Living Church of God brethren from all around the world gathered in more than 30 countries at more than 40 sites this year to observe the Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day from September 26 through October 4. Here are excerpts from reports sent from some of those sites (a few had not submitted reports by press time):
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
More than 1,200 of God's people kept the Feast in a tent—many for the first time in decades—at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The tent brought back old memories for many, and helped create new memories for all. God blessed the weather overall, with a reminder of "living waters" when the rain fell on this drought-stricken area on the morning of the Last Great Day. The crashing surf and natural beauty of the South Carolina coast, the peace and tranquility of the Kingston Plantation, and the meeting hall within walking distance from most accommodations helped create many fond memories for Feastgoers.
Brethren commented about the power and depth of the messages, fellowship and special music, designed to prepare us to reign with Christ in His Kingdom. Positive and peaceful attitudes abounded, as did the love and concern God's people showed for each other.
Anonymous "sand writers" dug messages each morning in the beach sand— poignant reminders of the theme of the previous day's sermon. Eleven "little ones" were blessed in a very memorable Blessing of Little Children ceremony. The Family Day activity at Ripley's Aquarium reminded God's people of His creation and what it may be like in the Kingdom, when the creatures of the sea are tame. Many also enjoyed food and fellowship as they danced to the entertaining music provided by a fabulous Church band.
Overall, the Feast in Myrtle Beach was relaxing, exciting, uplifting, inspiring and memorable. Nearly everyone expressed a desire to return to this location in the future.
Branson, Missouri
Branson, Missouri—a growing town, h a l f an hour south o f Springfield, offering a wide variety of attractions—this year served for the first time as home to the Living Church of God's Feast of Tabernacles observance!
An average of about 450 people, including many first-time Feastgoers, met each day at a brand new convention center in Branson,—a community widely considered America's capital for music and family-oriented entertainment.
Many took advantage of the countless sights and attractions amidst Branson's millennial wooded hills—from musical shows and comedy performances, to amusement parks and museums. The meeting hall's proximity to the very popular Branson Landing along Lake Taneycomo was a special blessing, giving members easy access to an eclectic collection of shops and restaurants, including a stunning choreographed "fountain and flame" musical show every hour on the hour.
Scheduled activities included luncheons for deacons and elders and the seniors, a pizza party and putt-putt outing for the teens, a riverboat dinner and show for our singles, a Family Day full of children's games—and a Dinner Dance at the convention center, complete with souvenir photographs, printed on the spot!
Yet, with all there was to do and see, the consensus was clear: what made the Feast special this year were the powerful sermons. Dr. Roderick C. Meredith began our Feast with a pair of powerful messages drawing a sharp contrast between the corruption of this present society and the beautiful world to come. Dr. Douglas S. Winnail followed later, addressing our need to be peacemakers in today's world so that we can be peacemakers in tomorrow's, and explaining the importance of proper perspective and holding fast to what is truly important. The sermons, sermonettes and Bible Studies harmonized beautifully to make this year's Feast in Branson one t o remember!
New Braunfels, Texas
More than 460 Feastgoers met in the south-central Texas town of New Braunfels, situated where the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers meet, to celebrate the 2007 Feast of Tabernacles. Many brethren enjoyed water activities such as river float trips during their stay. Some took advantage of the close proximity to San Antonio to tour the Alamo, visit Sea World or Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme parks, or stroll down the world-famous San Antonio Riverwalk. Others spent the entire time in New Braunfels, feasting at the excellent restaurants or just spending time with family and friends.
The scheduled activities were designed to promote togetherness among all age groups, highlighted by Family Day which featured booths for each of the Lost Tribes of Israel— down to their modern national identities. Dance lessons were offered at the same time, followed by a Fun Show, dinner and a dance. Singles spent an evening at the San Antonio Riverwalk, cruising the river and eating at a fine restaurant. Teens enjoyed themselves during an afternoon of touring a spectacular natural cavern, then playing games and eating pizza at a local arcade. Many teens provided entertainment for the annual Seniors Luncheon.
