Central team takes VBS to nursing home

Decatur | Vacation Bible School is a vital part of summer for many kids, and a fond memory for many adults. But at Imboden Creek Senior Living and Rehabilitation Facility in Decatur, VBS is more than a memory. Nine volunteers from four churches in Central Baptist Association led a three-day VBS for residents complete with crafts and Bible stories.

The team had been advised to expect only six students, because afternoons aren’t a good time to have programs in a nursing home, but 19 attended the first day. “The Activities Director said she knew her residents liked the program because they came to every session,” said Jane Courtnay, one of the organizers. “She made sure to get our contact information so she ask us to come back.”

Just like the kids’ version, this VBS had a theme: “Bible Heroes All Grown Up.” They focused on Paul, Daniel, and David, complete with a paper version of Goliath that was 9 feet, 10 inches tall. “When we saw him, our memory verse reminded us, ‘When I am afraid, I will trust in you’” (Ps. 56:3).

Most of the residents stayed after the Bible lessons to make suncatchers, a prayer reminder, or a bracelet with a message that we should be content wherever God has placed us. One man told the team he planned to give the bracelet to his wife.

The volunteers were from Tabernacle, Emmanuel, Summit, and Oreana Baptist Churches. “I find Nursing Home VBS one of the most fun things I do all year,” Courtnay said. “Best of all was a student who was saved during a presentation of the gospel.”

Just like kids’ VBS!

– Photos by Dan Sutton

GRATITUDE – Officers in DuPage County received gift bags along with their barbeque dinners as expressions of thanks. Even the K-9 crew received goodies. Award winning Pit Master Mike from Iowa prepared the meat. “It was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had,” he said. “I want to do this every year from now on.”