No matter how slick looking JW.ORG or this new TV is, it isn't going to get new converts. Why? Becuase the message hasn't changed. The pig is still a pig, and you can't put lipstick on a pig and expect to call it a starlet. This coveted meeting was a perfect example.
The "not marry a brother unless he's an MS by 23" comment has to be due to the fact that there are not men reaching out to advance in the congregations. It's as much of an admonishment to women, as it is a carrot to men. You want to married (i.e. get laid), then you better be pursuing Kingdom interests first and look like you want to be an MS before you are 23.
They also admitted that there weren't enough Bible studies. It's a dying religion (not by $$, becuase of their real estate sell-off), but becuase of not attracting new followers. These rules and encouraging people to visit Bethel is a tightening of the behavior of the ones that remain. And, Bethel's morale must be dwindling. Evidenced by the fact tht there was an actual announced, worldwide admonishment that they don't have a good work ethic. That's not a good image to project to the rank & file. The R&F should have the idea that Bethel is hard at work, and that they are the slackers to get out to convert. Now, the R&F know that Bethel slacks as much in their jobs as they do in going door-to-door in service. It's all a half-hearted effort, and the coffee shops and walking slowly is a-ok. And, getting visitors to Bethel is a way to perpetrate the image that they are leading a great nationof Christians and it will boost Bethel's morale.
Dying religion. That's my take between the lines.