For many, the messages were the highlight of the Feast. Evangelist Richard Ames was the first guest speaker, giving sermons titled "Count Your Blessings" and "Love Your Family." Regional Pastor Lambert Greer was the final guest speaker, giving sermons about Jesus Christ and the Feast and on the meaning of the Last Great Day. Pastors Martin Fannin and Phil Sena gave the other sermons. God appears to have blessed the Feast in New Braunfels once again this year.
Winter Park, Colorado
One hundred and thirty-four brethren assembled for this Feast of Tabernacles at Winter Park, Colorado, an awesome location in this high alpine region, offering spectacular beauty with hues of brown, gold, green and of course a light dusting of snow on the towering Colorado mountain peaks surrounding the Winter Park area.
Brethren enjoyed eight days of inspiring and Spirit-filled messages. From Mr. Randy Kobernat's sermonette on being a "Sweet Savor" to God, and Mr. John Whitfield's sermonette on the ordinal value of "God is One," to the Last Great Day messages from Dr. Jeff Fall and Mr. Lambert Greer on our awesome future, each speaker brought something special. Mr. Vernon Damron's sermonette on the "Little Things" and Mr. Wayne Pyle's messages on the Blessing of Little Children and the coming Third Temple spiritually fed everyone with meat in due season. Mr. Bob League, Mr. Dan Hall and Mr. Gene Hilgenberg, and site coordinator Mr. Ben Whitfield, rounded out the Festival messages, discussing "Team Building in Order to Fulfill Our Mission", "Preparation of the Bride in the Future World of Peace," and "Looking to the True Source," for what God provides to us. A Bible Study chaired by Mr. Bob League instructed us to realize that if we are going to be kings and priests in Tomorrow's World, we need to be teachers as well.
A professional square dance caller came all the way up from Colorado Springs to provide us an unforgettable evening. An enjoyable afternoon of fellowship and delicious food made for a beautiful Family Picnic, followed by a Family Fun Show. An Ice Cream Social and afternoon movie was provided for teens and families. Brethren also appreciated the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short distance away. The elk were in full bugle, the cows and the bulls were gathering for the migration to lower winter pastures and the mountainsides were just spectacular with many snow-capped peaks soaring over 14,000 feet. Fond memories of this year's Feast still linger as brethren begin to prepare for next year's Feast season.
Newport, Oregon
The spectacular power of God's creation was on display to 270 excited brethren gathered in the beautiful coastal town of Newport, Oregon to keep the Feast of Tabernacles 2007. Waves from the Pacific Ocean roared along the sandy beaches, and the tide pools were filled with crabs, starfish and anemones. Sea lions gathered along the rocks as seals in the marina dove to catch their breakfast. Several brethren had the opportunity to spot the migrating gray whales. Local attractions included the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the Marine Discovery Cruise, the Oregon Coast Aquarium & Science Center, the Rogue Ales Brewery and a scenic drive along the Oregon coast.
Guest speaker Mr. J. Davy Crockett, III spoke of the "Times of Refreshing," and also on "Our Role in the Kingdom of God." Festival Coordinator Mr. Glen Gilchrist spoke on "The Importance of Holiness"—which tied in very well with Mr. Weston's admonition to "Recapture True Values"—and gave a Last Great Day message on "God's Great Hope for Mankind." Other sermon topics included "Love in Action" and "Jerusalem, Past, Present and Future" by Mr. Rod Reynolds, "Preparing the Bride," by Mr. Eldon Davis and "Israel, Prepare to Meet Your God" by Mr. Gary Ullerick.
Brethren enjoyed the scheduled activities, designed to encourage fellowship and a return to true Christian values. For the children and teens, there were several socials before services, and the younger children served by creating cards for brethren who were unable to attend the Feast. There was a youth carnival, a teen bowling activity, a Singles Cruise, a Seniors Luncheon, a Fun Show, a Square Dance and a more formal Dinner-Dance. Family Day took place on a bluff overlooking the sea, offering the delights of a barbeque, games (including sand volleyball) and fellowship. A few brave souls tested their mettle surfing in the Pacific Ocean waves. Even a short-lived Oregon rain squall did not dampen the spirits of those who attended.
