This year we were at the all-inclusive Iberostar Resort, which contains three hotels (Rose Hall Beach, Selection Suites and Grand), located on the same stretch of beach. Services for the 284 brethren were held in the Black River Theater and nearby Grand Ballroom (both in the Suites hotel). Webcasting was also available with an average of 15 daily connections. 

Sermonettes centered on aspects of the Isaiah 9:7 theme of God’s future government of justice and peace. Sermons focused on being ambassadors of God’s way of life now as we prepare for His Kingdom. KingsOne (the choir from the Kingston congregation) provided special music selections which richly seasoned services with local culture. Visiting members added to the hymns with recorder, clarinet and piano accompaniment.  

The Jamaican brethren live in three main areas on the island: Kingston in the southeast, Ocho Rios on the north coast and Montego Bay on the north coast closer to the airport. This year the brethren had the opportunity to come together and stay onsite at Iberostar Beach hotel for at least four nights, thanks to the very generous donations of our Families Helping Families program. This arrangement led to even more time together for food, fun and fellowship. One popular spot to visit was the nearby ice cream shop for mango sorbet, a fresh warm crepe or a chocolate milkshake!  

Highlights at the Feast included the traditional ladies’ mingle with gift exchange, widows’ tea, hymn sing, Festival youth instruction, the children’s choir, a baptism and a delicious buffet lunch together on the Eighth Day between services.  

Each of Iberostar’s hotels provided dining options, swimming pools, water sports, beach activities and areas to relax. Visiting brethren were able to go off property for afternoon tours to Dunn’s River Falls, enjoy snorkeling with a catamaran trip and take in local shopping. Several also went on the evening Luminous Lagoon tour, which shows the unique bioluminescence of the bay near Falmouth. When the sun has set, the water turns a sparkling blue when disturbed by the boat’s motor or the splash of a swimmer. 

God protected us this Feast in so many ways, and provided us with lovely tropical weather. We had much to be thankful for each and every day as we gathered together in His name. 

Jeff and Alisa Lockhart