looking for a husband. When you see Daniel, David, Moses and all the prophets, listen to what they have to say, and they will properly advise you boys and girls. I am going to have handed to every one of you 15,000 children one of these books as a gracious gift. I ask that you first study it faithfully. Ask someone else to sit with you under the shade of a tree and study that which leads to life and endless blessings. . . . It is your privilege between now and before the day school opens to spend six hours a day in taking the book Children to others.” The parents should encourage their children to do this very thing, if they would have them live…

Receiving the gift, the marching children clasped it to them, not a toy or plaything for idle pleasure, but the Lord’s provided Instrument for most effective work in the remaining months before Armageddon…

The manner of releasing the new book Children was and outright surprise to all, but the almighty hand of the All-wise One, Jehovah, was in it, and the maneuver was most blessed indeed. Thereafter Children, the author’s edition, was disposed of to adult conventioners, on a contribution

The Watchtower magazine, April 1, 1950, page 106, par 18

CHILD PIONEERS –

For the child’s own good and to the praise of God the Watch Tower Society also urges children to become vacation pioneers [spending 100 hours per month canvassing].

par 19

To the contrary, you might say: ‘I love my child too much to fill his young mind with ideas that would cause him to become unpopular with his neighborhood playmates, and for this reason I will not encourage him to serve God now, but will wait until he is grown; then he can decide for himself.’ Is this true love for the child? True love would be to take the course that would benefit the child most, over the longest period of time. At Armageddon’s slaughter old and young alike will not be spared… Therefore no guarantee is given that a child will pass through Armageddon by reason of the field-service record of a parent that is careless toward his own children. In fact, the parent might be zealous and faithful on every point except that of offering his own children freely in God’s service.

The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 1952, page 47, par 12

As the children get older it is well not to leave them idle. Gradually encourage them to give their own testimonies at the doors or on the streets or to have their own home Bible studies. Suggest that they become vacation pioneers during their summer holidays…

par 13

Children right from the start should be expected to accompany their parents to all meetings… They should learn to sit quietly and listen to all that goes on…

page 48, par 14

That is to take your whole family to every circuit, district and national assembly arranged for by the Society. Save up your money to this end.

The Watchtower magazine, February 1, 1952, page 83

Out of the Mouth of Babes – Publishers on the street were approached…

Why, I stopped two of your little girls about eight or nine years of age; they were wearing your placards.

The Watchtower magazine, December 1, 1961, page 732

New World Society Looks Out for Its Youth – Among the youthful witnesses of Jehovah who appeared on the platform at the Yankee Stadium assembly was one Gary who lives in the Bronx. Although only six years old, he goes alone from house to house preaching the good news of God’s kingdom.

August 1, 1962, pages 460, par 14

From experience many parents have learned that the best way to train their children in Christian ministry is to get them started in the house-to-house distribution of the Watchtower and Awake! journals…

pages 461, par 18

At this point it would be well to discuss the subject of recreation… The main thing is not to let this become the biggest factor in life, but, rather, it should be fitted into its place, with stress on the most important thing, namely, the preaching of this good news of the Kingdom.

The Watchtower magazine, August 15, 1962, page 493, par 21

Activity in the Christian ministry cannot be confined to adults. It is a privilege of service that you children can Scripturally participate in and should engage in. If you want to obey Jehovah you will engage regularly in the ministerial activities that are arranged by the theocratic organization. Aside from weekly service in the ministry that the organization makes available to you, it gives you the splendid opportunity to serve your Creator every day during vacation periods by being a vacation pioneer out in the witness field. What better way is there to spend the major portion of a vacation? Since the proclamation of Jehovah’s truths and purposes to the people has been commanded by him, do you obey him by zealously engaging in it regularly?

The Watchtower magazine, February 15, 1969, page 109, par 12

It is not always necessary either for absolute wrongdoing to occur before reproach is brought on the organization. The observation of one public schoolteacher illustrates this: “I used to admire the children of Jehovah’s witnesses. They were always so well mannered and clean looking. I hate to say this, but I just can’t see the difference in some of them anymore. Their clothes and their hairdos, they look and act just like all the rest of the children.” Anyone visiting the congregational meetings of Jehovah’s witnesses would know that this observation is the exception rather than the rule, but the fact that such a statement could be made is cause for concern.

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1970, page 93, par 2

One of our pioneers writes of the children in a sister’s home where she stayed: “I was thrilled to observe some of the activities of the children. One little one

page 94

arrived home one day and, rather than play, she gathered a lot of study equipment. I thought that maybe she was going to do personal study, but no. Ten minutes later there was a knock at the door. I opened it, to find a little girl standing there with a Paradise book. She made her way to the lounge. I went on with what I was doing until, five minutes later, there was another knock. This time there were, not one, but two little girls, armed with Paradise books, Bibles, prayer books, etc. These also made their way to the lounge. Before I had much time to think, another knock came and in walked the fourth, apologizing for being late. Interested, I stayed around and listened. All the children sat on the lounge and the sister’s child sat out in front. Next, when all was quiet, a prayer was given asking Jehovah to bless each one so that they might understand the truth and also thanking him for everything. Then the study proceeded. First a review, which consisted of questions on the twelfth chapter of Revelation. Who was the woman? Whom did she give birth to?, etc. All knew the answers and the study proceeded for forty-five minutes. The study was then closed with a humble little prayer of thanks. The children were thanked for coming, and arrangements were made to see them all the next day for another study. So here was this little girl, six years of age, able to conduct a study with four of the neighbourhood children, even to the point of explaining Revelation and opening and closing with prayer. Doesn’t this make your heart glad, parents? How diligent we should be in training our children to praise the Creator while young!”

