The Vacanciel resort in Roquebrune-sur-Argens on the French Riviera welcomed 200 brethren from around the world for this year’s Feast. In addition to our daily services alternating between French and English, we studied God’s Word in two separate Bible studies on the books of Revelation and Daniel, we listened to a lecture on creation vs. evolution, enjoyed a special hymn singing hour in French and English, a family dance, and a talent show. Two baptisms at the Feast energized an already youthful group. Our young people created and decorated special festival booths from sugar cubes, and 18 babies under 2 years old kept their moms busy during services!

For family day we visited Europe’s largest marine park, Marineland, marveling at the diversity of marine animal life from orcas, sea lions, dolphins, to sharks and tortoises. Monaco’s majestic palace and dramatic sea cliffs provided another day of opportunities for learning, as well as a little shopping. Aix-en-Provence, the beaches of St. Maxime (site of the “Second D-Day” allied invasion of Southern France in August 1944), and the canal city of Port Grimaud rounded out the list of excursions to local sites.

In the middle of the Feast, we were protected from a terrible storm that passed over us, leaving a wake of destruction and death in nearby towns. It was a powerful reminder of God’s protection and direction over this year’s Feast in France, a Feast filled with wonderful sermons and many special days where friendships were made and reinforced. It was really a foretaste of God’s Kingdom.

See more photos from France at https://flic.kr/s/aHskny7RB3.