THE word of God and its many forms thereof have been celebrated at the annual convention of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Some 6,500 people turned out at the Bournemouth International Centre last weekend (AUG 5-7) for the Remain Loyal to Jehovah event.

And it seems their teachings span a plethora of countries as visitors were told that printed, audio and video literature is delivered in more than 750 languages, including 80 sign languages.

This was made all the more evident when a number of foreign nationals were able to speak to delegates despite the convention being delivered in English, a spokesperson said.

Holly Powell, local media representative, said: "An Argentinean woman who has had contact with Jehovah’s Witnesses in South America asked for a convention programme at the event’s welcome desk. One of the Witnesses at the desk spoke Spanish so was able to greet and welcome her in her language, which she greatly appreciated.

"A young Romanian couple who had taken up a free personal Bible study course with the Witnesses decided to attend the convention. They also invited along the husband’s brother and his family. After enjoying the first morning, the family accepted a Bible study aid, the book What Does the Bible Really Teach? in the Romanian language with a view to beginning the free course immediately.

"A Polish staff member asked how he could get a Bible. He was shown right away how to download a copy onto his electronic device in his language. All were impressed to see publications, both printed audio and video, in their mother tongues – and all free of charge."

The week leading up the convention saw a huge number of Witnesses at mobile literature displays across Bournemouth inviting people to the convention.

Ms Powell added: "Jehovah’s Witnesses are pleased to welcome all, in line with their heart-felt desire to let the Bible’s message reach 'every nation and tribe and tongue and people' as the Bible directs at Revelation 14:6."