First Baptist Manlius

In 2010 First Baptist Manlius and Christ Church hosted 61 children in our community to a week's worth of fun and Bible-based learning on the High Seas during our summer Vacation Bible School.

As the crews moved between the two churches they learned about the Bible's truth and application in their lives and that they are empowered to share this message with everyone. They built crafts that reinforced the idea that the Bible can show them them the best way to live their life and that they can always draw on it for comfort when the seas are stormy. They enjoyed the tale of Chadder, the stowaway chipmunk who learns that the most important values are not fame and glory, but to spread the good news to those that don't know it yet. They participated in the reenactment of the story Paul's voyages from prison to a ship where his faith brings him to an island where he carried out his mission of evangelizing to unbelievers.

They shared with each other how they see God each day and learned that it was ok to talk about how God impacts their lives. It was inspiring to hear how the crews identified nature around them and the actions of their family members as everyday "God sightings" in their world. We sang, danced, ate and prayed together this week.

Over $200 was donated by the attending families to benefit the people that are experiencing hardship in Haiti, Pakistan, and other places following disasters. Several basket-loads of non-perishable food items were also donated by the families and has been donated to the FM food pantry.

Once again, we thank all of the volunteers and organizers of this joint event for their time and willingness to share with the children of our community.