The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1975, page 182, par 22

WHAT WELL YOU DO IN THIS WORK OF DISCIPLE-MAKING? – During the first year, our seven-year-old son became a publisher, and at nine he was baptized. He is zealously enjoying the service.

Kingdom Ministry, December 1977, page 1, par 3

Are You Instructing Your Family? – SHARE IN KINGDOM·PREACHING AS A FAMILY During December, with its school holidays, parents have an excellent opportunity to share in Kingdom-preaching with their children. Endeavor together to engage householders in conversation and to present the New World Translation and the World Government book on a contribution of $1.25…

Par 4

Whether both husband and wife are in the truth, or only one of you, when you share with your children in the field, it can be a very pleasant time for you and for them. Commend them for the efforts they put forth and the progress they make. As you serve together, you also have the fine opportunity to help your children make progress in Jehovah’s service. Do they need assistance in encouraging the householder to have a share in the conversation? If you observe this, you can help them. Do they lack appreciation for the real purpose of the field service? Help them to see that lives are involved and that our service is an honor to Jehovah. Are they discouraged when householders are brusque? Help them to see that the householder was not angry with us personally. Do your children need help to see why we should participate regularly in Kingdom-preaching?…

age 4, par 6

You might say: “Good morning! My name is , and this is my son (or daughter). No doubt you have wondered why world conditions have continued to deteriorate. My son (or daughter) and I have found a Bible verse that we believe will interest you.” [Invite your son (or daughter) to read Proverbs 29:2 and comment if they would like.] Then ask the householder: “Do you believe that those in government may be contributing to the difficulty ?” (Allow for response.) Ask the householder if he thinks God has enough interest in mankind so that he will eventually take a hand in world affairs. (Allow for response.) Then you might continue by saying: “Jesus knew that God someday would take a hand in the affairs of mankind and that is why he taught us to pray for God’s kingdom to come and God’s will to be done on earth. This publication about the incoming world government will aid you to learn more about God’s kingdom government, and we are offering it, along with the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, for $1.25…”

pars 7 – 9

When witnessing with your children, do not underestimate how effective young publishers can be in presenting the good news. There are times when they can be more effective than older publishers in reaching certain people.

One father was going from house to house with his two sons, eight and ten years old. In talking to a woman who had ten children, he said: “Children can learn much from the Bible, but they need to understand it.” The woman replied: “Where do you ever see children six and twelve years old reading and understanding the Bible?” The brother turned to his son, who was ten years old, and asked him to read some of God’s promises about everlasting life. The boy read and explained Psalm 37:29. When the woman showed amazement and pleasure, the brother turned to his eight-year-old son and asked him to read and explain Matthew 4:1-11. The woman readily took the Truth book and a Bible study was arranged with her and her children.

Are you taking time to teach your children the truth and to share with them in the field service? Are you young publishers showing a willingness to study with your parents and accompany them in the field service? You can be sure that Jehovah is pleased with you when you do.

Kingdom Ministry, November 1978, page 8 (full article)

Presenting the Good News—Do You Help Young Ones to Have a Part?

1 We appreciate that there are many young persons associated with us. Some of these may be your children. Do you study with them? Are you helping to mold their hearts so that they love Jehovah and find delight in sharing in his service? Do you share with your children in the field service? We encourage you to do so in the spirit of what is written in Deuteronomy 6:6, 7.

2 When you are sharing in the preaching work with your children or if other young ones are accompanying you, do you see that they have a part? Often young ones just tag along, have little or nothing to say and get restless. What can you do to see that they have a part? They, too, want to serve Jehovah and so need to have a share in the public preaching work.

3 Often very young ones can have a part not only by handing householders the handbill, but also by telling them where the Kingdom Hall is and when the meetings are held and then letting them know that they are welcome to come. Could the young ones who work with you in the field do this?

4 Many include the young ones by having them read a scripture during the presentation. One brother tells the householder: “I am training John in this work of Bible education and, if I may, I would like to ask him to read the verse at . . . John, would you read it for us please?” As the young publisher progresses, the older brother asks him a question or two about the verse he has read in order to isolate the main point(s). Then he turns back to the householder and continues the conversation. In this way the brother involves young ones in the conversations at the doors. As you can appreciate, it makes the work much more enjoyable for them as they are having a part. Householders are often prompted to comment on how well such young ones express themselves.

5 Often young brothers and sisters who go in the field service have prepared and practiced an effective presentation but have difficulty in getting the conversation started. Perhaps you could help in this. One brother handles the introduction by greeting the householder and saying: “We have something encouraging to share with you from the Bible, but Bill and I are taking turns and this is his turn to explain what we are doing. If you have just a minute, I believe you will enjoy this. Bill . . .” Another brother says: “Hello. My name is Mr. . . . and I am training this young man in Christian service. He would like to explain why we have called.” And, of course, if the householder is too busy to talk you could always say: “Since it is not convenient to talk right now, Bill has something he would like to give you before we leave.” This will often allow for a brief explanation of the handbill, a tract or other small publication.

