2021 Feast of Tabernacles
Búzios, Brazil
For six Brazilians, it was their very first Feast, most of whom were newly baptized. In addition, it was also the first Feast for one of the U.S. members. Many others joined services by Zoom from Brazil, Canada, Portugal, Angola and Scotland.
Members from Maloca de Moscou also attended via Zoom and the highest count was 45 members on the Sabbath.
Services were given in English with a simultaneous Portuguese translation.
Many bridged the translation barrier by using the Google translate app, which proved to be an enormous help for communication and God’s Spirit was an evident binding force.
Many excellent and inspirational messages were delivered throughout the Feast. We were reminded that we were attending God’s school to learn to be leaders in the world tomorrow.
The introduction to the Feast covered why we need to keep God’s Holy Days. A positive “virtuous circle” was explained to ensure growth in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Messages painted a very vivid picture of how we are called to be the bride of Jesus Christ; how we need to have a servant-leadership attitude; and how universal love for all human beings will eventually permeate in the Millennium. God will create a paradise on earth, and He will use us to bring that about. The whole of mankind will have an opportunity to have their human nature changed to divine nature.
We were very blessed to have exceptional special music by talented people every day of the Feast, which included the English-speaking Festival choir and the Brazilian Festival choir.
Organized activities included a scenic dune buggy ride through Búzios, which included stops along the beautiful beaches and a relaxing boat ride along the Búzios coastline. Both activities were enjoyed by everyone.
A ladies’ afternoon proved to be a big success. Georgia Veller demonstrated how to make woven cards and each lady was able to create her own.
The sentiment that this year’s Feast in Búzios was the best Feast ever was unanimous!
Maria Lucas from Vero Beach, Florida, said: “This has been the most educational and intimate Feast that I have ever attended, and I am so happy that God put it on my heart to go to Brazil.”
Rachael Reed described her experience in Búzios: “Inspiring messages and fellowship lit a fire among all the brethren here. We encourage others to consider coming to the Feast in Búzios and look forward to seeing our Brazilian brothers and sisters in years to come.”
The Brazilian brethren echoed their sentiments, saying it was a wonderful experience!
Portuguese brethren in Angola also met in eight locations over eight provinces with a total attendance of 2,617 brethren attending the Feast.