Church Administration final figures show that, around the world, more than 6,900 brethren attended more than 40 Living Church of God Festival sites in 2005. Eight of those sites were in the United States, and three were in Canada. The following brief descriptions are meant to give just a small flavor of the joy, peace, fellowship and unity that were experienced by so many brethren in the United States and Canada this year.
Rapid City, South Dakota
Gathering in the heart of the Black Hills at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 320 enthusiastic Feastgoers enjoyed an excellent Feast of Tabernacles in Rapid City, South Dakota. Brethren were able to enjoy fellowship with family and friends in the midst of beautiful fall weather, with highs in the low 70s and sunshine- filled afternoons. Laced with fishing streams, picturesque lakes, and scenic highways, the pine-covered mountains of the Black Hills are the highest points east of the Rockies. Mt. Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park are two of the five national parks that many were able to enjoy.
Our guest speakers, Mr. Rand Millich and Dr. Jeff Fall, both gave inspiring messages. Mr. Millich gave messages titled "Who Will Dwell in God's Kingdom?" and "The Kingdom of God, A Family Relationship." Dr. Fall presented "The Start of the Millennium" and "The Last Great Day." Messrs. Val Burgett, Gary Ehman, Glen Gilchrist and Arnold Lalum also made valuable contributions, presenting well-prepared messages.
Mr. Burgett, the assistant site coordinator, gave a moving message to 56 seniors, ministers and their wives at the seniors luncheon, where the teens waited on tables and served the delicious lunch. For the entertainment portion of the afternoon, we had a walk down memory lane with vocal solos performed by Leona Dorothy, Lisa Kreyer and Sharon Rowbal.
Other organized activities included a family activity at the Flags-n-Wheels go-cart/laser tag facility, a singles Bible Study, a teen activity consisting of pizza and games followed by a hike, a catered meal between services for the singles and an elegant dinner for the deacons and elders at the five-star Enigma restaurant. For the little ones, a structured children's activity hour was offered before services on most days. The children made a lion and lamb, a Holy Day book, temporary dwellings, crowns and a coat of many colors.
The Holiday Inn, Rushmore Plaza played host to our formal "Streets of Gold" dinner dance. This elegant evening of dancing and entertainment took place in the fabulously decorated Dakota Ballroom, where formal attire, delectable food, keepsake photographs and fine fellowship made this a memorable evening. Conversations on the following day indicated that this was one of the highlights of the Feast.
It was apparent throughout the entire Feast that the brethren were truly exhibiting God's way of giving and serving, as we rejoiced in the blessings of abundant spiritual and physical food and protection from above.
—Sheldon Monson
Clearwater, Florida
Approximately 900 brethren celebrated the 2005 Feast of Tabernacles in warm and sunny Clearwater, Florida. For most of the Festival the weather was ideal, and brethren who were in housing directly adjacent to the beaches were situated to fully enjoy balmy breezes, beautiful views and surf.
Although Hurricane Wilma churned across the Caribbean during the Festival, eventually moving across south Florida, it had little effect on the Clearwater area, and none of the Church's activities were disrupted. God's hand was evident on the night the storm was moving inland. While about 250 Festivalgoers were on a dinner cruise in the bay, the boat's owner was watching the weather on radar and fearing that the boat would need to be recalled. As he viewed an outer band of severe weather approaching the area, and was about to radio the captain to return to the dock, the band suddenly disappeared from the radar screen! He said it was the first time he had ever seen this happen.
Services were held in the spacious upstairs ballroom area of Clearwater's Harbor View Center, with an escalator and elevator making the meeting area fully accessible to all. Inspiring sermons focused our minds on how the Feast pictures a future age of peace and hope, and how we can be preparing now to serve in Tomorrow's World. Mr. Roderick Meredith in two sermons encouraged the brethren to "learn to serve," and wrapped up the Feast with the final message on the Last Great Day. Mr. Richard Ames explained how we are destined to be "Royal Teachers." Other sermon topics included: "Become a Peacemaker," "Firstfruits of the Kingdom," "Restoration of Respect," "Peace and Success Both Now and in the Millennium," "Such a Time as This" and "A Great Day of Life." The Festival Chorale did a wonderful job, as did other talented performers treating the brethren to delightful and uplifting special music.
