Most people at some time or other—usually on the doorstep—have had a brief conversation with one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. It probably went something like this: “Isn’t the world in a mess? Do you think things will ever get better? Do you know that the Bible promises that God will make it possible for good people to live forever right here, on an earth that will be transformed into a paradise?” Then often some literature is left that cites Bible texts to support this belief.
The Witness worldview that underpins this theology is quite surprising. What is Armageddon and what will happen to most of the world’s population when it comes? How do Witnesses view other religions? How do members regard higher education? What is wrong with having a birthday party, celebrating Christmas or voting in elections?
Our speaker for this event was for many years a devout member of the Jehovah’s Witness community in Cork. In this talk, he will briefly outline the history of the religion, summarise the key beliefs and recount his own experience as a member.
There will be plenty of time for questions and answers, and all are welcome at this free event. This talk takes place at Blackrock Castle Observatory at 8pm — directions can be found on our information page. We hope to see you there!
Cork Skeptics 
March 19, 2014 at 5:54 pm
I worked with a JW in Cork back in 1972. I spent a year arguing with him about the JW religion and the absurd beliefs they have, e.g. anti-Evolution, no blood transfusions even if the patient, often a child, dies and got absolutely no where with him. He was convinced that the world was about to end because that’s what they told him. JWs at the time often didn’t attend College because what was the point. Some gave away their money, even houses. I often asked by when would it end and eventually I said if it’s soon at least give me “a no later than” date. He said definitely by 1975. I didn’t see Charlie again until about 1980 odd as I had left Cork. I was walking up a road and there he was going from door to door. I waited until he came out and he spotted me. After the usual “how are you getting on banter” I pointed out it was 1980 whatever and the world was still definitely here. He then told me that there has been some sort of split and the JWs who said it would end separated from Charlie’s crowd. As far as I know he’s still a JW. They got Charlie because he was vulnerable due to his drinking and other personal habits. It’s a very damaging cult.