Understandably, Paul did not here mention serving on a jury, for under Roman rule there were no citizens? 2023 FOX News Network, LLC. trial Pilate wanted to be "innocent of the blood of this man." The state is there to serve God for your benefit. (Luke 12:14) The apostle Paul raised similar questions in his letter to the Corinthians: "What do I have to do with judging those outside? In lands where what is called "civil law" prevails, legal cases (both criminal and civil) are usually heard and decided on by a single professional judge, or by a panel of justices. ONLINE LIBRARY. Everybody knows that demons are known to infest people who sit on a jury. It is closer to the situation of Daniels three companions. jw "1 Peter 2:14. Watchtower ONLINE LIBRARY. not getting involved in "other people?s matters." matters should be confined to the congregation, rather than be a juror in a secular court of law. A teacher walks into the Classroom and says If only Yesterday was Tomorrow Today would have been a Saturday Which Day did the Teacher make this Statement? Some may automatically be disqualified, such as convicted felons and the mentally incompetent. Serving as a juror is often described as a valid civic duty. "?1 Peter 2:14. Paul directed the brothers to expel the wrongdoer. i didn't think so. Therefore, one must recognize that the main rule of Jehovah's Witnesses is to believe everything that is presented to them by their Governing Body, even if such beliefs were changed from past understanding, or even if such believes will change with future understanding. The Bible does not mention jury duty, so he cannot say, It is against my religion to serve on any jury. Depending on the case, he might state that serving on the jury for a particular case is against his personal conscience. (Luke 12:14) The apostle Paul raised similar questions in his letter to the Corinthians: "What do I have to do with judging those outside? (Matthew 22:17-21) If Caesar says that citizens must give of their time and efforts to clean roads or perform other work that is among Caesars functions, each Christian must decide whether to submit.Matthew 5:41. and was represented by her father as Guardian Ad Litem. He went on to state that Christians should strive to avoid even taking their grievances or disputes to worldly courts for handling. Secular courts are a function of "the superior authorities." I just love this statement. Jury duty is mandatory for all summoned citizens unless excused. So, even though I'm a little excited and looking forward to it at this time, my real opinion will come out after it is over. Still, the 21-year-old woman's attorneys say Wednesday's verdict sends a message to the church to report child abuse to outside authorities. What if a Christian does not feel that his conscience permits him to serve on a particular jury? Find the date of the next annual Memorial observance. When I was at Bethel, Bethelites LOVED jury duty. They can actually investigate things. Each Christian has to decide for himself what he will do, and others should not criticize his decision. It was felt that since they knew the accused, their judgment would be fairer than procedures in which he tried to prove his innocence by combat or by surviving some ordeal. I recently served on a Jury panel for a court case. I remembered vaguely about not being able to serve on a jury as a JW. That would explain why some witnesses are called. facts are never revealed) I was called up for jury service once and Jury Duty Excuse Letter Format Date Name Title Jehovah's Witness Rules About Divorce Jehovah's Witnesses are not allowed to: Apply for a divorce without proving to the elders that their spouse is guilty of adultery. So there is a danger of becoming party to a miscarriage of justice. wrote the letter to the courts. And in the state of Colorado persons who can prove by documents that they are Jehovah's witnesses are granted exemption from jury duty. I love how you guys come up with a thorough answer so quickly! 99.9% of Witnesses will write a letter to the courts asking that they be exempted from service due to religious convictions (such as not sitting in judgment of another person especially as all. The congregation of Israel had God?s laws on inheritance and designated older men to resolve disputes of that sort. It is something to consider. Jurors concluded church elders did not receive notice of the 32-year-old woman's abuse in 1998 as she said they did, and therefore did not have a duty to tell authorities. by Nancy Drake It is the civic duty of all Canadian citizens 18 years of . Generally, the court sends notices to appear for jury duty to individuals selected from lists of voters, licensed drivers, or the like. Within the United States, the situation in one state may be quite different from that in another state. (Rom. After Gods servants ceased to be under the Mosaic Law, they had to deal with secular courts in various lands. It must be your personal decision not to serve not because the WTS is telling you not to serve on a jury duty. Though years have now passed, her conscience still troubles her; she feels that she was part of a miscarriage of justice. Many Christians have in good conscience concluded that Bible principles do not rule out appearing, even as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego complied with the directive of the Babylonian government to appear on the plain of Dura and as Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem at the direction of the Roman authorities. In that case he should prepare himself to face whatever consequences may arise as a result