evidently in two, so as to give some of it to those reclining on each side of him, because there was only one loaf used. (Matt. 26:26) But there is no need for the speaker to break the bread prior to its being passed. Probably it will be passed on a plate or plates, and if someone present is of the anointed, he or she can take or break off a small piece. The men serving the emblems should have opportunity to partake if of the anointed, and, naturally, the speaker should have opportunity to partake. The serving of the wine proceeds in the same orderly manner as with the bread.

In the case of an anointed Christian who was infirm and so unable to attend, a mature Christian male could take an individual portion of the bread and wine to that person that same night before sunrise. Depending on the circumstances, some fitting comments could be made and then the emblems presented after prayers. As was allowed under the Law in reference to the Passover, in an extreme case where an anointed one could not observe the Memorial on Nisan 14, he could celebrate it thirty days later.—Num. 9:9-14.

Since the emblems in themselves are not sacred, after the celebration is over in the Kingdom Hall and the meeting dismissed, the bread and wine may be taken home and used at some other time as normal food.

The importance of this celebration usually results in many new ones coming to the Kingdom Hall. Hence it is an opportunity for pleasant and upbuilding fellowship before and after the meeting. In places where a number of congregations use the same hall, those responsible for the arrangements will try to make provisions for this fellowship. Sometimes such congregations share the expense of renting a separate hall for one of the congregations so that all can meet at a reasonable hour, with the emblems being passed after sundown, and yet not being too rushed.

Often, after arriving home from this meeting, a family of Jehovah’s witnesses will spend time discussing the meaning of the Memorial. This relaxing consideration of the celebration and the Bible accounts of its institution can have a fine effect in bringing to a close the significant and happy evening.

Announcements

FIELD MINISTRY

True worship has never been popular. The Bible shows that the true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ would be hated by all nations. (Matt. 24:9) Hence faithful Christians need to answer the challenge to true worship raised by the forces of nationalism. The early Christians answered the challenge by preaching despite opposition; they said: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) Jehovah’s witnesses answer the challenge to true worship in the same manner: They steadfastly preach the good news of God’s kingdom, obeying God as ruler. To announce Jehovah’s kingdom during March, these Christian witnesses will be offering this fine Bible-study aid, The Watchtower, on a subscription basis, for a year for just $1.

WHY BE DISCOURAGED?

The current religious unrest and the disappointments that many churchgoers have experienced recently in doctrine and church policy have not adversely affected the circulation of The Watchtower and Awake! Rather, these magazines are constantly growing in popularity. Last year each magazine added a half million copies to its regular circulation of each issue. Millions of additional copies of special issues were distributed. Ensure your own regular participation in the wealth of upbuilding and encouraging material they contain. Subscribe now and receive free six timely booklets on vital Bible subjects. One year, for both magazines, only $2.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES FOR THE WEEKS

March 23: Laying a Foundation for the Right Kind of Ministers, ¶1-16, and ‘Sounding Down’ the Truth into Minds and Hearts of Learners, ¶1-5. Page 137. Songs to Be Used: 10, 65.

March 30: ‘Sounding Down’ the Truth into Minds and Hearts of Learners, ¶6-29. Page 143. Songs to Be Used: 117, 109.