In 2025, the Living Church of God conducted the Feast of Tabernacles at 85 sites in 51 countries around the world. Below are some comments from Festival Coordinators about interesting and inspiring events at these sites. We hope you enjoy reading these highlights from the 2025 Feast of Tabernacles!
Aguadilla, Puerto Rico (Mr. Raul Colón)
“We had a get together at the start of the Feast for all the brethren in a private and secured area and we cooked for them a local fried delicacy called bacalaítos, along with refreshments and other snacks. They enjoyed that as a unique experience.”
“We saw… people smiling through all the activities and services. At the LGD some brought left over items to share with the local brethren.”
“The cultural dance activity was outstanding.”
Arroyo Grande, California, U.S. (Mr. Chet Carpenter)
“Once, when the man in charge of the event center was walking by outside and talking to another worker, we overheard him make a comment about our presence when he didn’t know we could hear him, saying, ‘They’re going to be singing the Jesus song here today.’ For me, it was instructive in realizing that the world is so unfocused on God that they don’t even know of how different we are…. The day after the Feast, while we were cleaning up, he sought me out, asking to speak with me in private…. When we were alone, he broke down sobbing uncontrollably because his father had died just days before. He asked me to pray with him…. I did and it seemed to ease his mind greatly.”
“The entire setting [was beautiful]—the wonderful, clean, fresh ocean air, combined with the way the ocean meets with the beautiful rolling hills and agricultural landscape.”
“We noted that this year, many people seemed to be facing more (not more aggressive, but more) pre-Feast trials, as well as trials during the Feast. We feel these people were strong in their dealing with these trials.”
Bradenton, Florida, U.S. (Mr. James Sweat)
“We had a wonderful picnic with 100+ in attendance. Lots of members, young and old, participating in a variety of games, such as touch football, volleyball, giant Jenga, bean toss, and more, including board games under the pavilion.”
“The generosity, selfless service, and member cooperation really made this Feast the smoothest.”
“We had planned for a senior activity, but we were able to add lunch to the activity, free of charge, because of the generosity of some members.”
Branson, Missouri, U.S. (Mr. Shannon Christal)
“We had a men’s choir that sang a cappella which was inspired by the men’s camp. The benefit was that we had some men who never [had sung] in a choir, but this motivated them to do so. We had a widows/widowers luncheon. I wanted the widows to know that they are not forgotten. It really made them feel special.”
“People pulled together and helped an elderly man who was on a fixed income pay for a new starter for his car. He was overwhelmed by that type of generosity.”
“[Everyone appreciated] the trees and lakes that are nestled in the Ozark Mountains.”
Cambridge, New Zealand (Mr. Paul Kearns)
“Before the Feast began, the event management of the meeting hall was reluctant to… book dates for next year. However, during the Feast, the staff told many of our members that they hoped we would be back for 2026.”
“One unique activity at our site was a visit to Hamilton Gardens, which hosts a number of ‘enclosed gardens’ that encapsulate the flora and architecture of international countries. There was an ancient Egyptian garden, Japanese garden, and Ancient Roman garden, just to name a few. Seeing the beauty of nature in these gardens with an international flavor gave us a sense of how the beauty of all nations worshipping God in the Millennium will be realized.”
“It was a very unifying and uplifting Feast site. Sermonettes were notably well-delivered and thought out and sermons focused on the beauty of the coming Millennium.”
Collingwood, Ontario, Canada (Mr. Bruno Duval)
“Some brethren proposed their services and help to others to do groceries. Some brethren also visited others while they were sick in their room.”
“A few people got infected and felt ill during the Feast because of colds or Covid. One particular couple who spent six days in their bedrooms told me that despite this fact they had one of the richest Feasts, spiritually speaking.”
“The apple picking was the family day activity; it garnered the most positive comments. People also enjoyed the visit of the Vineyard.”