of his decision. And you can appreciate why the Christian in West Virginia might conclude that his efforts to judge or decide matters should be confined to the congregation, rather than be a juror in a secular court of law. each Christian faced with jury duty must determine what course to follow, based on his understanding of the Bible and his own conscience. Jehovah?s witnesses recognize that what people do with reference to jury duty is a personal matter, governed by the dictates of conscience. Copyright 2001-2015 Jehovah's Witness Discussion Forum | JW.Org Community Information. Unlike the other jurors, she could not accept the claim that the injuries came from an accidental fall. Jury legislation has a long history which we describe in paragraphs 2.2-2.7. After a number of days, a person?s jury duty is fulfilled, whether he has actually sat as a juror or not. How come it's only people who don't want it that get it? In a civil case, the jury might award damages or compensation. A Pennsylvania grand jury is investigating Jehovah's Witnesses for alleged sex-abuse cover-up, man who testified says. Understandably, Paul did not here mention serving on a jury, for under Roman rule there were no citizens juries as now exist under Anglo-American law. (RNS) Four Jehovah's Witnesses have been charged with sexually abusing 19 children in their congregations, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro announced in a news conference Thursday. . Any adult Canadian citizen can be considered for jury duty. "1 Cor. He has been charged with Aggravated Indecent Assault, Indecent Assault, and Endangering . "Their national headquarters, called Watchtower, they control when and if anyone within their organization reports child abuse," Smith said. 28 U.S.C.A. WhatistheattitudeofJehovah'sWitnessestowardjuryduty?U.S.A. The group needs to be reduced to the number who will actually sit through the trial of that case. Office of Jury Commissioner Address Street Address 560 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118 Directions Mailing Address 560 Harrison Ave., Suite 600, Boston, MA 02118 Directions Phone Juror helpline (toll-free in Massachusetts) (800) 843-5879 (THE-JURY) Monday-Friday 9 am - 4:30 pm Delinquent jurors (877) 966-7469 A regular jury only hears what is given to them, but a grand jury is the mother lode. After God?s servants ceased to be under the Mosaic Law, they had to deal with secular courts in various lands. (Luke 4:18, 43) Jesus? This is the time to speak up if one has a conscientious reason for not serving because of the nature of that case. The use of juries is not universal. As time went by, the jury system changed into an arrangement whereby a group of citizens were to hear a case and reach a verdict based on evidence. I've been out of work for four months. ! Surgeons highly value and respect patient autonomy and simultaneously desire to provide high . Thus it can be seen why serving on a jury might lead to serious conflicts of conscience. God?s people recognize Jehovah as the Supreme Judge. Plaintiff is identified by the pseudonym J.W. Definitely a place to be if you want to do something that has impact. You're awesome, Blondie! (Luke 4:18, 43) Jesus response may have moved the man to use the method for settling disputes that was set out in Gods Law. Some jurors have consulted horoscopes, given in to personal prejudice or yielded to pressures from others in making a decision. The church also contended that the national organization isn't liable for the actions by Thompson Falls elders, and that too much time has passed for the women to sue. He had a change of heart. (Romans 13:7) That is straightforward as to a monetary tax. Two women who were sexually abused as children say the Jehovah's Witnesses failed to report their abuser to authorities in Montana, and instead expelled him from the congregation as punishment until he repented. If his conscientious scruples are not accepted as disqualifying him for jury duty, the Christian may feel that he will have to refuse to serve in order not to violate his conscience. The apostle Paul urged "holy ones" in Corinth to settle differences within the congregation. In 2018, a Montana jury awarded $35 million to Alexis Nunez, who said she was sexually abused for years by a member of the Thompson Falls Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. (Gen. 9:5,6) Or a case could involve abortion, divorce, child custody, or another issue on which the Christian follows Gods thinking even when the law of the land differs. Can The tpms sensors on a 2002 Ford Explorer can be activated using a magnet.. Exemptions, however, are not granted everywhere. Download. Go to your doctor and tell him/her that you have been suffering from panic attacks lately and feel you cannot be confined to a small space for a period of time. So getting an overview will be helpful whether you face jury duty or not. Study psychology, philosophy, sociology, and viewpoints that might shake their faith 51. But a distinctive feature of "common law" countries is the use of juries composed of average citizens. Then the apostle added: "For what do I have to do with judging those outside? It's up to ajury to decide if their is enough evidence to convict that's all your head needs to be on. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. This can explain why the WTS has distanced itself officially and does not have an official position for or against jury duty. Some Christians have reported for jury duty and have served on certain juries. (John 15:19; Isa. Copyright 2001-2015 Jehovah's Witness Discussion Forum | JW.Org Community Information. A former Jehovah's Witness is using stolen documents to expose allegations that the religion has kept hidden for decades. . What were the odds? The apostle Paul urged "holy ones" in Corinth to settle differences within the congregation. That might be so if a case involves sexual immorality, abortion, manslaughter, or another issue on which his thinking is shaped by Bible knowledge, not by mere secular law. What this means is if the police waste time dragging someone in for some victimless "crime" and the DA makes a case, you as a juror can call them out on this stupidity by voting for acquittal. This view is of interest to Christians because of what the apostle Paul wrote about governmental "superior authorities." Jehovah's Witnesses teach that battles recounted in Hebrew scripture, such as the conquest of Jericho, and the divinely sanctioned military manoeuvres against surrounding nations were attempts to re-establish true religion by attempting to eliminate all traces of Canaanite religion. For example, on a grand jury, the jurors decide whether the evidence warrants someone's being brought to trial; they do not determine guilt. They generally do not feel they should, but it is their favorite hobby! years ago I worked in small town radio. A prospective juror may be considered for exemption if they are: have active care of a child under age 10 I would find out what rat hole they are pouring the money in to and then indict the rats. MANY persons look to the court or judicial system for justice. The Babylonian government commanded them to report to the plain of Dura, and their doing so did not violate Gods Law. In the final analysis, each Christian faced with jury duty must determine what course to follow, based on his understanding of the Bible and his own conscience. In this Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015, file photo, the iconic Watchtower sign is seen on the roof of 25 . What of a common trial? Serve on jury duty. In some lands, civil and criminal cases are decided by a professional judge or a panel of judges. 29-31 - Awake!1980 Questions From Readers (2 occurrences) The ceremony may be followed by a social gathering, or reception, which may include a meal. It is not as if secular courts are fundamentally wrong. 27-29 Questions From Readers ***. However, the 1977 Act still Following a jury award of $35 million to a woman who accused the congregation of covering up her childhood sex abuse, other former Jehovah's Witnesses say there's a pattern of mishandling allegations. The Bible does not mention jury duty, so he cannot say, ?It is against my religion to serve on any jury.? This is something I'm looking forward to in a lot of ways just for the "new experience" it will give me. At least three grand jury witnesses said investigators want to question governing body members, who work out of the organization . Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. 2:1-4; Acts 5:29) Hence, some Christians have concluded that they ought to accept jury duty. In the final analysis, each Christian faced with jury duty must determine what course to follow, based on his understanding of the Bible and his own conscience. I got called for jury duty long before I ever became a registered voter. Then the judge identifies the parties and their attorneys and describes the nature of the case. friends. Do you not judge those inside [the congregation], while God judges those outside?" One must pay for his/her own lunch also! All rights reserved. Market data provided by Factset. Some Christians have viewed jury service as rendering to Caesar what belongs to Caesar. Occasionally, an individual is permanently excused for religious reasons, such as a Jehovah's Witness who believes he or she cannot sit in judgment of others. Naturally, if you live where the possibility exists of being called for jury duty, you might well ask, Should a Christian serve on a jury? 22:21) Since the Bible does not pointedly discuss jury duty, each one must personally decide what to do after considering all that is involved in jury service, as well as Bible principles and his own conscience. Her in NC you only get paid I think $12/day but most employers still pay you your salary. In 2012, a jury awarded Conti $28 million, believed to be the largest . A part of it read that religious convictions was not an adequate excuse to be exempt from Jury Duty. Use one of the following options to contact Jehovah's Witnesses in your area. . Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro's office has launched a grand jury investigation into how the leaders of Jehovah's Witnesses have handled reports of sexual abuse in their congregations. The legal requirements for serving on a jury and the provisions for exemption vary from place to place. For example, in 1966 the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia upheld a Christian who refused jury duty. ?Daniel 3:16-18. (Rom. The judge will dismiss any whose impartiality may be questioned because of possible interest in the case. Paul wrote: "It is God?s minister to you for your good. Also, the attorneys for each side have the prerogative to dismiss a few jurors. The second passage pertains to a case of wrongdoing in the Corinthian congregation. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. The second passage pertains to a case of wrongdoing in the Corinthian congregation. HELENA, Mont. The Montana case is one of dozens that have been filed nationwide over the past decade alleging Jehovah's Witnesses mismanaged or covered up the sexual abuse of children. Jehovah's Witnesses believe Jesus is Michael the archangel, the highest created being. ?Romans 13:1-4; Titus 3:1. Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper. latest . At times explaining ones position to the clerk of the court or the judge may lead to ones name being removed from the list of prospective jurors. What is the attitude of Jehovah?s Witnesses toward jury duty??U.S.A. Christians do not oppose the authority as it carries out such legal functions, for they do not want to take a stand against it and receive judgment.Romans 13:1-4; Titus 3:1. I would like the oppourtunity to try again though, but not on a murder charge. The state is there to serve God for your benefit. The monetary award must be reviewed by the trial judge and could be reduced. Unfortunately, skipping jury duty simply because you do not want to attend can create a long list of new issues you will have to deal with. To avoid undue hardship, an agency may adjust the . I wonder if the $9.00 a day is taxable income. "Hopefully that message is loud enough that this will cause the organization to change its priorities in a way that they will begin prioritizing the safety of children so that other children aren't abused in the future," attorney Neil Smith said Thursday. The others, though, pressured her to side with them to avoid a "hung jury" and subsequent retrial. (AP) The Jehovah's Witnesses must pay $35 million to a woman who says the church's national organization ordered Montana clergy members not to report her sexual abuse as a child. However, I never got to actually sit on the jury. For example, on a grand jury, the jurors decide whether the evidence warrants someone?s being brought to trial; they do not determine guilt. What scriptures do you think he had in mind? I wonder if the $9.00 a day is taxable income. friends. Audio. friends. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, My understanding was always that they could as long as the death penalty wasn't an issue. At times explaining one?s position to the clerk of the court or the judge may lead to one?s name being removed from the list of prospective jurors. Similarly, in a coroners jury (jury of inquest), the jurors weigh evidence to decide whether a crime was committed. Watchtower. Christians strive to mind their own business, not getting involved in "other peoples matters." or redistributed. Some Christians have reported for jury duty and have served on certain juries. But even if you live where such juries are not used, you can profitably consider the question, for some of the relevant Bible principles can apply to you if you are asked to "judge" in a dispute on your job or to "mediate" some dispute in your neighborhood. Others have felt compelled to decline even in the face of punishment. This is very true. (Some may be exempted because they have strong personal, conscientious objections to jury service.) Depending on local law, others?such as doctors, clergymen, lawyers, or owners of small businesses?may claim exemption. Enough of that and they will have to re think how they use those resources, since a DA wants a high conviction rate. Jury duty within the past year. Crossposted, but at least Ynot has confirmed that I am always right. I think that JWs should encourage jury duty. MANY persons look to the court or judicial system for justice. Legal Statement. The Babylonian government commanded them to report to the plain of Dura, and their doing so did not violate God?s Law. When most people think of a jury, they have in mind a panel of 12 citizens at a trial?either a civil dispute or a criminal case?who hear testimony to decide guilt or innocence. But if you are doing what is bad, be in fear: for it is not without purpose that it bears the sword; for it is God?s minister, an avenger to express wrath upon the one practicing what is bad." I don't see how they could actually get out of it. Sometimes they recommend which sentence stipulated by law should be applied. Either side can dismiss individuals . Had to ask to be dismissed because I was still undergoing Chemo treatments and didn't have the strength or energy to attend. MANY persons look to the court or judicial system for justice. | Georgia Military Jury Duty Excuse Next day he went back to the judge and told him he was a JW. (Deuteronomy 1:16, 17) Valid as such points are, responding to a direction to report for jury duty is different from involving oneself in the business of others. To the contrary, "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.". Just take a pillow with you and a coin to flip during deliberations. The women say they reported the abuse to church elders, who handled the matter internally after consulting with the national organization. 49.Serve on jury duty 50. (Luke 12:13, 14) Jesus came to declare the Kingdom good news, not to arbitrate legal matters. In a criminal case, they are to determine whether the evidence supports a guilty verdict. There is variety in the types of juries, the number of jurors, and what is involved in reaching a verdict. The jury awarded the 21-year-old woman $4 million for her injuries, plus $30 million in punitive damages against Watchtower and $1 million in punitive damages against the Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, another Jehovah's Witness corporation that communicates with congregations across the U.S. Then the apostle added: For what do I have to do with judging those outside? as it carries out such legal functions, for they do not want to ?take a stand against it? Thus it can be seen why serving on a jury might lead to serious conflicts of conscience. Naturally, if you live where the possibility