Have you ever stopped to just wonder at Jesus––his childhood, his miracles, his death and resurrection, his plan for a second coming? Last week at St. Philip’s, 65 children ages 4–11 and over 30 youth and adult volunteers did just that!

The Parish House became a Wild West town called Wonder Junction, complete with the Wonder Junction Express train, cactus-lined paths, and an extraordinary old west town mural painted by the talented Kate DeAntonio. Each morning, youth group actors entertained the children by performing a marvelous four-part skit written by youth minister David Gilbert––there was even a guest clergy appearance with Fr. Justin Hare as “The Guy on a Buffalo.” While keeping the entire audience in stitches, the skit brought to life the saving power of Jesus.

With worship leaders like Fr. Andrew O’Dell and Zippy Hood, you know the Lord’s Name was praised both mightily and beautifully. Throughout the week, you could often hear glorious singing, and whenever someone shouted “Yee-Haw” (which was quite frequently!), the response was “Praise the Lord!” Roberta O’Shea and Joanna Macmurphy led the lesson rotation, providing the children with solid Biblical teaching in a warm and inviting environment. Katie Freer was our craft guru who led the kids in creating their own cowboy/girl bedroll depicting some of the names of Jesus that corresponded to each day’s lesson. David Gilbert and a team of youth group helpers orchestrated a myriad of fun games and activities, much to the delight of the participants. And St. Philip’s VBS had a new offering this year––a music rotation led by our own fabulous Zippy Hood! It was a hit, to say the least!

Several weeks before VBS began, we invited families to begin talking to their kids about the different home and world missions that St. Philip’s supports, and we encouraged them to help raise funds for the groups by collecting spare change, having a lemonade stand, etc. This year, our Change 4 Change VBS initiative raised over $150 to share among our mission partners!

We had so many wonderful volunteers helping with the rotations, leading groups, handing out snacks, creating decorations, serving food at the family luncheon, and so much more.  What a privilege it was to serve alongside so many brothers and sisters in Christ as we helped share the Gospel with the next generation––the Body of Christ was definitely present at VBS!