CONNECTICUT—The Brunswick, Maine, and Palmer, Massachusetts, congregations combined for their annual summer picnic on a warm and dry July 6. Members Dece and Ember Todd opened up their home for the brethren to enjoy. With American flag bunting hanging from the windows of their 1730 colonial, their home fit the theme of Independence Day weekend.

Along with the great fellowship found around the house and back yard, the shaded and comfortable seating on the deck provided hours of quality time with Regional Director Brian Davis and Local Elder David Miller. Members also played corn hole and viewed the chickens and ducks that the Todds are raising, while the kids shrieked, slid and splashed on the always-popular bouncy house with water slide.

“I just loved seeing all the kids having a blast together in the ‘waterland’ bounce house,” Jesse Frederick said. “Hearing them laugh and have fun together was really positive. Made me think of how the World Tomorrow will be.”

The much-anticipated summer picnic with the two New England congregations was a great opportunity for the brethren to relax, eat grilled food and homemade side dishes and just be together.

“I’m almost at a loss for words at how special this event was,” Sheila McEvoy said. “It was unlike any other picnic I’ve ever attended—and for good reason. God was truly in our midst. It was the most beautiful summer day, spent with the most wonderful people. A true family gathering with an abundance of love.”