App
November 15, 2016
Dear Brethren,
While the world continued in turmoil and a vicious presidential election raged in the United States, we hope that you all had a tremendous Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day. As the world is trapped in a downward spiral of lawlessness, not knowing where it is headed or how to solve its mammoth problems, we had the blessing of the divine knowledge of God’s perfect plan of salvation for all mankind. This fantastic plan is only revealed to those who love God, keep His commandments, have the gift of the Holy Spirit, and have the understanding of the truth of His Word. Few people realize that faith, belief, and obedience are a “threefold key” that unlocks the true understanding of the Scriptures and God’s purpose for mankind.
Here are four scriptural keys required for one to comprehend God’s plan: 1) “The secret of the Lord is with those who fear [love] Him…” (Psa. 25:14). 2) “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do [keep and practice] His commandments. His praise endures forever” (Psa. 111:10). 3) God told Daniel that the prophecies He gave to him would not be understood until the time of the end—the days in which we are now living: “And he said, ‘Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed until the time of the end. Many shall be purified, and made white, and refined. But the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand’ ” (Dan. 12:9-10). We are now living in the end times. But only the wise—the called, chosen, and faithful—will truly understand. 4) The things of God must be revealed by God through His Holy Spirit, as Paul writes: “But according as it is written, ‘The eye has not seen, nor the ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.’ But God has revealed them to us by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things—even the deep things of God. For who among men understands the things of man except by the spirit of man which is in him? In the same way also, the things of God no one understands except by the Spirit of God” (I Cor. 2:9-11).
It is God who gives to His people the knowledge and understanding of His plan—His purpose for mankind: “And His disciples came to Him and asked, ‘Why do You speak to them [the multitudes] in parables?’ And He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For whoever has understanding, to him more shall be given, and he shall have an abundance; but whoever does not have understanding, even what he has shall be taken away from him.
“ ‘For this reason I speak to them in parables, because seeing, they see not; and hearing, they hear not; neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, which says, “In hearing you shall hear, and in no way understand; and in seeing you shall see, and in no way perceive; for the heart of this people has grown fat, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and should hear with their ears, and should understand with their hearts, and should be converted, and I should heal them.” But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. For truly I say to you, many prophets and righteous men have desired to see what you see, and have not seen; and to hear what you hear, and have not heard’ ” (Matt. 13:10-17).
God has structured His “Master Plan” on the framework of His Sabbath and holy days. The meanings of these days are found throughout the Bible—Old and New Testaments. Thus, the true brethren of Christ will be faithfully observing God’s seventh-day Sabbath and keeping His seven annual feasts in their seasons: 1) Passover; 2) Unleavened Bread; 3) Pentecost; 4) Trumpets; 5) Atonement; 6) Tabernacles; and 7) the Last Great Day. Only by love and obedience to God can we know this amazing truth! (For more on God’s “Master Plan,” please request the free book God’s Plan for Mankind Revealed by His Sabbath and Holy Days.)
In spite of the fact that nominal Christianity uses the Bible for their professed beliefs, they have little to no understanding of God’s commanded Sabbath or holy days. Why is that?
Think about this—it’s the greatest conundrum in the history of the world! Today, God has caused the Bible, which is actually the complete Gospel of God, to be published in nearly every language in the world—with English as the universal language. This means, at the present time, that God has fulfilled His promise concerning His spoken Word: “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be proclaimed in all the world for a witness to all nations; and then shall the end come…. And the gospel must first be published among all nations” (Matt. 24:14; Mark 13:10). This means that virtually no one in the world will have an excuse—no one can claim that it was impossible for them know about God or His plan! God has provided His written Word—but will people actually read it, repent, and believe unto salvation?
Indeed, today we have the complete Bible—the “voice of God” in written (and digital) form—available to nearly every person in the world. And the Bible is recognized as foundational to Western civilization. In fact, the Bible is the most important book in the history of the world!
Yet the reason the world does not and cannot understand the plan of God is because their disobedience to God’s Word has blinded their eyes and closed their ears. They have turned away from God’s simplest command: Obey My voice!
