The Feast site congregation here in France is full of talented musicians and we have been able to witness some amazing pieces of special music. Unfortunately not every piece has been record and so only short clips of some of the pieces are available for viewing.
It has been a wonderful feast of Tabernacles... hopefully this blog will be a useful reminder until next year!
Thursday, 30 September 2010
The Last Great Day
This morning’s sermon was given by Mr. Clore on the topic of eternal judgement. We are being judged now by God to be a part of the first resurrection. Yet there will be a period of time whereby the rest of mankind will have the opportunity to live under God’s law in His kingdom and then decide the way of eternal life or eternal death.
The opinion polls are in and here are just a few of the stellar results from those who had the fortunate opportunity to keep the Feast in Hyères.
Personal Experience #1
For me the Feast in Hyères this year was so enjoyable because of the large international congregation. It was an eye opener to see the various different approaches that we have with regards to communication, serving and the various habits, styles and senses of humour in this unique social environment. The location with all the potential activities and closeness of everyone being on one site definitely benefits the building of new, lasting friendships and for me this is why I would like to return here next year.
Personal Experience #2
I have many expectations when it comes to the feast each year. The messages I prayed would be eye opening and inspiring, the location would remind us daily of God's awesome creating power and lastly that the site and overall festivities allow each person to fellowship regardless of language or background. Hyeres was everything I had prayed for and so much more. I could not have been more thankful to be a part of such a dynamic feast site with brethren representing numerous countries and yet all being able to come together as one made this feast my best ever. I look forward to setting a new level of expectations next year and will no doubt have them all met and surpassed by the Last Great Day.
Personal Experience #3
For me the Feast this year was an amazing experience, mostly because we were all on one site which enabled us as a family to be together much more and also to be with the brethren in one place meant we met and made so many new friends. The language differences were not an obstacle, we were all of one mind regardless of that. Having the catering done for us gave us more time to socialize with people and reflect on the messages we had heard.It was a Fete des Tabernacles sans frontières in every way. We will definitely apply to return to Hyeres next year.
Personal Experience #4
Family, friendship and food are the three words that I would use to encapsulate the atmosphere, the closeness and the feeding that was experienced at the Feast in Hyères. Not only was there a strong sense of family, but new friendships were formed, thereby increasing the size of the family and finally the food, both spiritual and physical, was in abundance. It was a truly memorable Feast, where tears will most likely be shed on saying farewell, which could only occur when such a feeling of brotherly love is apparent. It was a Feast to remember.
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This afternoon the Riviera Beach Club is handing out free champagne and nibbles to show their appreciation to the Church! The catering here has been fantastic and all of the meals we have had our probably the best anyone experiences at the Feast.
For the second service we saw the Feast video given by Dr. Meredith which closed the Feast services by focusing on self examination and seeing whether we are preparing ourselves for Christ’s return and the marriage ceremony between Christ and His church. He instructed us to not allow anything to get in the way of our efforts in drawing closer to God through prayer, study, and meditation on His word and fasting.
Sadly the Feast is already over for 2010. We now have a year of looking forward and our personal progression until next year’s Feast of Tabernacles.
The opinion polls are in and here are just a few of the stellar results from those who had the fortunate opportunity to keep the Feast in Hyères.
Personal Experience #1
For me the Feast in Hyères this year was so enjoyable because of the large international congregation. It was an eye opener to see the various different approaches that we have with regards to communication, serving and the various habits, styles and senses of humour in this unique social environment. The location with all the potential activities and closeness of everyone being on one site definitely benefits the building of new, lasting friendships and for me this is why I would like to return here next year.
Personal Experience #2
I have many expectations when it comes to the feast each year. The messages I prayed would be eye opening and inspiring, the location would remind us daily of God's awesome creating power and lastly that the site and overall festivities allow each person to fellowship regardless of language or background. Hyeres was everything I had prayed for and so much more. I could not have been more thankful to be a part of such a dynamic feast site with brethren representing numerous countries and yet all being able to come together as one made this feast my best ever. I look forward to setting a new level of expectations next year and will no doubt have them all met and surpassed by the Last Great Day.
Personal Experience #3
For me the Feast this year was an amazing experience, mostly because we were all on one site which enabled us as a family to be together much more and also to be with the brethren in one place meant we met and made so many new friends. The language differences were not an obstacle, we were all of one mind regardless of that. Having the catering done for us gave us more time to socialize with people and reflect on the messages we had heard.It was a Fete des Tabernacles sans frontières in every way. We will definitely apply to return to Hyeres next year.
Personal Experience #4
Family, friendship and food are the three words that I would use to encapsulate the atmosphere, the closeness and the feeding that was experienced at the Feast in Hyères. Not only was there a strong sense of family, but new friendships were formed, thereby increasing the size of the family and finally the food, both spiritual and physical, was in abundance. It was a truly memorable Feast, where tears will most likely be shed on saying farewell, which could only occur when such a feeling of brotherly love is apparent. It was a Feast to remember.
