One of the traveling overseers who was well known sympathized with the complainers, even offering some of his own criticism. This brother felt that promoting social gatherings while visiting the congregations would help unite the brothers. However, these often resulted in large feasts with immoderate drinking. For those who had fought hard to overcome alcohol addiction, this proved to be a stumbling block. Some newly interested ones quit studying the Bible as a result of what they saw. A few, who sought to justify their conduct by what others were doing, later had to be disciplined because of excessive drinking.

Another brother in circuit work, one who had done much to help others, now began to set a poor example in regard to business matters. While a circuit overseer he postponed vital spiritual matters in order to care first for personal business affairs.

For a time it seemed that those who should have corrected matters were unable to do so in a spirit of self-control and peace. Yet, after some years, corrective measures were finally taken. (Gal. 6:1; Jas. 3:17) It also brought joy when some of those who had had spiritual difficulties worked toward restoration of a good relationship with Jehovah.

The district overseer, his wife, the circuit overseer, and a missionary couple made a visit to Coquesa. Only the circuit overseer was a Bolivian. And in a place where foreigners are viewed with great skepticism, their arrival caused quite a stir. The already tense situation became worse when the missionary brother made an unfortunate remark that was meant to be a joke. But it was not taken that way, and soon the whole town convened in the school to decide what to do about these foreigners. Sensing the danger, Brother Martínez, the circuit overseer, suggested that they leave right away. However, others decided to stay overnight and see what would develop.

The next day a messenger informed the brothers: “The town wants to hear you out, so please come to the plaza and instruct us.” Upon arrival there, it was noticed that three sides of the plaza were blocked. Suspecting a trap, the district overseer ran back to the car and shouted for the others to follow. The mob seized Toribio while the others tried to escape. Madly pursuing, some of the mob grabbed Brother Martínez’ scarf and cut the face of the missionary brother. Scrambling into the car, they sped away while the mob pelted the car with stones.