Jehovah’s Witnesses from all over Blantyre have organized modest Bible-based displays around one of the most anticipated African hockey games of the year. Spectators will watch the final showdown of the men’s and women’s tournament inside the stadium, but just a few meters away a number of volunteers will be standing next to mobile literature carts. 

Their game plan: offer a warm smile, a listening ear, and answers from the Scriptures to anyone who asks life’s big questions about existence, hope for dead loved ones, and the future. 

 Amos Chirwa, local spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses, noted that many people at large sporting events are searching for something that will bring them lasting peace and happiness.   

“People come to these events because they want a break from the pressures of daily living. They come to have fun and to forget about their troubles for a while,” said Chirwa.

We’re here to let them know that joy and peace doesn’t have to be just one day or even just a few days out of the year,” he said.  

Anyone is welcome to take free literature from the carts.  The Bible-based publications cover timely topics such as family happiness and how to find success and will be offered in selected languages. 

Ikweanji Jackson, a volunteer from Blantyre plans to have friendly conversations with those who stop by. Smartphone in hand, he’s also ready to show people jw.org, the organization’s official website, where they can easily access positive content in more than 1,070 languages. 

“People need positivity nowadays,” said Ikweanji. “If I can make just one person smile while I’m volunteering, then I consider that a big win for the day.”  

Jehovah’s Witnesses and their mobile Bible-based literature displays have become a staple in major metropolitan areas worldwide and are often seen at rail and bus stations, airports, harbors, main streets, and large sporting events such as the Hockey African Cup for Club Champions.