Feast of Tabernacles - AccordNovember/December 2021 - Church of God, a Worldwide Association
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OneAccord OneAccord November/December 2021 Feast of Tabernacles 2021
personal from the president
Being Thankful for Each Other
T
The Feast of Tabernacles 2021 is now history! It attendance this year was once again around
was a wonderful Feast for my wife and me, with 12,000, with about 75 percent of that number
many hours spent fellowshipping with brethren actually meeting in person.
at three different Festival sites—Fort Myers, I was saddened to hear of the number who
Tucson and El Salvador. became ill with the COVID-19 virus after the
My Spanish got a workout in El Salvador, Feast, and while the number of hospitalizations
but we had a wonderful time! Everyone was small, some were critically ill and ended
stayed at an all-inclusive resort, where we up in the ICU. I continue to pray for everyone’s
ate all our meals together. Church members speedy recovery.
from different countries—El Salvador, Chile, One of the hallmarks of the New Testament
Guatemala, Panama, Mexico and the Dominican Church, as described in the book of Acts,
Republic—filled all the guest rooms, creating an consisted of brethren getting together. “So
atmosphere of continuous fellowship each and continuing daily with one accord in the temple,
every day. and breaking bread from house to house, they
Each year after the Feast I have the pleasure ate their food with gladness and simplicity of
of reading the reports from all the U.S. Festival heart, praising God and having favor with all the
coordinators. This year we had 12 U.S. sites people. And the Lord added to the church daily
(including the two satellite sites). In these those who were being saved” (Acts 2:46-47).
reports each coordinator provides an overview Now that we have arrived home from another
of how things went at his location. This year Feast, I encourage all of us to pause and give
there was definitely a theme that emerged from God thanks for all He has done for us—calling
these 12 sites. us and taking care of us through the various
As you know, we canceled virtually all our trials. I know it is easy to get discouraged with
normal activities because of the large number the world in which we live, but I hope you have
of COVID cases leading up to the Feast. When returned from the Feast with joy, having spent
it became evident, about three weeks before almost two weeks with the brethren. Each year
the Feast, that this would not be a normal year, when I return home from the Feast, the thing I
we instituted new protocols that were not part miss most is the fellowship. To have eight days
of our planning during the summer. In spite to be together is a treasure that we should never
of the change in plans and the cancellation of take for granted. It is the essence of the Feast.
such activities as senior lunches, family and Personally, I know that this year I have spent
teen dances, and other group activities, each more time thanking God for the opportunity to
coordinator reported something I considered celebrate the Feast with all of you! You made it
very important. Here is an example from one of special for my family, and I thank you for that!
the reports that summed this up:
“Even though we canceled several higher-risk
activities in relation to the virus, the overall
attitude of the members was one of being
pleased to have a Feast with in-person services.
Attendance was strong with little variation in
the daily count.” Jim Franks
In reflecting on this year’s Feast, I am deeply President
thankful that we were able to be together. Church of God, a Worldwide Association
While it wasn’t quite the “normal” Feast we
were all hoping for, it was the Feast and it
included brethren from around the world! Our
2 One Accord cogwa.org
OneAccord
November/December 2021 Contents
4 15
© 2021 Church of God, a Worldwide Association,
Inc. All rights Reserved.
Ministerial Board of Directors: David Baker, Arnold
Hampton, Joel Meeker, Larry Salyer, Richard Thompson,
Leon Walker and Lyle Welty
President: Jim Franks; Media operation manager:
Clyde Kilough; Managing editor: David Hicks; Copy
editor: Becky Bennett
Doctrinal reviewers: Neil Hart, Jack Hendren, Steve
Moody, Frank Pierce
One Accord is published bimonthly online at mem-
20
bers.cogwa.org by the Church of God, a Worldwide
Association, Inc.
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated,
are taken from the New King James Version (© 1982
by Thomas Nelson, Inc.). Used by permission. All rights
reserved.
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4 2021 Feast of Tabernacles
Reports
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Accord, a contributor gives the Church permission and a
nonexclusive license to use or publish any such submis- 2021 Feast of Tabernacles
sions without any compensation to the contributor.
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Attendance
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15 Church Potluck
Cover photo: Tim Waddle
otherwise manipulate the submission.
This publication is not to be sold. Free educational material.
20 Announcements
November/December 2021 3
2021
Feast of Tabernacles
to headquarters for the We especially enjoyed
generous support to allow eating well every day,
us to celebrate God’s Feast thanks to help from
in good conditions. headquarters. Favorite
Nathan Mukeshimana dishes included goat
soup, braised carp and
CAMEROON attiéké (fermented cassava
pulp), among other local
A total of 23 people specialties prepared by
celebrated the Feast in the the ladies. It was a very
central African country enjoyable Feast without any
of Cameroon. Members notable problems.
gathered from widely Paul Tia
separated geographic
regions of the nation to the Yapleu,
CÔTE D’IVOIRE
T he Feast of Tabernacles for 2021 was truly a seaside resort town of Kribi.
breath of fresh air for God’s people around the One happy surprise
world, given the ongoing challenges of the troubled was the arrival of some Near the borders of Liberia
and chaotic world in which we live! members from the center and Guinea, 67 people
While planning for the 2021 Feast posed some of the country. They had gathered in the village of
challenges, the Feast coordinators for our U.S. sites stopped attending services Yapleu, Côte d’Ivoire, near
and those around the globe expressed the great many years ago but came to the city of Man. Heavy rains
appreciation of God’s people for such a positive, the Feast this year. did not bother the members
inspirational experience during this Feast. Church services consisted this year because, to the
Compared to last year, a larger number of of prerecorded video great joy of the brethren,
brethren were able to attend the Feast in-person sermons. Many social the new church building
at our U.S. sites. In Latin America it had been two activities revolved around was completed in time for
years since many of our brethren had been able to the beach. the Feast.
worship God together at the Feast. Etienne Bruno Minka The members were
With our total numbers of those attending the encouraged by the
Feast (either in person or virtually) approaching La Mé, restoration to health of an
12,000, we know that God was pleased as His CÔTE D’IVOIRE older woman, who had been
quite sick at the start of the
people lifted their voices together, singing praises
to Him for His truth, His plan and His care for His In Côte d’Ivoire there were Feast. Since there was no
people during these challenging times. two Festival sites, 400 miles elder present to anoint her,
Whether attending one of our sites with dozens apart. In the rural village of all the members gathered to
or even hundreds of brethren, or connecting La Mé, near the economic pray for her in her house on
virtually from their homes, God’s people were able capital of Abidjan, 14 people the second day of the Feast.
to participate in this commanded assembly to gathered from various She was well the next day
renew the wonderful vision of the world tomorrow locations around the south of and able to fully participate
that the Feast brings to God’s elect every year. the country to keep the Feast in the rest of the Feast.