6 One householder in Louisiana said: “I truly admire you people for training and involving your young ones the way you do. I enjoy their visits to my home.” Are you training your children in the field service? And when you work in the field service with your children or others, do you see that they have a part? We encourage you to do so. They, too, must be ‘making a public declaration of their faith for salvation.’ (Rom. 10:10) And how fine it would be if, as they grow older, they could say as the psalmist did, “O God, you have taught me from my youth on, and until now I keep telling about your wonderful works.”

Kingdom Ministry, May 1980, page 6, par 9

Many young publishers who are out of school for the summer are planning to auxiliary pioneer for one or more months. Are you planning to do this too?

The Watchtower magazine, February 15, 1981, page 11, par 4

A 15-year-old schoolgirl tells of using her two-week spring vacation to share in the auxiliary pioneer service, and says: “I can really see the difference, especially an improvement in conversation. My results are outstanding, and I was able to hold many more conversations with people at the door.”

par 8

An eight-year-old daughter of a sister serving as a pioneer decided she wanted to meet the auxiliary pioneer requirements for one month. She devoted 61 hours, placed 3 books, 7 booklets and 140 magazines, obtained two subscriptions and started one home Bible study. In another congregation young Kingdom publishers not yet baptized were encouraged to meet the hour goal for auxiliary pioneers. Eleven responded and, of these, five made the 60-hour quota, one missed by four hours, and the rest exceeded their entire previous year’s activity.

The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 1981, pages 21 and 22, par 19

But there are many thousands of other “young men” and “virgins” within the congregations of Jehovah’s people. Are you ‘offering yourselves willingly on the day of Christ’s military force’? Or are you letting the symbolic “horses” pile up in your room or lie dormant in your witnessing bag? Get those “horses” moving! Get out into the field during your afterschool hours, your midweek break (where this arrangement exists), weekends and the various vacation periods you have throughout the year. The auxiliary pioneer service gives you a wonderful opportunity to ‘offer yourselves willingly’ for “sacred service.” And the magazine work is a method of Christian witnessing that is especially appropriate for you young ones.

Kingdom Ministry, May 1981, page 2, par 3

“Youths, Why Have Spiritual Plans?” Question-and-answer part to be handled by an elder. If possible, have school-age publishers answer questions and read scriptures. What should we remember about material possessions? (1 John 2:15, 16) What do we want to keep in mind about this world? (1 John 2:17) Since that is the case, why is it unwise to pursue riches and a position in the world in this system of things? (1 Tim. 6:9, 10) What work has Jehovah granted us a share in? (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20) What activity do young people do well to consider pursuing? (Matt. 6:33) Why is a lifetime of serving Jehovah the best goal to have? (Eccl. 12:1) What help would we have in pursuing such a course? (Matt. 11:29, 30) Even though you still may be in school, what can you do during the summer to show your whole-souled desire to serve Jehovah? What kind of a schedule could you work up to auxiliary pioneer during the school vacation? (May interview one or two who auxiliary pioneered in past vacation period and did well.) Conclude by encouraging the youths to think about how they would answer these questions: How do you feel about the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses? Is it the religion of your family and therefore it is your religion? Or is it the best religion you have seen? Or is it the truth? If you really believe it is the truth, you should be motivated to offer yourself for its activities and its way of life.

Kingdom Ministry, August 1981, pages 1 -3

Training Our Children to Be Preachers of the Good News –

PROGRESSIVELY TRAIN YOUR CHILDREN

par 4

Parents!—Following the example of Jesus, progressively train your children. Teach them why we preach, and the objectives of the various methods and features of our ministry. Also, take the time to help them appreciate the meaning of the various responses encountered. Train them to do the work by setting goals for them and helping them to attain each goal. Passing out handbills, reading scriptures for you and keeping the house-to-house records may be simple objectives with which to begin their training. Later, they should learn some effective ways to introduce the message and how to converse with householders.

par 6

All of us in the congregations of Jehovah’s people have an interest in training our children to be preachers of the good news. To the extent that other members of the congregation are moved to volunteer to help parents with some aspect of training their children in the field service, parents may accept this help.

Kingdom Ministry, September 1981, page 4

Younger ones particularly may need help to give meaningful presentations. Initially they may just want to say, “I have the latest Watchtower and Awake! and we place them for a contribution of 15c each.”

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses (1982), page 16, par 1

With Armageddon drawing ever nearer, how encouraging for young people is the following from one of Jehovah’s Witnesses who has been a faithful missionary for many years. She states:

“I was born in 1939 at the outbreak of World War II. My parents felt that Armageddon would be right on its heels, so we children were encouraged from our very tender years to use our time wisely in this dying old system in Jehovah’s service. From the year the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead opened, when I was only four years old, my mother would talk to me about it and to have it as my goal. At the age of six years, after my first school term, I vacation pioneered. Each succeeding summer vacation I pioneered until I graduated from high school at which time I entered the pioneer service.

