Again...please do not request a pdf scan these are interbranch copies not the same ones sent to the congregations
Thanks
JWF.
January 21, 2010
TO ALL BODIES OF ELDERS
Re: Qualifications of appointed persons in conjunction with disfellowshipped relatives
Dear Brothers:
The Bible tells us that we are not to fellowship with a person who has been expelled from
the congregation. (1 Cor. 5:9-13; 2 John 9-11) Elders, ministerial servants, and regular pioneers
should set an example in their dealings with disfellowshipped family members. (lv pp. 207-209)
What responsibility does the body of elders have if a person in such an appointed position allows
a disfellowshipped immediate family member to move into the home?
The body of elders should review the qualifications of any appointed person who permits
such a situation. (w88 3/1 p. 24 par. 5; w81 9/15 p. 29 pars. 16-17) It may be that the disfellow-
shipped relative is physically or emotionally ill and unable to care for himself. Or dire circum-
stances may exist so that a failure to provide assistance might result in disastrous consequences and
even bring reproach on the congregation. In such circumstances, the appointed person may have
felt there was no other recourse than to allow the family member to move into the home. The atti-
tude of the disfellowshipped relative should also be considered. Has he ‘come to his senses’? (Luke
15:17-19) Has he abandoned his sinful course? Or is he still engaged in serious wrongdoing? In
carefully considering these and other relevant factors, the elders may determine that the appointed
person is still exemplary, holds the respect of the congregation, and qualifies to continue serving.
On the other hand, if the circumstances raise serious questions and the appointed person
has lost the respect of the congregation, the elders may determine that it would be best for the
appointed person to relinquish his privilege of service. As long as the unfavorable situation in the
home exists, the person would no longer be used in any exemplary capacity. Since this may be
disheartening to the individual, the elders should confirm their love for him and help him to ap-
preciate that he is needed in the congregation. (w90 9/1 pp. 22-23 pars. 18-20) Of course, if the
situation changes and the reason for the deletion no longer exists, it may be that the person will
once again be able to enjoy privileges of service in the congregation.
Be assured of our prayers for Jehovah’s continued blessing as you extend yourselves in
behalf of the brotherhood. We send our warm Christian love.
Your brothers,
cc: Traveling overseers
PS to secretary:
This letter should be retained in the congregation permanent file of policy letters. You
may wish to update the congregation copy of Index to Letters—For Bodies of Elders (S-22) at
this time as well.