Dubuque, Iowa, U.S. (Mr. Mark Sandor)
“We had a free-will clothing exchange that saw brethren bring, display, and take clothing for free.”
“The family day was a beautiful fall day that overlooked the Mississippi and provided an opportunity for service, food, and fellowship.”
“Brethren focused on the fruit of goodness and often paid for each other’s meals. One member related to me that his family took a widow out to dinner so they could enjoy her company and cover her meal. At the end of the dinner, they discovered someone else had already covered their entire bill!”
“The bluffs that overlooked the Mississippi river had a wealth of fall colors and natural beauty. This scene was on display for those who went to the Family Day Picnic and was one of the main reasons it was so positively received.”
Fernandina, Florida, U.S. (Mr. Ryan Dawson)
“We held a Progressive Dinner the second day of the Feast of Tabernacles, which helped everyone get acquainted early on during the Feast.”
“Among other meetings, we held a brief ‘All-Volunteer’ meeting in the early afternoon leading up to opening night. It was inspiring to see that about a third of the Feast site served in some capacity. Equally inspiring was how those volunteers worked together as a spiritual family, along with those who served in another way, in our everyday capacity, as Ambassadors of Christ in Fernandina.”
“The proof of the pudding was in the eating; the example the brethren set was outstanding, to the point where the hall contact told me, ‘I know I probably should say this, but your group is different than the others that come through here. To a person they are so respectful!’ That comment was unprompted.”
“Family Day was a hit, as we were able to reserve space at a local park that was within walking distance of the hotel. Due to generous donations, we were able to cater the meal and rent a tent, tables, and chairs, which provided shade on a beautifully sunny day. The location included a mini golf facility (which happens to be the location of the 2025 Professional Putters Association National Championship), which opened specifically for us. Again, due to the generous donation, the course was opened at no charge for any who wanted to play.”
Forster, NSW, Australia (Mr. Martin Montgomery)
“We held a Bush Dance, which was much enjoyed across all ages. Traditionally we have held more formal Dinner Dances, but occasionally we throw in a Bush Dance to provide some variety. The benefits are that more people seem to enjoy this style, from the children to the elderly…. It was much enjoyed and well received.”
“There was a power outage at one of the accommodation sites and some brethren couldn’t get their cars out because of the electric gate. One kind member very happily went out of his way to get them to services rather than setting them up with livestream, which is what they were expecting to have to do.”
“On at least two different occasions from different venue staff, the comment was made about how easy and pleasant we are to have and look after.”
“Forster is a small town, where you get to run into brethren regularly. The surroundings are very millennial; it truly is in a beautiful part of God’s creation. The venue at club Forster has very helpful staff and the room that we hire there suits us very well, with the Holy Day meal tables conveniently located in the same room as we meet.”
Glens Falls, New York, U.S. (Mr. Michael Aviles)
“We held a Progressive Fellowship activity which brings more than half the attending members together in uplifting fellowship. It is always a highlight of the NE region. We also held a boat cruise on Lake George which was private to LCG members. It was beautiful and enjoyed by all.”
“The overall support and sincere desire to be with one another [was uplifting]. [The] opening night service was attended by 214, while, the next day, service was attended by 219. I’ve never seen such a high percentage show up for opening night—evidence of the proper attitude for being there.”
“Saratoga Spa State Park was where we held our Family Day picnic. It was a beautiful and private setting which everyone enjoyed. And the boat cruise on Lake George was gorgeous.”
Great Malvern, United Kingdom (Mr. Simon Roberts)
“A Cèilidh Dance with caller provided an opportunity for good, wholesome fun for everyone participating and not feeling excluded or just socially gathering to watch as the Gaelic word Cèilidh implies.”
“Surveys highlighted a sermon by one of our ministers identifying that our backgrounds, sufferings and trials now are for the benefit of those we will serve in the future with comfort and empathy, because we understand exactly what they are going through.”