Someone might ask, “What would God say to me if He were to personally talk with me?” The first thing He would tell you is: “Obey My voice!” Notice what God told the children of Israel through Moses as they were preparing to enter the Promised Land. This is also a prophecy for our day—the last days. Notice:
“And it shall be when all these things have come on you, the blessing and the curse which I have set before you, and when you shall call them to mind among all the nations where the Lord your God has driven you, and shall return to the Lord your God and shall obey His voice according to all that I command you today, you and your children, with all your heart and with all your soul, then the Lord your God will turn away your captivity. And He will have compassion on you, and will return and gather you from all the nations where the Lord your God has scattered you. IF you are driven out into the outermost parts of the heavens, the Lord your God will gather you from there, and He will bring you from there [showing that this prophecy extends to the last days]…. And the Lord your God will make you abundantly prosperous in every work of your hand, in the fruit of your body, and in the fruit of your livestock, and in the fruit of your land, for good, for the Lord will again rejoice over you for good as He rejoiced over your fathers; IF you shall obey the voice of the Lord your God to keep His commandments and His statutes which are written in this book of the law, and IF you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.
“For this commandment which I command you today is not hidden from you, neither is it far off. It is not in heaven that you should say, ‘Who shall go up to heaven for us, and bring it to us, so that we may hear it and do it?’ Neither is it beyond the sea that you should say, ‘Who shall go over the sea for us to bring it to us, so that we may hear it and do it?’ But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart [via the billions of Bibles published in almost every language, including the universal English language], so that you may do it” (Deut. 30:1-4, 9-14).
For those who believe God and keep His commandments—who will listen to and obey His voice—to them He will reveal His secret plan for mankind.
The Elections: On November 8, the dramatic election of Donald J. Trump as President of the United States has turned the world upside down—the second time in five months! The first was June 23, when the British voted to exit the European Union—a move known as Brexit. In the UK, all the establishment politicians, pundits, and pollsters said the people would never win the vote to leave the EU. They were wrong. There is little doubt that God had something to do with passing the Brexit mandate, because He has something He needs to do in the UK—the descendants of Ephraim, the son of Joseph, the son of Jacob.
The same thing happened in America with the presidential election. It was fully expected that Hillary Clinton would win and that the Democrats might sweep the House and Senate. All the politicians, pundits, pollsters, and major media were wrong. The headline on a New York billboard read: “WE ALL GOT IT WRONG!” Time magazine brashly preprinted and distributed thousands of copies of its “election edition” with a close-up of Hillary’s face and the title, Madam President! In shame they had to quickly recall that gross mistake!
All of the pollsters and experts concluded that Trump could not win. He had to fight the establishment—Democrat and Republican—and the rigged media. He even had to overcome His own personal problems and inflammatory language.
Yet he won a decisive victory that astonished everyone! His triumph is now called the most unprecedented political achievement in U.S. history. Trump is now the President-elect. Furthermore, the Republicans held on to the House and Senate. This means that for the first time since 1922—94 years ago!—the Republicans control all three branches of government.
With the odds and the entire world against Trump, how could such a tremendous achievement possibly have taken place? It had to be the hand of God! Concerning man’s rule, the prophet Daniel told king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon that “the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and gives it to whomever He will” (Dan. 4:25). Thus, all authority ultimately comes from God. Let’s examine some of the ways God deals with the nations of the world and with the nations of modern Israel.
First: Since we, the UK and the USA, are the modern descendants of the House of Israel, God has had much mercy upon us—similar to when the children of Israel were in bondage in Egypt: “And the children of Israel sighed because of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up to God because of the bondage. And God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. And God looked upon the children of Israel, and God acknowledged them” (Exodus 2:23-25). Notice that God responded to them because they were the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
In the book of Judges, we find a summary of Israel’s sinful backsliding. And though they did not fully repent, God did deliver them in His great mercy: “And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and He delivered them into the hand of spoilers who spoiled them. And He sold them into the hand of their enemies all around, so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies. Wherever they went out, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had said, and as the Lord had sworn to them. And they were greatly distressed. Nevertheless, the Lord raised up judges who delivered them out of the hand of those who spoiled them” (Judges 2:14-16).