Oxnard, California
Oxnard, known as "the City that Cares," welcomed 230 brethren to its oceanfront shores for the 2007 Feast of Tabernacles. Many resided in the gathering hall at the Mandalay Beach Resort/Embassy Suites Hotel. Attendees were from all parts of the U.S. and Canada and participated in a variety of area activities.
The messages were encouraging and well-received. Dr. Jeff Fall emphasized that we are in training and soon will move on to our real careers in the Kingdom of God. He stressed that God's way of life works for us, and that our Father has "healing in His wings." Mr. J. Davy Crockett, III spoke on "All Things New, " explaining that the former predictions have come to pass, and we are now being prepared to make all things new. Mr. Harold Way gave a sermon explaining how Christ will rule with authority, while encouraging us never to lose a "teachable" attitude. Other topics included, "Love," "Working Out Our Own Salvation," and "The Feast Pictures Hope."
Mr. Chris Connelly directed the choir's several selections. The Children's Choir sang about "Uncle Peter" to the delight of the audience. Singles enjoyed a reception at the Embassy Suites, and Family Day was an enjoyable gathering at the Oxnard Beach Park. Children held the traditional sack race and played various games. The setting could not have been better; the view was spectacular, and the beach and ocean were attractions for some. On Monday, the seniors held their luncheon on-site while the teens enjoyed their own activities. Tuesday was the busiest day, with the Deacons-Elders Luncheon, Family Night Dinner, Fun Show and Dance all scheduled. There was a nice variety at the Fun Show, and many remarked on the exceptional talent displayed. Brethren also enjoyed a variety of restaurants including an Irish Pub and the exceptional fresh fish offerings at noted restaurants.
Western Shore, Nova Scotia
We were truly blessed here, as we were met with a premium of fall colors and moderate temperatures— the locals call it an "Indian Summer." Services were conducted each day in the Bluenose-A Room of the Oak Island Resort. We averaged 93 in attendance, and it was common to hear people comment that they were awed at how friendly the brethren were.
Mr. Jim Arnaldo started the Feast with a sermon titled, "Many Called— Few Chosen," and went on to give one more sermon, a split-sermon and two sermonettes. We also heard from Mr. Dwain Crisman (an elder from Dallas, Texas), Mr. Fritz Winnail (a deacon from Tampa, Florida) and Mr. Hiram Shannon (a member from Tampa).
The Friday night Bible Study gave a comprehensive look at the book of Haggai. Family Day consisted of a Dinner-Dance and a trip to Ross Farm, where we learned what life was like on a Nova Scotian farm 100–175 years ago.
That evening, we all met together again for a scrumptious dinner and dance. Mr. Arnaldo gave a special presentation to the seniors, encouraging them to remember the importance of their role in God's Church. Young and old alike were able to hear his wise words.
Western Shore, with its true charm and breathtaking beauty, truly provided the brethren with a millennial atmosphere in which to rejoice! For some brethren, it was their first Feast, and for one lady it was her 47th!
Magog, Quebec
Thanks to the changing colors of the local foliage, the Quebec Eastern Township area was of great beauty here during the Feast of Tabernacles. The Magog and Orford areas have a millennial setting and are close to the American border. It is a tourist area, too; people are bilingual in restaurants and stores, a fact appreciated by our monolingual French or English brethren. We averaged 180 brethren at services, with a high of 190. The first and last day meals together were real highlights, bringing great fellowship and an atmosphere of peace as almost everyone was able to relax.
An atmosphere of true Christianity prevailed throughout the eight days. As for the messages, both sermonettes and sermons were focused on the Millennium and the Kingdom of God in which we (members of the Body of Christ) will be very active with our elder brother, Jesus Christ. The visiting ministers did a great job in bringing us new perspective on our rejoicing at the Feast, reminding us that we are children of light for the world around us.
