Around 200 brethren met at the Prince of Wales Hotel on Lord Street in Southport in the northwest of England. Last time we used this hotel it had just come out of lockdown and was not looking its best. This time it had been freshened up as part of an ongoing process of refurbishment and was looking much brighter. Brethren seemed to appreciate the beautiful Victorian ballroom where services were held and the warm, friendly atmosphere.

In addition to those present in the meeting hall, there were between 20 to 25 connections on Zoom for each service.

Uplifting messages focused on the wonderful future for God’s people and special music provided by individuals, duos, trios and the choir enhanced the rejoicing. On the Friday evening at the beginning of the Eighth Day, brethren met together for a chance to choose and sing their favorite hymns.

A seminar on “Your Circle of Life,” presented by Greg Thomas, was well received and each attendee left with an outline of his or her personal mission statement to continue to work on. Enthusiastic participants enjoyed a women’s discussion on making the Sabbath a delight. Activities for children, teens and young adults were also arranged.

Dance sessions were well attended, including an instruction session on Scottish country dancing followed by a Ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) later in the week, and ballroom dancing practice prior to a Tea Dance. A coach trip to the picturesque Lake District gave an opportunity to view the attractive scenery further afield.