What a wonderful week we had with our 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th graders!  This was our first year ever with a "tween" Vacation Bible School, and it was a huge success.  With an expectation of 8-10 youth, we had 30 register.  WOW!

Our theme was "God Loves You, Share the Love."  Each day we had a mission message which was highlighted with a service project and a Bible verse that connected the Bible with the project.  Monday was "We love others because God loves us."  We decoupaged wooden crosses, started Mission Memory journals, distributed flyers in the neighborhood for a food drive, and studied 1 John 4:11 and John 3:16.  Tuesday half of us went to the People's Resource Center to work in the food market and clothes closet, and the other half went to the DuPage Convalescent Center to assist with a music program.  Our mission message was "We share God's love by helping," and our scripture was Galatians 6:10.

Wednesday we went to Willowbrook Wildlife Haven and planted Pagoda dogwoods, switch grass, and marsh plants.  Our message was "We share God's love by working," and our scripture was 1 John 3:18.  On Thursday half of us went back to the People's Resource Center and the others to DuPage Convalescent Center for bingo, using our crosses for prizes.  Friday we collected canned goods from the neighbors and delivered them to the People's Resource Center.  It was an amazing week with an amazing group of youth sharing God's love.

We wish to give a big thank you to our drivers Nancy Gambaini, Alice Lechiara, Lisa Shine, Carol Brcka, Chandra Gravit, Karen Hecht, Alissa Sporer, Sarah Katula, Julie Langlas, Cindy MacDonald, and Kristie Arlington and a hug to Grace Goodwin for pitching in!

At the same time children entering 4 year old preschool through Grade 4 enjoyed Rainforest Adventure, their theme for VBS 2008, including Bible stories, games, crafts, music, being with their friends, and making new friends.  The adult and high school student volunteers did a wonderful job making the event a success!