From the Director of Christian Education and Youth Programs
Amy Grella — am@bhccml.com
Calling volunteers for Day Camp & Jr. Day Camp July 29 – August 2
Yes…it’s time for us to begin preparations for Day Camp and Jr. Day Camp! This summer, we will continue to offer two different camps for our vacation Bible school. Our theme this year is “This Changes Everything” and is based on Ephesians 2:8 – For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God.
Day Camp is an all-day faith-building experience for elementary-aged children in completed 1st – 5th grades. Day Camp runs daily from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and is led by Crestfield staff. It includes an optional day trip to Camp Crestfield during the week. Jr. Day Camp, which takes place daily that same week from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., is for children in preschool (must be potty-trained) through completed Kindergarten. Jr. Day Camp is run by our staff and volunteers.
The CE committee envisions using this week-long summer ministry as a tool for reaching out into our community to invite friends and family to check out Bower Hill. We are excited to be preparing for an increased number of kids in both camps!
However, that means that LOTS of help is needed to make it a memorable and successful week. Complete details on the volunteer opportunities and a sign-up sheet are on the bulletin board outside the Friendship room. All volunteers here during the week of Day Camp must be Approved Adults. This is an easy (and free) process that can largely be accomplished from any computer. Start the process by completing the Approved Adult application and submitting it to Amy or the church office. Copies of this form are on the bulletin board by the Friendship Room. Also, starting in mid-May, be on the lookout for a “Wish Board” filled with the supplies and monetary donations needed to support Jr. Day Camp. Thanks for your help in supporting Bower Hill children!
Children’s Worship Changes for the Fall
The CE committee has plans well underway to relocate Children’s Worship into a dedicated room for the fall. This move will provide a permanent space for children to interact with our Godly Play stories and materials. What is Godly Play? Based on Montessori principles and developed using a spiral curriculum, Godly Play is a teaching method that Bower Hill has used increasingly for the last five years. Children have an innate sense of the presence of God. The Godly Play approach helps them to explore their faith through story, to gain religious language, and to enhance their spiritual experience though wonder and play. Look for more information on how you can help, and for an Open House tour once the space is ready!