--------------------------
This afternoon the Riviera Beach Club is handing out free champagne and nibbles to show their appreciation to the Church! The catering here has been fantastic and all of the meals we have had our probably the best anyone experiences at the Feast.
For the second service we saw the Feast video given by Dr. Meredith which closed the Feast services by focusing on self examination and seeing whether we are preparing ourselves for Christ’s return and the marriage ceremony between Christ and His church. He instructed us to not allow anything to get in the way of our efforts in drawing closer to God through prayer, study, and meditation on His word and fasting.
Sadly the Feast is already over for 2010. We now have a year of looking forward and our personal progression until next year’s Feast of Tabernacles.
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Day Seven... Toulon
This is the last day of activities and sadly the day after tomorrow everyone will be leaving. We heard from Mr. Lujan this morning who spoke about our vision of the future in God's kingdom and how we reach that goal. Tonight we will also be having a bible study on the family.
Those of us who were able and interested took a bus and train to Toulon for the afternoon. Unfortunately the editor was unable to make this trip but here is a quick review of the city!
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From "The Lonely Planet" -
Initially a Roman colony, Toulon became part of France in 1481 – the city grew in importance after Henri IV founded an arsenal here. In the 17th century the port was enlarged by Vauban. The young Napoleon Bonaparte made a name for himself in 1793 during a siege in which the English, who had taken over Toulon, were expelled. The city was badly bombed in WWII, and languished for much of the second half of the 20th century until its current revival. It’s the birthplace of France’s beloved actor Raimu, the star of Marcel Pagnol’s 1931 classic, Marius.
Times are a’changin’ in Toulon. France’s second-largest naval port after Brest and the base for the French navy’s Mediterranean fleet, Toulon was a rough diamond compared to its glittering coastal counterparts. Then former French Government minister, and passionate local, Hubert Falco became mayor in 2002 and set about revitalising the city. The pedestrianised old town and the boat-filled port are starting to buzz with bars and restaurants. The opulent 1862 Opéra de Toulon, designed by Charles Garnier (the only other outside Paris) has been restored. And the polished place de la Liberté is fringed by newly planted palm trees.
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So tonight we begin the Last Great Day!
Those of us who were able and interested took a bus and train to Toulon for the afternoon. Unfortunately the editor was unable to make this trip but here is a quick review of the city!
--------------------------------------------
From "The Lonely Planet" -
Initially a Roman colony, Toulon became part of France in 1481 – the city grew in importance after Henri IV founded an arsenal here. In the 17th century the port was enlarged by Vauban. The young Napoleon Bonaparte made a name for himself in 1793 during a siege in which the English, who had taken over Toulon, were expelled. The city was badly bombed in WWII, and languished for much of the second half of the 20th century until its current revival. It’s the birthplace of France’s beloved actor Raimu, the star of Marcel Pagnol’s 1931 classic, Marius.
Times are a’changin’ in Toulon. France’s second-largest naval port after Brest and the base for the French navy’s Mediterranean fleet, Toulon was a rough diamond compared to its glittering coastal counterparts. Then former French Government minister, and passionate local, Hubert Falco became mayor in 2002 and set about revitalising the city. The pedestrianised old town and the boat-filled port are starting to buzz with bars and restaurants. The opulent 1862 Opéra de Toulon, designed by Charles Garnier (the only other outside Paris) has been restored. And the polished place de la Liberté is fringed by newly planted palm trees.
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So tonight we begin the Last Great Day!
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
Day Six... Port Grimaud
Unfortunately the time is passing too quickly and the end of the Feast is quickly approaching but this morning we heard Mr. Clore speak for the first time as his visit is an exchange for Mr. King. He spoke about the food laws and how to live a healthy life in accordance with God's laws and statues. Yet another dynamic and poignant sermon during the Feast of Tabernacles!
Today was a chance to pretend that you're in Italy with a day trip to Port Grimaud and an interview with one church member who went on the trip:
-What was your first impression when arriving?
-The port reminded me of Venice. We also went to the old town on a little train (road train) and it was very quaint and picturesque.
-How much time did you spend there?
-We were there for about 3 hours overall travelling around the port on boats and popping in and out of the shops which were littered around the port.
-What sort of travel advice would you give someone interested in visiting Port Grimaud?
-You could go on the little self-paddle boats which looked really good. But watch out for some of the local sellers who like to overcharge tourists for food and drink.
-What is your overall feeling of the place and how much did you enjoy it by the end of the day?
-It was a really nice trip, the weather was glorious and the sea sparkled. It was worth going to!