This description is similar to the way things are today. When their sins overwhelmed them and their enemies were arrayed against them, Israel always remembered God and cried out to Him in their times of trouble. Notice this summary in Psalms:
“Therefore He ended their days in vanity and their years in terror. When He slew them, then they sought Him; and they turned back and sought after God earnestly. And they remembered that God was their Rock, and [that] the Most High God was their Redeemer. Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouths, and they lied to Him with their tongues. For their heart was not steadfast with Him; neither were they faithful in His covenant” (Psa. 78:33-37). This is also an exact description of modern Christianity: They profess God and Jesus Christ, but cling to their lies of Sunday worship and worldly holidays! During this election, evangelical ministers urged their congregations to fast and pray that Trump would be elected. Moreover, they turned out in vast numbers to vote. And their vote was 81 percent for Trump and 19 percent for Hillary. Indeed, this “evangelical factor” may be what turned the election!
Again, do we not see God’s hand in this election? Continuing in Psalm 78: “But He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them; yea, many times He turned His anger away and did not stir up all His wrath, for He remembered that they were but flesh, a wind that passes away and does not come again” (verses 38-39).
Second: When Jeremiah was warning of God’s impending destruction of Jerusalem, God made an astounding statement of mercy and forbearance. For the sake of one man, He would postpone the destruction of the city: “Run to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now, and know, and seek in her open places, if you can find a man, if there is one who does justice, who seeks the truth; and I will pardon her [Jerusalem]” (Jer. 5:1).
In spite of the fact that Trump is a flawed man—and remember, no man is perfect, for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23)—he does seek justice and truth for the people of America! Based on his own promises, here are some steps Trump should take immediately as president to bring justice and truth to the nation:
- Appoint conservative Supreme Court justices who will uphold the constitution and the right to life—and work to outlaw abortion.
- Rescind the so-called “Johnson IRS amendment” that prohibits churches from taking part in the political discourse from the pulpits.
- Uphold law and order and support law enforcement.
- Cancel Obamacare. Cancel illegal presidential executive orders. Clean up corruption in government.
- Deport two million criminal, illegal immigrants immediately. Cancel funding for sanctuary cities.
- Build a wall on the southern border and bring an end to illegal immigration. Suspend immigration from countries that sponsor terrorism.
Many are saying that Trump’s election and the sweep of the House and Senate could not have been done without the help of God. As one man put it: “God has given us a reprieve!”
More Time to Preach the Gospel and Feed the Flock: Because of the way this election has transpired, there is little doubt that God was involved—showing mercy to the modern descendants of Israel, namely the UK and America. This is now a time of mercy—and a reprieve from God. What does it mean? It tells us that all of the churches of God—all the ministers and elders and all the brethren—should work with renewed zeal to preach the Gospel and feed the flock of God. We need to use this time of reprieve to continue to grow in grace and knowledge as we prepare for the return of Jesus Christ—however long into the future that may be!
Thanksgiving in America Today: On October 3, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln set the final date for Thanksgiving Day for the nation. Americans had observed the occasion for many years before that time, but on differing dates. Lincoln studied the Bible throughout his life and understood that God was the source of our blessings as a nation—even as He corrected us for our national sins. The following “Thanksgiving Proclamation” was written while the Civil War was still being fought.
A PROCLAMATION
“THE YEAR that is drawing toward its close has been filled with blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget from whence they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart of the habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.
“In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict, while that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
“Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, and is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.
“No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.
“It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore, invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelt in the heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such a singular deliverances and blessings they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, and suffers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union.
“In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and cause the seal of the United States to be affixed.
“Done in the city of Washington, this 3rd day of October, AD, 1863, and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.
“By the President: ABRAHAM LINCOLN
“WILLIAM H. STEWARD, Secretary of State”
God has indeed greatly blessed the nations of modern Israel—the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Still, as there was a civil war during Lincoln’s presidency, we are collectively faced with a “family war” between the sons of Abraham and Isaac—modern Israel—and the sons of Ishmael and Esau.
After Israel’s wanderings in the wilderness for 40 years, God gave a warning to them just before they entered the Promised Land. This warning to ancient Israel is also a warning today to modern Israel. As Lincoln warned the Union that they had forgotten God, today our nations are not only forgetting God, we are turning our backs to Him. Furthermore, the churches of God are “rich and increased with goods” and are lukewarm toward God the Father and Jesus Christ.