Doug Horchak of Tabernacles. We listened We listened to recorded
to prerecorded sermons and sermons each day. This
enjoyed fellowship. Many of was made possible by the
AFRICA kitchen team in very
the brethren don’t see each
other very often.
hall having recently been
connected to the electrical
Spartan circumstances.
BURUNDI The simple fact of eating
In Mugina, Burundi, one two or three times a day
of the smallest and poorest is all that is needed to
countries in Africa, 450 have a bountiful physical
people celebrated the Feast Feast. Special music
in our large church hall, was provided by several
near the borders of the congregational chorales.
Congo and Rwanda. Other activities
Services were held every included cultural dances
day in Kirundi, the local and outdoor games for
language, and meals were the children. The Feast
provided to the brethren was most enjoyable,
through the efforts of a and we send thanks KENYA
4 One Accord cogwa.org
grid, another blessing and the Feast. Many members were again unable to (Bushman’s River Mouth).
joy. We enjoyed eating stayed locally in tents meet this year. This is Services were held in an
well each day thanks to provided by the Church. due not only because of old historical sheet metal
assistance sent from the Due to the pandemic and COVID-19 restrictions on building called the James
United States. It was a very government restrictions, meetings, but also because Ford Hall, built in 1925, in
spiritually uplifting Feast. churches had been limited of government regulations the small seaside resort of
Séussié Bleu on the number of attendees. on nonrecognized Kasouga, which means “The
This led to our having church groups. We have Place of Many Leopards.”
D.R. CONGO two locations this year, as been working on legal Many of the local farmers
opposed to one larger site. recognition since the 1990s. have wild game on their
In the Democratic Republic Members attending Each time we get close to property, so spotting
of the Congo, 202 members both sites were able to get completing the process, oribi, bushbuck and other
attended the Feast in together on Family Day and there are more hurdles antelopes was possible
Kinshasa at the Church’s visit the Thimlich Ohinga placed in front of us, and as one drove around the
rented hall. There were about archaeological site. Thimlich then the law changes and area. The average daily
that many more people Ohinga was designated a we have to start over. We temperature was 22 Celsius
gathered in four other rural Kenyan national monument continue to work on it, and (72 Fahrenheit), with a most
areas of central Congo. on April 6, 1982, and added we hope with God’s blessing welcome warm peak for
Sermonettes were given to the list of UNESCO World to be recognized soon. Family Day with its outdoor
live, followed by recorded Heritage Sites in 2018. So, this year again, games.
video sermons. Thimlich Ohinga refers to members stayed home The spiritual food
The members in the a “frightening dense forest” and listened to sermons provided in the sermons
Congo particularly in the Dholuo language. transferred onto memory and sermonettes focused on
appreciated eating three Built of loose stones and cards and played either on the need for us to continue
meals a day. Many residents blocks without any dressing a phone or other speaker on in our spiritual journeys
of Kinshasa have to work or mortar, the enclosure has device. The solitude our and qualify to help all of
all day to have enough walls ranging in height from 1 brethren in Rwanda mankind in God’s soon-
money for dinner, usually to 4.2 meters (3.3 to 13.8 feet). experience by not being coming Kingdom.
their only meal of the day. We also combined the able to meet with each other Many activities had
Having breakfast, lunch two locations for the Last is a very difficult trial. been planned by the three
and dinner provided a very Great Day service and Jean-Marie Mundeli families who live in the
satisfying physical Feast enjoyed a meal of goat and area. There was a braai
in addition to the spiritual chicken with ugali (a stiff Kasouga, (barbecue) on Family Day,
food we enjoyed.
Justin Tshikuma Manenga
maize porridge). This meal
was sponsored in part by
SOUTH AFRICA and numerous meals were
had in local restaurants,
the Houston North, Texas, In 2021 over 40 brethren with a hamburger evening
KENYA congregation. It was a from all over South and a pizza evening.
wonderful time with an Africa celebrated God’s For the ladies only, a high
Jambo from Kenya! abundance of both physical Feast of Tabernacles in tea was held with fancy
Over 200 members in food and spiritual food. the Eastern Cape. This dresses, eats and games. For
Kenya attended the Feast Tim Waddle included the elderly and the more adventurous,
of Tabernacles in two families with children there was horse riding
locations, Got Kachola RWANDA of all ages. The members along the beach.
and Ochuna. Everyone stayed in the villages of It was good for the brethren
was happy to be together Sadly, we must report that Kenton-on-Sea, Boknes to meet and socialize again
to worship and celebrate in Rwanda, our brethren and Boesmansriviermond in such beautiful pastoral
GOKWE, ZIMBABWE GWERU, ZIMBABWE
November/December 2021 5
surroundings. As is oft said, spiritual atmosphere as we of Tabernacles within their Our brethren here live
“It was the best Feast ever!” fellowshipped and rejoiced local community. On Sept. 19 under impoverished
Rob Scott before our great God. my wife and I traveled to join conditions that have
Sprits remained high them, towing a trailer with been made worse by
Uvongo, throughout the eight days, provisions for 115 people! the pandemic. But
SOUTH AFRICA but as usual, the time
passed far too rapidly.
Fortunately, the gravel road
had been recently graded
thankfully, Gokwe has
not been affected by
The coastal town of Uvongo Neville Smith and leveled, so the journey COVID-19 sickness. God
was one of two Feast sites in was quicker and more has protected us and
South Africa. Temperatures TOGO pleasant than usual. nourished us spiritually
were a lot cooler than in We bought a heifer, goats and physically.
previous years, due to In the West African nation and chickens. We had We thank our great God
the Feast occurring in of Togo, 17 people kept the already bought milk, sugar, for the wonderful time we
September, a few weeks Feast in the city of Kpalimé rice, flour and sweets for the had. And we are deeply
earlier than usual. in the cool highlands of children. Members brought grateful to the Eternal
Because of COVID the country. There were no chickens, vegetables, mealie God, our leadership and
restrictions, we had planned health restrictions on our meal and other foods. These our pastors that we can
to meet in groups of 50 services and activities. We may seem like basic items, now worship God under
on alternate days, but our were able to meet and enjoy but here they make the the roof of our own church
prayers were answered the whole Feast all together. Feast really enjoyable. We building.
when, a few days prior to the Sermonettes were given live also brought a freezer, a Steve Tshabalala
commencement of the Feast, by Guy Ahialegbedzi and generator, tents and lights.
these restrictions were lifted. Pierre Kloutsé, followed by I gave messages on the Gweru,
The average attendance
was in the upper 60s, with a
recorded sermons.
