I arrived at Bethel in January 1958. Back then, the Bethel family consisted of no more than 12 people. I was assigned to help the two translators at the branch. There was much work to do, and I had no translating experience. But with Jehovah’s help, I came to love my assignment.

Less than two years later, though, the translation work was reorganized and I was assigned to the field as a pioneer.

A Pleasant Surprise

I had been in Cremona for less than two years when I received a call from the branch. There was much translation work to be done in preparation for the “United Worshipers” six-day assembly, which was to be held in July 1961. So I was invited back to Bethel. I literally jumped for joy! I returned to Bethel on February 1, 1961.

We worked long hours, but it was a privilege to be occupied every day with producing Bible-based material. Those months went by quickly, and soon the time for the assembly arrived.

At that assembly, I heard the announcement that The New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures would be translated into Italian. I thought, ‘That means there’s a lot of work ahead.’ And I wasn’t wrong. My assignment at Bethel was extended. In fact, I am still there today—over 60 years later!

Throughout the years, I have witnessed many changes in the activities of the Translation Department, as Jehovah’s organization has progressively used new technology and other “milk of nations.” (Isaiah 60:16) These changes have strengthened the unity of the worldwide brotherhood. For example, in 1985 the Italian and English editions of The Watchtower began to be published simultaneously. Today, articles and videos are available in many languages on jw.org, and most appear at the same time as the English. Clearly, Jehovah makes sure that his people are united and that they receive timely spiritual food.