On the big screen

Large video screens bring Jehovah’s Witnesses’ Imitate Jesus! convention in Moncton to life

Delegates of all ages from New Brunswick, northern Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island were very appreciative about the integrated use of video, used for the first time at their convention held this past weekend at the Moncton Coliseum.

The two large video screens (17 feet by 11 feet) on either side of the stage, used in conjunction with the Coliseum’s scoreboard screens, not only made convention participants more visible, but were also used to screen prerecorded Bible-themed theatrical productions, videos, and interviews.

Tim Easter, a spokesman for the convention, says the experience was positive.

“Both young and old told me how much easier it was to make a connection with the speakers because they were able to clearly see them from all corners of the arena,” he says.

Aaron Devine, the father of a young son and an instructor of environmental services in Truro, was also pleased.

“The theme, “Imitate Jesus,” was explained with many reallife videos portraying examples where we can imitate Jesus in our daily interactions with others. We feel truly refreshed as a family and better equipped to lead an ever more successful life moving forward,” Devine says.

Other highlights from the convention included the release of a new publication highlighting all of Jesus’ activity on earth in chronological order, seeing 13 new Witnesses symbolize their dedication to God by baptism, and joyful association with a peak attendance of 2,876.

The 51 presentations over the three days by 47 speakers from throughout the Maritimes featured practical information addressing the challenges facing young people wanting to serve God today, helpful advice for all members of the family, and many practical examples of how we can imitate Jesus’ example to help promote peaceful relations with others.

“No doubt the delegates will be eager to share some of this practical information with others as they return home,” added Easter.

This convention was one of a series of 57 conventions being held across Canada this summer in 14 languages, and one of over 5,000 conventions