Now that summer is in full force, many area churches have chosen July to hold Vacation Bible Schools.
The programs offer a wide variety of themes, but at the core, there are numerous similarities among the
various schools.
From games and crafts, to the various Bible lessons, the children of the church and the various
communities gather to have fun as they learn more about the faith.
Among the themes for July schools are focuses on the cold polar regions to the ocean’s creatures; and
from canyon adventures to crocodiles.
The "Dive In" theme of the program at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church focuses on an
exploration of some unusual ocean creatures.
There will be Bible stories, crafts, games, and snacks provided. The program is free; however,
participants will be asked to bring gifts of non-perishable food items for the Perrysburg Christians
United food pantry.
The church is inviting all the community and area children ages 4 through those who have completed fourth
grade to attend at 13101 Five Point Road.
The program will be held July 13-17, from 9 to 11:15 a.m. each day.
Participants are asked to register in advance by calling the church office at (419) 874-6939.
Other schools planned for the month, listed in order by beginning date are:
¥ On Monday through July 3, the Grand Rapids Community VBS will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church.
The theme of the 9 to 11:30 a.m. program will be "Sonrocks." It is for those age 4 through
sixth grade.
Registration can be made by calling (419) 669-3210. Registration may also be made the first day.
¥ Christ’s Church in Bowling Green, 14455 Campbell Hill Road, will hold its "Studio Go" game
show-themed VBS July 6-10 from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. The closing program is July 10 at 8:30 p.m. The
fictional Wade Winalot hosts the game show featuring stories, singing, crafts and prizes.
Advance registration may be done online at ccbg.info or by calling (419) 354-1176.
¥ St. Paul Lutheran Church, New Rochester, will hold its "Gadget’s Garage" VBS July 6-10 from 6
to 8 p.m.
For more information call (419) 287-4731.
¥ The VBS for First Baptist Church, 740 S. Wintergarden Road will use the theme, "Polar
Xtremes." The school will be held July 13-17 from 6 to 8:15 p.m. It is open to those age 4 through
sixth grade. For more information or to register call (419) 352-0417.
¥ Haskins Community VBS will be held at Haskins Community Church, 209 West Main Street, Haskins, will
hold its "Crocodile Dock" Vacation Bible School July 13-17. The youth are invited to
"sink their teeth" into the fun being offered. The 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. programs will include
crafts, team-building games, Bible songs, and treats.
It’s open to preschoolers through fifth graders. In addition to the goal of showing the participants how
to see God in everyday life, those attending will participate in a mission project to benefit area
children.
Organizers call the program a "life-changing adventure."
Advance registration may be made by calling the church at (419) 823-1972 or the co-sponsor, St. Paul
Lutheran Church at (419) 823-1731.
¥ "Discovery Canyon: Explore the Wonders of the Word" is the theme of St. Luke’s Evangelical
Lutheran Church at its VBS in North Baltimore. The five-day event will be held July 19-23. It begins
each day at 5 p.m. with music and puppet skits, followed by supper at 5:15 p.m.
A video presentation by "Molly and Jonah" will introduce the Bible story of the day at 5:45
p.m. Bible classes, crafts and outside activities follows until the prayer from 7:45 to 8 p.m.
Classes are offered for those age 4 through sixth grade. Registration may be done on arrival. Friends and
visitors are welcome. Early registration contest entries are accepted through July 17.
An offering will be taken for the community food pantry at the closing program on July 23 at 7:45 p.m.

Registration is available at the church or by calling (419) 257-3804.
¥ "Stick With Jesus, Love Your Enemies," is the theme for the VBS at Christ Church, Portage.
The school will be held July 26-30 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The closing program open to families and
friends will be held at 8 p.m. on the final day.
The school is open to those age 4 through those who recently completed sixth grade. Students are asked to
bring a friend. For more information, call (419) 686-2621.