The Isles Can Rejoice

“Let the many islands rejoice,” is a Biblical invitation that can be repeated with even greater force today. (Ps. 97:1) The distant islands of the Pacific could certainly respond to that invitation during the period November 9 to 12, 1969, when assemblies were being held simultaneously at Suva, Fiji, and Papeete, Tahiti. English was the language mainly used at the first, while French and Tahitian were used at the other.

The “Peace on Earth” Assembly at Papeete, Tahiti, was a grand event, too, not only for the local Witnesses, but for the islanders in general. It was the first international assembly held here by Jehovah’s witnesses, and it was the first assembly requiring greater facilities than could be offered by a Kingdom Hall. The auditorium known as Salle de Basket at the Fautaua Stadium was the place contracted for. There were actually many more delegates from other lands than there are Witnesses in Tahiti. The local press took note of the fact that representatives had arrived from twelve other countries around the world, and then went on to explain: “For Jehovah’s Witnesses, the main thing is to show that the Bible is applicable to the everyday life of an individual, for young ones as well as for parents. . . . According to Bible chronology, this millennium of peace [the theme of the public address]​—between men themselves and also between men and animals—​is not far away, but in just a few years more. Who does not want to believe in peace?”

Tahitians really enjoyed the Bible dramas presented on the platform, for it was at one of these, entitled “Fortify Yourself so as to Maintain Integrity,” that the audience reached a peak of 610. Colored lighting effects made the action more realistic. Onlookers learned how vital it is to use all the provisions for Christian association and Bible study that are available so as to have the spiritual strength to stay at peace with God amidst a lawless world.

One airport employee, though used to seeing every day the hospitality and the flowery welcome ordinarily given to visitors, was deeply impressed by what he witnessed on this occasion. Said he: “I am really touched to see how a faith can keep people who don’t even know one another so united. We should all be Jehovah’s witnesses, because by your love you are different from the rest of us.”