Kingdom Ministry, Canada, April 1982, (March 1982 – U.S.) page 2

WEEK STARTING APRIL 18

Were any of those who raised hands housewives with children? If so, interview them on how they plan to get in 60 hours during April and care for their children. If some have older children ask the children how they hope to help parent by doing things at home during month. Will some be taking children along in service or will they be arranging for others to take care of the very young? Do they plan to take a lunch? Let some relate the weekly schedule they plan to follow. Discuss paragraph 3. Are there any who work at a secular job who plan to pioneer in April? What will their schedule be? If there are none, discuss with audience how one who works might manage to spend 60 hours in service. Discuss a tentative schedule. Mention that it is still not too late to enroll for auxiliary pioneering in April. Discuss paragraph 4. Are there any school children who plan to be auxiliary pioneers in April? What schedule do they plan to follow? If no school children have enrolled, discuss a tentative schedule that would allow for 60 hours of service by a student. Also mention there are some regular pioneers still in school who pioneer with parent(s) [school-children spending 90 hours per month canvassing].

page 4, par 4

For those who are going to school there are many possibilities not only before and after the regular school hours, but possibly during some of the time while at school. What about using recess periods and lunch time for witnessing to others? Some may be able to witness while commuting to and from work or riding on the school bus. Others may strike up conversations while waiting for public transportation or walking to school. Again, weekends and evenings should be used to the full. Perhaps arrangements can be made with other publishers of school age to work out a schedule and pioneer together in April.

Kingdom Ministry, May 1982, page 4, par 5

Presenting the Good News – By Helping Young People –

All of us are amazed by the prodigious memories that children have. They are able to learn by heart long passages of written material, remember the titles of television programs and recite all kinds of advertising jingles. If children are not too young to learn things like that, neither are they too young to take in Bible knowledge and acquire good habits in the field service. There are two effective tools that can assist them to express themselves with ease at the doors. We mean the Watchtower and Awake! magazines, which may be offered using short, simple flexible presentations. Select articles which are suited to their personality and age, and which interest them. Get the youngsters to read them, helping them to understand the points made. Finally, prepare some short presentations with them which can be practiced with their parents and other young ones in the congregation before being used in the field service. Youths, do you think you can do this?

Kingdom Ministry, Canada, July 1982, (June 1982, U.S.) page 4

Presenting the Good News—As Well-Trained Youths –

3 So today we find many of our young folks zealously presenting the good news from door to door. Truly they are to be commended for their fine efforts. And all of us who are adults, but especially the parents, should take an interest in encouraging and helping our youth to enjoy Jehovah’s service in the “last days” of this system of things. (2 Tim. 3:1) How can this be done?

4 Children should be trained at a very early age to accompany their parents in the field ministry. It seems that some parents leave their children behind while they are out in the field service. It may take a little more time and effort to get their children ready and take them along, but parents will find the effort is well worth it. And it is a part of their parental responsibility. The good example of parents taking the lead in the service cannot be over-emphasized. Taking the children along regularly will give them the needed training and should help them to build good habits and to recognize the importance of field service as they grow older.

5 What can a parent, or an adult minister, do to assist young ones who accompany him? For one thing, upbuilding conversation can have a fine effect on young ones. Good suggestions on proper behavior while in service are helpful if given in an upbuilding way. Also, help young publishers to appreciate the importance of the preaching activity and show them how they can have a share. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Very young ones can give householders a handbill or a tract. They might also be able to invite people to the Kingdom Hall, perhaps telling them the location and the time of meetings, letting them know they are welcome.

6 Many young ones especially enjoy witnessing with the magazines. Although quite young, they prepare a brief presentation of the latest issues and offer them for a contribution of 40 cents. They have good results. Those a little older pick out certain articles they have enjoyed reading and highlight these as they present the magazines. In this way, many young publishers have even been able to start magazine routes.

7 When young publishers who read well are working with older persons, invite them to read scriptures at the door. Adult publishers have done this informally or, in some cases, they mention that the youth enjoys going along or is being trained in the ministry. He can even comment on the Bible verse being used in the current Topic for Conversation. If the young publisher is old enough to carry on a conversation from the Scriptures then it is appropriate for the adult publisher to greet the householder, explain the purpose of the call, and introduce the young publisher who can then proceed with his presentation.

8 These are some of the ways in which to help our youth to share in the preaching activity on a regular basis. By getting into the habit of regularly participating in the field ministry, they will enjoy it more and more. This is part of the progress they need to make toward personal dedication and baptism.

Kingdom Ministry, July 1983, page 1, par 4

Summer months provide an excellent opportunity to auxiliary pioneer. Young people who are on school vacation are encouraged to spend at least one month this summer as auxiliary pioneers. Why not get other youths interested in working along with those who enroll!

The Watchtower magazine, January 1, 1984, page 24, par 19

… during school vacation, there are many who can make the effort to share in auxiliary pioneering.

Kingdom Ministry, May 1984, page 8, par 3

Could you arrange to auxiliary pioneer at least once during the spring and summer? Young ones out of school for the summer may want to set this as a goal for one month or more. Parents, why not work right along with them in this fine avenue of sacred service?

Kingdom Ministry, July 1984, page 1, par 3

Parents should take the initiative to teach their children suitable presentations that they can use in the door-to-door ministry. Have you taught them to use a simple magazine presentation? If they can read, have you taught them a Scriptural presentation? Such effort demonstrates your love for and support of the congregation.

Kingdom Ministry, July 1984, page 3, par 4

Are You a Young Witness for Jehovah? – SERVICE

Of course, to be a witness for Jehovah we must speak about him. Do you share regularly in the field service? Many young people set an excellent example in this. When you offer the magazines from house to house, do you draw the attention of the householder to a subject that you believe will be of interest to him? If so, you do well. When working with the regular offer, do you introduce the Topic for Conversation and read appropriate Bible verses to the householder? Do you ask for his comments on the points being discussed? When presenting the literature, do you point to specific information that you believe will interest the householder? It may be that these are areas in which you can make progress.

