Vacation Bible School (VBS) returned to Saint James this summer! Students were launched on a cosmic quest where they had a blast shining Jesus’ light to the world, the theme of VBS. With the Rocket Man mascot, Father John Paul as our astronaut, and Stellar “crew members”, students began every morning BLASTING OFF by talking about Jesus, praying, and singing uplifting songs and being reminded when good things happen they should “Shine Jesus’ Light.”
The students were divided into four teams to rotate through crafts, bible adventures, all-star games, and exploring their faith. Each day, the kids practiced looking for what God was doing around them. They called those signs God Sightings — they were evidence of His love and creativity in the world. At the end of camp, each crew wrote their God Sighting on a star and taped it on the God Sightings wall. Most of them wrote about random acts of kindness they saw at camp or something in nature. Students ended the week on Friday by attending Mass and presenting a show for their parents on the bible verses and songs they learned each day.
Thanks to our coordinator Julie Marx, our wonderful volunteers, as well as Father John Paul and Seminarian Ryan Malanga, for making this such a successful week with 90 kids, 40+ “crew leaders” from middle school and high school, and 15 adult volunteers!
Volunteers
Volunteers are needed. All adults must have completed the diocesan Virtus training. We also have opportunities for rising 6th-12th graders to assist. It is a great chance for service hours. If you have not completed a background check through the Arlington Diocese, visit https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/child-protection/. The Catholic Diocese of Arlington is dedicated to the protection of all children and will strive to maintain a safe environment for children and young people.
Registration
Registration closed on June 1, 2023.
VBS Memories
We look forward to another super VBS camp next year!
