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Methodist VBS teaches ‘Sky is the Limit’
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Neighbors | Abby Slanker.Attendees of the Canfield United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School sang the songs they had learned throughout the week to celebrate the end of a successful bible school Aug. 3.
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Neihgbors | Abby Slanker.Attendees and volunteers of the Canfield United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School gathered in the sanctuary on the last day of bible school for a faith-filled finale Aug. 3.
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Neighbors | Abby Slanker.From left to right, Janet Williams, Canfield United Methodist Church director of music, Canfield United Methodist Church Pastor Susan Brown and Vacation Bible School Director and Coordinator of Discipleship Formation Ministries Jody Malsch worked together to make the church’s vacation bible school, Sky, a success.
By ABBY SLANKER
The sky was the limit during the annual Canfield United Methodist Church Vacation Bible School July 30 through Aug. 3. The theme for the week was Sky, with an emphasis on Mark 10:27, ‘Everything is possible with God’ and learning to trust God.
The approximately 100 children in attendance enjoyed a week full of activities including story telling, crafts, games and Chadders Theatre/snack. The children visited each station each day. The children also attended a faith-filled finale at the end of each day.
Each day focused on a Bible point along with a key verse. Day one’s Bible point was ‘No matter who you are … trust God,’ with the key Bible verse being ‘People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’ (1 Samuel 7). Day two’s Bible point was ‘No matter how you feel … trust God,’ with the verse being ‘Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God …’ (John 14:1). Day three’s Bible point was ‘No matter what people do … trust God,’ with the key Bible verse being ‘But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.’ (Isaiah 40:31).
Day four’s Bible point was ‘No matter what happens … trust God,’ with the key Bible verse being ‘And I am convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love.’ (Romans 8:38). Day five’s Bible point was ‘No matter where you are … trust God,’ with the key Bible verse being ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.’ (Joshua 1:9).
The cast of animated characters who helped the children learn included Pat the Bat, Orville the Flying Pig, Scout the Eagle, Apollo the Caterpillar and Rockette the Squirrel.
The children were divided into small groups, called crews, and were led by adult or teenage volunteers. The crews consisted of elementary kids who were entering preschool up to sixth grade.
“I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to the adult and youth helpers. We could not have done it without them,” said Vacation Bible School Director and Coordinator of Discipleship Formation Ministries Jody Malsch.
Approximately 40 youth and adult members of the church helped in all aspects of the VBS.
The week focused on music, with the children learning songs during opening and closing sessions. Janet Williams, Canfield United Methodist Church director of music and music teacher at C.H. Campbell Elementary School, and Shirley Merritt, a church member volunteer, guided the children in learning and singing the songs.
At the end of the last day, the church held an indoor picnic for all the children and their families with hot dogs, pasta salad, baked beans, chips, watermelon and cookies being served, which was donated by church member volunteers.
The Canfield United Methodist Church will hold its Rally Day Sept. 9, during which the children will sing one of their Vacation Bible School songs for the congregation.
The church also offers the Joyful Praise Choir, under the direction of Williams, for children throughout the year. For more information, e-mail Williams at jgw0620@zoominternet.net. For questions regarding the Children’s Ministry Program, contact Jody Malsch at 330-533-9801 or e-mail jmalsch@sbcglobal.net.