Why Do Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Halls Have Windows?
When considering the design and features of Kingdom Halls, many people wonder whether they have windows. The answer is straightforward: most Kingdom Halls do indeed have windows, just like many other buildings. However, there are specific circumstances and factors that can influence the decision to construct a Kingdom Hall without windows. Let's explore some insights about this topic.
Common Presence of Windows in Kingdom Halls
It is accurate to assert that the vast majority of Kingdom Halls around the world have windows. Whether you are visiting a Kingdom Hall in your country or another, chances are high that these buildings will be well-lit and ventilated. In fact, I have attended meetings in multiple countries and have never once been to a Kingdom Hall without windows.
In regions experiencing high levels of crime and violence, it might be a wiser choice to ensure the structural integrity of the building to minimize the risk of vandalism and physical assaults. However, in the vast majority of countries, including the ones I have visited such as South Africa, every Kingdom Hall I have seen has windows.
Design Decisions and Safety Measures
A significant consideration for the inclusion of windows in Kingdom Halls is the desire to maintain a balance between natural lighting and security. Older Kingdom Halls, especially those built before the widespread use of safety glass, might have been made without windows due to the threat of vandalism. However, now, most modern Kingdom Halls are built with windows.
Take, for instance, a relatively new Kingdom Hall in Vancouver, British Columbia, constructed in 2010. This building clearly features windows, providing ample natural light and ventilation. Similarly, a Kingdom Hall built in the 1980s, where I worked for the first time as a 10-year-old, also had windows. Times have certainly changed in terms of security measures and building designs.
Security Concerns and Practical Solutions
While most Kingdom Halls have windows, in specific high-crime areas, the decision to avoid windows is often a practical and necessary security measure. In times past, buildings, including churches, were particularly vulnerable to window vandalism. When safety glass was not an option, it was essential to construct buildings without windows to prevent break-ins and damage caused by vandals.
With the rise of targeted attacks, including shootouts, churches and community centers have taken note of the increased threat. This awareness has led to a shift in architectural design, where even churches without windows feature pictures depicting outdoor nature scenes to add aesthetic appeal and maintain a sense of openness.
In the light of heightened security concerns, many churches, including Jehovah's Witnesses, are opting for designs that minimize the presence of glass. In areas where there is a significant risk of shooting or other violent incidents, avoiding glass in the construction of Kingdom Halls can help protect the congregation and the building itself.
It is important to recognize that the decision to have or not have windows in Kingdom Halls is not an overreaction but a prudent measure taken to ensure the safety of the congregation. This trend is not unique to Kingdom Halls but is found in many modern buildings.
Despite the absence of windows, the interior design often includes pictures of natural outdoor scenes, providing a sense of openness and connection to nature. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reassures the community of the church's commitment to its members' well-being.