Early in the decade of the 70’s, all JW’s were notified (in the tobacco-growing district) of a special meeting at the Kingdom Hall. Three representatives from WTS, a District Overseer and two Circuit Overseers delivered a symposium that brought an abrupt end for all JW’s working in the tobacco industry (whether selling cigarettes, manufacture, tobacco machinery, etc.) or farmers producing tobacco. The discussion centered on the scripture at 2 Cor.7: 1. “Beloved ones let us cleanse ourselves of every defilement of flesh and spirit.” (New World Translation

(The author wishes to remain anonymous)