My observation last year (before I left) was that there just isn't that much zeal for the ministry in the congregation. Most of the "friends" seem to be just going through the motions and turning in time. Occasionally they would get more positive when someone showed interest. This is far different than when I was younger.

When I talk to my son, service seems more of a chance to get together with the other "brothers" than a chance to truly preach. He mainly goes out in street work, which is really just handing out old magazines.

I'm curious how the Organization is going to rekindle zeal with all of these failed expectations.

It seems to be going in a different direction. There seems to be a lot more focus these days on doing "good works." However, I don't think this will go down well with the R&F. To be honest, JWs are one of the most materialistic Christian groups out there. While they preach about storing up treasures in Heaven (although most of them are not going there!), they have a hope of being on earth, with their own house (a focus of many articles focusing on the paradise), plenty of food and, everyone's greatest desire, their own fig tree.image

My point is, the JW concept of paradise is one that draws people in because it appeals to our materialistic nature. The preaching work has always focused on this aspect.

When I talk to mainstream Christians, their message is quite different. I don't readily agree with them, but that's another story. At least they focus on Christ and putting faith in his sacrifice. This seems to be their priority.


I'm gonna break my rusty cage and run