On most days, there were
opening night and first
day, as we did not have
ZIMBABWE
high attendance of 78. afternoon and evening the equipment to play Again this year the Feast
Due to the uncertainty activities, including Bible the Feast message by Jim was held near the town
of the restrictions, the only studies on the books of Franks. I then “translated” of Gweru at the Baptist
organized activity was Leviticus and 1 and 2 sermons by Mr. Franks, Conference Centre. The
the traditional lunch for Timothy. There were also Doug Horchak and Britton Feast was exciting, with 71
the senior brethren. This, classes on subjects like Taylor into simpler English on the opening night. The
however, allowed for more time management and and gave them with the highest attendance was 92.
individual fellowship and understanding Roman assistance of our deacons, Activities included Family
family time together. numerals. There were also who translated them into Day, a dinner and dance, a
We had a shortage of Bible games and a talent show. the local Shona language. sing-along and get-togethers
assigned speakers this This was the most Our deacons and leaders for the ladies, singles and
year because of the travel refreshing Feast of also gave sermonettes young married couples. The
restrictions that are still in Tabernacles celebrated in about endurance, prayer climax of the Feast was the
place, but it was a blessing Togo for a very long time. and the world to come in baptisms of 12 people who
to have the recorded Guy Ahialegbedzi the local language. had been counseling for
sermons from headquarters, Sports day was a baptism since last year. The
which were viewed on Gokwe, highlight of the Feast, with Blessing of Little Children
alternate days. young and old playing was another special event.
There was one baptism ZIMBABWE soccer and volleyball. On the Last Great Day the
midway through the Feast, Once again, our brethren in We also had a dinner and Feast choir sang “The Spirit
which certainly added to the Gokwe held a separate Feast dance one evening. and the Bride Say Come.”
KASOUGA, SOUTH AFRICA SRI LANKA
6 One Accord cogwa.org
Food throughout the eight online webcast, watching were also blessed with one in these perilous times. We
days was plentiful and varied, from their homes or hotel baptism on the third day of continually pray for God’s
something many are able to rooms, while 61 members the Feast. Kingdom to come, when there
enjoy only at the Feast. were able to enjoy in- Eriz Dizon and will be eternal peace, joy and
Due to a faulty computer, person services. Beltran Sison happiness on this earth.
I could not download the The brethren appreciated Rodney Vanheer
recorded sermons from the Festival video messages SRI LANKA
Ministerial Services. So, the
deacons and I gave sermons
sent by the headquarters
office. These sermons Our Heavenly Father
CARIBBEAN
based on the examples of formed the core of our provided us with a great
Bible characters, things to Festival messages. spiritual Feast in Sri Lanka, BARBADOS
avoid in this present world Almost every day as He also blessed all the
and what the world tomorrow members fellowshipped brethren around the world. The Feast of Tabernacles in
will be like. On the Last Great online via Zoom after The Feast was held at the Barbados was held again
Day the sermon focused on services. We also had online White Haven Hotel in this year at the Barbados
the three resurrections. activities, including preteen Panadura and was attended Beach Club, which had
The morning after the games, singles’ activities by more than a dozen recently undergone some
Last Great Day the bus to and a family night. brethren. We were blessed much-appreciated upgrades
transport the brethren back The Bacolod City Feast to have the whole hotel to that greatly improved
to their homes left at around site and the Tacloban ourselves. the environment inside
6 in the morning. satellite site were truly Due to the COVID-19 the meeting hall. The
Harris Hlazo successful—our best ever restrictions, the brethren upgrades also favored the
during the pandemic. had not been able to local COVID-19 protocol
ASIA/PACIFIC In addition to the
services, all of us younger
fellowship as we usually
do at Sabbath services. So
requirements, providing
adequate space for social
and older “kids” enjoyed being able to be together for distancing.
PHILIPPINES our Family Day at the the Feast after such a long In total, about 60 brethren
Magikland theme park. We time made the Feast a time kept the Feast in person,
For the second time in the had almost exclusive use of of great rejoicing. attending on alternate days.
history of the Church of God the park because we went in We had wonderful Most of the attendees
in the Philippines, the Feast the middle of the week. weather with a few stayed in close proximity to
of Tabernacles was observed We also had a family intermittent showers. We each other.
in two formats. The islands outing to a nearby farm were able to have a very The atmosphere was
of Luzon and Mindanao with all-you-can-eat durian, enjoyable karaoke night warm and amicable as
had online services via durian ice cream and with the brethren singing we all pitched in to make
Facebook webcasting, while rambutan. The owner of the their hearts out. We were things work. Our local A/V
the Visayas region was able farm enjoyed our games also able to put on a variety team transmitted services
to successfully observe and shouting. He also show, and the youngsters from Barbados each day,
the Feast with in-person wondered why it didn’t rain excelled in displaying their and messages were a good
services. during our outing, when God-given talents. mix of on-site speakers
The online service was for more than a week, it had The Feast was great and and recorded sermons.
available to all brethren, rained every afternoon! fulfilling due to the very The special music was
in and out of the country, The messages were inspiring sermons to which thoroughly enjoyed by all.
who registered to view wonderful, inspiring and we listened. The messages Considering the current
the service. A total of encouraging, as were the fortified us spiritually, helping pandemic, the two events
180 kept the Feast via the special music pieces. We us prepare to stay faithful hosted this year were well-
PHILIPPINES TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
November/December 2021 7
attended. The first was a four- West Indies. Usually these in adequate amounts to take coast affectionately known
hour catamaran cruise along members keep the Feast us to the Passover and Days as the “English riviera.” The
the west coast with stops to in mainland France, but of Unleavened Bread—if weather was unseasonably
explore a sunken shipwreck because of the pandemic, indeed we reflected and left warm and sunny, and our
and to swim with leatherback travel difficulties and other nothing important behind! spacious meeting hall at
sea turtles. A full lunch with factors, this year they We hope that all of you the Imperial Hotel gave a
beverages was served as the gathered in a large rented had a most uplifting Feast wonderful setting for us
brethren enjoyed a selection house on the seafront in as well and that God may to rejoice and appreciate
of local music. the region of Anses d’Arlet. continue to watch over you fellowship.
The second event was a They listened to and your family. Feast activities were
tour of St. Nicholas Abbey, recorded sermons and Natasha Reid-Barthelmy organized by families and
a 360-year-old sugar and enjoyed eating meals of included two meals at the
rum processing facility.