Likewise, God’s warning to Israel through Moses is also a warning to the nation and the church today: “And you shall consider in your heart that as a man chastens his son, so the Lord your God chastens you. And you shall keep the commandments of the Lord your God to walk in His ways and to fear Him, for the Lord your God brings you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills, a land of wheat and barley and vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey, a land in which you shall eat bread without scarceness. You shall not lack any thing in it. It is a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills you may dig copper. When you have eaten and are full, then you shall bless the Lord your God for the good land which He has given you [That is what Thanksgiving Day should be about!].
“Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by not keeping His commandments, and His judgments, and His statutes, which I command you today, lest when you have eaten and are full and have built goodly houses and lived in them, and when your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and your gold is multiplied, and all that you have is multiplied, then you become haughty of heart, and you forget the Lord your God Who brought you forth out of the land of Egypt from the house of bondage, Who led you through the great and terrible wilderness with fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty ground where there was no water, Who brought forth water for you out of the rock of flint, Who fed you in the wilderness with manna which your fathers did not know, so that He might humble you and that He might prove you to do you good in your latter end.
“Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand has gotten me this wealth.’ But you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He Who gives you power to get wealth, so that He may confirm His covenant which He has sworn to your fathers as it is this very day. And it shall be if you do at all forget the Lord your God and walk after other gods serving them and worshiping them, I testify against you this day that you shall surely perish—yes, perish. As the nations whom the Lord destroys before your face, so you shall perish because you would not obey the voice of the Lord your God” (Deut. 8:5-20).
There are many passages from the book of Psalms that show how we are to praise God with thanksgiving for His goodness in all things and in all circumstances. This is clearly shown in Psalm 107: “O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever. So let the redeemed of the Lord say, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (verses 1-2). Four times in this psalm it reads: “Let them praise the Lord for His goodness and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” (verses 8, 15, 21 and 31).
Brethren, have a wonderful Thanksgiving! We thank you for your love and prayers for each other, for all the brethren scattered around the world, and for us. We love you and pray for you every day—for God the Father’s and Jesus Christ’s love and blessings to strengthen you spiritually and physically, to heal you, and guide you in everything. Once again, thank you for your generous offerings for the fall festivals and for your continued tithes and offerings throughout the year. May God grant you understanding as you grow in grace and knowledge to prepare for the return of Christ and the Kingdom of God.
With love in Christ Jesus,
Fred R. Coulter
FRC
2016 Feast of Tabernacles Site Reports
Wells, Maine
Twenty-eight brethren from seven states celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles in Wells. This was the ninth consecutive year for the Feast in Wells, which was held at the Village by the Sea resort. The Feast started with the harvest full moon and was followed by a week of seasonally normal weather with the New England autumn foliage in its peak colors of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Everyone was edified by the uplifting video messages, two Bible studies, and special music. We also enjoyed a movie/pizza party. The last day of the Feast included the blessing of the little children. The warm fellowship was that of a family reunion, and many new friendships were made and many others renewed. With warm regards.—Richard Roberg
Krabi, Thailand
Greetings from Krabi. We had a wonderful and fruitful family Feast this year with 20 in attendance, including Mr. and Mrs. Roy Assanti. It was a pleasure to have them with us this year. We had uplifting, encouraging, and edifying messages from Fred that were well received by all. Roy’s daily messages were also wonderful.
Activities included an island cruise tour and a trip to area waterfalls and mineral baths. Plus, there were children’s activities, a talent show, choirs, and a Bible quiz. We had Bible discussions on the eve of the Sabbaths. We gained many new insights from this Feast. There was peaceful fellowship throughout the whole Feast. God also blessed us with good weather and all our activities went as planned.—Andrew Moses, Malaysia
Houston, Texas
Thank you Fred for your sermons for the Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day. Here in Houston we enjoyed another great Feast. We appreciate the visit from Mr. Ben Ambrose from Georgia. We had two ordinations through Mr. Ambrose, one deacon and one deaconess. Mr. Ambrose was so willing and joyful in his services, which included anointing and the blessing of the little children.