Delicious meals for the singles dinner, the seniors luncheon and the deacons and elders luncheon were served in the beautiful Clearwater Room with a splendid panoramic view of Clearwater Bay. On each of these occasions, Mr. Allen McCarty did a masterful job of entertaining with background music on his keyboard. At the seniors luncheon, Mr. Richard Ames spoke of the value of the relationships we develop as we journey through life. Mr. Meredith thanked those attending the deacons and elders luncheon for their service, and encouraged them to consider the needs of the Work for additional means of outreach, manpower and miracles, that we might be more effective in carrying out the commission of the Church.
Other popular activities included a family day at the beach on Thursday afternoon, and a family dinner dance Saturday evening. In addition, teens and families enjoyed pizza and rides at "Celebration Station" on Monday afternoon. A number of brethren were also able to enjoy Busch Gardens and other area attractions. A spirit of cheerful cooperation and warmth among the brethren was evident, and helped to make this Feast an especially memorable one.
—Rod Reynolds
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Sunshine, smiling faces, and warm temperatures in the 80s greeted more than 760 Feastgoers at the Kingston Plantation properties in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Myrtle Beach is a tourist destination for many thousands of vacationers every year.
The sermonettes and sermons this year were especially inspiring and clearly emphasized the coming Kingdom of God on Earth, and our roles in hastening its arrival and ruling in it under Christ when He returns. Some of the ministers who spoke were Mr. Davy Crockett, Mr. Carl Ponder, Mr. Ron Poole and traveling speakers Mr. Rand Millich and Mr. Richard Ames. The special music at this year's Feast was truly special, setting new standards for excellence at the Feast.
One of the highlights of this year's Feast was an afternoon at Huntington Beach State Park, one of the best beaches on the whole Atlantic coast. The park offered a tour of a castle constructed more than 70 years ago by millionaire Archer Milton Huntington, and of wild animals in their natural habitat, including wading birds and alligators.
On Saturday night, more than 380 brethren danced the night away to the music of the Baton Rouge Band, who came all the way from Louisiana just to play for us. We had a ball! Many remarked that this was their best Feast ever.
—Carl Ponder
Lake Tahoe, California
Majestic Sierra peaks and a sparkling Lake Tahoe provided the setting for 222 brethren keeping the Feast of Tabernacles in Kings Beach this year. A family atmosphere, inspiring messages and cohesive fellowship highlighted the services and activities.
The North Tahoe Conference Center, located on the shimmering shores of Lake Tahoe and providing spectacular views of the lake was the setting for services. Guest speaker Mr. Gary Ehman urged Feastgoers to please God and understand our value in His plan, and assistant Festival Coordinator Mr. Darrel Lovelady encouraged the brethren to prepare for the Kingdom with courage and faith. Other messages focused on the Work, bearing God's name, and the physical renewal of the earth and universe under the leadership of Christ and, ultimately, our Father.
Despite the potential for cold mountain weather, days and nights were unseasonably warm. God mercifully provided sunny, blue skies and beautiful weather for all the activities, with temperatures in the high 60s. After the beach games at family day on Sunday, October 23, some of our 81 participants waded in the normally frigid water—which came up to the waist of some of the children!
Varied activities, including a youth bowling day, a lake cruise, and a Saturday night family dance gave everyone opportunities to meet new friends and spend time with old acquaintances. At the Sunday night fun show, enthusiastic brethren performed vocal and instrumental music, recited poetry, and shared good times in a real family atmosphere.
On Friday, October 21, 36 deacons, elders and their families shared a luncheon at Garwood's restaurant, overlooking an expansive view of the lake. After the meal, Festival Coordinator Mr. Rod McNair spoke about the courage of God's servants around the world and throughout the ages. Thirty-one seniors shared a catered meal at the Festival hall, on Monday, October 24, and afterwards were encouraged by Mr. McNair to use their experience to provide stability in their congregation.
Twenty brethren lifted up their voices in the Festival choir, and a brass ensemble provided a stirring addition to daily song services. On the Sabbath of October 22, brethren were happy to hear the news of the arrival of a new baby to Feastgoers Darrel and Vicky Monson earlier that morning! It was an unexpected but joyous event for everyone.
For several first-time Feastgoers, the Feast in Kings Beach was an unforgettable experience. One commented: "The services were the most impressive to me, being new in the Church and it being my first Feast—everything was so full of meaning. The fellowship was so loving and made me feel so welcome."
