Deep Sea Discovery Vacation Bible School was held at St. James’ July 11-15 from 5:30 to 8:30 in the evening.
The Seal, Otter and Shark groups flocked nightly to Pelican Pier where they enjoyed dinners lovingly prepared by a team of well-organized ladies. Each meal included a healthy themed side such as apple turtle treats or a string cheese octopus.
They then proceeded to Celebration Reef for the opening ceremony including music time, games and comical skits performed by the counselors. Next, the groups dove into Curiosity Cavern for crafts and created puffer fish, colorful jellyfish sun catchers and more.
S.S. Discovery was located in the sanctuary. This is where the kids experienced the daily theme through Bible stories and even a visit from Noah. Ocean Commotion was located outside and had a very enthusiastic crew of volunteers cheering on the kids. There were many fun games such as wacky relay race and what do you Sea?
The week concluded with the children stuffing 10 backpacks with school supplies. The backpacks were donated to the Lord’s Pantry which will distribute them to school-age kids in the community. The backpacks became part of Friday’s closing ceremony as they were paraded in to the sanctuary where families gathered. The closing featured readings by 4 of the kids from the Sharks group, plus songs performed by all the children, counselors and volunteers. At the conclusion, everyone was invited outdoors for water games!
Deep Sea Discovery VBS would not have been possible without all the adult volunteers for games, crafts, Bible stories, meals, registration, decorating and t-shirt making. The counselors and junior counselors did a fabulous job interacting with the kids and had a great time doing so! Thanks to all that had a hand in making it happen this year, especially Judy Benne for the guidance, photography and backpack project!