The Dinner- Dance was most appreciated, and the music well-chosen. The Family Day activity was a visit to a bee farm, which was informative and greatly appreciated by all. What a nice way to see God's creation in action!
Red Deer, Alberta
Beautiful Red Deer, Alberta was the Church's western Canada site for the 2007 Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day. An atmosphere of unity and love, along with inspiring messages, set the stage for what many called "their best Feast yet." Highlights of the Feast (besides the messages) were an enjoyable dinner and dance, and Family Day in the famous Lacombe corn maze. Feastgoers took advantage of the many restaurants in Red Deer, along with buffet meals at the Red Deer Lodge. Visitors came from California and Boston in the United States, and Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and Ontario in Canada. The festival survey revealed that of the more than 180 Feastgoers here, more than 90 percent recommended the Red Deer site for the Feast in 2008.
Arklow, Ireland
Visitors outnumbered the "locals" this year as 174 of God's people met in Arklow, Ireland. They came from all over the world—from Canada and Australia. Others were from South Africa and Switzerland, and one each from Trinidad and Romania. It was a treat to hear our Scottish elder, Mr. Robert Storrier, give his sermonette followed by Mr. Ken Frank, Area Pastor serving Virginia and Maryland in the United States. The accents this year were Irish (both northern and southern), Swiss, Australian and South African.
One young lady, asked to rate the sermons on a scale of ten, answered: "Twelve!" Speakers referred to the parables of Jesus Christ where He said, "The Kingdom of God is like…" to show that God expects more from those to whom much is given, and that we should not be discouraged if we do not feel we have great talent or opportunity. Mr. Breaux painted a colourful picture of Tomorrow's World, while Mr. Felber's five-point outline of how the world stands on the brink of destruction brought a sobering reality to those listening, then the contrast with what lies beyond gave hope and vision to all.
Mr. Karl Beyersdorfer recounted the amazing story of the abolition of slavery in England and America—a practice that is now reemerging all over the world as British and American influence wanes.
Activities included a Dinner- Dance, a games evening, and trips to Wicklow Jail and the Waterford Crystal Company. Weather was cool and overcast at times, though the last afternoon turned to warm sunshine for those who wanted to tour the green Irish countryside.
The Entrance, Australia
The 180 brethren who kept the Feast at The Entrance this year experienced one of the most peaceful, happy and inspiring Feasts ever!
The Entrance derives its name from the narrow channel that divides the mainland and connects Tuggerah Lake to the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean off the Central Coast of New South Wales. We met in the newly constructed auditorium at the "Diggers" RSL club. We were welcomed by the friendly staff and over the next eight days we developed a wonderful relationship with them. Perhaps they were a bit taken aback by the warm smiles, well behaved children and the general respect that was extended towards the auditorium as a whole.
Evangelist and Regional Director Mr. Bruce Tyler opened the Feast by reminding everyone of our individual responsibility to be an example to the community and an Ambassador for Christ. We were blessed to have a visiting minister, Mr. Irv Woelfle, from the United States, who gave us inspiring spiritual meat, expounding on what it means to "Reign as Kings." In another sermon, Mr. Woelfle showed that Christ's example while on the earth gave us a glimpse of what His Kingdom will be like. Mr. Michael Gill admonished us to be visionaries; he discussed four "Vital Keys to Happiness" and reminded us of the exciting plan that God is working out for all mankind.
On Sunday evening, we had a good old Aussie Bush Dance in the Auditorium. Each dance was introduced by the "Caller" of the band, who gave us a short history lesson regarding that piece. Some dances were in small groups of four, others in eights or tens; some involved everyone in a large circle. Other activities included a Seniors' Luncheon, a Youth Day and lots of time for everyone to just fellowship and discuss our exciting future and the challenges God's people will face in the years ahead.