We recently lost our elder, Mr. Frank Penny, so during the Feast we held a memorial in his honor. Our attendance on the first day was 50 to 55; through the week it was 20 to 25; and on the LGD it was 40 to 45. We hope everyone had an inspiring Feast—just as did we. Looking forward to next year. Thanks!—Tommy Foy
Hollister, California
We had a marvelous Feast of Tabernacles in Hollister with a high attendance of 36. The meeting room was filled to the bursting point! Brethren attended from New Jersey, Alaska, Canada, New Mexico, Washington, as well as California. All of the sermons were enthusiastically received in an atmosphere of love, cooperation, and a desire to serve one another.—Fred Coulter
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Greetings to everyone from Niagara Falls, Ontario, the Feast site this year for eastern Canada. We were welcomed by warm temperatures and had an attendance of 46 for the opening holy day. There were many Americans visiting us for the Feast, and it was a most enlightening and inspirational event for all. The warmth, love, and fellowship among the brethren was sensational and most rewarding.
A close, godly family setting was evident throughout. God’s presence and Holy Spirit was certainly within the room and with the messages and the special music. It was most enjoyable to experience a foretaste of the wonderful coming Kingdom of God. Although there was some sickness during the Feast, everyone left in good spirits and many new friendships were begun. Niagara Falls is a beautiful setting that exemplifies the wondrous creative power of God.
We hope everyone had a most rewarding and inspiring Feast! May God bless you all in the upcoming year. All our godly love.—Norbert & Denise Bohnert
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
We had another spiritually uplifting Feast in Pigeon Forge. God blessed us with a new location at the Norma Dan Motel. The staff did a great job taking care of us.
Our activities included a group meal and a family night. We also enjoyed nightly fellowship and an interactive Bible study on Friday night. We also had two baptisms in the motel pool early one morning before services. It was inspiring for everyone to have them added to God’s family.
The site was again well supported. We averaged in the 70s for attendance and pushed 90 on two of the Sabbaths. The brethren continually showed love for one another. I heard several comments about how friendly the brethren are.
I want to thank everyone who attended. Your love and support made this an inspiring Feast once again. We also thank God who made this all possible, because of His love for us. And thank you Fred for all your support.—Tom and Rhonda Fannin
Tulsa, Oklahoma
We had a great Feast in Tulsa—nice fall weather with an attendance of 35 for all eight days. Everything went smoothly. On Tuesday after services a couple of ladies put together a hot dog meal with all the trimmings—plus apple pie with ice cream! Afterwards we played bingo, giving away some small prizes. Everyone really enjoyed the day and the great fellowship. On Thursday we had our church meal. We had a visitor from overseas who was in Tulsa visiting his parents. He is very interested in the CBCG, so I gave him the contact info.
All in all, it was a great Feast!—Lawrence Burchfield
Kalispell, Montana
We had a wonderful Feast in beautiful Kalispell! We had abundant warm fellowship, excellent sermonettes and special music, as well as the tremendously rich sermons from Fred. Our average attendance was 35 (with a high of 37) ranging in ages from 2 to 87. There were 10 youths under the age of 18.
The weather was cool and rainy (no snow) since the Feast fell later this year, but many were still able to go see Glacier Park and enjoy the outdoor scenery. Brethren were able to complete the traditional 1000-piece puzzle by the last day—again. We enjoyed bowling, a movie night, a game night, and a Wine & Cheese Tasting evening. Many enjoyed a spaghetti dinner hosted by brethren, as well. Those attending were from Canada, Texas, Arkansas, Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada, Florida, and Montana. We had a few attending a nearby Feast site who joined us for swimming and pizza, as well as a few who came for one of our services.
