Sunday, Sept. 23, 212 men and women, young and old began converging at the GSP site, including two visitors from Australia, two from Luzon and two from the Visayas. The weather was beautiful with warm, sunny days from the first day to the eighth.

Since the festival pictures worldwide restoration, healing and eventual rule of Christ on earth, morning and Holy Day services were devoted to an in-depth study of God’s plan of salvation for mankind. It was a time for spiritual feasting and fellowshipping with God.

Enjoyable activities included a fellowship night, the children’s, youth and singles’ activities, and the seniors’ social. Of course, the forums for the youth and singles, and for parents as well as the family/sports day, and the traditional fruit festival with plenteous delightful fruits greatly added flavor that day. The cultural variety show presentation highlighted the celebration.

One of the best things that happened during this year’s Feast of Tabernacles was the Piyesta sa Nayon (Feast in the Village) depicting the Filipinos’ propensity of giving their best whenever visitors come to their homes. Every non-Sabbath afternoon during the Feast, brethren were served the best native delicacies common to the different congregational areas in Mindanao. These afternoon snacks served more than enough opportunities for the brethren to enjoy and fellowship together in peace, harmony, and prosperity.

We were so blessed by and grateful for the Feast messages from Mr. Kubik and Dr. Ward, reminding us that we are strangers and pilgrims on the earth, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, we look to God’s Kingdom through faith.

Following afternoon services on the Eighth Day, we all sang the parting song, “United in Christ.” Most of the brethren were deeply touched and shed tears. Truly, this year was the “best Feast ever.” We all felt that we are part of God’s great family. This year’s Feast provided us with precious memories that last for a lifetime.