Taupo, New Zealand
More than 105 attended the Feast of Tabernacles in Taupo, New Zealand. This was a 50 percent increase over last year, and reflects the growth that has been taking place within the Church in New Zealand. Thirty people here attended their first-ever Feast of Tabernacles. We were also delighted to have with us visitors from Australia and the United States.
The theme set for the Feast was "Dwelling Together in Unity," and this was thoroughly displayed. Most activities were arranged as "open" events; everyone was welcome to attend the activity arranged with seniors in mind, and the children's activity was also open to all. There was a very high level of participation.
Visiting ministers came from Australia. Mr. and Mrs. Mal Jennings were with us for the whole Festival. Mr. Jennings performed songleading duties and spoke several times. In one sermon, he urged us to value very highly the royal crowns that God has reserved for us. In another, he likened our Christian life to a race for which we need stamina and unconquerable determination.
Our Regional Director, Mr. Bruce Tyler, was also with us for a couple of days. He spoke on how the Feast heralds true freedom for the world, and on the spiritual meanings behind physical elements of the Old Testament tabernacle.
Feastgoers enjoyed a variety of planned activities. These included a swim at thermal hot springs for children and a gourmet luncheon at a "mosaic café" for seniors. Teens-and-twenties met to make and cook individual pizzas and get to know each other. Many visited the Waimangu Thermal Valley, where they roamed among geysers and hot mud pools and colourful silica terraces.
We also enjoyed a family games evening organized by Craig and Debbie Hill. Activities included lastman- standing, a general knowledge quiz, play-dough pictionary and a finger-foods supper. Steve and Kate McKenzie organized a successful variety show, in which Feastgoers displayed a wide range of skills including playing the trumpet, telling jokes, demonstrating a martial art, juggling and singing.
The Feast certainly prefigured the time when Christ will reign and this world will be full of the peace and knowledge of God, and all will dwell together in harmony.
Kandy, Sri Lanka
An intimate group of God's people gathered at Kandy in Sri Lanka for the Feast of Tabernacles 2007, at the Hotel Topaz, perched on the top of a mountain overlooking the City of Kandy and providing a 360-degree view of blue mountains and wooded green valleys.
The sermons and sermonettes gave an excellent foretaste of the soon-coming Kingdom of God, which will be a blessing to all mankind by being based on God's holy unchangeable laws and ways of life.
No Feast in Sri Lanka would be complete without a cricket match, where just about everybody takes active part. The annual Talent Show showcased much wholesome entertainment. Participating members, especially the youth and children, showed their prowess in singing, dancing, music and acting. The enthusiasm of the brethren was infectious.
One afternoon was spent at a world-famous elephant orphanage where a successful experiment in conservation is ongoing. Sri Lanka's elephants are a subspecies of the Asian elephant, and have been tamed and put to work, logging in the forests where vehicles cannot go. Members were delighted by the friendly and playful baby elephants, as well as the antics of the 75 elephants bathing in the nearby river. This peaceful scene was a wonderful encounter with a portion of God's creation.
Papua New Guinea
We had a very wonderful and enjoyable Feast all throughout the eight days with 52 in attendance.
The DVD sermons given by Dr. Meredith and other ministers were very encouraging. The weather was just perfect all throughout, and the picnic at the Wom Beach was just beautiful. Wom Beach is the very spot where the Japanese army surrendered to the Australian forces during the fierce Pacific campaign i n the Second World War. The names of the Allied soldiers killed can be read from the concrete markers. Wom war memorial site is a reminder to the brethren of what we human beings cannot achieve by ourselves— world peace. We are all looking forward to the day when our Lord shall come and there shall be true peace and prosperity under His rulership.
Homa Bay, Kenya
One hundred and six brethren kept the Feast of Tabernacles 2007 at Homa Bay in Nyanza Province. Despite different languages and cultures, Feastgoers learned to communicate and cooperate, enjoying a full plate of meaty spiritual food, encouraging us all to be watchful and prep a re f o r God's soon-coming Kingdom.
