This past week has been exciting at First Baptist Church – the beginning and the conclusion of the 2014 Vacation Bible School. Children from three years old through sixth grade enjoyed the “Agency D3” for four exciting days. “Agency D3” stand for Discover, Decide and Defend, a story of finding Jesus Christ and after finding Him, to use Him daily in your life.

The average attendance each day was 59 children and 31 adult teachers and helpers. Most of the teachers and helpers were members of the Church, but several were members of other churches. It was a blessing to see all the workers assisting and helping the children every day. The children learned about the Bible, learned about foreign missionaries, made interesting crafts, learned new Christian songs and enjoyed the big outside bouncing unit for exercise. The ladies had interesting and novel snacks and drinks each day.

At the Commencement this past Thursday evening, the children demonstrated to their parents and grandparents what they learned each day. Each day began with the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag, the Christian flag, and the Bible. The children sang some of the songs they learned during the week and the actions that accompanied the music.

Each VBS child received a diploma and then escorted parents to their rooms where their crafts were on display. Everyone was served refreshments and there was a lot of fellowship and thanks to all the workers. A big THANK YOU was given to Candice Stryker, the VBS Director.

The children participated in a contest during VBS by collecting pennies and other coins and depositing them daily in containers marked “Girls” and “Boys”. All of the money collected will be donated to South Texas Children’s Home. Each day the children waited in great anticipation of the announcement of who had the most money in their container. One day it was the girls and the next day, the boys. South Texas Children’s Home will be the recipient of over $500. Thanks to the “Piggy Bank” by the children’s parents.

Summer Camp for children is currently being held at Palacios Baptist Encampment and on June 30 the youth will enjoy camp at Camp Zephyr on Lake Corpus Christi. Senior Camp, for adults 55 and over, will be September 22 to 25 at Camp Zephyr.

A lot of activities are being planned in Port O’Connor and we hope all of you will participate in as many as you can.

See you in church Sunday!

Thanks to all our VBS volunteers! Shown here in the kitchen are (l to r): Biddie Hileman, Sally Jones, Wanda Lewis, Mary Ann Claiborne, and Alice Pittman.