For most kids, summer vacation is the perfect excuse to stay away from homework, tests, or anything associated with school.  But for others throughout the community, summer is the perfect time to attend Vacation Bible School at their local congregation and reconnect with their faith.

Monte Vista Chapel and Turlock Seventh-Day Adventist Church are two local churches who participate in fun-filled activities, Bible stories, and tangible ways to serve others within the community. 

This year’s theme for Monte Vista Chapel is “I Spy.”  Children ages four through sixth graders will have the chance to adventure their way into the various activities and crafts that centers on worship and Bible stories.

“Vacation Bible School is an opportunity for children to see their neighbors with compassion.  I Spy adventure will get them excited about looking for opportunities to serve others,” said mother Gisela Valencia who has been taking her children for the past two years. 

Adventures on Promise Island will be the theme for Turlock Seventh-Day Adventist Church’s program.  Children will participate in fun-filled activities incorporated with serious learning.   

“Adventures on Promise Island will be a lot of fun for the kids.  We have lots of water games planned and this year we will be having horse rides,” said Aurora Esquivel, director or Turlock Seventh Day Adventist Church.

“This year’s theme is very important to us because each child will learn how we rely on God to carry out the promises of everyday life,” she said. 

While the students are engaging in activities about their faith, the parents will be given an overview of the event and activities their children participated in.  This summer, dozens of surrounding churches are offering a variety of dates and times to attend Vacation Bible School.