Sermons and sermonettes, given by Mr. Henry Cooper and Mr. Simon Muthama respectively, were truly inspiring. Mr. Cooper noted that obedience is the key to preparing for the Kingdom. Other sermons covered the law of tithing, the need to learn and enjoy and the meaning of the Holy Days.
An evening talent/family show was well attended, giving everyone an opportunity to participate. Everyone, from the youngest child (age 5) to the oldest (a 75-year-old gentleman) took part. A football game between the older men and the teens was wonderfully played; the older men won, 2–1. Children enjoyed nature DVDs each evening. The Ireland congregations were appreciated for sponsoring a BBQ Luncheon for the 15 senior citizens present. Mr. Cooper also blessed nine children.
After eight event-filled days, all expressed appreciation for God's master plan for humankind, and were already looking forward to next year's Feast!
Glentana, South Africa
In Glentana, a quiet and pretty coastal holiday and retirement village near the southernmost tip of Africa, 95 of God's people gathered to experience a very positive and unified atmosphere, with excellent sermons and sermonettes setting a very clear focus on where we are now and what we are working toward as God's Church. Included were our guest speaker from Canada, Mr. Gerald Weston, two Church members from New York, and a couple from New Zealand who had attended God's Church f rom many years back.
Several commented on how much they had learned and how much clearer God's purpose and the scriptures had become to them during the Feast. It was a great blessing having Mr. and Mrs. Weston with us this year, as we greatly benefited from their very caring presence as well as Mr. Weston's inspiring sermons.
Activities included a singles event, a Senior Citizens lunch, and a Family Day barbeque with a children's activity. In the wider surrounding area there were opportunities to visit a game farm (Mr. and Mrs. Weston even rode an elephant!), an ostrich farm, a crocodile farm, a forest canopy tour, shark cage diving, helicopter flights and various drives through beautiful scenery and forest walks.
All in all, this was an outstandingly uplifting spiritual Feast, providing much opportunity for young and old to share fun-filled and profitable activities together, which we look forward to year by year.
Tobago
More than 60 brethren kept the 2007 Feast of Tabernacles in Tobago. One highlight was the skit, "Israel: From Samuel to Solomon" enacted by hard-working and dedicated members displaying their acting talents. The audience found the skit both entertaining and educational. Other activities included a Bible Bowl, and a family outing to Canoe Bay Resort where brethren participated in a variety of competitions and enjoyed refreshments and fellowship.
Dress at the Dinner Dance on Tuesday was "cowboy" or "Caribbean"—but most chose "cowboy." Five elderly brethren were placed in seats of honor and given small tokens of our appreciation. A bag of Caribbean sweets was placed in front of every chair, which turned out to be a big hit. After dinner we had a short talent show, where Church members displayed their singing and other talents, followed by the dance.
Georgetown, Guyana
In the garden city of Georgetown, Guyana, a lively little group of brethren from the Living Church of God gathered at the Radisson Suites Hotel to observe the Feast of Tabernacles.
In addition to the timely sermons, highlights of this year's Feast included a visit to the Splashmin's Fun Park & Tropical Resort, a site beautifully decorated with colorful flowers, green plants and trees, situated in the sandy and hilly region of the country.
Brethren met for services in a tent, carpeted with well-cut green grass, in a location plentifully endowed with citrus and other trees. With the blue tarpaulin over our heads, palm trees shading us, and a refreshing breeze gently blowing, the setting was almost Millennial. The hotel staff was impressed by the smiles, courtesy and positive attitudes of our brethren. We indeed had a wonderful Feast, and were grateful for God's many interventions on our behalf.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Brethren from the United States and Canada joined Jamaican brethren to keep the Feast at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa, in the North Coast resort town of Ocho Rios—home of the world famous Dunn's River Falls. The "buzz" of the fellowship among the brethren continued from opening night through to the Last Great Day. It was truly amazing to see the warmth and love that flowed among the brethren, as reflected in the attendance at the main activities: the Night of Biblical Presentations (a story from the Bible presented as a skit, and a Bible Bowl with 214 in attendance) and the cookout at the beautiful Cranbrook Flower Farm (with 190 in attendance even though it was raining), where Feastgoers enjoyed the local cuisine with entertainment and games. Brethren also enjoyed a Singles Mingles, a Seniors Luncheon and a Spokesman Club meeting.
