Taking a bite out of the Big Apple

Grace United Methodist Church was full of cheers during its annual vacation Bible school last week. This year’s theme was New York City, as children heard soul-stirring messages about God.

More than 30 children participated in music, arts and crafts and recreation from June 27 through July 1. But, the week was about more than fun activities — children connected their faith with life lessons. Director of Youth Ministry Matthew Roth, who ran the one-week vacation school for the second time, summed it up. “They are making friendships, having fun, and faith,” he said.

The fun began during the morning worship rally, as the school gym was transformed into Times Square. Children ages 3 to 12 shouted praise phrases, wearing the color of the day. They also learned different words of the day — love, faith, trust, others, and life.

Children then moved through each activity station, split up into four groups — uptowners, midtowners, downtowners and tourists. Each station was modeled after a New York City subway stop, and children used train tickets to enter. Children visited the “Arts and Crafts District,” ran around “Recreational Village,” stopped by “Midtown Snacks” and headed to “Mission Central.”

There were apple magnets, bookmarks and even stress balls displayed upstairs. Volunteers Claudia Tarquino and Nancy Peterson supervised the arts, offering different options depending on the age group. Five-year-old participant Olivia Thomas was very excited. “This is my favorite thing,” she said.

Youth volunteer Ian Goodman watched all the action. “I go with them, and walk with them,” he joked, “and they are always shrugging and pulling on my shirt.” Goodman hoped that the children learn about fun and God, he added.

Downstairs, a group played Duck Duck Goose after snack time on June 30. Shovie Barnes made the snacks, from New York pretzels to wacky tourist pudding cups. Through the windows, older children could be seen running around the playground. Stephanie Neri, 5, said she was making friends. “I like to play outside,” she said.

Justin Vespoli, who led recreation, said he loves working with children of different ages and connecting the Bible lessons to physical education.