Time sped by this summer as VBS week arrived and flew away just as quickly amidst a torrent of fun and activities. More than 60 children, both local and visiting the area, joined staff and a giant group of volunteers at Saint Peter Lutheran Church for Babylon: Daniel’s Courage in Captivity.
Each day brought with it a Bible verse about how God is always with us when we’re experiencing strange new circumstances, when we’re afraid, and especially when we feel lost and alone. We heard from Daniel about his experiences as he faced dire challenges and watched his friends thrown into the fiery furnace. Babylonian artisans invited the children to sample crafts like print-making and building treasure chests. Above all, we learned the value of friendship and faith.
At the end of our time together, we celebrated with a meal and learned new songs. The week culminated in a demonstration for the parents with a song and tribe cheers, and a playtime outside on the giant slide. Click here for a slide show.
The handbell choir celebrated the finish of a busy year in May 2023, performing on Mother’s Day for both services. Leader Cynthia Ledbetter reported that she was thrilled with the ringers’ progress in the few years since the choir was created. During the summer break she has sent the bells out for maintenance, and is looking forward to a shiny new year of ringing ensemble pieces beginning in September.
The Giving Garden is enjoying its second full season this year, and the giving just gets better. Since construction began in the fall of 2021, the garden has expanded with additional raised beds each spring. This year we have five beds solely devoted to several species of tomatoes, including cherry and heirloom. In the other beds we’re growing eggplant, collard greens, carrots, runner beans, radishes, and more.
Fascinators and fancy hats, friendship, fun, and food presided at the first annual Ladies’ Afternoon Tea. The event was organized by the Fellowship Committee and spearheaded by Connie Zaenglein and Keidra Koenig. The inaugural event took place on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Ladies from both services joined together at a most elegant English Tea Party.
They discovered tables adorned with vintage tea sets, two types of tea, and the best part of tea – fancy sandwiches and treats. After the sandwiches, the ladies enjoyed a compote filled with assorted spreads, as well as scones and other mini desserts. The conversation was plentiful throughout the meal. Tea time wrapped up on a high note; a raffle for six vintage teacups donated by John Schroeder.
This springtime event was so successful, we’re looking forward to tea time every year! What a fitting finale to the monthly ladies’ luncheons that take place at various area restaurants beginning in September. Click here to view photos from the 2023 event.