Photos courtesy of Rebecca Vermeer
Today was a chance to pretend that you're in Italy with a day trip to Port Grimaud and an interview with one church member who went on the trip:
-What was your first impression when arriving? -The port reminded me of Venice. We also went to the old town on a little train (road train) and it was very quaint and picturesque.
-How much time did you spend there? -We were there for about 3 hours overall travelling around the port on boats and popping in and out of the shops which were littered around the port.
-What sort of travel advice would you give someone interested in visiting Port Grimaud? -You could go on the little self-paddle boats which looked really good. But watch out for some of the local sellers who like to overcharge tourists for food and drink.
-What is your overall feeling of the place and how much did you enjoy it by the end of the day?-It was a really nice trip, the weather was glorious and the sea sparkled. It was worth going to!
Photos courtesy of Rebecca Vermeer
Excerpts of Talent
Last night we had one of the best displays of talent ever seen at the Feast. Here are a few samples of some of the acts...
Photos from Mrs. Ellis
Here are some great photo's taken by Mrs. Ellis which will hopefully be added to over the next couple of days!
Monday, 27 September 2010
Day Five... a boat to Porquerolles
Mr. Hilgenburg started off a wonderful day with his sermon on the society of the world tomorrow with a wide range of scriptures describing animal husbandry and the agrarian environment that God has in mind for us in the future. With this thought and hope in our minds we ventured off for the day to whatever activity took our fancy.
Harbour
If you like wind and you like waves then Porquerolles was an event not to be missed! We all had an enjoyable if blustery afternoon on the stunning "golden island". The harbour was littered with a wide array of stunning boats and the small village square was home to a small colony of the most stunning white pidgeons. With the freedom to wonder either up hill to the fort and enjoy the awesome panoramic views or rent a bicycle and head off to your own private beach this is one location that will be retained in memory for all of us who were able to make the journey.
Village Square
Porquerolle Pidgeon
A boy nurses a sickly pidgeon
A local inhabitant!
On the theme of animal husbandry...
Ships in the harbour
Harbour
Village Square
Porquerolle Pidgeon
A boy nurses a sickly pidgeon
A local inhabitant!
On the theme of animal husbandry...
Ships in the harbour
Sunday, 26 September 2010
Summer Camp England 2010
A couple of nights ago we were given the opportunity to see a slideshow presentation for the first LCG Summer camp which was held over six days of August, I believe!?
Well here it is for your viewing pleasure!...
Day Four... Grasse and a Photo Opportunity
The excursion today was to Grasse a town well known for its perfume. Alas the editor of this blog did not make that trip but by the smiles at dinner time I would say that everyone who did venture there had a great time. So instead of customary photos and a brief discription I will leave a link and an excert from another blogger who made a day of visiting Grasse...
Grasse has been a popular tourist town for several centuries, with the smell of flowers and clear air. The altitude of the town, from 300-400 m, and the hills behind give Grasse a fresher climate than the beach during the heat of the summer. Princess Pauline Bonaparte, the Emperor's sister, spent the winter of 1807-08 in Grasse, recuperating her mental and physical strength. Queen Victoria vacationed through several winters in Grasse, staying at the Rothschild's or at the Grand Hotel. Napoléon himself passed through Grasse on 2 March 1815, but didn't have time for vacationing.
Taken from http://www.beyond.fr/villages/grasse-provence-france.html
As a final note there were photo's taken after services this morning, of the whole feast site attendance. So without further ado... may I present the bretheren of the Living Church of God feast site in France!
Grasse has been a popular tourist town for several centuries, with the smell of flowers and clear air. The altitude of the town, from 300-400 m, and the hills behind give Grasse a fresher climate than the beach during the heat of the summer. Princess Pauline Bonaparte, the Emperor's sister, spent the winter of 1807-08 in Grasse, recuperating her mental and physical strength. Queen Victoria vacationed through several winters in Grasse, staying at the Rothschild's or at the Grand Hotel. Napoléon himself passed through Grasse on 2 March 1815, but didn't have time for vacationing.
The old town ("vieille ville") is large, old, and extremely interesting. Tiny streets wind forever between the 17th and 18th century buildings, up and down ancient steps, passing through arched tunnels and sometimes opening out onto large squares. Many of the streets aren't as clean as they should be, but still worth a wander.
The principal square near the top of the old town is the Place aux Aires. A pretty, three-tiered fountain splashes in the center and arcades line one long side. Until recently (2004) this was the site of the daily market of flowers and regional foods, now sadly gone. The nearby shops (butchers, bakers, etc.) are still in business.
Somewhere down in the old village a narrow street comes out onto the Place du Petit Puy (and through the archway into Place Godeau) with the 10-11th-century Notre Dame du Puy cathedral (rebuilt in the 17th c.) and its huge 18th century clock tower. Inside the cathedral are three paintings by Rubens, commissioned from the then-unknown artist in 1601 by the Archduke Albert for the Santa Croce di Gerusalemme in Rome, and offered to Grasse in the 19th century. There's also the 1754 painting Christ Washing the Feet of the Apostles by Jean-Honoré Fragonard.
