Jehovah’s Witnesses return to the PGA Farmers Insurance Open event

Jehova's Witness return to PGA Farmers Insurance Open
Jehovah’s Witnesses return to the Farmers Insurance Open in Southern California to share a message of hope with spectators. Valley News/Courtesy photo

For more than 70 years, San Diego has hosted a PGA Tour event. This year’s Farmers Insurance Open will welcome back travelers and spectators the world over to Torrey Pines Golf Course. Often called a “golfer’s paradise”, the course is framed by panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and mountains. Add the warm Southern California sunshine in the winter, and there is no wonder the event draws crowds upwards of 100,000 yearly.

It is also time for the return of another tradition in the tournament area. Jehovah’s Witnesses will again accompany their mobile display carts for the first time in two years, offering a message of hope.

Out of concern for the health and safety of the community, Jehovah’s Witnesses suspended their public ministry in March 2020. In September 2022, the Witnesses resumed their activity, including offering a positive message to attendees at events such as the PGA tournament.

“We love people, and especially enjoy connecting and having conversations in person,” said Shem Bostick, a local spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses in California.

Nearly 150 volunteer participants will stand beside mobile display carts welcoming the diverse crowd. The featured website, jw.org is available in more than 1070 languages, including sign language and some nearly extinct indigenous languages.

“Since this event draws such an international crowd, it is fitting that we have the most widely translated website in the world. We’re excited to be able to give people a positive message to take home,” Bostick added.

Visitors can disconnect from the daily stresses of life and business concerns and take in beautiful natural surroundings. It is also an occasion to connect with others and discuss practical scriptural principles that can help manage the complexities of life.

“People would walk past on multiple occasions and say, ‘we are so glad to see you guys here,'” said Jacob Arevalo, who assists in organizing the yearly volunteer event for Jehovah’s Witnesses.

“People were very energized,” said Cindy Frager, a volunteer in previous years from Oceanside. “We were eager to follow the joy of sharing good conversations with people in a beautiful, picturesque setting on a beautiful San Diego day,” added Joel Frager.

“Each year we look forward to this special event,” said Bostick, an avid golfer and local resident. “We can’t wait to be part of the excitement including enjoying the scenery and supporting local vendors. More importantly, we are eager to share a positive message with attendees.”

Beyond the breathtaking views of Torrey Pines, Jehovah’s Witnesses are endeavoring to give the community and its guests the added view of a hopeful future ahead.

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