The fellowship was filled with peace and joy and love.—Hiedi and John Vogele
Canmore, Alberta, Canada
Greetings to you all! There were 61 in attendance here in beautiful Canmore, where the Rocky Mountains are snow-capped and majestic. We all really enjoyed fellowshipping with one another and hearing the messages from Fred. Hope everyone else had a most inspiring Feast. In Christian love.—Roger and Emy Kendall
Daytona Beach, Florida
Great Feast at Daytona Beach. We had eleven here keeping the Feast at about the mid point. The fellowship was awesome as we all got to know each other to a greater degree. Plus, our love and concern for each other grew to a more personal level. Hosts Nolan and Faye Joseph did an excellent job. The weather was great. The Feast messages were exceptional. We all had an awesome and inspiring Feast.—Stan Timek
Shipshewana, Indiana
Warm greetings from 48 brethren attending in Shipshewana. We have had some rain and some beautiful sunshine. Temperatures have been fall-like and pleasant. The leaves are colorful and the crops are being harvested. It is a beautiful fall harvest setting. We have enjoyed the messages and the fellowship. Spirits are high. We hope you all have an enjoyable remainder to the Feast and wish you all God’s love and peace.—Steve and Terry Durham
Destin, Florida
The Feast in Destin was nothing less than fantastic. The weather was perfect and the Gulf of Mexico was beautiful. We had several members who were attending the Feast of Tabernacles with the CBCG for the first time. For one member, it was her first Feast ever. We were all full of spiritual food from God and the spirit of cooperation and fellowship was beyond belief. We had a couple of Bible studies and a church social enjoyed by all with terrific music by one of the members from Fort Smith, Arkansas. The staff at the facility commented on the great behavior of our members. Without a doubt, all in attendance felt it was the best Feast ever. God certainly blessed this Feast in Destin.
Palms Springs, California
We had anywhere from 11 to 22 people attending the Feast this year in Palms Springs. Though we were small in number there was great fellowship, and much time was spent learning more about each other, renewing old friendships, and making new ones. We had some “new” people attend this year who have not attended the Feast in years. It was a pleasure meeting them and we hope they will continue with the Church of God and that we’ll see them at future Feasts.
Homewood Suites did a fantastic job and their staff's professionalism and friendliness made our stay that much more enjoyable.
Michael Heiss was the quest speaker at Palms Springs for all eight days. On days one through seven he gave Bible studies on the “Appointed Times.” On the eighth day he taught on the topic “Attitude of Gratitude.” The messages by Fred were, of course, all very good. In particular, the sermon given on Day 6, “Lessons of Solomon,” got a lot of attention, inspiring much conversation by the brethren after services. Truly, the messages and the love the brethren had for each other were inspired by God.—Wayne Julian
Payson, Arizona
Payson was a lovely setting for the Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day, 2016. We enjoyed this quaint, quiet mountain town of 5,000 feet, and the wonderful weather averaging 80 degrees every day. Thirty-one brethren attended this location and we all felt the love of God in a tremendous way.
We had wonderful fellowship the entire Feast—sharing meals, our thoughts about Fred’s inspiring sermons, and the deep things of God. Brethren enjoyed horseback riding, walking, and the awe-inspiring geography of the Mogollon Rim area. Roger and Sherry Tointon visited from Sacramento, Calif. Willem and Elaine Geerts and their children visited from Manitoba, Canada.
In addition to those from Arizona, we also welcomed brethren from New Mexico and Colorado. Roger and Willem provided Bible studies and sermonettes, a delightful addition to Fred’s prepared sermons. It was a tremendously inspiring and encouraging Feast. May God bless and be with you all in the coming year. Sincerely.—Leon and Carol Ritchie
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The Feast in Myrtle Beach was great! But, as usual, we were all sad to leave. Fred, you have a true gift: You painted an awesome picture of the Kingdom of God using the book of Revelation. Your final message gives us hope. I feel like I can see swaths of the kingdom—every year it becomes a little clearer.
We had 14 people at Myrtle and the feedback was positive. The weather was perfect, the housing was affordable and plentiful, and there were plenty of activities for families with children young and old. The meeting hall was in the center of “restaurant row,” which seems to be the most important thing at the Feast for some.
We look forward to the kingdom and our next Feast. We are thankful for all you and the office staff does. Sincerely.—Dave Tucker
Caloundra, Queensland, Australia
This year the number of attendees at the Caloundra Feast site averaged around 40 each day. Generally, the attendance was more stable than in past years. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. Brethren appreciated the positive and uplifting messages by Fred (particularly on the Last Great Day), which provided greater insight into God’s plan of salvation. As in other years, brethren received a bound copy of the sermon transcripts. The transcripts are useful in reinforcing the video messages. Joe Pezzaniti, who was visiting with his family from Bendigo, gave a message encouraging brethren to share where God has performed miracles in their lives.
