Peachtree Corners, Georgia—The Atlanta and Buford, Georgia congregations hosted the 2022 Southeast Formal Weekend this year on March 26-27. With teens coming from as far away as California, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas and Washington, events began with services on Sabbath in Peachtree Corners. All total, 213 people were in attendance for services along with 32 YouTube connections.

The Sabbath service was tailored to a younger audience, at the same time giving attention to the Spring Feasts. This year’s United Youth Camp video was played on two giant wall screens for the sermonette. After which, Jasmine Aust performed a vocal and piano solo of “Only God Knows” for special music. Dr. Philip Aust, pastor of Atlanta and Buford, gave the main message titled “Covid’s Chief Lesson: Connections Count.” Drawing from a 2021 Pew Survey that found the greatest challenge of the pandemic was social isolation, the message emphasized that God created us to need a connection with Him and each other. The weekend offered a unique opportunity to do this. Following services, attendees enjoyed fine dining at nearby restaurants.

Evening events started with graduating senior recognitions. This year, seven seniors were honored: Ben Ellithorpe, Serenity Cartwright, Brooklyn Hackney, Ben Hoffman, Eli Hoffman, Logan Holladay and Lilly Puckett. Family and friends acknowledged their accomplishments as well as their church and high school achievements and post-graduation plans.

Following senior recognitions, attendees were directed to the dance venue. This year’s theme was “A Night in Morocco.” Decorations in the main hall included a breathtaking tented ceiling, tapestries and ornate lamps, and large pillows on the floors. Refreshments featured Mediterranean foods like pitas and hummus, falafel and fresh fruit. A total of 92 teens attended the dance. The evening concluded at 11:30 p.m. so everyone could get rest for the morning activity.

On Sunday, 120 teens and family members participated in skating at nearby Sparkles Family Fun Center. Although events began just after 9 a.m., the rink was filled by those of all ages. Skaters rolled and danced to current hits and hits from past decades. Skating ended right before noon, with some choosing to enjoy a meal together before the ride home.

Positive comments continue to come in, as does feedback thanking the Atlanta area for doing an excellent job of hosting the event once more. The most frequent comment since this year’s formal is: “We can’t wait to see one another again at camp and at next year’s formal.” By all accounts, God blessed the event.