Taken from http://www.beyond.fr/villages/grasse-provence-france.html
As a final note there were photo's taken after services this morning, of the whole feast site attendance. So without further ado... may I present the bretheren of the Living Church of God feast site in France!
For anyone who would like a higher quality copy of this image for printing please contact Mr. Ellis
Friday, 24 September 2010
Day Two... Bormes les Mimosas
After morning services with an excellent sermon given by Mr. Larde on the topic of putting trust in God at all times; our first Feast of Tabernacles event went underway with a great day spent in the quaint mountainside village of Bormes les Mimosas. Bormes is the name given to the local people in this region and Mimosas is the flower that blooms throughout the village in the winter. So alas we will have to return another time to witness this!
A trickle of rain came down but it didn't deter any of us from enjoying the magical narrow winding streets up, down and sideways over the side of the mountain with quintessential French style buildings and views to admire. There were "petit" restaurants lining the main street where you could sit and sip an "aperatif" or whatever took your fancy.
Suprisingly we had a guide and a good one at that who went to a lot of effort to make the day both enjoyable and informative even as we were being driven through the wine valley region, along the coast and up into the winding mountain roads. Sunshine peeked through looming clouds to create stunning highlights all over the landscape. Superb!
...and one more photo just because!
A trickle of rain came down but it didn't deter any of us from enjoying the magical narrow winding streets up, down and sideways over the side of the mountain with quintessential French style buildings and views to admire. There were "petit" restaurants lining the main street where you could sit and sip an "aperatif" or whatever took your fancy.
Suprisingly we had a guide and a good one at that who went to a lot of effort to make the day both enjoyable and informative even as we were being driven through the wine valley region, along the coast and up into the winding mountain roads. Sunshine peeked through looming clouds to create stunning highlights all over the landscape. Superb!
...and one more photo just because!
Thursday, 23 September 2010
Day One... and so it begins!
After an event free journey (as far as I have been informed) everyone arrived in Hyeres, the idylic setting for God's Feast of Tabernacles for 2010 in France. The evening video from Dr. Meredith kicked off this celebration picturing the 1,000 year reign of Jesus Christ and how to appraise God's law by the applying His statutes.
'Tout de suite' after the service all eyes shut for a well needed sleep to aid a quick recovery for the following days services. Our chalet's are a perfect temporary abode for the following eight days.
For the first service today we heard two inspiring sermons; one from Mr. Dibar Apartian - a pre feast DVD - as he was sadly unable to be here in person on the topic of serving and how we look forward to the millenium, not for our reward, but for the oppotunity to be of service and not for what we gain but for what we are able to give. Then we heard from Mr. King who spoke about how we each have our own abilities and how we will be able to apply them in the Kingdom.
In each service the special music was exceptional.
'Tout de suite' after the service all eyes shut for a well needed sleep to aid a quick recovery for the following days services. Our chalet's are a perfect temporary abode for the following eight days.
For the first service today we heard two inspiring sermons; one from Mr. Dibar Apartian - a pre feast DVD - as he was sadly unable to be here in person on the topic of serving and how we look forward to the millenium, not for our reward, but for the oppotunity to be of service and not for what we gain but for what we are able to give. Then we heard from Mr. King who spoke about how we each have our own abilities and how we will be able to apply them in the Kingdom.
In each service the special music was exceptional.
Monday, 6 September 2010
Thursday, 2 September 2010
Hyéres & Surrounding Areas
Hyéres is reportedly one of the most "agreeable" towns of the Cote d'Azur. It is situated in the center of well-cultivated land providing fresh fruit and vegetables all year round. Neatly plotted over the landscape of the surrounding region you will find villages of notable beauty. Ramatuelle, Bormes-les-Mimosas and the small fishing village of Le Lavandou have been highly recommended by tourist brochures.
Just off the coast from where we will be staying you will find the three main Iles d'Hyéres. Approximately 6 miles (10km) from the mainland, their history is littered with tales of Greeks, Romans, Saracens and Pirates but these days it is officially safe to visit! Instead of previous imperial settlements you will find vineyards and pine forests. Port-Cros became a national park in 1963.
I think the end result of my little skirmish into local information is that in whatever direction you end up looking, you won't be disappointed.
Just off the coast from where we will be staying you will find the three main Iles d'Hyéres. Approximately 6 miles (10km) from the mainland, their history is littered with tales of Greeks, Romans, Saracens and Pirates but these days it is officially safe to visit! Instead of previous imperial settlements you will find vineyards and pine forests. Port-Cros became a national park in 1963.
I think the end result of my little skirmish into local information is that in whatever direction you end up looking, you won't be disappointed.
Please click on the links within the text to view Wikipedia's information.
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