exists of being called for jury duty, you might well ask, Should a Christian serve on a jury? Court may postpone jury service to another term. Since I regestered to vote a few years ago and actually voted for the first time in this presidential primary, my name is on the county hotlist and I received a summons for jury duty in the middle of July. Though years have now passed, her conscience still troubles her; she feels that she was part of a miscarriage of justice. If I'm part of the selection, it could be one day, a few, or many, depending on the case. Court opinions in West Virginia, Minnesota and Washington have, in fact, upheld a persons right to refuse jury duty for religious reasons. words in Matthew 7:1, 2: "Stop judging that you may not be judged; for with what judgment you are judging, you will be judged." Some Christians have also reflected on the types of cases that jurors might face. jw Paul directed the brothers to expel the wrongdoer. Any who are dismissed from that jury panel return to the jury pool to await random selection for other cases. Non-Exempt Employees. I'd rather get a week of assault and battery or a good crime case than some tax case that goes on for a year in Federal court. Several elders and MS have served on juries here. This is a petit (small) jury, in contrast with a grand jury. An employee is entitled to paid time off without charge to leave for service as a juror or witness. The jury awarded the 21-year-old woman $4 million for her injuries, plus $30 million in punitive damages against Watchtower and $1 million in punitive damages against the Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, another Jehovah's Witness corporation that communicates with congregations across the U.S. The Associated Press generally does not name people who say they are a victim of a sex crime. (Mark 15:1; Acts 5:27-34) There was no provision for the average Jew to be on a civil jury. (1 Corinthians 6:1) He defended himself in the Roman judicial setting, even appealing his case to Caesar. Take part in any protest or strike. and receive judgment. For example, in the United States, a grand jury of from 12 to 23 members decides whether there is enough evidence for a person to be indicted for a criminal offense; it does not determine guilt or innocence. by beksbks It is not uncommon for Jehovahs Witnesses to lodge a copy of their advance directives with their General Practitioner who should be contacted. And in the state of Colorado persons who can prove by documents that they are Jehovahs witnesses are granted exemption from jury duty. 99.9% of Witnesses will write a letter to the courts asking that Christ refused, saying Who appointed me judge or apportioner over you persons? The congregation of Israel had Gods laws on inheritance and designated older men to resolve disputes of that sort. juries as now exist under Anglo-American law. Civil suits or fraud etc. (Compare Genesis 39:17-20; 1 Timothy 5:22.) Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.". Yet, authorities are increasingly eliminating exemptions so that all are obliged to report for jury duty, perhaps repeatedly over the years. Find a Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Jehovah's witnesses recognize that what people do with reference to jury duty is a personal matter, governed by the dictates of conscience. I was seated once, then they excused me because of a work conflict. For example, in 1966 the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia upheld a Christian who refused jury duty. In the event of absences due to jury duty, witness duty, or temporary military duty, if an employee works any part of a week and misses the rest of the week for jury, witness, or military duty, he or she must receive the full salary for the workweek, but if they miss a full week, no pay is due for that week (see 29 C.F.R. Don't know about times past, but I think it's a conscience matter now. Not every employer will pay someone who is on jury duty. Childcare (dependent care) If you are the sole childcare provider for your child(ren) and cannot afford daycare, this can be a legitimate excuse from serving in jury duty. latest Jehovah's Witnesses believe salvation is obtained by a combination of faith, good works, and obedience. We are happy to help those interested in the Bible or in our worldwide work. However, the context shows that Jesus was speaking about a personal or private type of judging, such as criticizing the personal habits and preferences of others. Even in other ways, might this sort of problem arise for a Christian juror? Juries are an important part of the criminal justice system in America. Most of the JW's I knew tried the conscience thing to get out but failed most of the time. However, I would rather spend the time on jury duty than having to go to the Grand Boasting Session. While the Bible upholds a governments right to execute a murderer, the individual asked to serve as a juror might question whether he could decide solely on the information presented at a trial. (Compare Genesis 39:17-20; 1 Timothy 5:22.) Farkel. For more than two decades, disturbing allegations of child sex abuse have emerged at . As far as they personally are concerned, Jehovah's witnesses generally do not feel that they should sit as judges of other people. (West Virginia vs Everly). The elders expelled the abuser from the congregation in 2004 then reinstated him the next year, the lawsuit states, and the abuse of the girl who is now 21 continued. All rights reserved. So getting an overview will be helpful whether you face jury duty or not. (Matt. Not all reporting for