FORT RUCKER, Ala. (June 19, 2105) -- Fort Rucker children were able to take a trip through time as they were transported through biblical times to learn about the Bible and faith in general.
The Fort Rucker Spiritual Life Center held its Vacation Bible School June 8-19, and provided students an immersive experience with hands-on learning and interactive activities to provide an experience they wouldn't soon forget.
"We want to show children how faith can enrich their lives, so we zero in on all the things churches teach in common and not on denominational differences," said Nancy Jankoski, Fort Rucker Religious Support Office director of religious education.
Children were divided into 12 different tribes, each representing one of the original tribes of Israel, and with their tribes they visited different stations that represented different points in biblical times. Although the program is Christian based, Jankoski said it doesn't focus on any particular denomination.
The event featured a music shop, barber shop, beauty salon, an area for crafts, carpentry shop, a bakery, storytelling sessions, Hebrew writing and even lessons from a Roman legionnaire. There was even a petting zoo and inflatable slides for children to play on.
In the music shop, children were able to learn about the instruments and music of biblical times, and even get their hand at playing some of the instruments of the time. Children also got the opportunity to see some of the fashion and trends of the era in the beauty salon and barber shop, but it was the hands-on experiences that had a lasting impression for many of the participants.
"I've been here once before and it was a lot of fun, so I wanted to come again," said Alissa Ortega, sixth grade student. "I really liked the animals. I liked feeding them and petting them. I've also learned a lot of songs about God, and a lot about the Bible. We also learned about the Roman soldiers, which I thought was a lot of fun."
Ortega said she learned a little bit about Roman history, as well as how Roman soldiers lived, fought and came to faith.
Justin Howard, VBS volunteer clad in Roman armor, was there to mentor children and give them a glimpse of what life might have been like in biblical times.
"I teach them about what life was like back then, how they fought, how they lived and I try to answer any questions they have about it," he said, adding that he even gives the children a chance to face each other in combat with toy swords and shields.
For many students, VBS is about mentorship and providing guidance, and Ryan Buchanan, VBS volunteer and ninth grader, said guidance is exactly what he wanted to provide.
"I decided to volunteer because I really enjoy helping kids, so I volunteer wherever I can," he said. "My favorite part about this has been teaching the children and helping them with the crafts."
For their craft projects, children were allowed to make crowns to adorn their heads, complete with glitter and jewels.
The event capped off with a performance for parents and family members that involved singing and showcasing what they learned during their time at VBS. Then it was time to head outside to take advantage of the inflatable bounce houses and slides.
Many children agreed that it wouldn't be an experience they would likely forget any time soon.
"I'll come back every year I can," said Ortega. "I had a lot of fun and I want to do it all over again."
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