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
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“We are apt to say that a foreign policy is successful only when the country, or at any rate the governing class, is united behind it. In reality, every line of policy is repudiated by a section, often by an influential section, of the country concerned. A foreign minister who waited until everyone agreed with him would have no foreign policy at all.”
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