Vacation Bible School at Sunnyside Church in Portland, Ore., drew more than 134 children from June 20–25. Nearly 40 were non-members. More than 100 adults volunteered and donated food each night. Chris Marin, volunteer, and Shirley Allen, pastor, along with "a village," put on the event.
Each night a different children's program was featured. At the Sabbath "graduation," each child received a certificate. Also, Sabbath School teachers were introduced and children were invited to a new sing-a-long taking place prior to Sabbath School. An appeal was given for children and parents to give their hearts to Jesus. Many responded.
A special thank-you note sent to Allen says, "I think my granddaughter did learn a lot. She has never been exposed to anything, not even preschool or outreach of any kind, so this was a totally new experience for her ... Thanks so much for loving all those little children ... This is such a memorable thing, not only for the children but for ‘grandma' as well."
As a follow-up, all the families received an invitation to SunnyCity in Ventura Park in Portland, Ore., for Aug. 7, from 1–5 p.m. SunnyCity is a mini-town created with the help of doctors, police officers, firefighters, pastors, teachers and librarians that prepares children to be great citizens.
Nick Gosney plays his violin in costume at Vacation Bible School. (Ben Dalusong Jr.)
Savannah Johnson weaves a mat with yarn at Vacation Bible School at the Sunnyside Church in Portland, Ore. (Ben Dalusong Jr.)
Craft time during Vacation Bible School at the Sunnyside Church in Portland, Ore., is always an exciting time. (Ben Dalusong Jr.)
Children help themselves to healthy snacks at Vacation Bible School. (Ben Dalusong Jr.)
(Ben Dalusong Jr.)
