Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses

Was there a Kingdom Hall before there was even a Panama Canal? The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Bocas del Toro has a history intertwined with the very fabric of Panama. It represents a faith that took root here around the turn of the 20th century, even before the world-famous canal connected the Atlantic and Pacific. The Kingdom Hall stands as a testament to the perseverance and dedication of Jehovah’s Witnesses in this “land of many fishes.” In the early 1900s, the seeds of faith were sown by individuals like Isaiah Richards, a schoolteacher in Colón, who organized one of the first classes for Bible study. The connection with Jamaica played a vital role as West Indian workers on the canal project brought their beliefs to Panama. Hubert L. Walker, from Panama City, embraced the message and opened his home to traveling preachers. By 1910, a congregation of nearly fifty individuals was flourishing. The year 1913 marked a significant milestone. Charles Taze Russell, the first president of the Watch Tower Society, visited Panama and delivered lectures in both Panama City and Colón, boosting interest in the Kingdom message. The opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 brought changes, with some workers leaving the area. However, dedicated groups remained in Panama City and Colón, nurturing the growing faith. The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Bocas del Toro, among others, became a spiritual haven during challenging times. Following Russell’s death and a period of internal testing, the faithful few in Panama held onto their beliefs, meeting regularly and continuing their studies. The visit of the second president, J.F. Rutherford, in 1931 further solidified the resolve of those committed to spreading the word. Gilead-trained missionaries arrived in 1945, marking a turning point. Roy and Sister Harvey stepped off the plane at Albrook Air Force Base, ready to learn Spanish and share their message with the local community. Soon, more missionaries followed, establishing homes and congregations. The first Spanish congregation formed in Panama City, opening the door to reach even more people. In 1946, Panama saw the establishment of its first branch office, further solidifying the presence of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Missionaries ventured into new territories, like David in Chiriquí Province, mirroring the pioneering spirit of the American West. They faced prejudice and opposition, yet their kindness and patience resonated with the humble people of the region. The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Bocas del Toro hosted a memorable district assembly in 1948. Overcoming logistical challenges, with a chartered boat failing to appear and original accommodations canceled, the Witnesses found creative solutions. Their unity and harmony impressed the islanders, who witnessed people of different races and nationalities living and eating together in a spirit of love. Over the decades, the Kingdom work thrived. New Kingdom Halls were built, literature storage expanded, and the number of publishers grew. The Theocracy’s Increase Assembly in 1950 saw Panama represented at an international convention for the first time. Despite facing opposition and legal challenges regarding their neutrality towards national symbols, Jehovah’s Witnesses in Panama remained steadfast. Stories of perseverance, like that of Emily Raper, who studied with a woman for seven years before seeing her and her family embrace the truth, exemplify the enduring faith of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Bocas del Toro stands as a beacon of faith. It is a reminder of a journey that began over a century ago. It’s a journey characterized by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of the Kingdom message.