Conclusion of:A Family Decision

Margarita observes:  "When the two boys were seven and eight years of age, they joined the Theocratic Ministry School. As parents, we were somewhat concerned about their limited understanding  of Greek.  However, each assignment was a family project, and we spent many hours helping them to prepare their talks."

Their daughter Joanna says:  "I can  remember Dad teaching us Greek by writing the alphabet on a blackboard at home, and we had to learn it thoroughly. Many people spend years studying a language, but with Mom and Dad helping us, we learned Greek without spending too much time on it." 

Some families will support a foreign-language congregation because the parents feel that to develop "spiritual comprehension" and to progress, they need to be taught in their mother tongue.  (Colossians 1:9, 10; 1 Timothy 4:13, 15) Or the family may view their language skills as an asset to help other immigrants learn the truth. 

On the other hand, a family may feel that it is in their best interests to attend a congregation where the dominant language of the country to which they have immigrated is spoken.  (Philippians 2:4; 1 Timothy 3:5) After  discussing the situation with the family, it is up to the family head prayerfully to make the decision.  (Romans 14:4; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Philippians 4:6, 7)  What suggestions might help these families? 

Next time: Some Practical Suggestions

From the Watchtower magazine, 2002