澳门二四六天天彩

  • Connecting people to an abundant life with Jesus Christ and preparing them for His return

Waves and Thunder rolled Through Northern

Waves and Thunder rolled Through Northern

Waves and Thunder rolled Through Northern 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Every summer, 澳门二四六天天彩 churches prepare for a special event that brings their communities together in a whirlwind of excitement, faith, and discovery.

With the adventurous聽Thunder Island聽and SCUBA themes this year, Vacation Bible School (VBS) became a journey into the聽tropical islands, the ocean鈥檚 depths, and, more importantly, into the hearts of the children and families who attended.

Over 1,600 children attended VBS across our territory. Nearly 60% from non-Adventist backgrounds dove into this week-long adventure, with 36% returning from previous years. This percentage indicates sustained engagement with the local church.

Kimberly Riddle聽of the Tracy church stated, “VBS gives us an opportunity to work as a church team and also connect with families and volunteers we may only see during VBS.鈥

Behind the scenes, more than 360 volunteers of all ages guided the children through the activities. As reported,聽Jaymes Cheney聽from Carmichael Church stated, “Seeing my son excited to be at church and about his group leader, Dylan, a high school student, is incredible. It鈥檚 so great to see students helping inspire the younger kids.”

As reported by聽Yvette Reiber, a highlight of the week for the Yuba City Church, was the story of Jonah told inside a makeshift whale鈥檚 belly, complete with bubbles, mist, and seaweed. The 17 preschoolers were captivated, their eyes wide with wonder. At this moment, they revealed the true power of VBS鈥攖eaching biblical stories in ways that resonate deeply with young hearts and minds.

Barry van Iderstein, Director of Children’s Ministries, shared decorations and support materials with thirteen churches this summer to help them maximize resources and stretch small budgets. “It is inspiring to see how our smaller churches can host big-church VBS programs that truly impact and engage the children of their communities. I’m already looking forward to next year, with the recent release of the 2025 SDA VBS program, Mountain of Miracles.”

If you have ever attended, you know VBS is a whirlpool of high energy, fun, and joy. Like the ocean waves and warm tropical breeze, the Holy Spirit flows through VBS, connecting children and their families closer to an abundant life with Jesus.

Featured in Northern Lights, August 15, 2024
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