Average attendance at services was 217. The messages were great, reflecting on God's Kingdom and our part in it. The sermons and sermonettes were positive, powerful, inspiring and encouraging. Our overseas visitors commented on the love and hospitality extended to them by the Jamaican brethren. They also commented on the beautiful location of the site and the available attractions.
Davao City, Philippines
Here in southeastern Mindanao, 82 excited brethren kept the Feast with abundance and thanksgiving. We appreciated the three-day visit of Regional Pastor Mr. Dayrell Tanner and his wife, whose genuine concern and love for the Filipino brethren was noted. In his messages, Mr. Tanner emphasized the meaning of the Feast and the importance of faith and honesty to God and to His laws. Bible studies were held for the brethren, including separate studies for the youth and married couples, covering topics such as Christian living and character building and development. The brethren felt they were tasting peace typical of God's Kingdom as they dwelled together for eight days in one accord, peace and harmony.
Aside from the spiritual meat, which is the primary purpose of the Feast, brethren enjoyed swimming at the beach and taking part in the Festival talent show. The singles saw a movie, followed by food and fellowshipping. The seniors showcased their unfading talents during their night together, and ball games were played with sportsmanship and fun. Everyone had their parts as participants or spectators.
The Feast turned out to be a training ground for the young people as future leaders in the Church. They were the front-liners in ushering, special music, physical arrangement and activities. It was wonderful seeing them serve happily. Festival 2007 was a glimpse of spiritual enlightenment, rejoicing, sharing and service!
Maranding, Philippines
Fresh colors of the newly painted and landscaped facility greeted Feastgoers in Maranding. Local brethren were joined by two guest families, the Tanners from Australia and the Rosenberrys from Nevada in the United States.
Brethren coming from northwestern Mindanao area experienced a long evening of fellowship as dinner was served after a "Welcome" ethnic dance presented by the Cagayan de Oro and Iligan brethren. We appreciated the inspiring and uplifting messages on DVD, as well as the messages delivered by our local and foreign ministers. The youth and the singles very much enjoyed the physical and social activities, including a picnic at Aurora Spring Resort. A swimming contest was the main sport on that day, which involved the children, the youth and the singles. At the farewell party, there was great joy among the brethren, who felt their hearts had been charged with spiritual power.
Don Carlos, Philippines
The town of Don Carlos is a peaceful place located in southern Bukidnon, where brethren met in a facility surrounded by fruit trees and flowers. Brethren here warmly welcomed Mr. & Mrs. Dayrell Tanner with a "Barrio Fiesta" consisting of delicious foods and native dance presentations, hosted by the San Fernando congregation. Messages on DVD were translated into the native dialect for easy understanding, allowing a total environment of rich spiritual and physical food during the Feast.
A picnic provided the brethren a refreshing outdoor activity where everybody was busy with their preparations. A picnic at Luwan-Luwan Spring Resort gave the brethren a refreshing outdoor activity. The youth and the singles—especially the ladies—enjoyed video sing-along even more than swimming. By the time the Last Great Day arrived, many were still feeling that they were in the middle of the Feast; they had enjoyed it so much that they were sad to go home, and they eagerly await next year's Feast.
Malacca, Malaysia
The Feast of Tabernacles this year was held at the Legacy Hotel in the historic city of Malacca, Malaysia. A total of 65 were present, out of which seven were visitors from Australia, the Philippines and the United States of America.
Visiting minister Mr. Gaylyn Bonjour and his lovely wife Leona enhanced the atmosphere with their presence and easy mingling with the local membership. Mr. Bonjour's inimitable laughter could be heard reverberating all around in testimony of his presence!
Sermons and sermonettes touched on the various aspects of the Festival and its prophetic fulfillment. The festival coordinator, Mr. Rajan Moses, worked in unison with Mr. Bonjour in providing spiritual sustenance for the attendees, supplemented by the video sermons.
