Friday will be the opening day of the annual convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Hawaii.

About 20,000 members of the denomination are expected to attend weekend sessions that will continue through July. Each weekend gathering is designated for members from a specific geographical area.

Church members are distributing fliers to island residents inviting nonmembers to sit in on convention sessions that will feature speakers on the theme "Remain Close to Jehovah."

The three-day programs will be at the denomination’s conference center at 239 Palii St. in Mililani Technical Park. Daily sessions are at 9:20 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The Friday afternoon program will feature interviews about strengthening bonds within families to protect them from dangers that threaten their spirituality and happiness, according to a news release.

A costume dramatization of a Gospel story will be the Sunday afternoon highlight.

Similar conventions will be held on the neighbor islands.