WEST REGION NEWS
Alberta and British Columbia - Michelle Heumann, editor
VBS goes online again at Foothills Lutheran Church
One family’s home craft station.
Leading children through craft time.
CALGARY, Alta. - At the beginning of the year, it appeared that Vacation Bible School could be in person for 2021, so Rev. Eric Moffett and Dcn. Miriam Winstanley got to work developing a curriculum— “Jesus, Our Good Shepherd”—and contacting prospective volunteers and
attendees. When it became apparent that a third wave of COVID-19 was here in May, the decision was made to move VBS online once again. This year, everyone knew better what to do, and with the help of willing hearts, hands, and voices, the staff and volunteers were able
to provide openings, Bible and application lessons, and crafts at three levels, with music to go with each of five days. The program was based on Psalm 23, with companion Bible lessons for each section of the Psalm. By the end of the week, if they did their memory work, the children would have memorized the whole of Psalm 23. Sixty-seven children from forty families registered and received craft packs. Families used the YouTube videos at times that suited them, some finishing the program in a week, some doing them one day a week through the summer. One parent said in an email that they were “Loving the flexibility of online videos. We’re having fun!” Everyone misses in-person VBS, and God willing that will back next year. Dcn. Miriam Winstanley
King of Kings hosts VBS
DICKSON, Alta. - In July of this year, King of Kings Lutheran Church invited the children of the community (ages 4-12) to Vacation Bible School at the church in Dickson. Many accepted the invitation and joined in the fun for five days of song, stories, snacks, and crafts! The theme this year was “Rocky Railway: Jesus’ Power Pulls Us Through.” Planning for the event
began in March. As time went on and registrations were rolling in, it became clear that more supplies would have to be ordered. Approximately 80 children attended each day, along with 25 youth and adult volunteers. The church was vibrant and lively, and many of the stations were held outdoors under tents. The congregation’s prayers were answered and the sun shone for the entirety of the week.
Families who attended the VBS were asked to bring donations of nonperishable food for the Spruce View and District Food Bank, and more than 400 lbs of food was collected. The week concluded with a free barbeque for the children, their families, and volunteers. God’s Word and love was spread that week, and the church prays that it will continue to shine in the hearts of all the children who attended. Karen Mackenzie
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2021
21
