A special vacation bible school thanks to so many

Aug 22, 2007

Last week we attended the closing session of the Magnetawan Vacation Bible School. Now, many of our communities hold successful summer vacation Bible schools, but the Magnetawan project is unique in several ways.

To begin with, the annual summer program has been operating continuously for over 30 years, a fine example of ecumenical co-operation. The Lutherans, Presbyterians and Uniteds have worked together on the program with moral support from the Anglicans.

This year was something of a record: 52 children were in attendance and about 20 adults helped in various ways as planners, teachers, healthful snack providers, movers of the tables and this and that.

A few teachers have been involved for many years and still offer enthusiastic assistance. Not only do local children attend, but summer residents send their children and grandchildren to the child-oriented, well-planned activities. And, some of the teachers and helpers are summer people. Classes are held in the Lutheran and Presbyterian churches. One class is for interested adults.

The children contributed to a special mission project sponsored by a local resident to assist Philippine families in need and over $200 was received in donations.

Judging by the laughing, exuberant children at the closing exercises, they must have had a fun week — and they learned some pretty classy songs! Nor was it just fun. As one of the teachers remarked, hopefully several spiritual seeds were planted in young minds; seeds that will help our youth mature as useful citizens.

Our appreciation to all who made this a successful venture. Not bad for a little community on River Mag!

Freda and Graham MacDonald
Burk’s Falls