The tour began with a train
fresh fish. They had access
to a swimming pool and EUROPE oldest pub in Torquay, the
Hole in the Wall.
ride behind an original, to the sea for recreation The messages included
restored steam engine built and had a very enjoyable FRANCE AND several inspiring and
in 1914. Then, after a tour and spiritually SWITZERLAND helpful videos from
of the plantation house encouraging Feast. Jim Franks and other
and factory, there was rum James Muir We had a unique site in headquarters personnel;
tasting and an opportunity French Europe, where nine one from visiting Twin
to fellowship over snacks. TRINIDAD AND members gathered in the Cities, Minnesota, elder
Services on the Last Great
Day ran smoothly and had
TOBAGO village of Cuncy-lès-Varzy
in central France, between
David Witt; and several
from Festival elder
a good turnout. We were There were nine of us in Dijon and Orleans. Four Peter Hawkins.
appreciative of the inspiring attendance in Trinidad and members remained in We look forward to
messages and went away Tobago. On the opening Switzerland, because of welcoming overseas
with lots to meditate on and night we tuned into Myrtle COVID-19 concerns and visitors back with us
implement in our lives. Beach, South Carolina, where were connected by Internet next year.
The only thing we missed Don Henson admonished to the daily services. Peter Hawkins
was being able to fellowship the audience, “Don’t leave We enjoyed a mix of
with more of our brothers
and sisters from other
anything important behind
when you leave the Feast.”
live sermons and others
prerecorded for the occasion. LATIN AMERICA
countries. We pray that next During the Feast, we God blessed the brethren here
year international travel heard from David Jackson, with warm, sunny weather COLOMBIA
can be safer and easier. In who laid out for us the most of the time. Everyone
any case, we look forward choices we have in this enjoyed the fellowship This year 92 people
to next year’s Feast and the walk and told us to choose. afforded by this welcome gathered in El Rodadero,
equally important holy days We also heard from Mark opportunity to recharge our with gratitude to God
that come in between. Winner, Paul Suckling, spiritual batteries. for the opportunity to
Derek Olalehe Leon Walker, DJ Haney, James Muir celebrate this Feast in
Ron Kelley, Zach Smith person. Since the Feast in
MARTINIQUE and others. UNITED KINGDOM 2019 we had not been able
Apart from the physical to all be together except
Ten members celebrated food that we partook of, A total of 27 brethren via Zoom.
the Feast on the island of dare I say, in abundance, we enjoyed a cozy family Feast Activities focused on
Martinique in the French were surely filled spiritually in Torquay, Devon, on the fellowship and learning
what others had faced in
this pandemic. It was very
uplifting and positive to
have this opportunity
In reality, it was
difficult to plan the
activities because we
did not know what the
government’s pandemic
protocols would be. We
started the Feast with
certain limitations, and
surprisingly, on the
BARBADOS Sabbath during the Feast,
8 One Accord cogwa.org
the government decided This year the children, electronic equipment was and fellowship in San
to relax the measures even youth and adults were again prepared, and we were Miguel de Allende.
more. This allowed us to truly happy, as commanded ready to stream all the We had brethren from
enjoy an in-person activity— in Deuteronomy 16:14-15. messages inspired by God. the United States, Chile,
fun family bingo—that had Christian fellowship was not Contingency plans were Guatemala, Holland
been planned to be virtual. lacking. We spent the Feast provided in each temporary and Peru, which gave an
The spiritual food was together in unity, as Psalm dwelling and in each place international flavor to the
varied, with sermons from 133 says, with members of transmission, so that Feast. Several enriched
several ministers—Jim from Mexico, Chile, the any setbacks or failures our services with beautiful
Franks, Doug Horchak and Dominican Republic, would not prevent us from special music.
Saúl Langarica—in addition Guatemala, Panama and enjoying the spiritual food The activities were varied
to the local minister. The the United States. Our high and a wonderful Feast of and enjoyable, and the
attendees expressed their attendance was 89. Tabernacles and Last messages were uplifting
great satisfaction with We welcomed the Great Day. reminders of the future
the spiritual knowledge presence of Ralph Levy and We had an average of we look forward to in the
they received. Jim Franks and his wife, 94 connections, with a Kingdom of God. The
An important event was Sharron. Their messages total of 467 participants. brethren were particularly
the baptisms of three ladies: were very helpful and God provided the means happy to be able to see
Myriam Vargas, Andrea inspiring. and also the joy. The each other once again, after
Pozo and Daniela Gómez. We thoroughly enjoyed preparation was essential almost two long years.
This was a source of joy and the Feast. It highlighted to offset some setbacks Activities included a
happiness for everyone. the vision of the Kingdom and allow us to enjoy the talent show, lunches for the
This Feast reminded us of God, communication services, Bible studies and elderly, daily Bible classes
of what a blessing it is to be between us, peace, discussions, where we for children, lunch with
together, worshipping and tranquility, health and shared experiences, online fun activities in a nearby
serving our great Creator. affection between all dinners, a ladies’ night for park, a hot air balloon
God’s mercy was manifest families. We give infinite the speech club, and a talent ride, a 10-kilometer bike
in His protection and care thanks to God and to all the night. In all of these, the ride, an outing with pool
for us in our travels and our people who made this year’s members exhibited truly activities, a delicious roast
time at the Feast. Feast in El Salvador possible. inspiring and motivating beef dinner cooked by
We are grateful to God Eleodoro Ávila personal projects and skills. Church members, a chess
for having given us this Once again, we felt close tournament, an activity
wonderful Feast. Today more GUATEMALA to one other, excited, happy, for married couples and a
than ever, our prayer is: Your motivated, renewed and baptism. We also had three
Kingdom come soon! With dedication and care, accompanied by the Spirit wedding engagements.
María Mercedes de the members in Guatemala of God. Many members enjoyed
Hernández arranged appropriate places Fernando López the good food, shops and
to celebrate the Feast of winding, cobbled streets
EL SALVADOR our great God. Without a MEXICO of this historic city. Many
specific location, families commented that they
We celebrated the Feast of prepared to keep the Feast Once again, God granted could see why UNESCO
Tabernacles at the Hotel completely online in the us our best Feast ever! A proclaimed it a world
Tesoro Beach, Costa del places God allowed them total of 287 joyful brethren heritage site in 2008.
