Children of Vancouver First United Methodist Church took part in the annual vacation bible school, this year themed “GodSpeed.” A meal began each night’s gathering, and as children took part in GodSpeed in Jason Lee Hall, adults were welcomed to join Pastor Jon for bible study in Hesseltine Hall.
Many faithful volunteers also took part in GodSpeed, a fast and furious look at our world today and how we keep pace with Jesus and his grace. Church youth in grades 6-12 served as mentor-leaders for the children of GodSpeed and the event. Songs, dancing, snacking, and a lot of fun was had.
Day 1: Sponsorship! We talked about sponsors in racing (like our savior in life). Each child got a lanyard and they made and enjoyed snack stock cars made from squeeze cheese, crackers, cheerios, and block cheese.
Day 2: Stay on Track! There’s only one road to Heaven, and you’ve got to stay on that track. Often, that means undergoing adjustments and discipline to make sure you don’t get off track! They had a tire roll event around obstacles, learning some teamwork.
Day 3: Pit stops! The race is long, more like a 500-lap race, and you have to refuel. You can’t run a good race unless you pull over for regular pit stops. There, your worship and fellowship will refuel, repair and refresh you so you can run a better race! Scripture: Hebrews 10:25 says “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another … and all the more as you see the day approaching.” Snack would be chocolate donuts with raised “letters” made from yellow icing. One activity was a race with our own pit stops (taking off and putting on shoes) and refueling with water bottles, along with a discussion of what we need to refuel spiritually and the importance our church life plays in that. And off to the finish line.
Day 4: Race to the Finish! It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon, so keep a steady and consistent pace and be faithful to God in all you do. Race in such a way as to win the prize, and tell the world about Jesus! The craft was making homemade checkered flags from fabric and dowel rods. And fun finish line snacks and drinks followed.