The Cincinnati Winter Family Weekend 2022 was a wonderful opportunity for God’s people to come together for a time of activities for everyone!

Winter was the word, as arctic storm “Elliott” pounded much of America and hindered many in their travels to Cincinnati. But the weather could not steal the joy of those attending despite the snow and the cold temperatures.

This year’s theme was “Your Next Step” focusing all to strive to “reach the mountain top” on this spiritual journey and to take the next step in our calling toward fulfilling God's great purpose.

The Holiday Inn Cincinnati North–West Chester was completely filled by Church members and bustled during the Sabbath, beginning with the Friday evening Bible study “Living God’s Purpose in Your Life” presented by Dr. Brian Hoselton.

Sabbath morning featured music from two musical groups with four seminars focusing on our theme. Beginning with “Baptism—The First Step!” presented by Marcus Lucas followed by “Rethinking Marriage” presented by Scott Delamater. After a musical interlude, “Our Purpose in the Church” was presented by Jacob Mammen, and Andy Lee finished the inspiring morning sessions with “Do All to the Glory of God.” Sabbath activities also included Youth Instruction for children of all ages as well.

Despite weather travel delays, Sabbath services were attended by about 700 people in person and well over 1,800 online connections to the webcast. They listened to United Church of God president Rick Shabi expound the theme of the weekend with his sermon “Three Books” supporting the key book that directs and guides our actions and thoughts—the Bible. Services also featured a variety of special music that included an inspiring teen choir that sang uplifting praises to God.

Evening activities included a family carnival night with game booths, giant board games, clowns and prizes for the children, all accompanied by live music. Throughout the weekend there were also several dances for teens and adults, family games, visual arts on display, and a live show featuring everyone’s favorite character—Jelly.

Sunday through Tuesday, hundreds of members played basketball and volleyball in round robin style tournament play at a nearby sports facility while scores of spectators cheered on the teams. Bible seminars were also well attended in the conference center.

A hit with children and adults were the giant inflatables available for fun throughout the weekend, including a bounce house, a huge obstacle course with slides and a sunken pirate ship to navigate along with other interactive inflatables. With all the various activities, there was certainly something for everyone!

Perhaps most importantly, throughout the entire weekend and between activities, brethren enjoyed the opportunity for fellowship. So, whether a person was athletic or not, part of a large family or single, old or young—spending time with our spiritual family was by far the primary reason for Winter Family Weekend.

Grateful thanks first go to God for His blessing and protection on the weekend and to Gregg and Rebekah Drury and the many volunteers who devoted hundreds of hours to make it possible.

The weekend exemplified “How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1).