Sol. It was a wonderful to dwell. All the necessary enjoyed in-person services God provided us with
Feast that couldn’t have a very large meeting hall
been better. We had God’s that allowed us to practice
protection and blessing social distancing and have
every day. There were no no cases of COVID-19.
issues related to COVID. (We’ve already reserved it
It was a festival of sun, for 2022.)
sand and sea added to the God truly gave us our
most important thing: best and most successful
the inspiration of God in Feast! We have been greatly
sermonettes, sermons, encouraged in these times
prayers and special music. of great global pain and
It was 46 years ago that sadness. This Feast was a
we celebrated the first Feast true joy, and we anticipate
of Tabernacles in Central the great future that awaits
America—in a hotel only 1 us in the Kingdom of God.
kilometer from this site! GUATEMALA Larry Roybal
November/December 2021 9
PERU activity that includes songs, in their own countries. could not be in the usual
dances, games, gifts and Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, hotel. Instead, they all stayed
After two years of being many goodies. The beach Uruguay and Brazil each in cabins and met in the
cut off from each other afternoon brought together had their own sites for the meeting hall we have used on
due to quarantines and a large majority of those Feast. Only some brethren previous occasions in Sierra
restrictions, 171 attendees attending the Feast. (Due to from Chile were able to de la Ventana. They had
experienced an exciting the pandemic, we only had travel abroad. In-person some live services and were
Feast of Tabernacles, one family who came to visit attendance was: connected to the webcast
foreshadowing the future us from the United States.) • Chile: 498 from Chile for the rest.
and glorious millennial One event that gave us • Argentina: 104 In Bolivia, Brazil and
Kingdom of God. great joy was the baptisms • Bolivia: 23 Uruguay, the brethren
The eight days of joyous of four new members in • Uruguay: 14 met in beautiful places
inspiration and fellowship the faith: Félix Salazar, • Brazil: 10 and enjoyed the holy Feast
began with an exciting Nieves Cano, Alejandrina Each of the sites reported immensely. Even within
opening service message de Mamani and Patricia a wonderful Feast. the same country, some of
given by Carlos Saavedra, Portilla. In Lican Ray, Chile, the brethren do not have
our pastor in Peru. In This was an extraordinary we had the highest the opportunity to see
addition to having the video Feast. We thank our God attendance ever—and due to each other during the year.
sermon from Jim Franks, we and Father, as well as our government regulations, we Therefore, it was a wonderful
also had sermons by Ralph minister, his wife and his had to separate the whole blessing to see each other
Levy, who was present for team of collaborators. The group into two smaller and worship God together.
the second half of the Feast. joy that God asks for in His groups to alternate for in- In each of the sites a
This year we had two Feast was more than fulfilled. person services. coordinator was appointed
family dances and a dinner Fredy Cáceres It was a blessing that all to make the Feast orderly
and dance for couples. The the ministers of Chile could and harmonious, following
ladies enjoyed an afternoon SOUTHERN be in the same place. This the established program for
of games, food, desserts and SOUTH AMERICA hadn’t happened in years. services and activities. The
pleasant company. There This, among other things, coordinators were Alfredo
was an activity for the youth A month and a half before made the Feast very special. Arboleas for Argentina,
and a special afternoon for the Feast of Tabernacles, All services were broadcast Jaime Zagal Junior for
our older members. we were still not sure if through Zoom, Facebook Bolivia, Claudio Ugarte for
The speech club evening we could have in-person and cogwa.tv. This allowed Brazil, and Marcos Severo
allowed members to show services because, due to the the other Feast sites in our for Uruguay. Many thanks
the progress they had made pandemic, there were still region to connect to services to them for their valuable
throughout the year. We restrictions on traveling and and activities in real time. service to the brethren.
recognized five members congregating. Suddenly, in It gave us a feeling of unity The atmosphere of the Feast
who graduated, after a miraculous way, the doors and enabled almost constant was one of great brotherhood,
successfully completing the opened so that we could communication with the unity, peace and a strong
12 lessons. travel and gather for the brethren throughout the desire that the Feast be
Activities also include Feast of God. region, including those special. And it was. Attendees
the long-awaited talent Although we could meet who could not attend the agreed that this was a long-
night—full of color, lights, in person, restrictions on Feast in person. awaited Feast, after not
sounds, rhythms and crossing borders continued. Due to the economic having it in person last year.
joyful cordiality—and For this reason, the vast situation of the country, Near the end of the Feast
the children’s traditional majority of members stayed the brethren in Argentina in Lican Ray, six baptisms
COLOMBIA
10 One Accord cogwa.orgwere performed: David Branson, coming Kingdom of God Florida, was again held
Villar, Luis Díaz, Tomas
Espinoza, Sergio Rojas, MISSOURI refreshed in their memories.
Mike Blackwell
at the Holiday Inn by the
Gulf Coast Town Center.
Gloria Yávar and Diego Over 600 members While we did have our share
Bayolo. Welcome to the celebrated the Feast of Cincinnati, of thunderstorms move
Body of Christ! Tabernacles in the beautiful through the area, there
This Feast of Tabernacles hills of Branson, Missouri. OHIO/NORTHERN was still enough sunshine
was definitely inspired and This year we returned to the KENTUCKY and good weather to enjoy
directed by God. He gave us theater where we started in the Fort Myers area and
all great spiritual energy to Branson 26 years ago. Spirits This was the second beaches.
be able to continue on His were high as members from year a Feast was held at We were fortunate to
path for another year. around the United States the Cincinnati, Ohio/ have Jim Franks for the
celebrated with old friends Northern Kentucky site, beginning of the Feast. Mr.
Saúl Langarica and made new ones. with a high attendance Franks spoke on both the
UNITED STATES
Members were treated to of approximately 100 opening night and then
a wonderful diet of spiritual brethren. Services were again on the first holy day.
AND CANADA food by the speakers. All the
messages were “right on,”
once again held in the lovely
ballroom of the Holiday Inn
His opening night message
set the tone for the rest of
focusing on the reality of Airport. Because this was a the Feast as he encouraged
Anchorage, the Kingdom and our part satellite site, five out of the us to find hidden treasures,
ALASKA in it, as well as preparing for
the exciting future. Special
10 services were webcasts
received from the Orange
both physically and
spiritually, during this
The natural beauty of music was truly special—at Beach, Alabama, site. year’s Feast.
