Cheney Community Church Vacation Bible School has big plans

Tara Ryan is the coordinator for Vacation Bible School at Cheney Community Church. The theme this year is "Christmas in July." It's not what you think. You won't need to run to the store. VBS begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon each day from July 7-11. Children from age 3 to those who have finished fourth grade are welcome.

"Listening to God's Voice" is one of the stories the children will enjoy. Another speaks of Samaritan's Purse. This is a project begun and guided by Franklin Graham. Samaritan's Purse now encircles the world. Because of Samaritan's Purse, many children in faraway places experience the joy of receiving a gift just for them. Our children will learn about the happiness of giving to others.

Ryan has enthusiastic helpers. Kirsti Cook is in charge of the Bible story center. Genny McKinley guides the children's music program. Mickey Smith's capable hands help with arts and crafts. Ed and Marylu Wade work with pre-school children. Shawn Ryan will keep the kids happily moving with recreation.

Ryan said, "Many volunteers want to help. They come from area churches, teenagers, volunteers from Awana programs, even neighborhood kids. We are planning for 100 children at VBS this year."

Let's talk about the rodeo parade on July 12. Ryan said, "The Vacation Bible School is planning a float featuring our VBS kids and our theme of 'Christmas in July.' On the float the children will be singing and signing the memory verses they learned in VBS." Be sure you're there to cheer them on. Parents and others have already pledged contributions for the construction and decoration of the float. Tara tells us there will be handouts with information about VBS for spectators at the parade.

Be sure to look for the free car wash at Cheney Trading Company after the parade where the VBS children will be washing cars and taking donations for Operation Christmas Child from 1-4 p.m.

Ryan smiles, "This is my fourth year as coordinator of VBS. Every year it just seems to fall together perfectly. We always have enough of whatever we need and just the right amount of kids to blend with it. God really blesses us."

Luella Dow is a Cheney-area author. She can be reached at [email protected].