Hello everyone!

Can you believe the Feast of Tabernacles is just over 2 weeks away?

As we get closer to the Feast, I wanted to take a minute to introduce myself and the other folks who will be spending the Feast with you virtually. I'm Ariana, and I work as the editor of internal publications at UCG's home office in Milford, Ohio. I'll be coordinating the Feast at Home this year, so if you have any questions before or during the Feast, feel free to shoot me an email.

I'll be honest—I haven't had to keep the Feast at home as an adult. About 10 years ago, though, I got the flu during the Feast, and it was really disappointing staying sick in my hotel room for most of the week. At one point I looked out the window with red eyes and body aches, and I literally watched a bunch of my friends playing soccer after services.

But that experience gave me more time to focus on why we celebrate this Festival, and to more earnestly look forward to the fulfillment of this glorious step of God's plan. I know it's not the same as keeping the Feast at home, but I remember how I felt not being with God's people in person for most of that Feast. I sincerely hope the webcast and materials offered this Feast will give you joy and help as you, along with the rest of the brethren, rejoice in the great promises God's given us for the future.

Your hosts for the Feast at Home this year are Rangels—Rudy and Judy Rangel, and their kids, Edie and Harry. They have always struck me as a great example of a family striving to live God's way genuinely and earnestly. They're so excited to be celebrating the Feast with you in spirit, if not in person! You'll meet them via the webcast just before opening night services, so be sure to tune in a few minutes early!

I'll be posting more material for you all as the Feast gets closer, and then also during the Feast. If you haven't already, make sure you join the Facebook group, Celebrating the Feast at Home/Online 2021. Brethren from all around the world will be posting pictures, videos and Festival greetings during the Feast in order to stay connected to you! I'm not usually a huge fan of social media, but last year I was surprised at how many people got involved in this group. People from all over the globe were thinking of each other and trying to stay connected, and it was really cool to see. So if you're on Facebook, make sure you join! 

That's all for today—stay tuned for more posts as we gear up for a great Feast of Tabernacles 2021! 

Ariana