Alaska served as a perfect each service we were able to Although no Church- Some of the Family Day
backdrop for the Feast of have live performances, with sponsored activities were activities included the Edison
Tabernacles 2021. About several solos and several held, members enjoyed and Ford Museum, the
370 attendees enjoyed numbers by a Feast quintet. many of the local attractions. Naples Zoo, and a dolphin
God’s Feast and all that Though planned activities A highlight of the Feast was cruise on the Gulf of Mexico.
this beautiful area of the were greatly curtailed, a very evident spirit of love, The many restaurants, the
country has to offer. there was plenty to do in peace and cooperation, beautiful white sand beaches,
Members were fed a Branson. Teens enjoyed a along with warm fellowship and the islands of Sanibel
wonderful spiritual diet Polynesian luau and games among the brethren, as they and Captiva were just a few
every day. In addition, at Table Rock State Park, rejoiced in the meaning of of the physical blessings
glacier boat tours, rugged and preteens and families these special days. the brethren enjoyed at this
mountains and a plethora were able to visit and mix at Lyle Welty year’s Feast.
of wildlife made for a most an afternoon of miniature While the days seemed
memorable feast for the eyes. golf where we had the whole Fort Myers, to come and go quickly,
A highlight for this Feast
was our Family Day and
course to ourselves.
Weather was beautiful,
FLORIDA everyone seemed to have a
spiritually uplifting Feast,
dinner at Kincaid Park, a with rain the night after The 2021 Feast of and many were already
former Cold War missile the first holy day and nice Tabernacles in Fort Myers, talking about coming back
site. The activity was temperatures and sunshine
completely organized by the rest of the Feast.
members of the Homer, Everyone was in good
Alaska, congregation. spirits and stayed healthy
They put together indoor for the most part. We did
and outdoor games for have a few colds, but no
people of all ages and incidents of COVID-19
provided a sumptuous we are aware of, either at
meal of chicken and grilled the Feast or afterward.
Alaskan salmon that was For that, we are extremely
enjoyed by all. thankful. Though many
Members left this Feast were disappointed that we
in Alaska having truly weren’t able to have most
rejoiced to the full for the activities, everyone was
eight days. All look forward positive and supportive of
to the next opportunity to our approach.
keep God’s Feast in the Last Everyone went home with
Frontier—Alaska! their spiritual tanks refilled
Jon Pinelli and having the vision of the ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
November/December 2021 11next year. Many even made Lancaster, Mont-Sainte-Anne, Myrtle Beach,
the claim that this was their
best Feast ever! PENNSYLVANIA QUÉBEC SOUTH CAROLINA
Tom Schultz Around 250 gathered Fall foliage along the St. Smiling faces, warm
for this year’s Feast of Lawrence River and historic conversation and a
Kohala Coast, Tabernacles at the award- Old Québec provided a mix consistent spiritual diet
HAWAII winning Eden Resort in
Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
of natural beauty and rich
culture for 30 Feastgoers
were the headlines at the
Feast in Myrtle Beach,
Over 400 enjoyed the Many positive comments gathered at Mont-Sainte- South Carolina, this year.
beautiful Hawaiian shore were shared regarding the Anne this year. The daily The weather provided
of Kohala Coast and the messages and uplifting services, family atmosphere ample opportunity to enjoy
Big Island of Hawaii for the music. Our room setup was and close fellowship enjoyed the beach, be it on Family
Feast this year. closer to normal this year. by all provided a much- Day or some other.
Like several of our sites, The use of two neighboring needed spiritual recharge. Hundreds gathered each
we had a few challenges to ballrooms plus a smaller Services were held at the day for services, and all
overcome. Local restrictions overflow room provided Delta Hotels by Marriott, enjoyed afternoons and
limited the number of people more spacious seating. Mont-Sainte-Anne, a four- evenings, taking in area
gathering in one location. Over 90 attendees star hotel and home to a activities and restaurants.
So, we divided into two watched the Queen Esther newly renovated conference This was once again a
groups for in-person services, show at the Sight & Sound center. A network of hiking Feast for families to spend
alternating every other day. Theatre, despite this being trails and a chairlift provided quality time together
However, these the second consecutive access to spectacular enjoying one another’s
inconveniences did not year for this show. Also, views of the fall colors. The company while looking
dampen the enthusiasm of about 75 signed up for our “gourmand” tour to the forward to the time in the
our services, fellowship and first official Family Day Island of Orleans included future when everyone will
activities. We were able to activity at the Cherry Crest stops at apple orchards, an keep the Feast.
have our sunset reception Adventure Farm, which artisanal bakery, an artisanal Mark Winner
on the beach and the two offered a variety of family- cheese maker, and a special
holy day luncheons. Half friendly activities and food chocolate shop. In Québec New Braunfels,
of our attendees also sailed
on two charter boat trips
for everyone’s enjoyment.
Another 75 participants,
City brethren walked along
one of the oldest streets in
TEXAS
for snorkeling along the or aspiring entertainers, North America and climbed After a two-year absence,
Big Island coast. And teens joined a lively karaoke the Casse-Cou staircase this year the Texas Feast
had a pizza party and lawn night. We also had more to the Château Frontenac. site returned to New
games afternoon. than 100 who partook of the During a relaxing game Braunfels—a medium-sized
Families enjoyed the senior luncheon and more night, a member from city located approximately
warm weather, natural than 200 who enjoyed the Montréal offered a chess 30 miles north of San
beauty of the Big Island and Last Great Day luncheon. lesson while some played Antonio. The area is
one another’s fellowship, Unfortunately, after board games. renowned for its German
in spite of a few local the Feast quite a few Mont-Sainte-Anne was a heritage, abundant
restrictions and the COVID-19 cases were picturesque setting for the housing and water-based
challenges of traveling this reported. Hopefully, this Feast, offering a foretaste recreational opportunities.
year. We plan to have the won’t be a factor next year. of the peace that will begin We met in a facility that
Feast again next year on the Overall, the feedback was to change the world at the was newer and smaller
Big Island of Hawaii. overwhelmingly positive. return of Jesus Christ. than the facilities of
David Register Kevin Epps Daniel Harper previous years, but we were
comfortable in the hall
(with socially distanced
seating) because fewer
people attended than
registered. Although
cases of the coronavirus
were high in the area, at
the time of this writing, it
appears that none of our
members contracted it
while at the Feast.
This year we had only
a few outdoor activities.
KOHALA COAST, HAWAII These included a teen
12 One Accord cogwa.orgactivity in which teens and local food bank, sponsored enjoy a well-prepared after services, enjoying the
their parents could tour an by Foundation Outreach feast of messages throughout family atmosphere that was
underground cave, a golf International’s Hilltop the week. clearly present.
tournament, and a Family Program. This year we The weather was supposed The Feast in Tucson
Day activity in which raised over $8,000 in to be in the upper 90s to was a great success, and
families could drive their addition to donations of 100 degrees, but as the thanksgiving goes to God,
own vehicles on a Texas- food and sundry items. Feast started, we had lower who called us to be there to
style safari through a large The operator of the food temperatures—in the upper share it together.
game reserve featuring bank has repeatedly told 80s and lower 90s with a nice Paul Carter
many animals from Africa. us that we are their single cloud cover on certain days.
