- November 23, 2024
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It’s not just a camp, it’s an adventure.
The Food Truck Party rolled into the First United Methodist Church on June 20 to jumpstart a week of fun at the annual Adventure Camp. Children ranging in age from preschool through fifth grade got a chance to learn in a positive environment while they participated in five different activity stations including outdoor games, Bible stories, crafts, science and music.
Food Truck Party is part of the United Methodist Church’s vacation bible school curriculum provided by Cokesbury, the church’s publishing house. The theme is chosen by the church and the agency then provides guides and virtual workshops to assist them in producing an extensive VBS experience.
Caitlin Bookwalter, director of Family Ministries, has been in ministry since 2008. She was hired by First United’s pastor, Scott Smith after she graduated from the Duke Divinity School with a master’s degree in Christian practice. She begins planning for the adventure camp in January every year.
“I have felt called (to ministry) since seventh grade and have loved it ever since,” she said. “Weeks like this are the highlight of my year. One of our main goals is to help the children discover hope and deepen their faith as we demonstrate love to them.”
Bookwalter relies on support from her staff and volunteers to bring the camp to fruition. This year, 81 adults and youths worked for two weeks prior to the event and during the week of camp. With 100 children enrolled and an average daily attendance of 90 campers, the manpower was necessary to keep the schedule flowing smoothly and the campers safe.
“We are above average when it comes to the number of kids enrolled in VBS,” she said. “The nation’s average is 55-60 kids. First United has been known for their VBS for a long time.”
The campers were also encouraged to raise money for Compassion International, through which the church sponsors Isaias, an 11-year-old boy who lives in the Dominican Republic. By Wednesday morning, they had raised $523.30 and hoped to raise $1,000 by the end of camp. All proceeds will go directly to Isaias and his family.
Tomoka Elementary School kindergarten teacher, Kristin Robinson, volunteers at the event every year. This week was very special for her because both of her children and niece attended, her mom volunteered and her husband is the church’s operations manager.
“I love children and I love volunteering,” she said. “This is another way for me to give back during the summer.”
Mascot DJ Cupcake and the Food Truck Party music created an environment of fun and revelry in the church’s sanctuary. Bookwalter believes that in today’s world, kids just need to be able to be kids.
“I feel like it gives them hope that even if they are not attending church, they will remember the church they went to,” she said. “We want them to know Jesus loves them. Go home with some fun music — some Bible stories. Kids just need to have fun.”