The old fashioned Vacation Bible School, (meaning from my childhood) consisted of Mrs. Neal, Mrs. Kenyon, Mrs. James and my mother getting together to have Bible stories, songs and Bible Drills. (Swords up!) There were no fancy themes, no science experiments, and the crafts usually consisted of constrution paper, glue and cotton balls.

The new VBS is a whole new ballgame. There are several VBS opportunities going on throughout the community this summer. But if you are looking for something to do in July, there’s only one I’ve found so far, and that’s Cornerstone’s VBS, with the theme of Cosmic City. Their program will be held July 7th through the 11th. They will have a science lab, music, plays and snacks.

Pat McAlpin, director of this year’s VBS is working hard to pull together approximately 30 volunteers to make this years Vacation Bible School experience as enjoyable and educational as possible for the kids. And, as always happens when people volunteer, the ones giving get as much out of it as the ones receiving.

McAlpin has been working on the project since January, and is excited about bringing the children in for a good time and some basic Bible knowledge. She said she understands that the vast majority of young people get their first exposure to the Bible at Vacation Bible School, and she’s happy and excited to be a part of that process.

When asked how many hours she had into getting the program off the ground and ready to launch she laughed and said, “Oh my goodness. I wouldn’t even have a clue. I have to measure it in months.” She also said that she doesn’t think of this as work. It’s obviously a ministry she truly believes in. She said, “It’s just so important to reach kids.”

McAlpin also said that this is a fun learning environment, and she hopes it will be a blessing for the volunteers and the children in the community.  She also hopes that people will take the time to register early. Not only will that make the first morning go smoother, but the volunteers will have a basic idea of what the ages children attending are, and buy supplies accordingly. Also the space is limited and will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cornerstone’s VBS runs from July 7 – 11th from 9am to noon. Children ages 4 to 10 are welcome. There is no charge to participate in the program, however, space is limited and it is requested that you RSVP. The church is located at 700 Rosser Street in Prescott. Please call 776-0121 for more information.

Editor's Note: Prescott eNews is proud to have the Cornerstone Vacation Bible School as a sponsor.