—Rod McNair
Corpus Christi, Texas
Clear skies, warm sea breezes, and a panoramic view of Corpus Christi Bay greeted 220 Feastgoers at the Emerald Beach Holiday Inn. Mr. Richard Ames began the Feast by expounding on our "Vision for the Future" and our calling as "Royal Priests." Other sermons included, "Called for God's Purpose, Called to Win," "God's Way Brings Peace," "Fear God Always," "What We Will Be Like" and "Godly Courage." Mr. Paul Norman, a Church member from Chattanooga, Tennessee said: "The sermons were my favorite thing. You don't hear this anywhere else but in God's Church. And it was good to see the children. They are our next generation." Mr. Maximino Noble, a deacon from Makati, Philippines, stated: "The children's choir was wonderful, especially the faces of innocence." Lindsay Maughmer, age 11, and Lindsay Honess, age 12, both commented that it was good "seeing old friends and meeting new friends"— such as their brothers did when they met each other for the first time.
The variety of activities included a singles horseback ride, a special party for the teens including fishing on a pier, a savory seniors luncheon, an elegant deacons, hosts, and elders banquet and a special banquet and family dance. These activities provided many additional opportunities for fellowship. "Fellowshipping with the truly converted people of God was one of the many highlights of the Feast of Tabernacles. God 'turned it up a notch' during the Feast and His Holy Spirit was evident as we left the world behind us," commented Mr. Fred Critari, a member from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Clarence McMillan, from the Austin, Texas area summed it up well: "It was one of the most relaxing Feast of Tabernacles with much harmony, no worries, and everyone seemed like family."
—Dan Hall
Taos, New Mexico
God's Truth, fun, fellowship and feasting were the flagships of this year's Feast in Taos, New Mexico. Temperatures ranged from the low 30s overnight to the high 60s most days. At just over 7,000 ft. elevation, the high desert plateau on which Taos sits might make you want to gasp for a few breaths, but the scenery most certainly will. The adobe dwellings are surrounded by mountain ranges that reach 13,161 ft. and offer great recreational opportunities. The (Kit) Carson National Forest is covered with deep green pine trees and spotted with bright yellow Aspens shimmering in the light breeze. Many of the 370-plus brethren made the trip to the Rio Grande, which has carved a gorge deep into the desert floor.
Mr. Harold Way explained that unlike the world at large, there are no "accidental births" in God's Family. He is calling specific people for His Family at this time. Evangelist Charles Bryce gave us a percentage gauge and we were encouraged to keep moving it toward the godly side and away from the worldly side because, to the percentage that we love the world, we hate God. We were cautioned to put God above all else, understanding that we will be tested on the depth of our love for God. Mr. Gene Hilgenberg showed the attributes of a great teacher—passion, conviction and knowledge—attributes we will need in order to teach others in the Kingdom. Mr. Jack Lowe inspired the brethren to "Focus on Christ," and Mr. John Turner encouraged the brethren to remember that "Peace Is a Gift of God." Other sermon subjects were "Equality in God's Kingdom," t h e "Beginning and End of Sorrows," "Seeking the Real City," "Becoming a Beautiful Butterfly from This Humble Caterpillar" and "God's People Are Ambassadors for Christ." Mr. Keith Walden explained how Jesus Christ set a precedent when He allowed the women to bring their small children to Him for blessing. Then, after the Blessing of the Little Children, the older children offered a lively rendition of "Take Your Shoes Off, Moses."
The family day was enjoyable, as were all of the activities. At the seniors luncheon, Mr. Bryce exhorted the seniors to never give up, and to keep their minds and bodies active. We enjoyed many delights during the Fun Show, including a moose call, a "Who's On First" skit and Mr. John Wheeler, who enthralled us by singing Psalm 23 i n Hebrew and accompanying himself on a Celtic harp. The Feast was a true delight in a wonderful setting.
—Harold Way
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Beautiful fall colors greeted 719 Feastgoers at the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. The Lake of the Ozarks has long been a popular Feast site, and this year was no exception with beautiful weather and warm days filled with sunshine during the first part of the Feast. Later, we had some needed rain, which cooled things off for the remainder of the Feast. Brethren came from all over the U.S. and Canada, with many staying at the Tan-Tar-A resort where we held services.
The messages were timely and inspiring, and we had the opportunity to have Mr. and Mrs. Meredith and Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Fall with us for the first half of the Feast. The other elders that spoke were Messrs. Charles Ogwyn, James Wells, Larry Solomon, John Harbison, Vernon Damron, Brian Pomicter, Glen Travis and Curtis Lambright.
