Bethany United Church of Christ

Pastor’s Ponderings

Jul 18, 2001

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:

"One for you and one for me, sharing is God?’s way, you see! When we all have what we need, God will be so happy!" This catchy little song by Bryan Sirchio was just one of the things we learned at our "Seaside Celebration" VBS, held August 8 and 10 this year.

Our "fishy adventure" included learning about the call of the first disciples and how Jesus told them to "fish for people" -- and catch them with God?’s love (Luke 5:1-11). We also learned about how sharing "multiplies the gift", as we learned about the boy who shared his lunch (John 6:1-15). Our learning was extended through our mission project, as we raised $116 to purchase fish "fingerlings" (small fish) through the Heifer Project to help a community on the South Side of Chicago. Adults had a new opportunity to learn this year as well, as there was an adult Bible study led by Pastor Jose Rodriguez from Okolona Presbyterian Church.

The best part about VBS to me was realizing that on those two evenings, our church was filled with children and adults learning and growing through music, crafts, study, conversation, play, eating together, listening, laughing, hugging, sharing, and praying. What a wonderful gift from God!

Please, God, couldn?’t we do this more than two days a year? Couldn?’t our Sunday mornings be just as full and joyous as we learn and worship together? Help us, gracious God, to share your gifts with others in our community so that they can come and learn and love with us! Amen.

Faithfully,
Pastor Ann