Sunday afternoon, June 25, 2022, 50 children registered for the Jerusalem marketplace themed vacation Bible school at Kettle Falls Church in Washington.
The children were immediately immersed in the experience by being assigned to join one of four tribes. Each child chose a shepherd’s robe from a large collection provided by the Deer Park and Linwood churches. Led by Marijke Schlittenhart, 30 adult volunteers from a variety of churches also wore robes while assisting with registration, crafts and other responsibilities.
The Jerusalem scene was set by several structures built from cardboard boxes covered with plastic, sticker windows and bricks, each adding to the experience. The children traveled in their tribes to learn about Christ’s journey. Starting with a trip to Jerusalem, it led to the cross and, on the last day, His resurrection.
Each child enjoyed daily activities such as crafts, one of which included making a small usable saw from a file and two strips of wood. At an herb and spice booth, the children made sachets and played with a pestle and mortar. In a bakery, the children made different kinds of breads each day and enjoyed them once they were baked. At the synagogue school, the pastor taught Hebrew and wore yarmulkes.
Short recreational periods at the village playground provided time for children to use their energy. After a light meal of fruit and sandwiches, they went into the church auditorium to sing and listen to stories from Chris Reaves about Jesus’ journey from birth, to death and then to the resurrection.
The VBS was a success and all were blessed.
