Fort Rucker chapel promotes children's church, Family learning at carnival

By Emily Brainard, Army Flier StaffJuly 23, 2010

Fort Rucker chapel promotes children's church, Family learning at carnival
1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Sgt. Diana Slate, an NCO Academy student, paints a flower on 6-year-old Isabelle Malsby's face during the first Children's Church Family Carnival at Chapel of Wings Annex July 18. The event attracted about 300 people and promoted the chapel's Childre... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Fort Rucker chapel promotes children's church, Family learning at carnival
2 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Fort Rucker chapel promotes children's church, Family learning at carnival
3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Chapel of Wings Families enjoyed food, fun and fellowship during the chapel's first Children's Church Family Carnival July 18.

Chapel staff hosted the event to "reach new kids and Families" and promote children's church, said Anita Ford, Chapel of Wings director.

Youngsters enjoy age-appropriate Bible lessons, music and games during children's church, said Ford. While adults attend regular worship gatherings, children ages 3-12 take part in their own services, Sundays at 9 and 11 a.m. at Wings Chapel.

This week, parents participated in children's church to see what their little ones learned and how to best teach their children at home.

"It's an opportunity to reach the community and teach kids about Jesus," Ford said.

More than 30 Noncommissioned Officer Academy students volunteered to help conduct the carnival. They served lunch, painted faces and monitored games.

First Sgt. Jeffrey Herzog, NCO Academy operations branch, said students traditionally participate in class projects, but they're usually off post. Sunday's activity here allowed Soldiers to positively influence children and help them grow in their faith.

"(This project) is different because it gives directly back to the Fort Rucker community," he said.

Mindy Hendrix and her son, Hunter, 4, from Pasco, Wash., visited Family here over the weekend and attended the carnival.

"It's good for churches to have Family activities to meet new friends," she said.

Chaplain (Capt.) Rickie Wambles said the carnival provided Families "quality time," and noted chapel staff plans to hold similar activities in the future.

The post chapel's next special event is when Team Impact visits the Post Theater Aug. 15 at 11 a.m. The team is comprised of elite athletes performing demonstrations and sharing inspirational messages. A Protestant service will also be conducted at that time.

For more event information or chapel volunteer opportunities, call the chaplain's office at 255-2989.