For many, Jekyll Island is almost synonymous with the Feast of Tabernacles, as the Feast has been observed on this Island dating back to 1963. Over the years, the “tabernacle” God’s people have met in here has evolved from a very large 2-acre tent, to a small convention center to the beautiful, state-of-the art convention center that we meet in today. But while the buildings have changed, the Spirit, the worship, the tranquil and millennial-type natural setting of the island and the purpose of assembling before our God for the Feast of Tabernacles has remained constant.

Supplementing daily church services, youth education classes were offered on two days of the Feast, a teen Bible study was presented on the topic of “The Church and You,” and the general Bible study clearly “painted the picture” of what God’s coming Kingdom will be like.   

“Family” was the theme of this year’s Feast activities. More than 400 attended Family Day in the Great Dunes Park, with its beautiful pavilion overlooking the wide, sandy beach. Everyone enjoyed a lunch of beef brisket or turkey sandwiches; families, youngsters and teens also enjoyed a beach scavenger hunt, kite flying, football and a sand-castle building contest.

The family dance and games night offered a variety of dances enjoyed by all ages. Line dancing seemed to be the “hit” of the evening as the huge dance floor was filled with teens and adults who created a spectacle of fun, all moving in unison while having a good time. Others admired their dancing talents, while still others enjoyed board games, cards, dominoes and other activities in an adjacent area.     

Early in the Feast, roller skating was on the “menu.” We had exclusive use of a roller skating rink for a few hours. Nearly 200 Feastgoers of all ages showed up and enjoyed the concessions, skating, and the opportunity to fellowship.

As usual, the senior citizens banquet was well-attended and received. Other activities that Feastgoers enjoyed on the island were dolphin boat tours, horseback rides on the beach, mini-golf and getting together in one another’s Feast homes or condos. No one at Jekyll could say they had nothing to do.

We are thankful to God for the experience of the Feast of Tabernacles each year. God blessed us with a good foretaste of the unity, peace, accord and great attitudes of service and joy that will mark His Kingdom. We hope that many more will take the opportunity to experience the Feast here, where God has placed His name for so many years.