Vacation Bible School 2008 A Heart To Change the World by Karen Abaya Our VBS this year focused on enhancing the God-given talents of the children that will lead them to praise and worship the Lord. A talent workshop was planned which would culminate in a musical play wherein their talents for singing, dancing and acting will be showcased. Auditions started as early as February and practices soon followed. Intensive practices started two weeks before the concert. The play is all about Psalty, a talking and singing songbook. He has three children namely Harmony, Melody and Rhythm. Together with other children, they form the Kids Praisers. Psalty teaches the children to also think about children different from themselves. Some may live in other countries and some may be poor. Psalty encourages them to tell these children about Jesus. Singing parts were accompanied by the beautiful singing voices from the choir and danced enthusiastically by the dancers. Three days before the actual concert were the workshops geared to train and equip them for the play. Children from our church as well as from outside were invited. All the children gathered together as we started in praise and worship then a devotional from the Healing Rooms team. Acting, dancing and singing centers were in place. Everybody enjoyed delicious snacks at the snack center. Every class was also evangelized to as children heard and responded to the Good News. In the process, old friendships were rekindled and new friendships were formed. As the children learned, parents and yayas were also ministered to by Ate Ressie and Ate Jackie. As part of their activity, Nanay Lita also taught them how to make beaded bracelets. On the volunteer's side, which is composed of Sunday School teachers with ages ranging from sixteen to sixty, we always started our practices with praise and prayers and ended them with the same. It was truly amazing how the Lord orchestrated everything. In the process, we have experienced God's goodness, faithfulness and grace. The Lord also brought along reinforcements as the YAs helped with documentation and decorations. Parents were also there to provide food, make-up, assistance and encouragement to the children and volunteers alike. They became the children's very own cheering squad! As a teacher, I personally felt a stronger connection with the children. We met almost daily for the practices and I was able to know them more. I also now love them more than ever! I am very proud of what they have accomplished. But in everything, I made sure to remind them that they are loved no matter what. We also made sure to remind them that whatever we do-- dance, sing or act—we do it all for God's glory. And so, we bring back to the Lord all praise and glory! I believe that our children have the heart to change the world for Jesus. They helped change lives during their two performances through their innocent and trusting hearts and voices. I know I was changed! Photo Gallery > >