In past years, both breakfast and lunch were provided each day. But this year, brethren were only provided with a hot lunch, allowing more time for fellowship before services.—Paul Siddle
Nelson Bay, NSW, Australia
We had a fun and fantastic Feast of Tabernacles at Nelson Bay. We were a small but fervent group of only 14 this year, but the number provided an opportunity to properly get to know everyone in a meaningful way. God blessed our gathering with warmth and bountiful beauty with the coastal surroundings.
Fred preached to us every day from a big screen TV. Our visiting elder, Lyall Johnston, provided sermonettes and led a Bible study. His warmth, depth of knowledge, and affable personality was a real asset to the Feast. God’s Holy Spirit was prevalent during our discussions and the presence of His love was unmistakable. The Bible studies “Predestination: What the Bible Does and Does Not Say” and “Is There a Resurrection Unto Condemnation?” were both edifying. We shared much time together in and out of services, with highlights being dinner at an Indian restaurant (where we ran into another church of God group keeping the Feast), a visit to Fighter World airplane museum, Ten Pin Bowling, and a BBQ with yet a third COG group keeping the Feast.—Peter Carson
Moama, New South Wales, Australia
Even though our numbers were down a bit this year, a wonderful, spiritually uplifting Feast was had by everyone at the Rich River Golf Club. The messages by Fred were spiritual food that left us looking forward to a wonderful future in the Kingdom of God.
On Tuesday there was Ten Pin Bowling, and on Wednesday we took a trip to a cactus farm where the cacti were in flower. On Friday we had our annual Murry River cruise aboard the Canberra Paddle Steamer. This year the river was about five meters higher than normal because of heavy upstream rain.
Each evening we were able to have a meal together, thanks to the generosity of one of the families. This provided a great opportunity to fellowship together.—Maurice Dodson
Thames, North Island, New Zealand
Greetings! We had twelve adults, three young adults, and a little baby boy attending this year. Two of our brethren had travelled up from the South Island to share in the eight days of sunshine and Bible teaching. We met each day at the Thames sailing club, about eight meters from the waterfront. Our meeting area was perfect for enjoying the Feast. Bush walks, the butterfly house, and the beach where the main highlights outside of our meetings, which went extremely well.
Fred’s messages were well received and truly “meat in due season.” We had an older couple from Thames share the Feast with us for the first time. Both of them commented that the Feast was like a breath of fresh air. Indeed, all of us enjoyed the sermons and the peaceful harmony. A truly wonderful Feast.—Olga and John Schurink
Festival Letters from Brethren
Dear Fred and Delores: We hope you are both doing well and hope your Feast went well! We spent the last three days at the Niagara Feast site. It went over very well. Norbert and Denise did a wonderful job at coordinating things, and I know Jennifer and Sylvia did a lot of the behind-the-scenes organizing, etc. We love them all very much.
All of your sermons were great as always! There were 30 brethren attending, all loving and caring, and you could truly sense the devotion they had towards God and our church! We can plainly see and feel that God is guiding this church!
We will be praying for Norbert with what he is trying to accomplish with our scattered brethren—to maybe get some of us together more often, especially on the holy days. Thank you for all you are trying to do with your sermons, books, DVDs, etc. From our little “Church at Home,” all our love and prayers for you and all the brethren!—Robert and Trisha Stapleton
Dear Fred: Thank you Fred for blessing our Feast at home, as we are both not well and could not go. Your wonderful Feast sermons helped our spirits so much, as we have not been able to attend now for four years. But you made it possible for us to feel close to God. We do miss the brethren. Most grateful.—Paul and Nancy Slaick
Hi Fred Coulter: Thank you for providing God’s truth through your messages. One thing I like about your Feast sermons is that they are always right on message and timely. You always cover and picture what the holy days stand for. I have found that some of the other churches of God don’t cover what the Feast of Tabernacles is all about.
Maybe next year we can make it to a Feast site for the whole eight days, if we are able. It just seems like none of the churches of God likes having Feast sites in or near Pennsylvania. Maybe things will be different next year. In Christ’s love.—John Wise, Pennsylvania
Dear Fred: We feel so blessed to have had the Feast here in Payson this year. It was so nice to be able to visit with brethren and meet new people. The seven days of the Feast were so inspiring and rejuvenating, a wake-up call as to how blessed we are to be in the Church and have a knowledgeable and loving minister. You really and truly care deeply about how you feed and take care of the flock.
