Parakeet,
You asked, How do you answer such questions? Do you encourage young people to do their own research, using non JW resources, regarding evolution and other topics that conflict with JW beliefs?
I would encourage any aspiring young scientist to research on their own using all available resources. Obviously, JWs are not usually scientists nor does the scientific community have our perspective. Both camps must look at the debate through the other lens. Both sides of the debate get to a point where faith takes over - most scientists realize this, especially regarding the dating calculations and the original dispersion of energy. Personally I believe in a wise loving creator who in his wisdom used what many call micro evolution to finish his handiwork.
Do you enforce or help enforce the no-blood policy when the issue comes up? How do you advise your cong members when they ask about blood or blood fractions? Do you believe that a loving god would value a symbol of life over life itself? If you disagree with the blood policy, how do you help those in your cong when they are faced with a life-or-death crisis?
I would not enforce (if you mean the use judicial action) the no-blood policy. If you have access to the August Awake on blood you will notice that the use of all fractions is a "conscience matter". You will also notice a dramatic shift in thinking regarding extracted hemoglobin (HBOC) - while cautioning the individual to seriously consider the decision; it is left to the individual's conscience. If fractions are allowed, if HBOC is allowed and in the US witnesses in good standing have used platelets gels (platelets are a component of blood) to stimulate healing - there really isn't a blood issue anymore. In time the only remaining restriction will be ingesting whole blood. I realize that if you asked this question a few years ago I could have been painted into a corner, but in practice this issue is dieing a quick death.
If any of your cong members suffer from depression, do you tell them to immerse themselves even more deeply in WTS literature and field service? Or do you advise them to seek qualified medical and psychiatric help? If they express doubts about the JW teachings, do you encourage them to explore those doubts and find answers for themselves? Or do you encourage them to "hang on" until the reforms you're hoping for are made (assuming reform comes about)?
The mind is like any other part of the body, if you break your arm you go to a doctor to have it reset, the mind is no different if it is sick it needs qualified care. Many witnesses regularly avail themselves of such help. Additionally, I always encourage the full interchange of ideas it is the collective wisdom of many along with the scriptures that unveil the truth. If one had doubts that caused direct opposition to the organization, I would encourage them to begin a careful study of the issue, to focus on the points of agreement and to attempt to stay within the organization unless their study and conscience would not allow that.
If a JW starts dating a non-JW, do you advise him/her to end it so as not to become yoked with "unbelievers"? When I started dating a non JW (now my husband for 30+ years), I was put on the platform before the entire cong and publicly humiliated. How would you handle a similar situation?
I am sorry about the humiliation you suffered because of a stupid brother/body. Paul said to not become unevenly yoked. This can mean intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Too often we look only at the spiritual side of it. I would work with a person contemplating marriage to examine all aspects of the of such a yoke. I personally am not smart enough to help anyone decide whom to marry.
I will write more at another time........
Many congregations have a liberal body of elders that are learning and seeking and are not masters over your faith. I have been in two such congregations. I realize that in many congregations small minded men overcome their lack of intellect by enforcing the letter of the law, if a friend were caught in such a congregation I would hope they would try another before they decide to leave the organization.
Jesus words to the congregations in Revelation suggest that there are many awful places that claim to worship Jah, but they are not all like that. And Jesus' examination of these congregations gives me hope that reforms will happen.
Sincerely,
zarco