“A hill walk up the Worcester Beacon also garnered good reports as 80 members fellowshipped and supported one another to the top, with the reward of panoramic views in all directions.”
Gulf Shores, Alabama, U.S. (Mr. Bobby Jacques)
“The senior appreciation breakfast was appreciated.”
“[The brethren showed] a true willingness to work together to give their Feast to others.”
“The facility really enjoyed our people and commented on the politeness and joy the members expressed.”
Harare, Zimbabwe (Mr. Lawdi Ferreira)
“One of the men noticed that a few members were struggling to understand the English sermon videos, so he added Shona subtitles in the evenings to help them benefit more fully from the messages played.”
“[We appreciated the] peacefulness of the area and brethren dwelling together in unity.”
“This was the first Feast that LCG hosted in Zimbabwe. The lodge worked very well, and the brethren appreciated being able to attend a local Feast site. The unity and love for one another was a highlight.”
Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada (Mr. Barry Walker)
“Both pieces by the Festival Choir and Children’s Choir [were special] as both were twice the normal size. We had a Children’s Choir of about 35.”
“Many comments were made by the Convention Centre staff, hotel staff, and restaurants. Convention Centre [staff] were shocked how fast and efficiently we could turn over the room for meals. Restaurants couldn’t keep up with brethren wanting to pay for someone else’s meal. Hotel staff enjoyed the cleanliness and politeness.”
“There was a usual number of vehicle problems including three complete engine failures, which created more acts of service and kindness.”
“Kimberley is at the foot of the Rocky Mountains—with the brilliant gold colors of Fall and dusting of snow in the mountains one night, then the reappearance of the brilliant blue skies, it created a magnificent setting.”
Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Canada (Mr. Lenard Hine)
“One highlight of the Feast was the ‘pastor emeritus’ award that was given to Mr. Frank Best by Mr. Wachowicz… and also the willingness of the people to give a good Feast.”
“We had many comments from the staff about how they look forward to us coming there each year. We also had two visitors that came to check us out, and one asked if they would be able to come to some of our services after the Feast. They were put in contact with the local elder from the area.”
Madison, Indiana, U.S. (Mr. Lenny Bower)
“[One of the highlights was a] Trolly Tour around the city to look at neo-classic architecture.”
“I scheduled one day of completely free time so brethren could go check out the city. That actually garnered a positive response as people were free to drive their golf carts around town and check out all of the locations, eateries, and shoppes in town.”
“Jacob, at the meeting hall, said he was amazed to have a group so large, stay for so long, and yet never have to attend to emergencies or issues or stresses from the group.”
Mangalore, India (Mr. Marc Casey)
“The entire group was always together for all the activities, and a lot of question and answers were discussed [in the] Bible quiz and Bible question and Answers.”
“[We had a] small group of eleven but an inspiring and uplifting Feast.”
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Mr. Lascelles Fraser)
“[We had an] Icebreaker for pre-teens (6–12), teens (13–19) and young singles (20–35) to get to know [each] other to start the fellowshipping.”
“The sun going down over the horizon and a gentle breeze coming off the ocean [was truly millennial].”
“[Brethren commented that] it was a great Feast…. Others commented on the warmth of the brethren and others the powerful messages.”
Na Khon Sawan, Mae Sot, Thailand and Kalaymyo, Myanmar (Mr. Htoowah Laybeh)
“We undertook the treasure hunt activities related to each of God’s Festivals and presented them in a workshop group.”
“There was more peace and unity and oneness among the fellowship of the brethren throughout the Feast.”
“We have received positive feedback from the hotel that we were quiet and polite, and they would like us to return to their hotel for next year’s Feast.”
“This year has been another level of spiritual growth for our Thailand and Myanmar brethren; they have gained a deeper level of understanding and have a clearer vision concerning God’s plan of salvation because all organized activities were associated to each of God’s Feasts.”
