At the end of July, the Church of the Holy Cross in Homewood hosted a Vacation Bible School (VBS) program, welcoming a total of 25 children. The free weeklong program was a joyful and enriching experience for children ages 3-11 and a beautiful example of the Church’s commitment to serving its community.
Over the course of the week, the VBS program provided a nurturing environment where children engaged in a variety of activities. Each day, between 7-15 children participated, with some attending just one day and others joining in for the full five days. The atmosphere was one of warmth and connection, thanks to the dedication of over 20 volunteers who brought energy, care, and a spirit of radical welcome to the program. Their presence made a significant impact, fostering a space where meaningful relationships and loving connections could flourish.
Snacks and lunches were provided daily, with lunch being a particularly special time. It drew in not only the children but also other neighbors who gathered to enjoy a meal on the church lawn. This daily gathering served between 20-40 individuals providing free hot meals and cool beverages. St. Paul’s Church, Mt. Lebanon, generously contributed meals several of the days, further supporting the effort to build community through shared food and fellowship.
The success of this year’s Vacation Bible School was made possible by a generous grant from the Episcopal Church Women (ECW). The week was a testament to the love that Jesus encouraged us to show our neighbors, and this spirit of that love was palpable throughout the program. We are grateful for everyone who participated and supported the Vacation Bible School.
There were many impactful moments and stories volunteers have shared that have been heartwarming, including this one from St. Paul’s parishioner, Ann Coffaro:
I am writing to share with you about my wonderful week of volunteering with VBS at The Church of the Holy Cross in Homewood. Rev. Torrey Johnson kicked the week off by praying with the volunteers. He reminded us of the value of connecting with even one child this week. Powerful.
The day began at noon with an all-community hot lunch. Monday and Friday the Kona Ice Truck beckoned the community and children to join us by blaring music and serving up delicious, sugary ices. There were crafts and science projects. Art on the sidewalk to mimic stained glass windows. Popsicles and snacks galore. There was music in the sanctuary with piano, bells, chimes, drums, marching and singing. There were quiet moments as well. We met siblings that came to VBS together. We met grandmoms and caregivers and the community of Holy Cross. We sat in the shade of a tent and enjoyed a meal together and laughed.
The last day was particularly meaningful for me. A caretaker arrived with several young children that were able to join the other children in the VBS fun. I was able to spend one-on-one time with one of the young children that had different learning needs. We spent the afternoon walking around and “looking,” snacking, and drawing and I was transported to memories of my own son with multiple disabilities and behavioral challenges and the many teachers, helpers, and others that spent time with him in his growing years…. teasing out his preferences and strengths. Taking the time to “see” and connect with him. I recalled with emotional clarity the many times I received the “gift” of respite. The gift of moments to myself with the knowledge that someone was caring and interacting with my beloved son in my place. That day filled me to the brim with God’s calm and presence. The day juiced me up and I felt and feel ready to go out and love some people as God loves me. What a gift.
Since that week I have had this child and all the children and families in my prayers. I also pray for myself, and I ask God to direct my daily life to God’s service. Stay tuned. I hope to have more stories.
–Eileen Sharbaugh, St. Paul’s, Mt. Lebanon