Jehovah's Witnesses return to Philly

For the first time since 2006, Jehovah's Witnesses will congregate in Philadelphia to hold regional conventions that span four weekends in July.

Organizers expect approximately 25,000 attendees for the four conventions, the first of which is scheduled for July 3 at the Liacouras Center. The theme is "Imitate Jesus!"

Speeches, videos, and a baptism are planned, said Roland Cooper, an elder in the congregation. And, each Friday and Sunday, performers will stage a two-part costume drama.

"The program will consider how we can imitate the example Jesus gave to all his followers," Cooper said. "Husbands, mothers, children - so we can build happy and secure family environments."

Recent conventions were held in Reading, Cooper said, but organizers hope the change in venue will draw more Jehovah's Witnesses.

There is no admission fee to the convention; the events are supported by voluntary donations. Some 100 congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses will distribute printed invitations to those in the Philadelphia area, and parts of New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland.

Jehovah's Witnesses said it is organizing 453 conventions held in 124 U.S. cities.