Activities included a family day at Putt'n Stuff Family Fun Center, which opened its doors just for the Church, allowing brethren young and old to enjoy miniature golf, bumper cars and go-carts. The teens enjoyed a bowling and pizza party, and everyone had a great time at the family dinner and dance. Mr. Meredith spoke at the deacons and elders luncheon, encouraging everyone to draw close to God so that He can use us to do a mighty work. At the seniors luncheon, Mr. John Harbison spoke on the subject of loyalty, and Mrs. Pat Scarborough and Mr. Ed Smith provided the entertainment. Another popular attraction was the outlet mall, where many of the brethren enjoyed shopping during the Festival.
This was a very memorable Feast, with God's Spirit evident in the messages and the attitudes of all the brethren.
—Larry Solomon
Saratoga Springs, New York
Quaint and historic Saratoga Springs, New York, was the meeting place in the northeastern United States for the 188 brethren who had assembled in response to our Creator's command to attend His Feast of Tabernacles. God has truly blessed this scenic area of gently rolling wooded hills, clear, deep lakes and strikingly colorful fall foliage.
Spiritual meals were served to us daily in sermons, sermonettes, special music and a Sabbath evening Bible Study on the subject of the Wedding Supper. In addition, the variety of palate-pleasing cuisine offered by a myriad of American and international eateries could not fail to appease the most ravenous and discriminating appetite. Events that highlighted the social and activity calendar included a well-attended family dinner dance, a singles drop-in and luncheons for seniors and the deacons and elders. Family outings included a trip to the restored Fort William Henry of Last of the Mohicans fame. The fort is located at the southern tip of Lake George and offered a fascinating tour complete with the thunderous firing of a nine-pound canon mounted on the north rampart overlooking the lake, and a musket-loading demonstration culminating in the weapon's noisy discharge. Reenactors in British "redcoat" uniforms conducted an amazing tour, covering the history of the fort and its surrender to General Mont Calm during the French and Indian war, fought by France and England more than 250 years ago for control of the North American continent.
A scenic lake cruise aboard a modern three-deck ship, with a delicious roast beef buffet and beverages for all those at the Feast who wished to attend, was generously provided at no cost by one of the deacons attending the site. The Feast at Saratoga Springs had something for everyone!
—Don Davis
Canmore, Alberta
The Radisson Hotel and Convention Center this year hosted the first Living Church of God Feast of Tabernacles ever held in Canmore, Alberta. Situated on the historic and famous Bow Valley Trail, this little town of 15,000 is adjacent to world-renowned Banff National Park, universally acclaimed as the most majestic and picturesque area (and also the most photographed) of the "Blue Canadian Rockies."
Visited by many thousands of tourists from all around the world each year, recreational opportunities abound in this region. During our sojourn there, deer visited the parking area of the Radisson, while bush rabbits, squirrels, crows and magpies frequented the doorways of lodge units soliciting handouts! On any given day in the surrounding region, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk or bear might be spotted from your car as you tour—and the Bow River still has fish in it!
Glistening with early snow, the rugged limestone peaks surrounding the Feast site provided inspiration to all, and no doubt added inspiration to the speaking and the hearing of the seasonally relevant messages. On the first Holy Day, Mr. Frank Best opened with his message "Learning to Honor and Respect God." Mr. Gerald Weston followed with "Rejoicing at the Feast" and an enlightening presentation of how the Holy Days are vividly and dominantly included in every biblical account of the revival and restoration of the true worship of God.
We also heard illuminating messages on the symbolism of olive oil, renewing zeal, character development and ascending the mountain of God. Mr. Lambert Greer closed with a message on the "Spiritual Aspect of the Feast" and expounded on the meaning of the Last Great Day.
Our highest daily attendance figure was 287, with 187 brethren sharing the Holy Day Buffet, and approximately 200 participating in the dinner dance and family fun night. The seniors luncheon had 65 very enthusiastic and vocal participants, with entertainment hosted by Mr. Frank Best. During the deacons and elders dinner, Mr. Gerald Weston commented on aspects of the Work of God and expressed gratitude for those serving in it. The singles, led by Mr. Steve Jokela, enjoyed a "vigorous but not rigorous" hike on Hart Mountain and the family day included a very educational and invigorating "Foot Rally" around town.
As illustrated by many, many sincere personal testimonials, this first Feast of Tabernacles at Canmore was an inspiring, impressive and memorable experience for all who attended, and we all have very much for which to truly thank God.
