Vacation Bible School 2011 - Photos
Fairmont Presbyterian Church (Kettering, OH) was transformed into ancient Egypt through Group’s Vacation Bible School program called “Joseph’s Journey: From Prison to Palace.” 40+ children traveled back in time to meet the biblical character of Joseph. They met with him in prison and heard about the terrible way his brothers treated him and all of the “’unfair” things that happened to him to land him in jail. They also got to talk with him when he became the second in command in Pharaoh’s palace! Every day the “family groups” traveled back in time to hear how Joseph trusted God, forgave his family, and how he believed that God could work all things for good. They also got to spend “money” in an Egyptian marketplace where there were numerous crafts, tasty snacks, and even tents where they could get a “shave” or have their hair beaded. They joined in an exciting time of fun games and getting to know each other with family made up of a multi-age group of children and adults or older youth to show them the way. They joined together daily for a celebration with music, motions, and a time to reflect on all they were experiencing. They also learned to work together and play together as well as the importance of serving others. Our families tied 15 two-layered fleece blankets which were delivered to New York City by our PYC teen group during their mission trip the week following VBS. Over 50 adult and youth volunteers worked together to physically transform: our space with amazing decorations, our bodies with awesome costumes, our children into family groups, and a lot of hearts and lives so people could learn just a little bit more about God’s love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. We are so grateful to those who served, taught, guided and loved the children who came. A special thanks also to those who helped and prayed behind the scenes and to all of the families who shared their special children with us. Directors of this year’s VBS were Gary and Donna Yagley. We are already looking forward to next year’s VBS.
--Lisa Shearer, Chair of Session’s CE Team