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1985, page 40, par 2

The branch reports the following experience of a young, steadfast pioneer: Teresa’s father was a pioneer, so when she became 12 years old she also became a pioneer. Everything went well for a while, but her mother became ill and died, placing more responsibility upon Teresa. But she stayed on as a pioneer. Then her father was killed in a tragic auto accident, and now she has to care for her younger sister. However, all these tragedies have drawn her closer to Jehovah, so she stays on as a pioneer and says: “With Jehovah’s help and that of the brothers, I will continue.” Jehovah will certainly richly bless such devotion.

The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 1985, page 28, par 4

One five-year-old in Kenya told his mother, who is a pioneer, that he wanted to become a special pioneer. She felt that he could not even be a regular pioneer since he was not conducting a Bible study. Her suggestion was that he take My Book of Bible Stories and try to teach other children. So he invited some youngsters to study the Bible with him, and before long ten were doing so regularly. If the young students could not answer the review questions he asked at the end of the study, he would go over the material again. Soon eight of the children were attending congregation meetings. But what about the other two? Well, they were just too small.

Kingdom Ministry, Canada, May 1985 (April 1985 – U.S.) page 7, pars 5 -7

Train New Ones to Qualify as Publishers – Home Training

Training youths for Jehovah’s service starts at home and requires much help and encouragement from the parents. This training should begin from infancy. (2 Tim. 3:14, 15) Families are encouraged to study and read together with a view to maintaining a strong desire to share the truth with others regularly. Many families make it a practice to discuss the daily Scripture text and comments found in the Yearbook. The children should be encouraged to comment on the material. (Compare Ecclesiastes 12:9-11.) Try to make it a point each day to speak with your family about Scriptural truths. Then they too will desire to share in the disciple-making work.—Isa. 54:13.

When a child desires to express himself in Kingdom service and is exemplary in his conduct, the parent may approach one of the elders on the Congregation Service Committee and discuss whether the child is qualified to be counted as a publisher. (See om book, page 100, paragraph 1.) Such progress is certainly reason for rejoicing!—Prov. 23:15.

There is little time left for this old system. Therefore, we are all encouraged to have a full share in the harvest work and to train new ones to qualify for this lifesaving activity

The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 1985, page 23, par 3

Meri Aida was 14 years old when she received her appointment to serve as a regular pioneer. Before that she had shared in auxiliary pioneer service [spending 60 hours per month canvassing] for 41 months since her baptism at age 11. She did so while going to school.

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1986, page 48, par 2

For example, in Neiva three young publishers in one family, though still attending high school, enrolled as regular pioneers after having served for several months as auxiliary pioneers.

The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 1986, page 29, par 5

“Therefore, prior to finishing high school, I was baptized and entered the full-time service…”

pars 6 and 7

“I invited young brothers to work with me in the field service,” he says. “As a result, many of these later joined me in the full-time service.”

“My brother-in-law was an elder and a pioneer,” continues Milton. “We were in the same congregation and worked together to encourage others to pioneer. It was decided that I would encourage the teenagers, and he would encourage the housewives…”

page 30, par 1

By the time they reached high school, practically all of them had set full-time service as their goal. At 13 years of age, one sister decided to pioneer. She said: “It seemed like the natural thing to do.” She and the other youths in the congregation never gave a serious second thought to anything else. Group witnessing was arranged after school, and eventually 60 students from three different schools were supporting this activity along with the pioneers.

Kingdom Ministry, June 1986, page 1, par 5

Keep Active in Preaching During Summer Months – OPPORTUNITIES TO PIONEER

During school vacation periods, young dedicated publishers who qualify can auxiliary pioneer. In some cases, the entire family can share in this privilege, resulting in greater joy and unity in the family circle. An increasing number of family members have set a goal of sharing in the auxiliary pioneer work every summer.

The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 1987, page 25, par 1

Praise—Out of the Mouths of “Babes” – Young ones, too, though not yet baptized, happily and eagerly accompany their parents in bringing good news from the true God to other people. (Matthew 21:16) During a special campaign, a four-and-a-half-year-old girl worked with her parents in isolated territory. She spent 160 hours in the field ministry that month, placing 27 books, 66 booklets, and 47 magazines with people who were interested in the Bible!

Kingdom Ministry, May 1987, page 8, par 7

HELPING OTHERS SPIRITUALLY

Even though you are young, you can do the same by progressively improving your ability and increasing the time you devote to the ministry. Do you have a personal goal of hours each week or month? Many young publishers have been able to conduct Bible studies with schoolmates or others. Perhaps you, too, can do this if you ask for Jehovah’s help and courageously put forth the effort. If you are baptized, auxiliary pioneering offers you a fine opportunity to help others spiritually during your school vacations.

Kingdom Ministry, June 1987, page 3, par 4

What activity could you young ones engage in this summer that would be more beneficial than a month or two in the auxiliary pioneer service?

Kingdom Ministry, December 1987, page 1, pars 4 – 7

OFFERING THE BIBLE STORIES BOOK

During the month of December, we will be offering My Book of Bible Stories. Young ones can be helped to present it effectively in the field service. They may even be able to start a study in it.

We encourage you young people to make a special effort during December to praise Jehovah in your school. It will take courage to do so, but Jehovah will give you the needed strength. Make opportunities to acquaint your schoolmates with My Book of Bible Stories.

Parents, go over some suggested presentations with your children. Help them use the scriptures in the Topic for Conversation. Young and old will take notice when they see well-prepared children praising Jehovah.