Three group luncheons were organized for the weekly Sabbath and the Holy Days to give God's people the opportunity to fellowship together over a meal. On other occasions, brethren ventured out in small groups to enjoy meals together. The brethren visiting from overseas were not left out in this regard; they were taken for a ride, literally, to permit them to savour Malaysia's varied cuisine.
Organized activities catered to brethren of all ages. Little children had their share of fun over kiddies' games, with breaks in-between that allowed them to partake of provided snacks. For a family outing, the brethren took a trip to the zoo nearby. A special function this year was the Senior Citizens' Wine-n-Dine, which featured intense fellowshipping over an assortment of food and wine.
Mr. Bonjour agreed to bring back an excellent report of the Festival site here in Malaysia. We sincerely hope it will pave the way for an "exodus" of brethren from all over the world to keep the Feast of Tabernacles with us in the years ahead!
Eygurande, France
Nearly 130 people of diverse nationalities, from ten different countries, celebrated God's Feast of Tabernacles at the l'Abeille resort in a millennial setting near Eygurande, France, in a hilly region of France called the Massif Central. This mountainous area is accentuated by green forests, pastures and valleys, adorned by healthy-looking cows and sheep grazing freely. The l'Abeille resort was private and attractive, with a very helpful and amiable staff serving us. The fellowship throughout the Feast was outstanding. Different languages and nationalities did not hinder the brotherly love and camaraderie. Sharing delicious and abundant family-style meals—especially the local blue cheese and bread—greatly contributed to the family atmosphere. We received spiritual nourishment in preparation for God's soon-coming Kingdom from Messrs. Dibar Apartian, Rodger Bardo, Yvon Brochu, Marcel Ginier and Charles Ogwyn, and from other fine speakers who taught us how to become servant leaders, as true kings and priests should be.
During the Feast, we also enjoyed exciting and educational activities. We traveled to the neighboring Department of Puy de Dôme, known for the more than 100 inactive volcanoes called Chaîne des Puys. We toured the Puy de Lemptégy, a source of versatile volcanic rocks, and also "rode" a thrilling three-dimensional volcanic-eruption- simulator that had many of us shouting and laughing!
At the Talent Show, brethren from Martinique presented a couple of joyful dance numbers typical of the French Antilles. We also enjoyed the remarkably talented musical and dance performances of children and adults from France, Holland, Switzerland and the United States. Speaking of music, the French-speaking brethren were able, for the first time, to sing songs to God during the Feast out of the new Living Church of God French Hymnal, Psaumes et Cantiques.
Orap, Vanuatu
Sixty-one of God's people gathered to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles in Vanuatu, meeting in Orap Village on the island of Malekula. Everyone slept in tents or temporary buildings, and all meals were prepared and shared communally. This reflects the culture of the Melanesian people, and helped make this year's Feast special.
Feastgoers were richly blessed with the spiritual food of sermons on DVD. Vanuatu elder Jerry Sam, and members Christophe Tarey and Noel Meten, also spoke on Feast themes.
A spirit of love and joy ruled throughout the feast. Members enjoyed great fellowship and participated in many activities, including a picnic, games for adults and children, a Fun Show and a farm visit. Everyone appreciated the Feast, looks forward to the next one, and hopes that visitors from other lands will come and share it with us.
—Compiled from reports by: Eilon Benitez, Jongkoy Benitez, Frank Best, Johnny Bolences, Conie Casing, Henry Cooper, Peter Devis, Michael Elertson, Lascelles Fraser, Fitzroy Greeman, Lynn Jacobson, Shana Jewsbury, Rod King, Jerry Sam, Deborah Lincoln- Strange, J.B. Muller, Simon Muthama, Kinnear Penman, Jacques Secours, Phil Sena, Wallace Smith, John Soosay, Zig Svalbe, Bruce Tyler, Pieter van der Byl, Ben Whitfield and Scott Winnail