Participants say event was a positive experience

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Nearly 3, 000 Jehovah's Witnesses attended this region's annual convention at the Moncton Coliseum this weekend.

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GREG AGNEW/TIMES & TRANSCRIPT

Harry Chiasson of Saint John baptizes a follower at the Jehovah’s Witness Regional Convention at the Moncton Coliseum over the weekend.

The event titled, "Keep on the Watch," is a reference to biblical scripture, including Matthew 24:42 and Mark 13:37 where Jesus Christ tells his follows to not turn away from signs of degradation around world such as wars, famines and pestilence.

Peter Mathews, Riverview congregation member, said the weekend was a positive experience.

"For Jehovah's witnesses, it's the highlight of the calender year," he said. "It's an opportunity for us to get together to and to be reminded about the times we are living in."

He said the convention was a time of reflection, where those present judged themselves as to whether or not they're living up to God's requirements.

The keynote speech was given by travelling minister Michael Goodvin, who tours Nova Scotia giving sermons.

He spoke about the importance of family values and following the roles God has set out for each member of the family.

Mathews said the convention, held here since 2000, was well received by businesses in the city.

"There has been lots of interest from business owners, they've been very cooperative," he said. "We know it was a very busy weekend, and they've been flogged with traffic, and we thank them for being so good to us."