Let us also show our children the value of keeping good house-to-house records so they can make return visits on those who show interest. Keep before them the goal of starting home Bible studies. You may need to assist them in conducting the study when they get one started.

Kingdom Ministry, December 1987, page 1, par 3

Witnessing as a Family During December –

Many young ones can take full advantage of time off from school to engage in the field service during the worldly holiday season. If you are a student, can you join the many other youths who will be auxiliary pioneering in December? If so, you will enjoy many rich blessings. Mothers may find that having the children out of school provides an excellent opportunity to devote more time to field service with their children. Is it possible for you fathers and mothers to auxiliary pioneer with your children?

Kingdom Ministry, January 1988, page 8, par 5

New Publishers –

If you are a parent, are you helping your children who meet the Scriptural requirements to make progress in the field ministry? Follow the suggestions in the paragraphs above as you endeavor to aid them. Do not underestimate the ability of your children to make progress in the ministry. Many young ones have shown commendable ability in placing literature and in starting and conducting Bible studies. Work closely with your children. Start them at an early age. Help them to develop according to their abilities. Commend them for their effort and progress.—See Our Ministry, pages 99-100.

Kingdom Ministry, May 1990, page 1, par 4

Many young ones still in school have auxiliary pioneered regularly.

The Watchtower magazine, August 1, 1990, page 29, par 5

Another problem was on Sunday mornings when the boys would often say that they felt too sick to go out in field service. Léo and Plínio were experts at inventing stomachaches and other ailments to avoid accompanying us in the preaching work. Whenever I had doubts about whether they were really sick, I said something like this: ‘If you’re too sick to go in the service, then of course you will not be well enough to play football later.’ Usually, they had a remarkably rapid recovery.

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1992, page 143, par 3

Expansion With New Momentum

How heartwarming to see even small children in field ministry open up the Bible and witness, much to the amazement of the householder and older publishers.

Kingdom Ministry, October 1992, page 1, pars 2 – 6

Help Children Serve Jehovah From the Heart

At what age should parents begin this training? The Bible’s answer is clear: It should be from infancy. (2 Tim. 3:14, 15) The earlier the training starts, the greater the likelihood the children will develop a solid foundation in the truth and make the ministry their vocation. This early training will also serve to protect them from worldly thinking and attitudes.

Many preschoolers have shown considerable aptitude for mastering complicated skills. This potential for learning at an early age should be directed toward training them in skills that bring Jehovah’s approval. (w88 8/1 p. 15; w89 12/1 p. 31) Many of tender years have progressed to the point of becoming unbaptized publishers. Some children make a dedication and are baptized prior to entering their teens. This has opened the way for them to serve as auxiliary pioneers and even regular pioneers before finishing their schooling. To achieve these goals, they need to be taught to converse with people on a variety of Bible subjects.

Some adults who are inclined to view today’s youth in general as brash and disrespectful may have little interest in conversing with a young person who calls at the door. What might a young publisher say at the door to overcome such a barrier and hold the attention of the adult householder? One young publisher used something like this: “Good morning, my name is ․․․․․․․․. I am calling on my neighbors today because many are concerned about the future. As an adult, you are surely much more experienced in matters of life than I am. However, here is a scripture that is comforting to all of us.” After reading Revelation 21:3, 4, the conversation could focus on the tract Life in a Peaceful New World.

Another suggestion is: “Hello, my name is ․․․․․․․․. I am making brief visits in the neighborhood because I know many adults are concerned about the direction young people seem to be taking today. Sometimes young people display a disrespectful, even rebellious attitude. But I am sharing a scripture that shows how someday everyone will learn to live together in peace.” Then read Psalm 37:11 and comment appropriately. When adult householders hear such sincere expressions by our young publishers, surely many of them will be favorably impressed.

Thousands of young publishers continue to make a fine contribution to the Kingdom-preaching and disciple-making work. They are to be warmly commended. Youths trained from infancy by godly parents readily respond to sincere encouragement to work toward having a fuller share in all features of the ministry. Those in school have the unique opportunity of witnessing to fellow students and teachers alike. Many have enjoyed gratifying experiences witnessing in this special territory.

Kingdom Ministry, October 1992, page 1

To what extent may young children of Christian parents share in the field ministry before they are recognized as unbaptized publishers?

par 1

Christian parents want their children to develop into mature, devoted servants of Jehovah. (1 Sam. 2:18, 26; Luke 2:40) Even at a very early age, children in Christian households should be able to make clear expressions in defense of their Bible-based faith. The spiritual growth of children is accelerated as they accompany their parents in the field ministry from infancy. But it is important for the young ones to be motivated from the heart if they are to enjoy the field service, desire to become unbaptized publishers, and continue sharing in the Kingdom-preaching work. Careful training by the parents is required. (1 Tim. 4:6; 2 Tim. 2:15) Other qualified publishers may assist at times if the parents are in agreement.

par 2

Parents can prepare their children for field service and allow them to participate in various ways, such as by reading a scripture, offering a tract or a magazine, or showing the householder an illustration in one of the publications. As a child grows older, he may be able to participate to a greater degree in the discussion.

The Watchtower magazine, November 1, 1992, page 26, par 4

The Young Share in Witnessing

A ten-year-old girl in Angola was asked if she was a publisher. She answered: “Yes.” Did she conduct any Bible studies? “Of course.” How many? “Seven,” this ten-year-old replied.

Kingdom Ministry, January 1993, page 1, pars 3 and 4

Can You Serve Jehovah as a Pioneer?

