FORT BENNING, Ga., (July 31, 2013) -- Fort Benning's Vacation Bible School was the chance for children to enjoy their summer before school while building their faith.
The weeklong program at the Main Post Chapel brought in 250 children this year, an increase from the year prior, said Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Mike Reeves, deputy garrison chaplain.
Although aimed at children in grades kindergarten to fifth grade, teens from Club Beyond were actively involved in the program as volunteer crewmembers. Club Beyond is an organization for spiritual teens.
"I love kids and this is such a great opportunity to reach out," said 15-year-old Club Beyond member Sarah Read. "The people here -- there's a connection. "It's as meaningful for us to (serve) the kids."
This year's theme was "Kingdom Rock," which centered on medieval times and taught them to lean on God for strength, Reeves said. There were six station areas that the children visited including a crafts area, snacks station and drama station. Each day, there was an opening and closing ceremony with music and prayer.
Bringing together the program was a combined effort of Catholic and Protestant volunteers, Reeves said. There was also Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation spouses helping with the program.
"It brings the whole chaplain community together," he said.
Aria Randall, 9, said her favorite part of the program were the movies.
"We're learning about God and how David showed that God's love helps us to stand strong and Esther's friends and family helped her stand strong," she said. "VBS is a really great place."
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