By 1970, there were 3,378 publishers in 63 congregations. More than half had come into the organization in the preceding five years. The 1972 Yearbook reported: “They came from all walks of life: Auto mechanics, farmers, public car drivers, accountants, builders, carpenters, lawyers, dentists, yes, and ex-politicians; all drawn together by love of truth and love of Jehovah.”

In spite of the political upheaval, the preaching and disciple-making work went forward, and by the end of the 1963 service year, a peak of 1,155 publishers had been reached.

By 1989, the average number of publishers had increased to 11,081, and the potential for future growth was evident, as 20,494 Bible studies were reported. This kind of growth presented challenges. For instance, the existing branch building had served its purpose well, but by the late 1980’s, it was no longer adequate. “It was so overcrowded,” says Reiner Thompson, “that it became necessary to find housing and to use warehouses in different parts of the city.”