Many young servants of Jehovah just finishing high school are thinking seriously about pioneering. That is entirely appropriate. What other career could be more important than the full-time ministry? (Matt. 6:33) The good news of God’s Kingdom must be preached; this is Jehovah’s work, and what a privilege it is to be absorbed in it from one’s youth onward!—Matt. 24:14.

Do you parents encourage your children to take up the full-time service? Do your children clearly understand that you want them to use their whole heart, soul, mind, and strength in this worthwhile work? (Mark 12:30) Many young publishers prepare themselves for the regular pioneer work by sharing as auxiliary pioneers at every opportunity during their school years.

The Watchtower magazine, January 1, 1995, pages 18, 24 and 26 (full article)

page 18, par 15

Among those pioneers are many young ones. Some in the United States are now serving as regular pioneers [ 90 hours per month recruiting ] during high school, with classmates being their primary territory…

page 24, par 3

A good example is Ayumi, a little Japanese girl who became a publisher when she was six years old and made it her goal to witness to everyone in her class. She got permission to place several publications in the classroom library, preparing herself to answer any questions that her schoolmates might ask. Almost all her classmates as well as the teacher got to know the publications. During her six years of elementary school, Ayumi arranged for 13 Bible studies. She was baptized while in the fourth grade, and one of her friends with whom she had studied was baptized in the sixth grade…

page 26, pars 2 and 3

One day at the Congregation Book Study, Andrea heard the service overseer stress the need to preach to one’s neighbors. She thought seriously about this, and back home she said to her mother: “After you leave for work, I will get up, arrange my bag with literature just as you do, Mommy, and I will pray to Jehovah to help me talk about the truth with the neighbors.”

The next day Andrea did what she had promised. Then, mustering up her courage, she rang the bell of a neighbor. When the neighbor answered the door, this little girl said: “I know that since my mother became a Witness, you don’t like her. She has tried to talk to you several times, but you did not want to listen to her. This is upsetting to her, but I want you to know that we love you.” Then, Andrea went on to give a fine witness. In one day, she distributed six books, six magazines, four booklets, and four tracts. Since then, she has been regular in the field service.

Kingdom Ministry, May 1998, page 7, par 3

What Are Your plans for the Summer?

Longer daylight hours and warmer weather may allow you to spend more time in the preaching work. School vacation gives young people the opportunity to auxiliary pioneer during one or more summer months.

Kingdom Ministry, May 2000, page 1

A Privilege Available to Younger Ones – Involve Your Children

par 2

Very young children who are not ready to initiate a Scriptural discussion at the door can still offer magazines…

par 3

Manuel began preaching from door to door when he was three years old. His parents taught him to memorize a brief presentation. He zealously preaches alongside them, placing many magazines, brochures, and tracts.

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2002, page 110,

Out of the Mouth of Babes

par 2

In Bonaire, six-year-old Renzo was invited to the Kingdom Hall and enjoyed it very much…Renzo, now eight years old, was baptized at a circuit assembly in Bonaire.

Kingdom Ministry, April 2002, page 4

Parents, Encourage Full-Time Service:

par 3

Instead of leaving it up to your children to choose which way is best for them, wisely train them in the way that they should go so that they will have Jehovah’s blessing…

par 4

Parents, as your children approach the teen years, or even earlier, talk to them realistically about their career goals. School counselors, teachers, and classmates will try to influence them in favor of worldly, materialistic pursuits. Help your children to choose school courses that provide practical training, equipping them to care for their material needs without sacrificing Kingdom interests. (1 Tim. 6:6-11) In many cases, a high school education along with vocational and/or on-the-job training may be all that is needed to care adequately for one’s necessities while starting out in the regular pioneer ministry.

par 6

Youths, Put Full-Time Service First: Young people, you need not wonder what the pioneer work is like. You can try it on a part-time basis by auxiliary pioneering whenever possible throughout the school year and during vacation periods. Then you will know how satisfying the pioneer service really is! Can you see your way clear to auxiliary pioneer between now and the end of summer?

Kingdom Ministry, February 2004, page 3, par 5

Ways That Youths Can Share:

If you are young and are baptized, perhaps you can auxiliary pioneer during a month that includes a school vacation.

The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 2006, page 30, par 17

Youths, Make It Your Choice to Serve Jehovah – Dedication and baptism mark the beginning of a life wherein we take Jehovah’s will into account in every sphere of activity. Fulfilling our dedication involves ‘buying out time.’ How do we do that? By taking time that we would otherwise spend in futile pursuits and devoting it to serious Bible study, regular meeting attendance, and the fullest possible share in preaching the “good news of the kingdom.”

Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2011, page 53, par 3

YOUNG PIONEER PARTNERS. Persis, who lives in Cameroon, became an unbaptized publisher when she was six years old. Her first service report showed ten home Bible studies. The congregation secretary thought that it was a mistake. When questioned, Persis explained to him that she actually had ten different students. He further asked: “How do you know how much time to report, since you do not have a watch?” She replied that she knew that her school recess was one hour long. She started preaching at the beginning and stopped when the bell rang. Her bold witnessing influenced her mother and cousin, who later became unbaptized publishers. Now ten years old, Persis is baptized and is serving as an auxiliary pioneer [ 50 hours per month recruiting ] while in school. Her eight-year-old friend Aasy is already an unbaptized publisher…

page 58

BAPTIZED AT SEVEN. Paola, who lives in western Mexico, is being raised by her grandparents. Her grandmother began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses when Paola was five years old. Paola listened in, and the truth took root in her young heart. Although her grandmother did not progress, Paola began to attend the meetings by herself. She would ask her grandparents to help her get dressed and to help her cross the street to get to the Kingdom Hall.

