MONTE VISTA — “The Fruit of the Spirit,” this year’s theme for the annual Monte Vista Community Vacation Bible School, took place the week of June 11. Children, ages pre-school through fourth grade, enjoyed Bible stories, crafts, snacks, games and music focused on four stories from the Bible that focused on different people who possessed one or more traits of the fruit of the Spirit. Under the direction of Melody Wittner, a combined effort of adults and youth helped the week go smoothly with fun, fun, and more fun! The children learned that with God’s help, we can all have these traits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The continuing annual outreach to the local food bank was supported as the children brought canned goods each day throughout the week. A love offering taken each day went towards The Kids’ Connection and The Conour Animal Shelter, both located in Monte Vista.

One morning, the children had a visit from Officer Pino of the Monte Vista Police Department. He shared with the children different ways that they can remain safe.

On Friday evening, loved ones came with the children and enjoyed listening about what the children had learned. The older children read the four stories that were focused on through the week. Another highlight of the evening was when two of the children sang ‘Cristo Me Ama’, while the rest of the children signed Jesus Loves Me – another verification that Jesus Loves everyone. Each reading was followed by a memory verse and a special song. A delicious supper followed for a great family time enjoyed by all!

VBS would like to thank Safeway, V & V Hardware, and The Family Dollar Store of Monte Vista for their support of the MV Community VBS this year. They appreciate the congregation of the First Christian Church who lovingly opens the doors of their building each year to be used throughout the week for VBS and for monetary donations from their church as well as from The United Methodist Church. They would also like to thank the Monte Vista Police Department and especially Officer Pino for his time to come and talk to the children. Thanks also to individuals who help support our VBS each year either monetarily or through their efforts in art, cooking, and teaching.