With a less demanding highest contributor each Tucson was the greenest it Woodbury,
schedule of activities than
in previous years, members
year. They refer to us as
their “visiting angels.”
has been in decades, due to
the recent monsoon season.
MINNESOTA
took advantage of the Phil Sandilands It rained occasionally Woodbury, Minnesota, was
opportunities to host other at night and on one day once again a satellite site
brethren in their homes, RApid City, during the Feast, but with for 18 members attending
join others for meals in
restaurants and tour the
SOUTH DAKOTA only light sprinkles or
showers. Members took
the Feast of Tabernacles.
The brethren stayed at the
surrounding area. The Black Hills of Rapid City, advantage of the outdoors, beautiful Residence Inn and
Throughout the Feast, South Dakota, welcomed with desert jeep tours, had services next door at the
members appreciated 648 brethren who gathered four-wheelers and hikes to Courtyard by Marriott. They
the many fine messages to observe God’s Feast of numerous places, as well as joined the webcast from
that focused on what Tabernacles. The messages driving to popular Mount Orange Beach every day and
conditions will be like in were encouraging and Lemmon. enjoyed all the very inspiring
the Millennium and what inspiring and pointed Golfers enjoyed the golf messages and special music.
we should be doing now to everyone to the future, when scramble on the beautiful, With the small group that
prepare for it. God will bring us all home. yet challenging, course was there, the attendees
David Treybig Many of the brethren came right at the Loews. Teens, as all enjoyed spending time
to services early and stayed well as adults and children, fellowshipping and having
Orange Beach, late just to fellowship and took advantage of the teen their meals together. They
ALABAMA enjoy one another’s company.
Many also ventured out to
activity at Funtasticks. Go-
carts, laser tag and bumper
were able to have several
dinner outings and also
Over 800 people enjoyed take in the natural beauty boats were among the enjoyed some catered meals
perhaps the best weather of Mount Rushmore, activities enjoyed by those at the hotel.
we have had since we began Custer State Park, Badlands who attended. The weather was beautiful
keeping the Feast in Orange National Park, Devils Many commented during the Feast, and many
Beach, Alabama. Tower National Monument, that one of the best parts of those attending enjoyed
The sermons and Needles Highway and, of of the Feast this year a painting activity, a trip to
sermonettes this year were course, the scenic byways of was the fellowship—the the Minnesota Arboretum
especially well-received. As the Black Hills. opportunity to simply be and an evening at a dinner
we faced a second year of Family Day was a huge together and enjoy what theater, where they enjoyed
dealing with the pandemic, success, as more than half God had prepared. That was watching a live presentation
the messages focused us on of those attending the Feast confirmed by the number of The Music Man.
looking forward to a world in Rapid City enjoyed the of people who came to It was a wonderful Feast
without disease. scenic train ride through services early and stayed for all!
Bright sunny skies allowed the beautiful Black Hills. up to an hour or more Larry Solomon
us to hold three outdoor Rapid City is truly a
activities, including a very fantastic family getaway for
successful Family Day at God’s Feast.
the Sportsplex with over Mark Whynaucht
300 people enjoying a
spectacular afternoon of fun Tucson,
and fellowship. The teens
had a memorable afternoon
ARIZONA
at Adventure Island and Tucson, Arizona, served as
were joined by others who the location for the “out West”
wanted to get in on the fun. Feast site in 2021. Nearly 400
Foundation Outreach members gathered daily at
International once again the Loews Ventana Resort,
had a food drive for the and others tuned in online, to TUCSON, ARIZONA
November/December 2021 132021 FEAST OF TABERNACLES ATTENDANCE
Because of COVID-19 and the abundance of webcasts, calculating Festival attendance this year was once
again a challenge. The numbers below represent the combined actual in-person attendance and estimated
webcast attendance for each site. We feel these numbers closely reflect the attendance worldwide.
Here are some of the factors that went into our calculations this year:
• For Feast sites that held alternating services (for instance, Alaska or Hawaii), we combined the highest in-
person attendance figures on opposite days but did not include any webcast numbers.
• For the remaining Feast sites, we used the highest in-person attendance figures and, if there was a
webcast, added the estimated webcast attendance (determined by using our normal formula of two
viewers per connection).
We admit that some of these numbers are simply best guesses, but if anything, they are probably low
guesses. The total worldwide attendance of 11,668 this year is slightly less than last year, but it is comparable.
AFRICA BARBADOS 90 ANCHORAGE 382
BURUNDI 450 GRANADA 3 BRANSON 686
CAMEROON 35 GUYANA 9 CINCINNATI 101
CÔTE D’IVOIRE 81 JAMAICA 58 FORT MYERS 177
D.R.CONGO 202 ST. KITTS 11 KOHALA COAST 486
GHANA 519 ST. LUCIA 3 LANCASTER 424
KENYA 228 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 9 MYRTLE BEACH 832
MALAWI 119 SCATTERED GROUPS 30 NEW BRAUNFELS 420
MAURITIUS 2 EUROPE ORANGE BEACH 963
NIGERIA 28 FRANCE 23 QUEBEC, CANADA 30
RWANDA 80 SWITZERLAND 13 RAPID CITY 764
SOUTH AFRICA 123 UNITED KINGDOM 81 TUCSON 551
TOGO 17 WOODBURY 18
SCATTERED GROUPS 7
ZAMBIA 146 TOTAL BY SITE 10,930
DVDS 78
ZIMBABWE 207
WEBCAST ONLY 15
ASIA/PACIFIC U.S. SHUT-INS (DVD) 150
LATIN AMERICA
AUSTRALIA 28 INTL. SHUT-INS (DVD) 324
FIJI 29 ARGENTINA 140
BOLIVIA 27 SCATTERED INTL. WEBCASTS 112
INDIA 48 VARIOUS OTHER 152
INDONESIA 3 BRAZIL 10
CHILE 528
KUWAIT/U.A.E.
MALAYSIA
5
6 COLOMBIA 114 TOTAL 11,668
MYANMAR 16 EL SALVADOR 89
NEW ZEALAND 105 GUATEMALA 467
PHILIPPINES 241 MEXICO 331 TO HEAR MESSAGES FROM THE
SINGAPORE 8 PERU 171
2021 FEAST OF TABERNACLES,
SRI LANKA 15 URUGUAY 16
GO TO
CARIBBEAN UNITED STATES AND CANADA
BAHAMAS 9 ALBERTA, CANADA 23 FEAST.COGWA.ORG
14 One Accord cogwa.orgChurch Potluck
What’s cooking in your congregation?
