VBS Day 1: Success!

Day one of VBS is complete.  It was a great morning, but oddly enough there was nothing chaotic about it.  Perhaps this is what happens when you have done something before and know which tricks to come prepared with!  It is also a testament to the fantastic adult and youth leaders that are along on this trip.  Everybody chipped in and did their part on their team, and together we pulled it off.  Throughout the course of the morning about 40-50 Jamaican kids showed up to learn today’s theme: even when you’re left out ... Jesus loves you!

Cailyn J., Jonah A., and Sue J. had all the kids' attention during Bible story time

Allison R. sat down with this young boy and talked with him about the ways God made him special and unique

 whether you're from Jamaica or the US ... games are always fun!

everyone had a great morning

Meredith G. made a special friend

One of my favorite things that we do during the week is feed all of the children that show up a decent lunch.  Today's menu was peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, granola bars, and fresh oranges.

Ella N., Katy L., and Linda S. filled up this entire suitcase with lunch for the crew

this little guy found a friendly lap and joined Jackson R. for lunch

thanks for helping to feed these kids!

fresh fruit is always a hit

As we reached the end of our morning I was reminded of why we do what we do.  Nicole L. has been on many mission trips.  She called me over to let me know that one of the little girls had tucked her sandwich into her backpack.  Nicole wanted to see if we could get her another one, knowing that she was saving the first sandwich for later or for someone else in her family.  As I knelt down next to her I learned that this little girl lives with her grandma and she was keeping the other sandwich for them to eat for supper.  As I filled her backpack with another extra sandwich and a baggie of fresh fruit I thanked God for all of you that adopted a Jamaican child for VBS this summer.  Yes, your giving really does make a difference.