jury duty necessarily sit as jurors in a trial. Depending on local law, otherssuch as doctors, clergymen, lawyers, or owners of small businessesmay claim exemption. "?1 Cor. Within the United States, the situation in one state may be quite different from that in another state. John 2:1-11. With all due respect to the above author, it is usually best to This is a research tool for publications in various languages produced by Jehovah's Witnesses. (Exodus 22:2; Deuteronomy 21:8; 22:8; Jeremiah 2:34; Matthew 23:35; Acts 18:6) At Jesus? How do JW's get out of it??? . A judge guides a jury through a trial by explaining the law and legal terms. The judge will dismiss any whose impartiality may be questioned because of possible interest in the case. Can someone tell me why we were not allowed to to this? During the trial she realized that on her job at the hospital she had seen X rays of the victim, which were rejected as evidence at the trial. All Dating & Courtship Marriage Managing Money Communication Raising Children Raising Teenagers. This view is of interest to Christians because of what the apostle Paul wrote about governmental superior authorities. He counseled: You must all obey the governing authorities. They really should provide better compensation since people are taking time off work for that. The first time, I was an active witless and dogged it during selection (I got on the bench and came up with a lame excuse to get out). While I was waiting to be put on a case, they gave us a piece of paper of instruciton. (Luke 12:13, 14) Jesus came to declare the Kingdom good news, not to arbitrate legal matters. The amount was later reduced to $15.6 million, including $8.6 million in punitive damages. Then the government uses its authority "to express wrath upon the one practicing what is bad," or "to inflict punishment on evildoers. A jury is a group of people randomly selected to make decisions at a trial in a court of law. In a short answer, yes, and employer can require proof of jury duty. Each time I explained to the court that I felt in good conscience that I wouldn't make a good juror as I was a JW and to judge a person was not up to me but up to God. Marriage and Family. But even if you live where such juries are not used, you can profitably consider the question, for some of the relevant Bible principles can apply to you if you are asked to judge in a dispute on your job or to mediate some dispute in your neighborhood. What if a Christian does not feel that his conscience permits him to serve on a particular jury? File - In this Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015, file photo, the iconic Watchtower sign is seen on the roof of 25-30 Columbia Heights, then world headquarters of the Jehovah's Witnesses, in the Brooklyn borough of New York. (Exodus 22:2; Deuteronomy 21:8; 22:8; Jeremiah 2:34; Matthew 23:35; Acts 18:6) At Jesus trial Pilate wanted to be "innocent of the blood of this man." Other lands used juries made up of citizens. I was summoned once. He told the elders. #15. Some Christians in this situation have used the time to do informal witnessing. The Adventist movement emerged in the 1830s around the . But finally she agreed to vote for acquittal. not sit on a jury. Paul counseled: "Render to all [the superior authorities] their dues, to him who calls for the tax, the tax; to him who calls for the tribute, the tribute; to him who calls for fear, such fear." (Gen. 9:5, 6) Or a case could involve abortion, divorce, child custody, or another issue on which the Christian follows God?s thinking even when the law of the land differs. A mature Christian would also reflect on whether he would share any responsibility for the sentence rendered by judges. Weddings of Jehovah's Witnesses often consist of a simple and dignified ceremony that features a brief talk based on the Bible. i think otherwise he would have done it. Pay during witness duty will not exceed the pay for the employee's normal workday and the employee's workweek. (Exodus 18:13-22; Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 21:18-21) By the time Jesus was on earth, the judicial function was handled by the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court. In balancing factors, Christians should consider whether they can submit to certain demands made by Caesar. The Watchtower Announcing Jehovahs Kingdom1997, The Watchtower Announcing Jehovahs Kingdom1973. My first trial, murder. As far as they personally are concerned, Jehovah?s witnesses generally do not feel that they should sit as judges of other people. Some may automatically be disqualified, such as convicted felons and the mentally incompetent. not sitting in judgment of another person especially as all the Mail : Clerk's Office, 901 Richland Street, Columbia, SC . For publication downloads, please visit jw.org. Unlike the other jurors, she could not accept the claim that the injuries came from an accidental fall. A mature Christian would also reflect on whether he would share any responsibility for the sentence rendered by judges. . A different problem is illustrated with a nurse in Texas who was a juror at the trial of a young man, son of a prominent family, who was accused of beating to death another youth. Each Christian has to decide for himself what he will do, and others should not criticize his decision.Galatians 6:5. Others have felt compelled to decline even in the face of punishment. Some Christians have also reflected on the types of cases that jurors might face. A different problem is illustrated with a nurse in Texas who was a juror at the trial of a young man, son of a prominent