Letter From the Watch Tower Society About Questions Involving Blood (August 5, 1999)

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HIA:LSA August 5,1999

Mr R. Hemming

Woodside

TELFORD

Shropshire

TF7 5PD

Dear Brother Hemming:

We are writing in response to your recent letter dated July 29, 1999. You list some questions on various matters involving the issue of blood transfusion, and you invite our comments on the questions that you raise.

You will appreciate, Brother Hemming, that the questions that you list are familiar to us. These very questions are circulated anonymously on the Internet. Please be assured that we have, over the years, long and careful thought to these matters as we have considered what the Scriptures teach on this subject. A careful and honest evaluation of the Bible's prohibition of the use of blood has led us to the beliefs we hold, beliefs you will be aware of. Published material over the years, particularly "Questions from Readers" discussions, have explained our thinking and the Scriptural reasoning on the questions you list.

Having thoroughly and carefully examined this issue, we have taken the theological position that major components of blood would reasonably be perceived as including red cells, white cells, plasma and platelets. However, with other constituents of blood we believe that each individual should make a personal, conscientious decision regarding the use of these products.

As you wrote to us using a congregation letterhead, we thought you would appreciate us sending a copy of our reply to the body of elders. Please now accept this expression of our warm Christian love and best wishes, as we remain.

Your brothers,

copy: Body of Elders