Nadi, Fiji (Mr. Robert Tyler)
“This year in Fiji, our local Fijian members held a special Traditional lovo dinner. Lovo means, ‘to cook in the earth.’ The meal consisted of fish, chicken, and local vegetables, all cooked in the traditional underground pit. The international visitors were encouraged to dress in bright Fijian shirts called bula shirts. We were also treated to some traditional dance by our local members.”
“The spiritual highlights included the warm fellowship of the brethren from many nations, and also the beautiful views we enjoyed daily from the Feast site balcony, which overlooked both the mountains and the ocean. It was a daily reminder of God’s creation.”
“We had two staff members at the hotel approach our members asking about the church. After talking and explaining the hope of the Kingdom and some other basic doctrines, one gentleman asked if he could sit in on one or two of our services. Two other ladies have asked for a visit from our Regional Pastor… as well as booklets and the magazine.”
“The activity that had the most positive response was definitely the talent night…. We also had one special act which was of a young Fijian artist who had recorded a painting she had done. It was sped up and she explained her inspiration and painting techniques. She then showed other paintings she had done and sold. There was an electric atmosphere with everyone engaged and positive.”
“This was the second Feast of Tabernacles for our local Fijian members who had joined us from another Sabbath-keeping organization. Also, we had a lady from Australia at the Feast who attended the Feast of Tabernacles in Fiji in 1983, 32 years ago.”
New Bern, North Carolina, U.S. (Mr. Wyatt Ciesielka)
“We again organized a ‘youth custodial’ service, which helps give the youth an opportunity to serve, to learn to serve, as well as to fellowship with each other; and their tidying up is much appreciated by the convention center. We also offered our friendly, proactive ‘car to seat’ service for any of the elderly or handicapped brethren who needed it, and that was not only greatly appreciated, but also again completely eliminated trips and falls for the brethren from the parking lot to the auditorium.”
“There were many comments by the tourism board as well as the convention center management, all who continue to really appreciate the behavior and the character of our membership. We are very, very well known in New Bern.”
“We were hit for a couple days by a strong ‘Nor’easter’ which was so powerful that it, sadly for the city, caused them to cancel their annual ‘Mum Festival,’ but which did not dampen the brethren’s enthusiasm or daily church attendance at all; and in fact, New Bern church service attendance held steady through the end of the Feast.”
Orap Village, Vanuatu (Mr. Jerry Sam Sr.)
“There are three new baptized members: Two just before the Opening night service and one by the end of the Feast.”
“The brethren helped to serve each other during the Feast. The atmosphere of love, compassion, and joy prevailed throughout the eight days of the Feast.”
Parika, Guyana (Mr. Moses Harris)
“It was noted by [the] owner of the resort [how] different and pleasant we conduct ourselves compared to other groups and people.”
“We took a Boat ride to one of Guyana historical sites, Fort Island. This was enjoyed by all.”
“The beauty of the flora and fauna [and the] many trees and the sounds of the birds provided a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere.”
Pebbles Beach, Barbados (Mr. Alvin Cumberbatch)
“The Island Bus Tour gave local and overseas brethren an opportunity to witness the beauty of Barbados through a guided historical tour, inclusive of scenic East Coast views and a visit to a Botanical Garden.”
“The Events Manager of our Feast site commented that they always love when we come—that we always bring a level of politeness and respect to their establishment.”
“[At the] Family Dance… many local men really took to heart giving a good Feast and got several of the ladies onto the dance floor. The energy and participation of all the brethren local and overseas was high and the style of the dance led to participation from brethren of all ages.”
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, U.S. (Mr. Jim Meredith)
“There was warm fellowship of the brethren—many arriving very early each day. We had many volunteers to serve in various areas.”
“We were blessed with very little rain and warm temperatures each day.”
Port Barcarès, France (Mr. Pascal Devillé)
“We had all our meals together in a large restaurant and everyone stayed at the same site. This facilitates fellowshipping.”