family, who was accused of beating to death another youth. Witness leaders said in a statement that they "welcome an opportunity to explain our beliefs and practices to government officials.". In many states and in Wisconsin especially for the last 25 years at least, DL records have been used to keep the jury pool diverse and just to have enough people to call. A non-exempt employee will be granted leave with pay for actual time spent on witness duty and in related travel if subpoenaed to be a witness in an administrative or legal proceeding not involving Berkeley Lab or UC. Then it was, I wanted my turn. In relation to the composition of juries, this historical development has been directed towards widening the classes of people liable to serve on juries with the object of making juries more representative of the whole community. I've never been summoned for jury duty, but my mom was - more than a year after she died. 1978 (Personal matters but WTS discourages jury duty). Jehovah's Witnesses, Murrieta, California; French Valley Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, Murrieta, California, Inc.; and Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses) were defendants in the trial court but Plaintiff dismissed them. Remarry, unless they were granted a "scriptural divorce" by the elders on the basis of adultery, or if their spouse is dead. Then, too, many persons serving on juries do not desire to be guided by the laws of God?s Word in reaching a verdict. Your jury vote gets diluted by 12, and in many courts a sole vote can hang a jury. If a person cannot be exempted when called for jury duty even after explaining matters to the judge, he can, nevertheless, state his conscientious scruples regarding a case when questioned by the lawyers before the trial begins. If his conscientious scruples are not accepted as disqualifying him for jury duty, the Christian may feel that he will have to refuse to serve in order not to violate his conscience. Paul counseled: "Render to all [the superior authorities] their dues, to him who calls for the tax, the tax; to him who calls for the tribute, the tribute; to him who calls for fear, such fear." The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Ethics developed a Statement on Recommendations for Surgeons Caring for Patients Who Are Jehovah's Witnesses. This is an authorized Web site of Jehovah's Witnesses. It is not as if secular courts are fundamentally wrong.Acts 24:10; 25:10, 11. (1 Thessalonians 4:11; 1 Peter 4:15) When a Jew asked Jesus to judge a matter about inheritance, he responded: "Man, who appointed me judge or apportioner over you persons?" It has been reasoned that all citizens benefit from courts and so should be willing to be jurors, even as all benefit from other governmental services and so should pay taxes for these. In the state of Georgia, any person 70 years of age or older is entitled to make a request to the board of jury commissioners or its clerk in writing, accompanied by an affidavit giving the person's name, age, and such other information as the board may require, in order to be excluded from further jury duty. 12 Replies I would be thrilled to be on a jury. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Generally, the court sends notices to appear for jury duty to individuals selected from lists of voters, licensed drivers, or the like. You have moved For instance, in some places capital punishment is a possible or mandatory sentence for a person found guilty of certain crimes. : Can someone tell me why we were not allowed to to this? In lands where what is called "civil law" prevails, legal cases (both criminal and civil) are usually heard and decided on by a single professional judge, or by a panel of justices. So there is a danger of becoming party to a miscarriage of justice. Well here (Arizona) they get it off your Drivers license record, if you have a drivers license you can get called for duty. Christ refused, saying "Who appointed me judge or apportioner over you persons?" Video lessons designed to help parents train their children to become Jehovah's friend. I helped him research the advice, and I found the 1997 article above (current light). Where this prevails, a Christian must decide how to respond when directed to report for jury duty. Some Christians have refused jury duty, perhaps mentioning to the authorities how impractical it would be to compel a person to sit through a trial and then have a "hung jury" because he feels he would not want to pass judgment on anyone?s guilt. ", Attorneys for the Jehovah's Witnesses said in court filings that Montana law exempts elders from reporting "internal ecclesiastical proceedings on a congregation member's serious sin.". New languages available: Arosi, Ayiwo, Bauro, Kibala, Kuvale (Mucubal), Trinidad and Tobago Sign Language. a. Serving as a juror is often described as a valid civic duty. As far as they personally are concerned, Jehovahs witnesses generally do not feel that they should sit as judges of other people. This contradicts countless scriptures which . When confronted with an opportunity to handle a legal dispute, their Exemplar the Lord Jesus Christ turned it down, saying: "Who appointed me judge or apportioner over you persons?" Some Christians have refused jury duty, perhaps mentioning to the authorities how impractical it would be to compel a person to sit through a trial and then have a hung jury because he feels he would not want to pass judgment on anyones guilt. A legal challenge to that law is pending before the Montana Supreme Court. What to do? 5:12, 13. Some have referred to Jesus words in Matthew 7:1,2: Stop judging that you may not be judged; for with what judgment you are judging, you will be judged. However, the context shows that Jesus was speaking about a personal or private type of judging, such as criticizing the personal habits and preferences of others. So, what is your experience and opinion of the judicial process if you've ever done jury duty? The Board of Regents approved this statement at its June 2018 meeting in Chicago, IL. Pay every government official what he has a right to ask?whether it be direct tax or indirect, fear or honour."