Each day began with a great time of singing in the back of the sanctuary.   After going through the time machine, we went to a special Bible location where we learned about what happened there.  We are especially thankful for our great teachers: Alison Braun, Marty Schoettler, Shelly MacDonald & Linda MacKnight, Sue MacWilliams & Cathy Parry, Danielle Papet  & Caitlin Clark, Marianne Papet, Lori Denker, James Rada, and Sara Levens.  They all did a great job!  

They led us as we learned about: 

•  Saul’s Conversion (Damascus)

•  Paul, Barnabas (Jerusalem)

•  Paul Escapes In A Basket

•  Paul’s Calling To Become A Missionary    

•  Paul & Barnabas On Cyprus

•  Paul & Barnabas Preach To The Greeks (Antioch)

•  Lydia’s Conversion    

•  The Philippian Jailer

•  Paul Preaches In Athens     

After each lesson, we had a great time of crafts:

After two stops each night, we went to the Oasis to get refreshed after a hard night of learning.  We are really thankful for Marilyn Bunger and her faithful sidekicks Emily Conklin, Lori Denker, Marianne Papet, Karen Schoettler, and Linda Gardner for coordinating all the great food.   

Our week concluded with a great celebration on Friday night that included a rousing game of “Who Wants to be a Missionary.” As usual our youth Traveling Companions  (32 of them, 10 more than last year!) were invaluable.  We also thank Pastor Bill O'Connell, Warren Gardner, and Matt Garner for helping with the music (you have not lived until you hear “Pharaoh, Pharaoh” with 3 guitars and 40 children!). 

All together, 51 children attended and learned about the life of the Apostle Paul and the grace of God that he taught.  Our church rejoices in children!   Their smiles and joyful playfulness make it all worthwhile.  We had a lot of fun and learned a lot. I wonder where our journey will take us next year?

  Save July 16-20, 2001 on your family calendar for next year’s VBS!