Up to 2,600 people are expected to pack Kal Tire Place for a Jehovah's Witness convention later this month.
Jehovah's Witnesses are returning to the Vernon rink for their annual convention May 23-25.
The return is a long time coming. Derek McCoy, a Vernon spokesperson for the religious group, said the last time this event was held in Vernon was 18 years ago, in 2007.
Realizing that many people are concerned about matters of faith and spirituality, Jehovah's Witnesses are inviting anyone and everyone to their annual global convention series.
"The theme for 2025 is 'pure worship.' People have a spiritual need to worship but might wonder how this need can be fulfilled," McCoy said.
The three-day program aims to highlight how people can receive immediate and personal benefits through worship.
“The annual convention series is always a highlight, and we are excited to attend this year’s event in Vernon,” said McCoy. “This year’s convention theme is intended to help those in attendance find meaning and purpose in their worship. The program and atmosphere are very upbuilding, leaving all feeling refreshed and encouraged.”
The highlight on Saturday, May 24, will be a baptism of local candidates.
Interest in the event is always high, said McCoy. Past conventions have drawn thousands in Penticton, Kelowna and elsewhere.
Jehovah's Witnesses from the South and Central Interiors will be attending the event.
There are 1,159 Jehovah's Witness congregations in Canada with a total of roughly 124,000 members. Worldwide, the number of congregations is more than 118,000 with more than 9 million active ministers.
Nearly 11 million people attended more than 6,000 three-day Jehovah's Witness conventions worldwide in 2024.
The convention is free to attend and runs May 23 and 24 from 9:20 a.m. to 4:50 p.m., and May 25 from 9:20 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Each day has a one-hour and 20-minute lunch break. Bible-based talks, interviews and video presentations will be featured.
To see the convention program, visit jw.org or click here.
