First Baptist Church VBX sees record numbers

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Last week was an “Epic” week at First Baptist Church (FBC) of Hart’s annual VBX (Vacation Bible Experience). For the ninth year, FBC has hosted the annual experience for area youth. Nearly 60 volunteers spent over a week decorating the church, completely transforming it to match the game-themed event. Handcrafted decorations gave attendees the feeling they were actually a part of the “Game of Life,” “Pac-Man” and “Minecraft.”

“It was such a great week! We registered 198 kids and served about 170 on a daily basis. Kids ranged from 4 years old to 8th grade and spent an ‘EPIC’ week learning truth from God’s word…through a pop-game themed adventure,” said Associate Pastor of Worship and Outreach David Moul.

“Mornings were packed with skits, singing, snacks, hands-on activities, games, lesson time and more. Over the course of the week, kids competed to fill the heaviest bucket with change that will be used to purchase Bibles for churches in Tanzania that don’t have easy access to God’s Word. In four days, the children raised 401 pounds of change, which added up to over $3,400,” Moul said. “FBC hosts VBX for the community at no charge each year, the first week of summer break. Next year’s theme will be ‘Clash of the Kingdoms,’ a medieval theme featuring a lot of awesome castle decor and ‘knightly’ activities. Event information and registration will begin in May 2024.”