'Weird animals' focus of vacation bible school

WAKEFIELD - "Weird animals" is the theme of this year's Vacation Bible School at All Saints Lutheran Church in Wakefield.

The annual event has become a "staple" within the church, according to VBS director Cheri Brentar. Each year, a new theme is selected for area children to learn about God in new ways.

Brentar said this year's theme is a hit with the kids.

"They absolutely love it," she said. "It shows them that Jesus' love is one of a kind."

Throughout the week, kids from age 4 up to sixth grade participate in a variety of activities, including Bible-learning games, arts and crafts, teamwork-building games, song and dance and enjoy snacks.

In addition to the activities, the kids also participate in a mission project. This year's VBS project is related to water through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America World Hunger efforts.

"The kids have been very receptive to that," Brentar said. "The project helps with getting clean water to other countries, and the kids have been interested. We also do projects throughout the year with the kids related to world hunger."

Brentar said VBS includes not just kids from All Saints, but from around the community.

"It's open to kids throughout the area, and they are all welcome to attend," Brentar said.

VBS has also become a tradition in some families, with grandparents, parents and now grandchildren participating.

"We have lots of grandparents involved," Brentar said. "It's really nice to see."

The event averages 25 to 30 kids a day, with new participants arriving daily. The last session on Friday will feature a program at noon with lunch for the families.

"It's not too late to participate if children would like to come," Brentar said. "Also, we will definitely have this event again in the future."

For more information on VBS, all All Saints Lutheran Church at 906-229-8421.