The Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses is the ruling council of Jehovah's Witnesses based in Brooklyn, New York. The body assumes responsibility for formulating policy and doctrines, producing material for publications and conventions, and administering its worldwide branch office staff. Members of the Governing Body say they are followers of Christ rather than religious leaders.
Its size has varied, from seven (2010–2012) to eighteen (1974–1980) members. As of October 2012, there are eight members. Members of the Governing Body are not elected; membership is only possible by invitation of existing members.
Read more about Governing Body Of Jehovah's Witnesses: History, Committees, Representatives, Relationship With "faithful and Discreet Slave", Governing Body Members
Famous quotes containing the words governing, body, jehovah and/or witnesses:
“... governing is occupying but not interesting, governments are occupying but not interesting ...”
—Gertrude Stein (1874–1946)
“... the reason I keep doing it is for the tremendous rush I get at the end of any great swim.... there is ... nothing greater than touching the shore after crossing some great body of water knowing that I’ve done it with my own two arms and legs.... I’m overwhelmed by the strength of my body and the power of my mind. For one moment, just one second, I feel immortal.”
—Diana Nyad (b. 1949)
“Then did they to Jehovah cry
When they were in distress:
And therupon he bringeth them
Out of their anguishes.”
—Bible: Hebrew Psalm CVII (Bay Psalm Book)
“My tendency to nervousness in my younger days, in view of the fact of a number of near relatives on both my father’s and mother’s side of the house having become insane, gave some serious uneasiness. I made up my mind to overcome it.... In the cross-examination of witnesses before a crowded court-house ... I soon found I could control myself even in the worst of testing cases. Finally, in battle.”
—Rutherford Birchard Hayes (1822–1893)