As soon as she learned to read and write, Paola enrolled in the Theocratic Ministry School and became a publisher. Because of her love for Jehovah, she got baptized at the age of seven. When asked why she attends the meetings and preaches so zealously, even without her family’s support, Paola, who is now ten, answers: “I like the talks a lot because they encourage me to keep on studying the Bible and to stay out of trouble. And I preach because I want to teach people what Jehovah is going to do for them in the future and because the Bible can make them happy right now.”

Kingdom Ministry, January 2011, page 6

Some Ideas for the Family Worship Evening -Ministry:

• Have practice sessions to prepare presentations for the weekend.

• Discuss realistic goals the family can set to expand their share in the ministry during the Memorial season or vacation time.

• Allow each family member a few minutes to research how to answer different questions that may arise in the ministry, and then have practice sessions.

page 7

Train Your Children to Be Ministers

par 1

Christian parents, therefore, do more than teach their children Bible truths and God’s moral laws. They also train them to be ministers of the good news.

par 2

One father works at night, but instead of going to sleep when he comes home Saturday morning, he takes his children in the ministry even though he is very tired. Without saying a word, he is teaching them that the ministry is a priority.

par 3

Are you training them to engage in various aspects of the ministry? Are you setting before them the goal of baptism and full-time service?

par 4

Begin training your children at an early age to become ministers.

The Watchtower magazine, August 15, 2011, page 19, par 2

Alex Reinmueller, a helper to the Publishing Committee, told of how he made the truth his own while pioneering in Canada when he was only 15 years old, often working by himself.

par 3

David Schafer, a helper to the Teaching Committee, praised his mother for her strong faith and told of brothers who worked as loggers and helped him to auxiliary pioneer as a youth.

The Watchtower magazine, July 15, 2015, page 6, par 3

And how has serving where the need is greater affected young Aleksey? “It has done him much good,” says Oksana. “He dedicated himself to Jehovah and got baptized at age nine. Seeing the great need for Kingdom preachers moves him to serve as an auxiliary pioneer during each school vacation.

1. The Watchtower magazine, April 1, 2007, page 24, par 14 – Symbolically, the other sheep today walk behind the anointed slave class and its Governing Body, following their leadership. As “unpaid laborers,” the other sheep willingly expend their physical strength and their resources in support of the worldwide preaching work that Christ assigned to his anointed followers on earth.

   The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 2008, page 26, par 6 – In a symbolic way, Christians with an earthly hope today walk behind the anointed slave class and its Governing Body, following their leadership. As “unpaid laborers,” the other sheep willingly and wholeheartedly expend their strength and their resources in support of the worldwide preaching work that Christ assigned to his anointed followers on earth ↑

2. https://www.jw.org/en/bible-teachings/children/become-jehovahs-friend/videos/one-man-one-woman-marriage/ ↑

3. The current hourly requirement of an ‘auxiliary pioneer’ is 50 hours per month – it is 70 hours per month for a ‘regular pioneer.’ For much of its history, the hourly requirement of a regular pioneer was 100 hours per month. This was the same for a “temporary pioneer” or a “vacation pioneer.” ↑

4. The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1959 – Personal witnessing to God’s kingdom is indeed a requirement for eternal life ↑

5. The Watchtower magazine, February 1, 2012, page 21, par 5 – The book Questions Young People Ask—Answers That Work, Volume 1, states: “As long as your adolescent lives under your roof, you have the right to require compliance with a spiritual routine. ↑

6. The Watchtower magazine, August 15, 1956, page 508, par ↑

7. A. v. A., 2003 BCSC 1593 (CanLII), http://canlii.ca/t/4r14 ↑

8. 2016 – Droit de la famille – 163464 – 2016 CarswellQue 13609, 2016 QCCS 6897, EYB 2016-282493 – M. P. c. K.F. ↑

9. 2005 – C. (M.) c. B. (C.) – 2005 CarswellQue 4714, [2005] R.D.F. 638, J.E. 2005-1400, EYB 2005-92087 – C. (M.), c. B. (C.) –

   7 Dans un affidavit circonstancié, elle précise que les enfants ont demandé à maintes reprises à leur père de ne plus se rendre à l’office dominical et qu’en dépit de leurs demandes, monsieur persiste à les amener. Les enfants lui disent également qu’ils ne veulent pas aller à « La Salle », et cela nuit à ses propres relations avec eux puisque les enfants lui reprochent de ne rien faire pour empêcher qu’ils aillent à ces offices religieux. Le départ des enfants de la maison, le vendredi soir, lorsque leur père vient les chercher, est de plus en plus difficile. Cela prend souvent de 30 à 45 minutes de négociations et il est même arrivé que Br… s’attache à une chaise pour ne pas partir avec son père. ↑

10. See search “kingdom interests” ↑

11. 2016 – R. v. Jennings – 2016 Carswell BC 683, 2016 BCCA 127

    December 19, 2011 – the appellant received 60 days in custody for breach of his s. 810.1 recognizance after meeting with an adult Jehovah’s Witness and a 13 year old boy at the appellant’s apartment as well as subsequently having contact with children at a meeting at the local Kingdom Hall. There, he was seen paying particular attention to children over the course of two hours. ↑