With respect to the process of baptism following conversion, an individual is expected to "obtain a good knowledge of Bible truth" and it is recommended that one study the Jehovah's Witnesses' Bible study aid, Knowledge that Leads to Everlasting Life (Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania 2000). A representative of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Canada stated in correspondence that:

In order to be a baptized member of Jehovah's Witnesses, an individual must study the Bible for a number of months, if not years. To qualify for baptism, a person must be able to answer a series of questions based on the beliefs Jehovah's Witnesses hold according to specific Bible texts. A baptized Witness would be expected to know what he believes and what the Bible says in support of his beliefs (22 Oct. 2002).

With respect to the length of time after conversion before an individual can be baptized, the representative stated:

Conversion to the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses is a process through which a person learns basic Bible teachings and conforms one's way of life to Scriptural standards of morality and conduct. Baptism as one of Jehovah's Witnesses is a culmination of a process of conversion. There is no set period stipulated. A person typically begins to study the Bible with a member of a congregation. The time from when one begins to study and associate with a congregation until baptism depends upon the individual. Baptism symbolizes a personal dedication to Jehovah God. After making such personal dedication in private prayer, a person must qualify for baptism by showing he or she has acquired a reasonable understanding of basic Bible teachings and has conformed [his or her] life to Scriptural principles. Typically, the period between first studying and associating with a congregation until baptism could be several months to a few years. Although eight years would not be impossible, a much shorter period would be normal (1 Nov. 2002).

The representative added that

... Jehovah's Witnesses provide a free Bible study program as a community service to anyone who wants to learn more about the Bible. Many persons study with Jehovah's Witnesses who have no intention of becoming Jehovah's Witnesses themselves. After some time, they may be satisfied with their studies and choose to discontinue the program without ever becoming Jehovah's Witnesses (ibid.).

The Research Directorate found one report published by The Watchtower, which referred to a family living in Nigeria whose youngest child, reported as being 11 years of age, was "recently baptized" (15 Feb. 1999). According to the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, "baptism is only for those who are old enough to make a decision to serve God" (2000). In correspondence received from the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Canada a representative noted this point and stated in addition that:

There is no minimum age standard [for baptism]. A person must be old enough, however, to make a personal decision to serve God. More is involved than just passing a test of Bible knowledge. There must be a personal dedication to God and an informed resolve to live according to Scriptural principles. Infants are not baptized as Jehovah's Witnesses (1 Nov. 2002).

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum. Please find below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

The Watchtower. 15 February 1999. "Large Families United in God's Service." http://www.watchtower.org/library/w/1999/2/15/article_03.htm [Accessed 23 Oct. 2002]

Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Canada. 1 November 2002. Correspondence from a representative.

_____. 22 October 2002. Correspondence from a representative

Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. 2000. "Lesson 16: Your Decision to Serve God." http://www.watchtower.org/library/rq/article_16.htm [Accessed 23 Oct. 2002]

IRB Databases

Unsuccessful attempt to contact a representative of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society Headquarters, Brooklyn, New York

Internet sites including:

Cult Awareness and Information Centre, Australia

Jehovah's Witnesses Pocket Guide

Rickross.com