Gathered from several countries, 270 brethren gathered at the lovely, well-established seaside location near Sabaudia. The weather was outstanding, with calm seas and spectacular sunsets.

The Feast began with a moving memorial for Carmelo Anastasi, who is sorely missed. Carmelo Anastasi and Angelo Di Vita with their families and the Italian brethren have worked for years to maintain an excellent relationship with the hotel Oasi di Kufra. Feastgoers have benefited from this for years.

The physical food was outstanding and plentiful but it was the spiritual food that made the Feast. A great variety of speakers were able to serve excellent messages along with those who offered their gift of beautiful special music.

The highlight of the Feast was the ordination of a deacon, Manuel Finazzi, and an elder, Vincenzo Alfieri, who will serve in the Italian Church. Four baptisms occurred, evidencing the recent growth in the Italian work.

The all-inclusive setting was wonderful for fellowship; however, it carried a higher risk for rapid spread of disease. When an outbreak of COVID-19 occurred mid-Feast, the Church acted quickly, supplying tests, masks and coordination of efforts. With great care and cooperation, the brethren rose above the challenge, showing love towards one another, even though some had to isolate. With God’s blessing, the outbreak was contained and the Feast carried on.

Activities including excursions to Rome and Pompeii, building sand castles on the beach, the ever-famous talent show and the final farewell dinner with professional Italian musicians were enjoyed by all.

As we look forward to the fulfillment of the Feast, above all, the warmth and love shown to us by the Italian brethren lingers in all our hearts.