—Eldon Davis
Mt. Orford, Quebec
The beautiful environment of Mt. Orford, Quebec was enjoyed by 145 of our brethren this year. The site for services—at the foot of the Mt. Orford Ski Center and the Art Center National Park—was a truly millennial location as we listened to the word of God. Temperatures were mild, and while there was some rain, it did not affect our activities. The sunshine was inside us all, providing great fellowship and rejoicing among our happy group of both French and English-speaking brethren. Snow on the last day gave us a nice picture of the artistic beauty designed by our Father in heaven. What a scene it was!
This year, we heard uplifting messages from two ministers visiting from the United States, Mr. Lambert Greer and Mr. Ken Frank. Mr. Frank spoke to us about the coming millennium as being a "Garden of Eden," and about our future as children of God, "From Glory to Glory." Mr. Greer spoke on the purpose of having vision, and on the establishment of God's government on earth. Mr. Winston Gosse, an elder from Ontario, spoke on the "Better Resurrection" and Mr. Secours from Quebec spoke on Christian unity at the Feast—where God brings us all together for many purposes. Mr. Gerald Weston, director of the Work in Canada, spoke about a "Feast of Restoration," and gave a Last Great Day sermon about the valley of dry bones. One new feature of the Feast this year was a meal served between services on the Holy Days, which gave us the feeling of eating together as a family, and was enjoyable for all who participated in it.
Mr. Frank hosted the seniors luncheon, and reminded our 34 seniors of their importance in creating a balanced congregation, and how important their prayers for all of us are. The singles and teens activity featured horseback riding, and the great horses and nice trails made it the best ever, according to Mr. Ismael Garay. Ninety brethren participated in our dinner dance at the meeting hall, where an atmosphere of relaxation and friendship, nicely served food and a special musical format made it a well-balanced evening for all concerned. The family event was held in a sports facility center. It included swimming, tennis, wall-climbing, and more sedate activities such as playing games and cards. Mr. Gerald Weston hosted the luncheon for ministers, deacons and video recipients at a French-style restaurant, and gave us all a "Thank You" note for serving the brethren in such a marvelous way.
Overall, it was a magnificent Feast and the atmosphere was one of love, friendship and concern, which is a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God on this earth. The Festival survey showed that the brethren really enjoyed both the messages and the excellent fellowship with true Christians.
—Jacques Secours
Summerside, Prince Edward Island
Beautiful Summerside, PEI, colloquially known as "Potatoes Everywhere Island," was host to nearly 50 brethren this year from Ontario, Atlantic Canada, Newfoundland and the United States. For the third year, services were conducted at the Linkletter Inn and Convention Centre. We enjoyed an atmosphere of unity and were treated like kings and queens by the entire staff—a very fitting complement to the meaning of the Feast. Most brethren stayed on site, as it was economical and convenient; of course, the turkey bacon served by the on-site restaurant did not hurt either!
Many were pleasantly surprised when they learned of our lineup of traveling speakers. Mr. Lambert Greer started us off, giving two sermons: "Vision Needs Light" and "Government in the Kingdom of God." The inspiration continued as our second guest speaker, Mr. Gerald Weston, gave sermons titled "Reasons for Rejoicing" and "God's Feasts: Times of Restoration." Mr. and Mrs. Ken Frank's safe arrival, and Mr. Frank's sermons, "Back to the Garden" and "The Great Beyond" provided a delightful conclusion. It was a spiritually fulfilling Feast!
Our honorary seniors luncheon took place on Thursday, October 20. The assistant coordinator, Mr. Irv Woelfle, gave a presentation in which he commented: "Especially when we are older, time seems to go so fast. All of our lives we look forward to things. Almost before we know it, the anticipated event has come and gone—pointing out that before we know it, Jesus Christ will be here and we will meet Him in the air. Will we at that time think, 'I wish I had'? To avoid that, we need to seize the moment and do it while we can." Other activities included a pizza party, and a family day consisting of a dinner dance and the ever-popular "Not-So Newlywed Game."
The island offers a pace that is laid-back and relaxing. The fall colors are spectacular, the many lighthouses come with a rich history, and the red beaches at sunset are mesmerizing. Many brethren also enjoyed peaceful walks down the long boardwalk and along the Northumberland Strait in Summerside. The Feast here can be summed up by the words of one of the attending brethren: "I love our family atmosphere on PEI. Next year's Feast seems so far away, and yet we are already making plans for it! So all of you who have been to PEI before, you know what you are missing! And for those of you who have never been there, you need to come and experience it to believe it!" —Michael Elertson