“Our group was congratulated for its kindness, discipline, and overall respect.”
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (Mr. Graeme Hemphill)
“[We had an] organized Q&A session that was well-received. We all enjoyed the new hymns.”
“The Ocean views and beach looked truly millennial…. We had three Feast sites in Papua New Guinea—all were well attended with a good spirit prevailing.”
Pottsboro, Texas, U.S. (Mr. Michael Elliott)
“A dinner cruise. This was a big hit, and we had about 200 people sign up for the dinner cruise. It allowed people to visit with each other and have a nice meal together.”
“They were very friendly to the hotel staff and the activity staff. We received very complimentary comments from the cruise staff saying they have never had a group like ours because everyone was so patient and friendly.”
“People said they loved the site because there was no traffic and those staying on site could fellowship with each other. They enjoyed the activities that were planned, which allowed them to meet and fellowship with the brethren.”
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada (Mr. Marc Arseneault)
“The biblical game night was very much appreciated again this year. The brethren were separated in teams, and they had to answer different biblical questions. It forced them to communicate together, even with members they didn’t know and search the scriptures to find the right answers.”
“This being our second year at this Feast site, the personnel of the hotel and of the restaurant inside the hotel expressed multiple comments regarding the group. They said we are totally different than any other group they have. Our people are polite, courteous, kind, and helpful. They were thrilled to see us come back again this year.”
“We have a French game called Pétanque that drew a lot of people again this year, as well as a nature path, close to the hotel, that leads to a cascade, that was very popular this year.”
“We are right on the bank of the St. Lawrence seaway; we therefore are able to see the beautiful sunrise and sunset on the water. Also, there are lots of trees, parks, and very nice old neighborhoods around the hotel.”
Russell, Manitoba, Canada (Mr. Michael Brown)
“The Pool Tournament… became a group activity where everyone young and old watched as our teams played one another. Many members offered help to others, which helped us grow closer and more familiar with one another and promoted teamwork and cooperation.”
“The hotel wanted to have us back for another year. I have to assume, based on their smiles and kindness to us, it is because they appreciate the kindness and respectfulness of the brethren.”
“[Russell, Manitoba is an] inexpensive site which isn’t far for brethren to travel to—only six hours away for our furthest members in the area. Very unifying…. Brethren appreciate the extra time they have to spend with one another.”
Saint-François, Guadeloupe (Mr. Etienne Duval)
“Despite the passage of Storm Jerry, which caused the cancellation of Friday’s in-person service, we were all connected on Zoom.”
“Despite many difficulties encountered during preparation (change of meeting room due to bankruptcy; displacement of several families from the reserved hotel, uncertainty regarding the transportation of some twenty members by an airline in financial difficulties, etc.), we were able to find a new meeting room with accommodation on the same site and in the same city, and all our members arrived safely and returned home.”
Santiago, Ilocos Sur, Philippines (Mr. Joseph Gonzales)
“The Feast site this year was the first time we held it outside of Baguio City. Baguio City has always been the go-to Feast site for many decades. The site was located in a quiet town along the seacoast and all the brethren lived close by together.”
“Being a new location, the brethren looked out for one another, helping in every way they could by sharing their resources, giving general directions, and in getting to places of interest, sharing food and lots of fellowshipping.”
“No unplanned events took place except probably where we thought it good to use the morning Sabbath as an opportunity to sing the new hymns for the first time.”
South Padre Island, Texas, U.S. (Mr. Phil West)
“It wasn’t an activity, per se, but SpaceX launched a rocket right before sunset to begin the Last Great Day! It was very impressive and most members appreciated the unique opportunity!”
“The sense of unity was very strong. The Millennial setting was a spiritual highlight—the weather was perfect! We had a hymn sing on Friday night that was very inspirational!”
“The Dinner Dance [was special]…. The folks who were asked to plan it did a great job. It was a beautiful open-air facility with views of the ocean.”
