Basic HTML Version
I
PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT, NOVEMBER 1, 1985
PAGE 5
China is notorious for changing the plans of tourist groups at the last
minute, and we had several close calls.
For example, at one stage,
with only 12 hours notice, we were politely informed that the main
party of 140 Americans could not arrive in Nanjing until th-e morning of
the First Holy Day. Although we have always tried to be patient and
understanding in China, we dug our heels in and explained that it was
essential that we all be in Nanjing together for the opening of our
convention on Sunday evening. The Chinese were a bit surprised at our
sudden firmness because we were known in China to be a friendly and
cooperative group.
We explained that we were, but on some things we would not compromise.
When they saw that we were not going to back down, the Chinese did
everything they could to help us, even moving a convention of 500
Japanese businessmen to whom they had assigned our meeting room
(presuming that we would not be there till the following day).
The fact that we had a large contingent (87) from Australia this year
added a special dimension to the Feast. Most of the American members
who went to China had never met Australians. Likewise, many of the
Australians had not traveled widely before. By the end of the Feast
the two groups were indistingishable (until they opened their mouths>,
and many lasting friendships were made. This aspect of unity was a
special feature of _the Feast in China.
I reminded the members that they had a special responsibility to
conduct themselves with proper decorum in the People's Republic of
China, since each delegate to the Feast was a special representative of
the Work. It is impossible to preach the Gospel verbally in China at
the moment. However, the Feast of Tabernacles has shone a light and it
seems that the Chinese have noticed it.
We were told many times that our people were indeed different.
I
should point out that the average size group to tour China is about 28.
Guides and interpreters dread larger groups since they associate them
with confusion, disorder and complaining, something the Chinese dread.
When they see how quickly God's people take care of each other,
organize themselves, have discipline and follow instructions, the
Chinese are astonished.
Most other tour groups seem to be utterly
tired of China after about five days, and their only concern is
"getting their money's worth."
Those of us who had the privilege of serving God's people at the Feast
in China (myself, Hal Baird, Colin Kelly, Gene Hogberg, Fred Stevens
and Frank Fish) considered the Feast to be in every way a success, and
are thankful for this unusual opportunity.
International News
From Nr. Guy Ames
Philippine Office Manager Rod Matthews completed a
tour of scattered members in the northern Pacific in late August. We
have been striving to maintain closer contact and better serve those in
Guam, Yap, Saipan and in Japan. Mr. Matthews conducted a Bible study
on Guam for the two members there and completed arrangements for their
attendance at Philippine sites for the Feast of Tabernacles.