NEW BRANCH FACILITIES AND KINGDOM HALLS

As elsewhere, the Bethel family in Zagreb, Croatia, was feeling the effects of theocratic growth. The size of the family had grown from 10 to about 50. But since the Bethel Home was designed for only four or five couples, additional rooms had to be rented nearby.

Shortly after the Branch Committee was formed, the Governing Body directed them to purchase property for a new Bethel Home in Zagreb. Local volunteers and international servants soon built beautiful facilities that would help advance Kingdom interests for many years to come. The new branch facilities and Kingdom Hall were dedicated on Saturday, October 23, 1999, as was a double Kingdom Hall in the center of Zagreb. Delegates from 15 countries were present, including Brother Gerrit Lösch of the Governing Body, who gave the dedication talk. The next day, 4,886 gathered for a delightful spiritual program in a large sports hall. What an unforgettable day that was for Jehovah’s people in Croatia​—some of whom had been serving Jehovah faithfully for 50 years or more through some of the most harrowing times in modern history!

[Pictures on page 216]

Croatia Branch Committee, and branch office