?Rom. A regular jury only hears what is given to them, but a grand jury is the mother lode. When confronted with an opportunity to handle a legal dispute, their Exemplar the Lord Jesus Christ turned it down, saying: "Who appointed me judge or . (Exodus 18:13-22; Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 21:18-21) By the time Jesus was on earth, the judicial function was handled by the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court. I've already done the preliminary questionaire online and have to check (also online) the day before my scheduled appearance date to see if I must show up or if it has been cancelled. The jury awarded the 21-year-old woman $4 million for her injuries, plus $30 million in punitive damages against Watchtower and $1 million in punitive damages against the Christian Congregation. Socrates was tried by 501 jurors. Still, most people have only a vague idea of how juries are selected and what they do. (Luke 20:25) In jury duty the task is to hear evidence and offer an honest opinion on points of fact or law. Gods people recognize Jehovah as the Supreme Judge. Volunteer safety personnel. Do you not judge those inside [the congregation], while God judges those outside? He went on to state that Christians should strive to avoid even taking their grievances or disputes to worldly courts for handling. For example, in the United States, a grand jury of from 12 to 23 members decides whether there is enough evidence for a person to be indicted for a criminal offense; it does not determine guilt or innocence. Moreover, Jesus was not sent to earth to arbitrate in such a matter, but was commissioned to use his time preaching the Kingdom good news. But a distinctive feature of "common law" countries is the use of juries composed of average citizens. "Watchtower instructed everyone involved that they were not to report the matter to authorities. Of course, if the hardship was great I guess I would be saying something else. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Its best not to go to your normal doctor . How much did it cost for 1 dozen of donuts in 1970? You can also have a say in putting away thugs who prey on people. Not enough people vote. Find a convention of Jehovah's Witnesses Later, King Henry III of England provided for the accused to be judged by his neighbors. (Daniel 3:1-12; Luke 2:1-4) There are, though, factors that sincere Christians can consider. (1 Corinthians 6:1) He defended himself in the Roman judicial setting, even appealing his case to Caesar. 2:1-4; Acts 5:29) Hence, some Christians have concluded that they ought to accept jury duty. In Canada, a criminal law jury is made up of 12 jurors selected from among citizens of the province or territory in which the court is located. What is the moral lesson of at wars end by rony diaz? 13:1-7, The Jerusalem Bible. If a guilty verdict is in error and the death penalty is imposed, would a Christian on the jury share bloodguilt? We discuss the top three things that identify the Jehovah's Witnesses as collective narcissists: 1) Persecution Complex 2) Belief that they are the only true religion 3) They believe they are. friends. The first passage tells of a Jewish man who asked Jesus to judge in a legal dispute over inheritance. The Office of Public Information at the World Headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses responded to the verdict with an unsigned statement. But of course, we were "encouraged" not to be involved for some reason or other. You don't need to know anything about the law to serve on a jury. Our Savior's answer is, "Judge not that you be not judged. As time went by, the jury system changed into an arrangement whereby a group of citizens were to hear a case and reach a verdict based on evidence. Being one of JWs is not enough to get you out of jury duty. The group needs to be reduced to the number who will actually sit through the trial of that case. Only someone with a documented medical problem may be excused permanently from service. . During the trial she realized that on her job at the hospital she had seenX rays of the victim, which were rejected as evidence at the trial. Socrates was tried by 501 jurors. While the Bible upholds a government?s right to execute a murderer, the individual asked to serve as a juror might question whether he could decide solely on the information presented at a trial. EXEMPTION FROM JURY SERVICE. As for time, the first time it was a waste of two days. 1866.But there is no assurance from this record or elsewhere that if the names of all adult Jehovah's Witnesses were added to the master jury box source, the same religious tenets that compel these people to decline participation in the electoral process of government would not lead them to attempt to refuse . Such "stand placed in their relative positions by God," and they make and enforce laws. Military duty - may also be a valid reason to ask to be excused from jury duty. I have been through it twice. 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