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Social - July 2002 |
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Programs build relationships Vacation Bible School gets buggy By DIANE TURBYFILL, LTN Staff Writer July 19 , 2002 - Has Vacation Bible School become a Lincoln County tradition? Many families and church members would shout a resounding YES! Throughout the summer, children of all denominations flock to area churches to learn about the Bible and make crafts and new friends. The week-long events — held day and night — often have a theme. Bugs are in this year with themes like “Amazon Outfitters” and “Make A Bee-line.” No matter what the theme, children come. This week, Covenant Bible Church hosted VBS for more than 200 children. Each evening, kids learned about God by participating in group discussions, making snacks, watching puppet shows, traveling through “caves” and playing games. Many of the participants take a light-hearted view of experience. “It’s fun,” said 9-year-old Miriah Rudisill. “I like the games.” Others take a philosophical approach. “I think it teaches people about God,” said Connor Sigmon, 8. “And you get to have fun, too.” Adults assisting with this week’s Vacation Bible School have their own vested interest. “I have a child that comes, and I like to participate in things she participates in,” says Tonya Rathbone. More and more churches are beginning to focus on family involved during VBS. “The push is not just for children but for families,” said Terri Cochrane, organizer of this year’s VBS at First Presbyterian. Cochrane said this year’s event saw as many adults as children. She feels part of the reason came from scheduling. “We’ve found doing it at night more families are able to come.” The event was deemed Family Bible Week rather than Vacation Bible School. And the June Bug Safari was a success, Cochrane says. “I really liked the program because it was of a more personal nature.” Each character the children learn about carries a message — “God knows us” or “God is our friend.” Cochrane says she looks forward to working on Vacation Bible School each year. First Presbyterian joins with Emmanuel Lutheran for the project. “It’s usually the same people who plan it so we’ve all become good friends,” she says. And crossing the denominational lines seems to be an added bonus. “It works really well.” ————— Most churches have finished Vacation Bible School for the summer and are looking toward youth programs for the fall. But some are just getting started. Missionary Methodist Church in Cherryville will have registration at 6 p.m. Sunday. For details call 704-435-6934.
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© 2001 Lincoln Times-News |
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