In South Africa, four international conventions were held simultaneously—in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria. The combined attendance for the public lecture on Sunday was 75,312, and 1,360 were baptized. In addition, 20 smaller district conventions were held in South Africa and other lands served by the South Africa branch, thus more than doubling the above figures.

These conventions were special, as it was the first time that South Africa had had the opportunity to welcome so many delegates from other countries. Visitors came from 34 lands, including Japan, Britain, the United States, Suriname, and various parts of Europe. There were also two buses filled with joyful delegates from Zambia and one bus from Mozambique.

The various language groups met in separate halls. But between sessions they enjoyed associating and eating together. It was heartwarming to see people of different races talking excitedly, sharing little gifts, exchanging addresses, and hugging one another. Here was visible evidence of the foretold unity among Jehovah’s people.—Zeph. 3:9; John 10:16.

When delegates from the United States and Japan arrived at Louis Botha Airport in Durban, some 2,000 local Witnesses were on hand to welcome them with Kingdom songs. The brothers warmly greeted one another and embraced. Some of the other tourists who had arrived with the delegates did not want to go on to their hotels, preferring to remain and witness this remarkable scene. Among those watching was a prominent political leader. In conversation with some of the brothers, he said: “If we had the same spirit of unity as you, we would have solved our problems long ago.”

[Pictures on page 12, 13]

Warm and happy fellowship was evident at the “Divine Teaching” International Conventions

6, 7. South Africa