So we thank you very much. The LGD was explained in such a easy way to understand, a great message for the people who will not make the first resurrection. They will be very lucky and blessed to receive another chance to repent and have eternal life.
Thank you again for all you do, and for all the brothers and sisters who help you. With much love in Christ.—Euna Wood and Shauna McGoldrick, Payson, Arizona
Hello Fred and Delores: As sad as it is that we cannot go any longer to the Feast sites because of our health, I want to let you know that the FOT 2016 has become our most spiritually uplifting Feast. Thank you for those uplifting, empowering, and strengthening sermons you fed us with. Our batteries have truly become supercharged with what we need to go on.
I pray for you all.—Ruth Gagnon
Dear Mr. Coulter: Thank you very much for your work in getting the Word of God out to us and many others. Thank you to your staff also.
My husband is in his 82nd year and I am in my 79th. We have a small group and we “meet” on the phone every Sabbath: one from Florida, three from Ohio, and we are in Kentucky. We all bring something to the group—your tapes, books, articles, and even some articles we have written. We continue to learn more and more, knowing we can’t ever learn enough.
We spent the whole Feast of Tabernacles in a cabin at the lake. We had a very blessed week. Thank you again.—Frank and Loretta Hawes
Dear Fred: We had a great Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day in the Pine Mountain area. The sermons were excellent, and we learned so much. Every year it makes more sense, and the Scriptures become more alive.
We hope everyone everywhere had a great Feast. Thank you!—Jim and Sheila Blackwoods
Dear Fred: Thank you again for the tremendous Feast sermon package that you put together for us. It is a great aid in helping us to observe and keep God’s appointed times.
We live in a time and place where we have so much to be thankful for—physically, mentally, and spiritually. We are a privileged little flock living on a special planet.
Thank you Fred for helping to give us a microscopic and telescopic view of God’s awesome plan for mankind! Sincerely.—Rod and Mary
Dear Fred: As this year draws to an end, I want to thank you for all your efforts with sermons, videos, books, and everything you’ve dedicated your life to in teaching us God’s precious Word. I’m constantly praying for you and your wife and your staff. I cannot begin to express in words my immense gratitude. Truly God is using you to teach us.
These fall holy days have been amazing. I was truly fed spiritually. May God richly bless you and continue using you as an instrument in His hands. May He bless you with health—as well as your precious wife, for I know she is your right hand. Thank you so much!—Pat Heredia
Hey Fred: I attended Trumpets and the Feast with Steve Durham in Indiana. I just wanted you to know that it was amazing! Before I went to Trumpets, I prayed and asked God to bless it and that it would be full of “fruit.” I traveled four hours to Coastville, Indiana, to Steve’s house. When I got there, Steve was outside waiting for me (that was really nice).
Then he took me inside and I saw all of these “white heads”! I was like, “Oh boy, what have I gotten myself into. This might be boring.” But I tell you, Fred, I’ve never met elderly people who were so alive! It was more than what I had prayed for! They were all waiting for me to arrive; they got up and came up to me and my son and hugged us and welcomed us. One of the older ladies said after she hugged me, “She smells good”!
This was something I had never experienced with the older people of God. There was so much zeal! So much love and liveliness! Most of the younger people in the churches I attended didn’t have the energy and spirit they had. Amazing! I hated to leave! They just hugged and kissed all over my 13-year-old son.
Then we went to Shipshewana, Indiana, for the Feast. It too was great! Of course, good sermons—but the fellowship and Bible studies and activities were just full of love and grace and zeal and the Holy Spirit! One older sister, Charlotte, took me in as her child. She said she felt like she had known me my entire life. It was the best Feast I have ever had in all the years of going as a child and as a baptized member—hands down!
So you were right when you mentioned how much love those in this group have for one another. That’s why I had to go—I had to see. And I was also hungry for some edification and stirring up of my spirit. I needed this Feast—especially with so much sadness and difficulty in my life right now—and it strengthened my hope in the Kingdom of God.—Consuela Gibson