TALIA ALEKSA BAUER
After an 18-month long adoption journey, Sam, Stacie and
Wynter Bauer are excited to welcome Talia Aleksa Bauer (on
left in photo) into their family.
Talia was born on March 24, 2016, in Bulgaria. The Bauers
signed their agency contract for adoption in January 2020.
The family first “met” Talia via Zoom visits in February 2021.
Then on June 17, 2021, the family flew to Bulgaria, where they
spent nearly two weeks getting acquainted with their new
daughter.
On June 30 they flew home, where they could officially
begin their lives together as a family of four. After going
through the long process and countless prayers, Talia is
blessed to have a family of her own, and the Bauers are
grateful to welcome a new daughter.
Christa Miller
Photo by Natalie Ann Key
LOUISVILLE AND
HENDERSON HOLD
CHURCH PICNIC
Sunday, June 27, was hot and sunny,
but a nice breeze blew through the
covered shelter in Garry Cavan
Park in Georgetown, Indiana, as the
Louisville and Henderson, Kentucky,
congregations gathered for a picnic.
This was our first social without
restrictions since the pandemic,
and everyone was eager to share
fellowship, games and good food. As
one excited picnicker said, “This is
the first time we have shared a meal
together in over a year.”
The young adults did the hot work
of grilling chicken, hamburgers and
hot dogs, while others set up tables,
laid out the rest of the meal, kept the
children busy with games, and talked
and laughed together. The picnic was
so successful that most of us stayed
until the very end.
Carolyn Winner
November/December 2021 15MACON RECOGNIZES
ANNIVERSARIES
On the Sabbath of Aug. 14, the Macon, Georgia,
congregation recognized two significant wedding
anniversaries of members in the congregation.
Pandemic protocols had delayed the celebration.
Phil and Amelia Haynes (on left in photo) had their
50th anniversary in May 2021, and John and Gaynell
Duncan had their 60th anniversary in July 2021.
(Unfortunately, John Duncan was unable to attend
services on Aug. 14 due to health reasons.)
For the occasion, a former member of the Macon
congregation, Michael Barbeau traveled in to deliver the
sermonette. Everyone enjoyed a potluck meal following
services and a special three-tiered dessert tower,
featuring a cake, cake pops and mini cupcakes. Members
also brought wedding photos, and it was fun to share
and enjoy seeing everyone on their special wedding
day from years ago. Fellowship was enthusiastic and
encouraging, lasting well into the evening.
Stacie Yost
ROANOKE MEMBERS PICNIC
TOGETHER
On the Sabbath of June 26, the Roanoke, Virginia,
congregation came together for a wonderful day of simply
being together. Since we missed being able to celebrate
Mother’s Day due to COVID restrictions still being in place
at the time, on this day we combined our Mother’s Day and
Father’s Day celebrations into one observance this year.
After the day’s services, everyone gathered at the Troutville
Town Park across the street from our meeting hall for an all-
out picnic with all the trimmings. The kids—and some adults—
all enjoyed playing on the park’s playground equipment, while
the rest prepared the meal at the picnic area or just sat around
together and caught up with each other. The “sitting around
together” part has been sorely limited and missed over the
past year, again, due to COVID restrictions, so this activity was
especially appreciated and enjoyed this day.
One of our members brought a super-sized grill from home,
which allowed the hamburgers and hot dogs to be cooked
all at once. So, with a loving group of chefs and hostesses all
diligently at work, we were ready to eat in no time.
And our Father couldn’t have blessed us with much better
weather. While it was a hot day, with temperatures in the 90s,
the occasional cloud provided shade, and a steady breeze kept
everyone reasonably cool under our shelter. As well, there was
no danger of afternoon storms at any time.
After having spent so much time keeping our distance from
each other and wearing masks, we were all so very thankful to
have been provided this beautiful day—when time seemed to
almost stop—so that we could just . . . be together.
Robert Worsham
16 One Accord cogwa.orgWHEELING SAYS FAREWELL
TO HENSONS
After nearly 24 years, Don and Rannie Henson’s time
with the Wheeling, West Virginia, congregation has
come to an end. The congregation celebrated the
bittersweet day on June 19, when the Hensons had their
last service in Wheeling.
Mr. Henson gave a wonderful sermon titled “Moving
On,” in which he shared three steps for moving on: we
must keep it simple (seek first the Kingdom), hold hands
(support each other), and keep moving forward (toward
the Kingdom of God). Our job is never done.
After the service, the Hensons were presented with a
few gifts, including a scrapbook filled with photos and
notes from the Wheeling members. The congregation
also enjoyed a light meal together. Fellowship lasted into
the evening.
Mr. and Mrs. Henson have certainly been wonderful
shepherds to the congregation over their many years of
service. They will be missed by the congregation, but
their memory and impact with be forever cherished.
Christa Miller
TRENTON ENJOYS A SABBATH
IN THE PARK
After missing a year of what has become an annual
event, the Trenton, Georgia, congregation was very much
anticipating their Sabbath in the park, which they enjoyed
with the blessing of good weather on June 12, 2021.
The park was the beautiful Cloudland Canyon State
Park, near Trenton, under a pavilion at the edge of the
dramatic canyon. A total of 11 Trenton attendees plus 17
guests gathered around picnic tables for services in a Bible
study format. There were actually four “mini studies,” each
presented by a different man. The theme for each was a
character in the Bible.
Jeff Duncan (from the Nashville, Tennessee, congregation)
informed us about the prophet Zechariah. Next Ryan Luecke
(of the Atlanta, Georgia, congregation) shared lessons from
Lazarus. Then Brandon Smith (of the Birmingham, Alabama,
congregation) discussed the life of the prophet Habakkuk.
Last, Trenton’s pastor, Paul Luecke, presented information
about Luke the historian. These studies greatly enhanced the
enjoyment of this outdoor Sabbath service.
Afterward, everyone enjoyed a picnic lunch with extended
fellowship time. Later, some walked the short trail along
the beautiful overlook of the dramatic canyon valley
below, while others just rested in the shade. Several stayed
for hours enjoying the wonderful weather and Sabbath
companionship of brethren. This Sabbath was certainly
enjoyed by all who attended and will be remembered as a
highlight of the summer for the Trenton, Georgia, brethren.
Annette Epperson
November/December 2021 17You can also read