“Overall, things went very well this Feast. The brethren seemed very encouraged and inspired. There were many comments regarding the messages…. The hall was mostly comfortable except the A/C was not working well the last few days, and it really never worked out in the lobby where many fellowshipped.”
Spokane Valley, Washington, U.S. (Mr. Jonathan Bueno)
“We had a Progressive Dinner…. It was very well attended and seemed to go over well. We also combined the dinner/dance and fun show together into a dinner/show type activity…. It seemed very enjoyable to everyone. Lots of positive comments.”
“The spiritual highlight of the Feast was the fellowship, in part facilitated by a hotel that had an on-site restaurant and plenty of tables to sit down and fellowship. The foyer had glass windows so people could look out into the mountains. It was inspiring.”
“The fellowship and outgoing service towards one another was very abundant this year, from the time spent fellowshipping after services to everyone helping each other out, including paying for others’ meals and activities and giving rides. One lady took care of a handicapped lady the entire Feast, pushing her around in a wheelchair, and that was inspiring. She gave a good Feast to someone who otherwise would not have been able to attend.”
“One of the staff at the hotel commented that our people were very nice and stood apart from all the other groups that come through.”
St. George, Utah, U.S. (Mr. Stephen Elliott)
“[We had a] bus trip to Zion National Park to see the unusual natural beauty.”
“The Children’s Choir sang ‘God’s Kingdom is Coming’ written by the director and accompanied by piano and violin.”
“[There were] numerous examples of care and consideration for others, giving gifts—members supplied the prizes for Bingo Night.”
“The hotel staff commented that our people were so kind and easy to work with.”
Stilbaai, South Africa (Mr. Lawdi Ferreira)
“A group of 60 in-betweeners event (those not included in the singles, teen, children’s or seniors’ event) included a Big Five game drive in the Garden Route Game Reserve and lunch at the lodge. The Singles did an early morning sunrise ocean kayak event and afternoon surf lessons.”
“The level of care and service toward one another was truly inspiring. Many offered help with transport and accommodation, going out of their way to assist others. We make sure everyone is included in the activities, even if they cannot afford them, and a donation box is available at the info desk to support these activities. Several members went the extra mile to help others in need.”
“The landlord at the Family Day venue commented to me after the event, ‘They were the most respectable people we’ve ever had here.’”
“The Family Day Braai (BBQ) was a wonderful event that catered for all ages. The men braaied (barbecued) around 1,100 pieces of meat, while others enjoyed board games, a sing-along, volleyball, soccer, and plenty of fellowship. The children had fun on the jumping castle and in the sandpit.”
“This was our highest attendance yet for a South African Feast site. The outstanding messages, along with the unity, love, and care shown among the members, made it a truly special and spiritually uplifting Feast.”
Victor Harbor, South Australia (Mr. Warren Burnett)
“There was a great sense of unity and encouragement.”
“[The site had] green rolling hills down to the seaside.”
“It was a very peaceful Feast with profitable messages and warm fellowship.”
Villa Omah Londo, Batu, East Java, Indonesia (Mr. Firman Bramantyo)
“The spiritual highlight was seeing the brethren actively supporting one another in prayer and discussion. The shared reflection on God’s plan for His Kingdom inspired a deep sense of unity and encouragement among attendees.”
“Yes, we held a small Special Music presentation featuring a combined arrangement by several brethren. It stood out because it was prepared collaboratively with contributions from many members, and everyone participated with genuine enthusiasm, creating a memorable and uplifting experience.”
“Several brethren volunteered extra time to help organize services and assist fellow brethren. Their willingness to serve and support others reflected the Spirit’s work in promoting humility, love, and unity within the congregation.”
“Group nature walks in the nearby park were especially popular. Attendees enjoyed fellowship while appreciating God’s creation, fostering conversations and camaraderie that were highly appreciated.”