A Week at VBS and a Weekend up North
A Week at Vacation Bible School
The theme for Vacation Bible School this summer was “Imagining Jesus.” The program focused on imagining what Jesus’ life might have been like between the ages of 12 and 30, through four creative stories about that undocumented time in his life.
Each day centered on a different story, using Art, Games, Story Time, Music, Drama, and Service Projects. The week concluded with a dramatic reading and songs performed for families on Friday.
Cathy Davenport was, as always, amazing, helping to make VBS 2025 another successful program. Mara Halvorson created fabulous art and designs to accompany the theme. Ralph Johnson, once again, led the singing with his trusty guitar. Linda Heining volunteered and was extremely helpful throughout the week.
The youth staff were very helpful in caring for the kids and having fun while supporting all of the activities. Gratitude and thanks go to everyone who helped make VBS 2025 another fun and memorable experience for lots of kids and families.
Written by Tor Johnson, Director of Children’s Ministries and Performing Arts
A Weekend up North in the Boundary Waters
It feels like I should start by saying that this group chose, on a day with nothing but time to relax and lay low, to hike three of the most treacherous miles of Wilderness portage out there just because it was an option and in front of them – a tough crew indeed.
In addition to that, six amazing students and I ventured north for another trip to the BWCA through Wilderness Canoe Base. We enjoyed time together offline, we swam and paddled, and cooked over the fire. We watched the sunrises and the sunsets, and we watched the fog roll in so thick that we could not see more than a few feet in front of us.
We lived in a different part of creation for a week, and we are all better because of it.
This group overcame obstacles and challenges; they rallied together and worked as a team. They supported each other and engaged in not only laughter till it hurt, but deep and meaningful conversations about life and faith, and God and our place in all of this.
Without wanting to jinx it for upcoming trips, I will say this is the best weather we’ve ever experienced. Mosquitoes had not yet found their stride, a breeze kept us cool, the sun made it warm enough to swim, and the nights were just chilly enough that you appreciated a warm sleeping bag.
The pictures tell a better story. A story of friendship and a shared experience that we will all remember for the rest of our lives. Thank you to our guide, who went by many names, so we’ll just refer to her as “Gurt”
Until next year, Wilderness, thanks for helping us experience the woods.
Written by Mark Halvorson, Director of Congregational Ministries