It is a wild world, but you can walk with Jesus at VBS

By Ginna Young

Kids are heading True North, to trust Jesus in a wild world, June 16-20, at Vacation Bible School (VBS). The annual event takes place for ages three to 12, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Cornell Elementary School.

Each year, churches in Cornell and Holcombe, join together to provide the opportunity to introduce or reinforce the teachings of the Bible, in a non-pressure situation.

A free breakfast is served, from 8:30-9 a.m., with a free lunch, from 12-12:30 p.m., for those under 18. Adults are welcome to eat, for a fee. There’s also a free picnic for all, that Friday, at noon.

Teens are also welcome to volunteer at a station or as a group helper, and do not have to be a member of an area church.

“This is for anybody,” said Pastor John Kilde. “It doesn’t matter if you go to a church here in Cornell…or if you’re affiliated to a church.”

At the beginning of the day, kids attend the large group session, then break into groups, with leaders, where they rotate to stations, where there’s storytime, games, crafts and snacks, before heading back to the musical closing session.

As part of that, VBS is collecting monetary donations for Operation Kid to Kid, which raises money to purchase blankets and clothing for families who may not have that available to them.

“It can be change, it can be whatever the family decides to send,” said Kilde.

There’s also a basket for the food pantry to collect items, as well as one for active service members.

It’s helpful if families register ahead of time, at cornellhope. com (look for the VBS tab). Kilde believes the weeklong even creates a safe environment for kids to come and it gives them an activity throughout the week.

“They’ll also get education on who Jesus is and what He means for them,” said Kilde.