Jehovah's Witnesses are members of an international religious organization who believe themselves to be the restoration of first-century Christianity. Founded in the 1870s by Charles Taze Russell, official membership now stands at over 6 million. They are known for their extensive preaching and publishing activities, with The Watchtower and Awake! religious magazines being their most widely known publications. Headquartered in New York, they are hierarchically directed by a Governing Body.
Since their foundation, they have been concerned with the second advent of Jesus. Initially holding many similar views to other 19th century Adventist groups, such as the Millerites, they have since developed their own unique eschatology. Throughout their history, their beliefs, doctrines and practices have met controversy and opposition from governments, communities, and religious groups. Many Christian denominations consider the interpretation and doctrines of Jehovah's Witnesses to be heresy. This is because they differ in their interpretation of several matters of faith. For example, the consider the doctrine of the Trinity to be a later pagan addition. Their unique stand on refusing blood transfusions has also garnered publicity and controversy. They reject the veneration of Mary, the saints and the cross.
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