Dear Pali Pres Community,
I know it is a cliché, but as I reflect on this week of Vacation Bible School (VBS) I can’t help but think, “it takes a village.” With 35 children—ten of them just showing up without notice on Monday morning!—it took a village of Pali Pres volunteers and staff to pull off a fun and Spirit-filled week.
The theme was Hero Hotline based on Romans 14:9—"So let’s strive together for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up." Children played the role of heroes (complete with capes and masks, of course) who sprang into action and explored the ultimate Hero Handbook (the Bible) to discover how we can all follow the examples set by our biblical heroes. Through music, drama and storytelling, games, arts and crafts, and even snacks, they learned how to answer God’s call at church, at home, and every area of their lives.
The “village” that helped make all this happen was led by our wonderful Children and Family Ministries (CFM) Director, Lucy Garcia and the CFM Committee. Along with dozens of church members (too many to name here!), and friends of church members, and friends-of-friends of church members (!), we also had volunteers from our preschool including some awesome youth counselors who are children of our preschool teachers! Add to that list our own Will Saunders (in the starring role of Super Meer, the puppet) and Enrique Portillo and Dennis Moran and, as you can see, we truly had a small village helping out this past week!
I want to thank anyone who contributed in ANY way, including providing snacks, helping with tech/audio, assisting with crafts and games, and all the little things like photocopying and brewing coffee. It all made a difference! As the children learned, ALL of us are called to strive together for the things that bring peace and build each other up. I was so glad to witness that verse in action this week and am so happy for our children and Pali Pres family.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Matt (also known as Ned, the Hero Hotline auditor sent over by corporate to “check” on things this week)