An Exciting National Gathering

Prior to the restrictions, the last national convention had been held in 1978. So imagine how thrilled the brothers were to receive an invitation to a district convention to be held in Managua in December 1999! Family members were encouraged to start saving money for travel and other expenses so that all could attend. In obtaining these funds, some Witnesses were quite resourceful. For instance, since pork is popular in Nicaragua, a number obtained living “piggy banks” by buying, raising, and later selling pigs. As a result of wise planning and determination, 28,356 Witnesses and interested ones from coast to coast were able to come to Managua’s national baseball stadium for the “God’s Prophetic Word” District Convention, which began on December 24.

How thrilled the delegates were on Saturday of that convention to see 784 persons immersed​—the largest baptism in the history of the work in Nicaragua! Missionaries who had earlier served there were present and shared encouraging experiences with the audience. What is more, the convention had a powerful unifying effect by moving all, regardless of language or tribal background, to be even more determined than ever to progress in the one “pure language” of spiritual truth “in order to serve [Jehovah] shoulder to shoulder.”​—Zeph. 3:9.

[Picture on page 147]

The 1999 “God’s Prophetic Word” District Convention, the first national convention held since 1978, was attended by 28,356

[Picture on page 147]

Delegates saw 784 being immersed​—the largest baptism in the history of Nicaragua